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

Should you visit Cordoba or Lillehammer?

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 Lillehammer 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 colorful, flower-filled, and historical town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a adventure-filled, sporty, and natural city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Cordoba and Lillehammer: 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
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Lillehammer?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cordoba than Lillehammer, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cordoba is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Lillehammer and is 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. Lillehammer is well known for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Cordoba different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Cordoba is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Cordoba is not a skiing destination.


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

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Cordoba that are not to be missed. 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.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Both Cordoba and Lillehammer offer a number of high quality 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 Lillehammer. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Cordoba is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Cordoba is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.


Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

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

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Lillehammer is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Lillehammer?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Both Cordoba and Lillehammer are notable 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 Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.


Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lillehammer is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

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 Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Both Cordoba and Lillehammer are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

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

Lillehammer makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Cordoba is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Lillehammer is a good town to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.


Is Cordoba or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Cordoba is a world-class destination for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Cordoba is a great destination for students. It's a top study abroad destination for international students. The university is excellent and the city is easy to navigate. It's a cultural city with a great student-friendly atmosphere.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Both Cordoba and Lillehammer offer notable public transit options.

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

Lillehammer has some public transit options. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Cordoba or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Lillehammer

Cordoba is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.


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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Cordoba or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Lillehammer 2-4

One day in Cordoba or Lillehammer?

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.

In Lillehammer, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city 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 Lillehammer?

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.

In Lillehammer, you'll find museums 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lillehammer has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Lillehammer?

The flower-filled 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.

Lillehammer is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Lillehammer?

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 Lillehammer. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Lillehammer. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer is €96. 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 Lillehammer in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Lillehammer 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Lillehammer 116
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Lillehammer

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Lillehammer? 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 Lillehammer


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 Lillehammer Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Lillehammer 3.67

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Lillehammer?

Prices for flights to both Lillehammer 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
    Lillehammer 32
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
    Lillehammer 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:

  • 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 Lillehammer

Here are a few actual costs in Lillehammer for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Lillehammer. Entry Ticket: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. And not only is Lillehammer much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lillehammer would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Lillehammer?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Lillehammer, 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.