A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cordoba vs. La Rochelle for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Cordoba or La Rochelle?

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

Cordoba

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

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cordoba and La Rochelle: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or La Rochelle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba than La Rochelle, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while La Rochelle is known for its food, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. It is also home to La Mezquita. La Rochelle is popular for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is Cordoba different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Cordoba is very popular for its historical sights. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cordoba are world-renowned. The city is filled with monuments that reflect its past. The Great Mosque (La Mezquita) is one of the most iconic sights. You can also visit Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Palacio de Viana, and Puente Romano.

Many visitors head to La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.


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

Cordoba
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in La Rochelle have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cordoba. 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).

Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Cordoba is great for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Cordoba for the nightlife scene. There are cocktail bars, Flamenco shows, tapas tours, and local pubs that make for a great night out. The city offers something for everyone, whatever your style.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in La Rochelle. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.


Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Both Cordoba and La Rochelle have terrific 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.

La Rochelle has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or La Rochelle?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Both Cordoba and La Rochelle are good 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 La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.


Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Both Cordoba and La Rochelle are good 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly town. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

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

Many backpackers visit Cordoba. It's well-established on the backpacker circuit, so you'll find plenty of hostels around town and many opportunities to meet up with other travelers.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.


Is Cordoba or La Rochelle Better for Students?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Cordoba is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for 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.

La Rochelle is a good town to visit for students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

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

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Both Cordoba and La Rochelle offer good public transit options.

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

La Rochelle has some public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Cordoba or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Cordoba
La Rochelle

Cordoba and La Rochelle both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

La Rochelle is very walkable. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Cordoba or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Rochelle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    La Rochelle 2-4

One day in Cordoba or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the flower-filled town of Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the flower-filled destination of Cordoba. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

La Rochelle might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Rochelle has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or La Rochelle?

The beautiful town of Cordoba offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cordoba. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. 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 La Rochelle. Since La Rochelle is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle is €114. 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 La Rochelle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    La Rochelle 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    La Rochelle 134
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and La Rochelle

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or La Rochelle? 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 La Rochelle


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 La Rochelle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    La Rochelle 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Rochelle

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

  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE): $88
  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or La Rochelle?

Prices for flights to both La Rochelle 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
    La Rochelle 34
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
    La Rochelle 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:

  • 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 La Rochelle

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

  • La Rochelle : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Entry Ticket to the 3 Towers: $12
  • La Rochelle Towers Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Les Minimes and Bay Boat Tour: $18
  • Guided tour of La Rochelle The splendor of merchants in the 18th century: $22
  • Planet Exotica entrance ticket: $23
  • Coastline Sailing Cruise: $27
  • 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Cruise: $31
  • 3-Hour Sailing cruise: $37
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Lighthouse at the End of the World Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Discover Discovery Walking Tour of La Rochelle: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    La Rochelle 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 comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and La Rochelle, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or La Rochelle?

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

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 La Rochelle in the Summer?

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

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Rochelle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than La Rochelle. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    La Rochelle 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

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

Cordoba is a little warmer than La Rochelle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    La Rochelle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or La Rochelle in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Cordoba is a little warmer than La Rochelle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as La Rochelle. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    La Rochelle 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or La Rochelle in the Spring?

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

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

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Cordoba

Cordoba La Rochelle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 10°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)