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

Should you visit Cordoba or Messina?

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 Messina 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.

Messina

Messina is a local, historic, and bustling port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cordoba or Messina?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Messina. Cordoba is bigger than Messina, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Messina is more popular for its beaches and big city activities. Cordoba is more touristy than Messina 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. Messina is well known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Cordoba different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina 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.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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

Cordoba is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cordoba makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Cordoba or Messina Better for Nightlife?

Both Cordoba and Messina are great 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.

Messina has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Is Cordoba or Messina Better for Beaches?

Messina is a moderate port city for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

The beach in Messina is worth checking out. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Cordoba or Messina Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba is renowned for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Cordoba is one of the most recognized in 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.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Messina?

Both Cordoba and Messina 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 Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Cordoba or Messina Better for Families?

Messina 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.

Messina is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina Better for Couples?

Cordoba is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Cordoba frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Cordoba or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Cordoba or Messina Better for Students?

Cordoba is renowned for students. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Cordoba is a very popular town 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 Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

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

Both Cordoba and Messina offer notable public transit options.

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

Messina has some public transit options. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Cordoba or Messina a more walkable city?

Cordoba and Messina both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

Should I spend more time in Messina or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Messina?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Messina. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Messina. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-3 days is enough time in Messina.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than Messina. 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 Messina 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.

One day in Cordoba or Messina?

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 Messina, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Messina?

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 Messina, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Messina has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Messina?

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.

Messina 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 Messina?

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 Messina. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Messina. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Messina?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Messina, 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 Messina?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cordoba or Messina in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Messina. The summer months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Messina this time of year.

In the summer, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Messina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Messina averages at about 27°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Messina during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Messina. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cordoba or Messina in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Messina. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Messina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Messina. Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Messina. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cordoba or Messina in the Winter?

Both Messina and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Messina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cordoba is cooler than Messina in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Messina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Messina during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. In January, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Messina. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cordoba or Messina in the Spring?

Both Messina and Cordoba during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Messina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Messina averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the spring, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Messina. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Messina and Cordoba