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

Should you visit Cordoba or Chartres?

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

Chartres

Chartres is a spectacular, historic, and grand town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Cordoba and Chartres: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Chartres?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Chartres are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is known for its small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Chartres 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. Chartres is popular for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Cordoba different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.


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

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cordoba has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Cordoba or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Cordoba for the nightlife scene. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cordoba or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Chartres?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cordoba or Chartres Better for Families?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Cordoba offers lots of family activities. 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Cordoba or Chartres Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is great for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Cordoba is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Chartres is a good town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.


Is Cordoba or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is Cordoba or Chartres Better for Students?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not popular with students.

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.

Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Chartres

Chartres is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chartres. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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


Is Cordoba or Chartres a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Chartres

Cordoba and Chartres both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Chartres is very walkable. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cordoba or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cordoba than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Chartres. 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 Chartres. 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 Chartres 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 Chartres? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Chartres 1-2

One day in Cordoba or Chartres?

The beautiful town of Cordoba offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Chartres, you'll find food and 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.

A weekend in Cordoba or Chartres?

Cordoba is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cordoba, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Chartres, you'll find museums and food. 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 Chartres has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Chartres?

Cordoba is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Chartres 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 Chartres?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chartres. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Chartres 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 Chartres is €117. 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 Chartres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Chartres 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Chartres 118
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Chartres

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Chartres? 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 Chartres


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 Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Chartres 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Chartres?

Prices for flights to both Chartres 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
    Chartres 39
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
    Chartres 22
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 Chartres

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Chartres.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Chartres 12

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


When comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and Chartres, 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 Chartres Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Chartres?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Chartres, 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Chartres. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Chartres in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Chartres. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Chartres 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town atmosphere during these months.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Chartres in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Chartres fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Chartres. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Chartres 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Cordoba during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Chartres because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Chartres can be very cold. In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Chartres. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Chartres averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Chartres. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Chartres 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Chartres. The spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

In April, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Chartres. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Chartres 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Chartres and Cordoba

Cordoba Chartres
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)