A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Cordoba vs. Girona for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cordoba or Girona?

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 Girona 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a medieval, ancient, and charming city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Girona: 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Girona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba than Girona, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cordoba is more popular for its museums and nightlife, while Girona is known for its shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cordoba is more touristy than Girona 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. Girona is popular for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Cordoba different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Girona

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

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.

Girona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.


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

Cordoba
Girona

Both Cordoba and Girona 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 Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Cordoba or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Girona

Cordoba is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Cordoba or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Girona

Both Cordoba and Girona have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

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.

Girona has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Girona?

Cordoba
Girona

Girona is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Is Cordoba or Girona Better for Families?

Cordoba
Girona

Cordoba is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Cordoba or Girona Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Girona

Both Cordoba and Girona are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.


Is Cordoba or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Girona

Cordoba is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Cordoba or Girona Better for Students?

Cordoba
Girona

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

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.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

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

Cordoba
Girona

Both Cordoba and Girona offer good public transit options.

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

Girona has some public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.


Is Cordoba or Girona a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Girona

Girona is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Girona on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Girona or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cordoba or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cordoba than Girona 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 Girona.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Girona. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Girona 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 Girona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Girona 1-2

One day in Cordoba or Girona?

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 Girona, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Girona?

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 Girona, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Girona has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Girona?

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.

Girona 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.

A week in Cordoba or Girona?

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 Girona. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Girona. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best 2-Week Tours from Madrid, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona.


Which place is cheaper, Girona 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 Girona is €140. 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 Girona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Girona 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Girona 138
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Girona

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Girona? 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 Girona


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 Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Girona 49

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 Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Girona?

Prices for flights to both Girona 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
    Girona 41
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 Girona

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

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Girona 24
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 Girona

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

  • Girona self-guided tour app with multilingual audioguide: $4.28
  • Audio Tour Imprescindible a tu ritmo: $6.41
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Museum of Cinema Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Self-guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Ticket pass to Girona Cathedral, Sant Felix and Girona Art Museum: $13
  • Catedral, Art Museum, St Felix Church Ticket & Audio: $29
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Girona History, Legends, and Food Walking Tour with food tasting: $31
  • Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour with Food Tasting: $37
  • Small Group Walking Tour: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Girona 9.69

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 Girona

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

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149


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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Girona?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

Both Girona and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Girona for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Girona. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Girona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Girona during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Girona. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Girona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Girona in the Autumn?

Both Girona and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Girona in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Girona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Girona fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Girona. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Girona 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Girona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Girona. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Girona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cordoba is a little warmer than Girona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Girona averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Girona during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Girona. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Girona 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Girona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Girona. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Girona because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Girona. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°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 Girona. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Girona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Girona and Cordoba

Cordoba Girona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)