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

Should you visit Cordoba or Galway?

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 Galway 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 historical, beautiful, and colorful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Galway

Galway is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Galway: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Galway?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Galway. Cordoba is bigger than Galway, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Galway is more popular for its big city activities. Cordoba is more touristy than Galway and is known for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. Also, Cordoba is famous for La Mezquita. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Cordoba different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Galway

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Cordoba that are not to be missed. 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.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.


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

Cordoba
Galway

Cordoba is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cordoba makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Cordoba or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Galway

Both Cordoba and Galway are great when it comes to partying.

Cordoba offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Galway has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Cordoba or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Galway

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Cordoba offers plenty to see. 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.

Galway does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Galway?

Cordoba
Galway

Both Cordoba and Galway are notable 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 Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Cordoba or Galway Better for Families?

Cordoba
Galway

Both Cordoba and Galway are notable 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.

Galway is a family-friendly town. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Cordoba or Galway Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Galway

Cordoba is notable for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.


Is Cordoba or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Galway

Both Cordoba and Galway are great destinations for backpackers.

Cordoba is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Galway is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Cordoba or Galway Better for Students?

Cordoba
Galway

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Cordoba is a very popular town 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.

Plenty of students visit Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

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

Cordoba
Galway

Both Cordoba and Galway offer notable public transit options.

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

Galway has some public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.


Is Cordoba or Galway a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Galway

Cordoba and Galway both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Galway is very walkable. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Galway?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Galway. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Galway. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-3 days is enough time in Galway.

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

One day in Cordoba or Galway?

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.

In Galway, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cordoba or Galway?

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.

In Galway, you'll find food 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 Galway has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Galway?

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.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the flower-filled 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 Galway. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Galway 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 Galway is €131. 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 Galway in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Galway 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Galway 140
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Galway

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Galway? 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 Galway


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 Galway Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Galway 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galway

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Galway:

  • Galway Private Transfer from Galway Airport to City centre: $90
  • Galway Private Transfer from central Galway to Galway Airport: $90
  • Shannon Airport to Seamless Private Transfers: $257
  • Galway to Limerick | Private Transfer and Car Service: $294
  • Galway to Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $294
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Cork City: $561
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Killarney: $668
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Dublin Airport: $668
  • Galway Private Driver: Personalized Tours & Transfers: $749

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Galway?

Prices for flights to both Galway 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
    Galway 33
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

Typical Food Prices in Galway

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


  • Fish & Chips Dinner
    8.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galway

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

  • Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour: $93
  • Galway Food Tour: $107
  • Galway Food Tours: $109
  • Private Irish Cooking Experience in the Heart of Gaeltacht: $136
  • Farm to Table Experience and Irish Cooking Class in Galway: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Galway 12
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 Galway

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

  • Cong The Quiet Man Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket: $8.17
  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • City Centre App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Galway's City Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Welcome to Galway Walking Tour: $16
  • Burren Botany Experience: $16
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • The Legendary Walking Tour of Galway: $17
  • City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • Galway City: Guided 1.5-Hour Walking Tour: $21
  • Dark History Guided City Walking Tour: $21
  • Evening Guided Walking Tour: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Galway 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 Galway

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Galway:

  • Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour: $355


When comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and Galway, we can see that Galway 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 Galway Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Galway?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In the summer, Cordoba is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Galway averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Galway. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Galway 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Galway. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Galway in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Galway. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galway in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cordoba is much warmer than Galway in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Galway during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

Galway receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Galway. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Galway 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Galway in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Galway for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Cordoba is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Galway averages at about 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Galway. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Galway. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Galway and Cordoba

Cordoba Galway
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)