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

Should you visit Cordoba or Imperia?

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 Imperia 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Imperia: 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


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Imperia are popular destinations, Cordoba has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cordoba is more touristy than Imperia 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 well known for La Mezquita. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Cordoba different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Cordoba on the map. 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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Cordoba
Imperia

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

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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Cordoba or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Cordoba has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Cordoba or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Imperia?

Cordoba
Imperia

Both Cordoba and Imperia are nice 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 Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Cordoba or Imperia Better for Families?

Cordoba
Imperia

Both Cordoba and Imperia are nice 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Cordoba or Imperia Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Cordoba or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Cordoba or Imperia Better for Students?

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for students. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Imperia

Both Cordoba and Imperia offer nice public transit options.

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

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Cordoba or Imperia a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Imperia

Cordoba is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Imperia?

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Imperia?

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

In Imperia, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Imperia?

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

In Imperia, 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 Imperia has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Imperia?

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

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Imperia. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia 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 Imperia is €108. 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 Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Imperia 36

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
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
    Imperia 13
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 Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Imperia 7.50

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

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Imperia?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Imperia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Imperia. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cordoba in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Imperia. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Imperia. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Imperia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 10°C (50°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Imperia. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Imperia. The spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Imperia. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Imperia and Cordoba

Cordoba Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)