A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cordoba vs. Cefalu for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cordoba or Cefalu?

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 Cefalu 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 beautiful, colorful, and flower-filled town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a charming, coastal, and historic fishing village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Cordoba and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Cefalu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Cefalu are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cefalu is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cordoba is more touristy than Cefalu and is popular 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. Cefalu is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

How is Cordoba different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cefalu 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 Cefalu?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cordoba are world-renowned. 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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.


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

Cordoba
Cefalu

Both Cordoba and Cefalu offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Cordoba is an experience not to be missed. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cefalu. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Cordoba has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cefalu is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Cordoba is not a resort destination.

In Cefalu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Cordoba is not a resort destination.


Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cefalu is a well-known place for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cefalu attract visitors from all over. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Cordoba is revered around the world. 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cefalu is a fishing village with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cefalu. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Cefalu?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cordoba. 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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Families?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Both Cordoba and Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is a family-friendly town. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cefalu is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Cefalu is a great fishing village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Cordoba makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.


Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cordoba. 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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Cordoba or Cefalu Better for Students?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu is not popular with students.

Cordoba is a very popular place to visit for students. 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.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cordoba has some public transit options. There are 15 bus lines that are operated by Aucorsa.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.


Is Cordoba or Cefalu a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Cefalu

Cordoba and Cefalu both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Cefalu is very walkable. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Cefalu?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Cefalu 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 Cefalu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Cefalu 1-3

One day in Cordoba or Cefalu?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village 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 Cefalu?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cefalu has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Cefalu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cefalu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful destination of Cordoba. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Cefalu 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 Cefalu is €119. 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 Cefalu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Cefalu 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Cefalu 174
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Cefalu

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Cefalu? 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 Cefalu


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 Cefalu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Cefalu 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

Also for Cefalu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Cefalu?

Prices for flights to both Cefalu 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
    Cefalu 28
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Cefalu 5.71
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:

  • 3-Hour Tour from Cordoba to the Site of Medina Azahara: $32
  • Alcazar Skip the Line Guided Tour: $20
  • Alcazar of Cordoba Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket: $20
  • Arabian Baths Experience at Cordoba’s Hammam Al Ándalus: $66
  • Authentic Patios of Cordoba Guided Tour: $20
  • Best of Cordoba Guided Tour : $46
  • Bike Tour Córdoba: $32
  • Córdoba Highlight Walking Tour: $32
  • Córdoba Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $8.95
  • City Sightseeing Cordoba Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • Cordoba : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Cordoba Jewish Quartier Guided Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Cefalu 11

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 Cefalu

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

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49


When comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and Cefalu, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Cefalu?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Cefalu, 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 Cefalu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cordoba or Cefalu in the Summer?

Both Cefalu and Cordoba during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Cefalu. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Cefalu fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Cefalu. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 325 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in July than Cefalu. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cefalu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Cefalu. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cefalu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Cefalu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Cefalu fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Cefalu. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cefalu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Cefalu. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cefalu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Cefalu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Cefalu averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Cefalu. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cefalu in the Spring?

Both Cefalu and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Cefalu. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Cefalu fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Cefalu. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Cefalu and Cordoba

Cordoba Cefalu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)