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

Should you visit Cordoba or Manchester?

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 Manchester 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.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Cordoba and Manchester: 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Manchester?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Manchester. While Manchester is larger than Cordoba, Cordoba has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cordoba is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Manchester is more popular for its music, shopping, and big city activities. Cordoba is more touristy than Manchester 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. Manchester is well known for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Cordoba different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Manchester

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.


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

Cordoba
Manchester

Both Cordoba and Manchester offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Cordoba is an experience not to be missed. Like much of Spain, international travelers will have to adjust to the shifted meal schedule which means most meals are served are later than they are in other parts of Europe. The ingredients are fresh and popular dishes include Salmorejo (a tomato based soup), Rabo De Toro (stewed oxtail), and Flamenquín (deep-fried pork roll).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Cordoba or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Manchester

Both Cordoba and Manchester are superb 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.

Manchester has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Is Cordoba or Manchester Better for Music?

Cordoba
Manchester

Manchester is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Cordoba is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester is very popular with diverse venues. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Cordoba is not a live music destination.


Is Cordoba or Manchester Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Manchester

Cordoba is very popular for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Manchester?

Cordoba
Manchester

Manchester 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 Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

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 Manchester Better for Families?

Cordoba
Manchester

Manchester 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.

Manchester is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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 Manchester Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Manchester

Both Cordoba and Manchester are superb 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.

Manchester makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Cordoba or Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Manchester

Cordoba is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Cordoba or Manchester Better for Students?

Cordoba
Manchester

Cordoba is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Manchester is a great town to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.


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

Cordoba
Manchester

Manchester is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Manchester. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

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

Is Cordoba or Manchester a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Manchester

Cordoba is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Manchester?

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

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Manchester?

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

Because Manchester is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Manchester?

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

Because Manchester is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Manchester has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Manchester?

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

Manchester 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 Manchester?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Manchester. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Manchester. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Manchester 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 Manchester is €215. 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 Manchester in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Manchester 83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Manchester 166
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Manchester

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Manchester? 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 Manchester


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 Manchester Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Manchester 22

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Manchester

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


  • Rail to Airport
    13
  • Parking in Manchester
    3.51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manchester

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

  • 1-Wsy Airport Bus Transfer to/from Leeds: $6.86
  • Southampton Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Manchester: $8.12
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from London: $8.12
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Bucklow Hill: $50
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Adlington (Macclesfield): $52
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Stockport: $52
  • Private Transfer from Eccles to Manchester Airport (MAN): $56
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Eccles: $56
  • Private Transfer from Salford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Salford Quays to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Trafford Park to Manchester Airport (MAN): $58
  • Private Transfer from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Salford: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Manchester?

Prices for flights to both Manchester 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
    Manchester 65
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 Manchester

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
  • Private Italian Dinner with a Romantic Night Experience: $63
  • 2 Hours Sicilian Wine Tasting and Dinner at Manchester: $76
  • Manchester Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch: $89
  • 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch : $95
  • Private Food Tour with Local Guide: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Manchester 35
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 Manchester

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

  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Manchester City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Manchester’s Rebirth and Renewal: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • England's First Industrial City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Salford Quays Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Canal & River Cruise: $15
  • City River Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Manchester 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

Sample the Local Flavors in Manchester

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Manchester:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars: $101


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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Manchester?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Cordoba. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Manchester, 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 Manchester?

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 Manchester in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Manchester. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Manchester for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cordoba is much warmer than Manchester. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Manchester averages at about 16°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 176 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Manchester. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Manchester 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Manchester in the Autumn?

Both Manchester 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 Manchester because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Manchester. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Manchester 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Manchester in the Winter?

Both Manchester 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, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Manchester this time of year.

It's quite cold in Manchester in the winter. Cordoba is much warmer than Manchester in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Manchester fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 53 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Manchester. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Manchester 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Manchester in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Manchester. The natural beauty are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Manchester for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cordoba is much warmer than Manchester. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Manchester averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Manchester. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Manchester 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Manchester and Cordoba

Cordoba Manchester
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)