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

Should you visit Cordoba or Le Mans?

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 Le Mans 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Le Mans

Le Mans is a quaint, small, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife and museums.

Cordoba and Le Mans: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Le Mans?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Le Mans. Cordoba is bigger than Le Mans, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Le Mans is more popular for its small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Le Mans and is popular 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. Le Mans is well known for being the location of the annual 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is one of the world's greatest sports-car races.

How is Cordoba different from Le Mans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Le Mans offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's most famous as the location of the 24 hour car race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and on some days it's possible to visit the race track which has a museum with simulators and other activities. Around town you'll find museums and activities affiliated with the racing culture, and there's also a cathedral as well as several nice museums relating to the automotive industry among other things.


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

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Le Mans is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Le Mans. It's not known for its food scene, but there is one dish in particular that you should try. The local specialty is les rillettes de porc, which is a pork paté.

Is Cordoba or Le Mans Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is great for nightlife. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

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 Le Mans. You'll find bars and clubs in the city center around Saint-Nicolas Quarter, rue des Ponts-neufs, Place de la Sirène and around the Republic Square.

Is Cordoba or Le Mans Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Le Mans 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.

Le Mans does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Le Mans?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is very good for shopping. However, Le Mans 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.

Le Mans is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cordoba or Le Mans Better for Families?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Both Cordoba and Le Mans are notable to visit with kids.

Cordoba is a family-friendly place to visit. Horse-drawn carriage rides and then a visit to the Royal Stables of Cordoba is a great option for horse-lovers. The city also has a zoo and an impressive park - Ciudad de Los Niños. If you're willing to head out of town, about 10 kilometers away you'll find Aquasierra Waterpark.

Le Mans is a family-friendly town. Make sure you visit on a day when Le Mans Karting International and the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum is open to visitors. Families can ride on high speed go-carts and train like professionals with special game simulators. This is a popular destination for adults and kids alike. The town also has indoor play areas, waterparks, and beautiful parks to explore.

Is Cordoba or Le Mans Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is great for romance. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Cordoba is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Le Mans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a small town, but racing enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum.


Is Cordoba or Le Mans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Le Mans. While there aren't many hostels specifically designed for backpackers, it is possible to find affordable accommodation at most times.

Is Cordoba or Le Mans Better for Students?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Le Mans 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.

Le Mans is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Le Mans

Both Cordoba and Le Mans offer notable public transit options.

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

Le Mans has some public transit options. There is a tram service around town that provides access to many places including the race track via the T1 line (Antarès-Stade Marie Marvingt and exit at the East Entrance).


Is Cordoba or Le Mans a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Le Mans

Cordoba is great for its walkability. Also, Le Mans is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

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

Le Mans is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Le Mans or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Le Mans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Le Mans. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Le Mans. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Cordoba or Le Mans?

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 Le Mans, you'll find nightlife and 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.

A weekend in Cordoba or Le Mans?

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 Le Mans, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Le Mans has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Le Mans?

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.

Le Mans 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 Le Mans?

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 Le Mans. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Le Mans. 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 Adventure Tours to France, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Le Mans 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 Le Mans is €83. 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 Le Mans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Le Mans 37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Le Mans 74
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Le Mans

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Le Mans? 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 Le Mans


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 Le Mans Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Le Mans 30

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Le Mans?

Prices for flights to both Le Mans 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
    Le Mans 27
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
    Le Mans 15
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Le Mans 12

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 Le Mans, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. And not only is Le Mans much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Le Mans would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Le Mans 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 Le Mans.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Le Mans?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Le Mans. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Le Mans, 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 Le Mans?

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 Le Mans in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Le Mans. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Le Mans for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cordoba is a little warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Le Mans averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Le Mans. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 231 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Le Mans. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Le Mans 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Le Mans in the Autumn?

Both Le Mans and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Le Mans because of the small town atmosphere.

In October, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Le Mans. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Le Mans fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 117 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Le Mans 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Le Mans in the Winter?

Both Le Mans and Cordoba during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Le Mans this time of year.

It's quite cold in Le Mans in the winter. Cordoba is much warmer than Le Mans in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Le Mans fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Le Mans. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Le Mans receives 54 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Le Mans. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Le Mans 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Le Mans in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Le Mans. The natural beauty are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Le Mans for the small town charm.

In the spring, Cordoba is much warmer than Le Mans. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Le Mans averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Le Mans during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Le Mans receives 168 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Le Mans. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Le Mans receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Le Mans 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Le Mans and Cordoba

Cordoba Le Mans
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 16°C (61°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)