A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cordoba vs. Cardiff for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Cordoba or Cardiff?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cordoba and Cardiff can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a colorful, flower-filled, and historical town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a up-and-coming, green, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Cordoba and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Cardiff?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Cardiff are about the same size, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Cardiff is known for its big city activities. Cordoba is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. It is also home to La Mezquita. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cordoba different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cardiff and Cordoba. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cordoba or Cardiff?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Cordoba are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with monuments that reflect its past. The Great Mosque (La Mezquita) is one of the most iconic sights. You can also visit Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Palacio de Viana, and Puente Romano.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cardiff. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.


Is the Food Better in Cordoba or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cordoba. Like much of Spain, international travelers will have to adjust to the shifted meal schedule which means most meals are served are later than they are in other parts of Europe. The ingredients are fresh and popular dishes include Salmorejo (a tomato based soup), Rabo De Toro (stewed oxtail), and Flamenquín (deep-fried pork roll).

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Cordoba know how to have a good time. There are cocktail bars, Flamenco shows, tapas tours, and local pubs that make for a great night out. The city offers something for everyone, whatever your style.

If you're looking for night time activities Cardiff has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Cordoba can be explored in its historical center. It's old town is one of the most enchanting in Andalusia. There are whitewashed houses that line flower-filled streets and its compact enough to take a leisurely stroll.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Cardiff?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Both Cordoba and Cardiff are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Cordoba to go shopping. You'll find souvenir shops selling local pottery, traditional jewelry, and handcrafted leatherwork, so this is a nice place to pick up something to remember your trip.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cardiff. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for Families?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Both Cordoba and Cardiff are good to visit with kids.

Cordoba is a family-friendly place to visit. Horse-drawn carriage rides and then a visit to the Royal Stables of Cordoba is a great option for horse-lovers. The city also has a zoo and an impressive park - Ciudad de Los Niños. If you're willing to head out of town, about 10 kilometers away you'll find Aquasierra Waterpark.

Cardiff is a family-friendly town. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Cordoba frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautifully lit up at night, this is a truly romantic city. There are horse-drawn carriage rides, nice parks, and an impressive botanical garden. There are also many great restaurants that couples can explore.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.


Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Cordoba is a great town to visit for backpackers. It's well-established on the backpacker circuit, so you'll find plenty of hostels around town and many opportunities to meet up with other travelers.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for Students?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Cordoba. It's a top study abroad destination for international students. The university is excellent and the city is easy to navigate. It's a cultural city with a great student-friendly atmosphere.

It's common for students to visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Is Cordoba or Cardiff Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a popular place for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cordoba, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 15 bus lines that are operated by Aucorsa.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.


Is Cordoba or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Cardiff

Cordoba is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Cordoba is a very walkable town. It's small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable town. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

For even more information, also check out Is Cordoba Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Cardiff?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Cardiff. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Cardiff. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Cardiff. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cordoba, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than Cardiff. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cordoba that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Cardiff if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cordoba.


  • How many days in Cordoba or Cardiff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Cardiff 1-3

One day in Cordoba or Cardiff?

In Cordoba, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Cardiff, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cordoba or Cardiff?

In Cordoba, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cordoba has to offer.

In Cardiff, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cardiff has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Cardiff?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cardiff is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cordoba or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cordoba. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cardiff. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cardiff or Cordoba?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cordoba is €127, while the average daily cost in Cardiff is €182. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cordoba and Cardiff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Cardiff 109
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Cardiff 218
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Cardiff

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Cardiff? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cordoba


Hotels in Cardiff


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cordoba Hotel Prices and Cardiff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Cardiff 25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

  • Cordoba to Granada Private Transfer: $241
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $132
  • Guided tour of Medina Azahara with transfer from Córdoba: $27
  • Medina Azahara Cordoba, with Transfer by Bus: $34
  • Private Transfer from Córdoba to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $295
  • Private transfer in Cordoba from Airport or Train Station: $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport CWL to Cardiff by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Departure Private Transfer from Cardiff to Cardiff Airport CWL by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Cardiff?

Prices for flights to both Cardiff and Cordoba change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cordoba 34
    Cardiff 51
Typical Food Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Ice Cream
    1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cordoba

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cordoba.

  • Paella and Salmorejo 2-Hour Cooking Class in Córdoba: $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Cardiff 29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Garden Entrance Fee
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Cordoba

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cordoba are as follows:

  • Córdoba Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $8.95
  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba Guided Tour : $15
  • Medina azahara night experience without transportation: $15
  • Cordoba's Authentic Patios: 2-Hour Tour with Tickets: $15
  • Patios tour in Cordoba: $16
  • Cordoba Jewish Quartier Guided Tour: $16
  • Visit in Spanish to the Cathedral Mosque. Does not include entrance ticket: $19
  • Guided Tour to the Popular Patios of Cordoba: $20
  • Alcazar of Cordoba Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket: $20
  • Cordoba Old Town Evening Walking Tour: $20
  • Authentic Patios of Cordoba Guided Tour: $20
  • Alcazar Skip the Line Guided Tour: $20

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

Here are a few actual costs in Cardiff for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Ghosts of Llandaff Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bay and Barrage: $5.99
  • Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Essential Caerphilly: Explore the town’s history on a self-guided audio tour: $6.22
  • Uncover Ghostly Chester: In-App Audio Tour of Eerie Tales: $11
  • Uncover Spectral Secrets with the Llandaff Ghosts Audio Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Llanberis, Conwy and Caernarfon Castle: A Self-Guided Driving Tour of Snowdonia: $15
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Cardiff 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Cordoba

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cordoba:

  • Evening Wine Tasting Córdoba: $26
  • Evening Local Wine Tasting in Córdoba: $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Cardiff

Also in Cardiff, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Gin Tour at Hensol Castle Distillery: $32
  • Cardiff Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Cardiff, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Cordoba much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cordoba would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cordoba and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cardiff would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cardiff than you might in Cordoba.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cordoba Expensive? and Is Cardiff Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Cardiff?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Cardiff, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cordoba or Cardiff?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cordoba or Cardiff in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Cardiff. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cardiff in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cardiff this time of the year. In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Cardiff. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cordoba is much warmer than Cardiff in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cardiff. Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Cardiff. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cardiff in the Winter?

Both Cardiff and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Cardiff can be very cold. In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Cardiff averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Cordoba during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year.

In April, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the spring, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Cardiff. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Cordoba

Cordoba Cardiff
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)