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

Should you visit Cordoba or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Lucerne: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Lucerne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba than Lucerne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cordoba is very popular for its museums, food, and historical sights, while Lucerne attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Cordoba is more touristy than Lucerne 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 well known for La Mezquita. Lucerne is famous for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Cordoba different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Lucerne

Cordoba is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cordoba has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.


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

Cordoba
Lucerne

Cordoba is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cordoba has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Cordoba or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Both Cordoba and Lucerne are very good when it comes to partying.

Cordoba offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Lucerne has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Cordoba or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Cordoba is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Cordoba has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Lucerne?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Lucerne is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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.

Is Cordoba or Lucerne Better for Families?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Both Cordoba and Lucerne are nice to visit with kids.

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

Lucerne is a family-friendly town. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Cordoba or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Both Cordoba and Lucerne are very good 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.

Lucerne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.


Is Cordoba or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Cordoba is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Cordoba or Lucerne Better for Students?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Cordoba is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Cordoba is a very popular place to visit 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Cordoba
Lucerne

Both Cordoba and Lucerne offer nice public transit options.

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

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.


Is Cordoba or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Lucerne

Cordoba is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Lucerne?

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne 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 Lucerne is €200. 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 Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Lucerne 128
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Lucerne 256
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Lucerne? 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 Lucerne


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 Lucerne Hotel Prices.

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

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 Lucerne

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

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne 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
    Lucerne 58
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

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

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Lucerne 32
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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    32
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    33

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Lucerne 21

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne 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 Lucerne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Lucerne?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Lucerne, 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Lucerne. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Lucerne in the summer. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

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


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cordoba is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cordoba in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Lucerne averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Cordoba during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 10°C (50°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

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

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


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Lucerne. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Lucerne in the spring. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


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

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Cordoba

Cordoba Lucerne
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)