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

Should you visit Cordoba or Interlaken?

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 Interlaken can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a beautiful, colorful, and flower-filled town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a stunning, adventurous, and adrenaline-filled town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include hiking, skiing, and food.

Cordoba and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Interlaken?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cordoba than Interlaken, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cordoba is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Interlaken is more popular for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cordoba is well 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. Interlaken is well known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes.

How is Cordoba different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Interlaken and Cordoba. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Interlaken is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, Cordoba is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Cordoba is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cordoba or Interlaken?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Cordoba from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cordoba
Interlaken

Both Cordoba and Interlaken offer a number of superb 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 Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Cordoba is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Cordoba has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Cordoba is revered around the world. It's old town is one of the most enchanting in Andalusia. There are whitewashed houses that line flower-filled streets and its compact enough to take a leisurely stroll.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Interlaken is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Around Interlaken visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Interlaken?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Cordoba is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Families?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Interlaken is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an extremely popular town to visit for families. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

Cordoba is a family-friendly town. 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.

Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Interlaken

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

Interlaken is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Cordoba makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautifully lit up at night, this is a truly romantic city. There are horse-drawn carriage rides, nice parks, and an impressive botanical garden. There are also many great restaurants that couples can explore.

Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Cordoba is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Cordoba is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.


Is Cordoba or Interlaken Better for Students?

Cordoba
Interlaken

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

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Interlaken

Interlaken 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 Interlaken. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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

Is Cordoba or Interlaken a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Interlaken

Cordoba is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Interlaken?

In either Cordoba or Interlaken, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Interlaken than Cordoba because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-5 days is enough time in Interlaken.

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Cordoba. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Interlaken, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Interlaken 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 Interlaken? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Interlaken 2-5

One day in Cordoba or Interlaken?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful town of Cordoba, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cordoba, one day is sufficent for most.

In Interlaken, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town 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 Interlaken?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Cordoba, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Interlaken, you'll find food and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Interlaken?

Cordoba, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Cordoba or Interlaken?

Cordoba is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.


Which place is cheaper, Interlaken 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 Interlaken is €217. 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 Interlaken in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Interlaken 125
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Interlaken 250
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Interlaken

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Interlaken? 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 Interlaken


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 Interlaken Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Interlaken 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

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

  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $240
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $284
  • Private Group transfer Zurich Airport - Interlaken: $1,312

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Interlaken?

Prices for flights to both Interlaken 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
    Interlaken 60
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 Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

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

  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $143
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $733

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Interlaken 97
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 Interlaken

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

  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Interlaken Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Hofstetten bei Brienz: Trauffer Erlebniswelt Ticket: $16
  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $29
  • Funicular Ticket to Harder Kulm: $42
  • Rope Park Climbing Adventure with Entry Ticket: $46
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder: $86
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Express Tour: $90
  • Funicular Ticket from Interlaken to Harder (Top of Interlaken): $102
  • Interlaken Valley Bike Tour: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $108
  • Bike Tour of the Interlaken Valley: Rivers, Lakes & Forests: $111
  • Waterfalls Day Tour: $119

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Interlaken 16

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 Interlaken, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Cordoba much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cordoba would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cordoba 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken than you might in Cordoba.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Interlaken?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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 Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Cordoba during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cordoba is a little warmer than Interlaken. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Interlaken averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Interlaken. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Interlaken in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Interlaken. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of rain as Interlaken. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Interlaken. The winter months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing and the cuisine are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

It's quite cold in Interlaken in the winter. Cordoba is much warmer than Interlaken in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Interlaken fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Interlaken. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Interlaken in the Spring?

Both Interlaken and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Interlaken for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cordoba is a little warmer than Interlaken. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Interlaken averages at about 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Cordoba

Cordoba Interlaken
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)