A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cordoba vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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 Mont-Saint-Michel 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a iconic, religious, and historic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cordoba 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 home to La Mezquita. Mont-Saint-Michel is popular for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base.

How is Cordoba different from Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Cordoba on the map. 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.

Travelers visit Mont-Saint-Michel from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Visitors come to see the iconic Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel which has been the inspiration for tourists and religious pilgrims for centuries. Make sure you see the Ramparts and La Grande Rue.


Is the Food Better in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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).

Mont-Saint-Michel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of local restaurants to choose from that serve authentic French cuisine including the pre-salted sheep, which is a local specialty.

Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Cordoba know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Mont-Saint-Michel Most people visit the island as a daytrip and nightlife is essentially nonexistent.

Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.


Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Cordoba offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cordoba. 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.

For families, Mont-Saint-Michel is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride or exploring the grounds, but it can make for a long day for kids with short attention spans.


Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a stunning setting and makes a romantic backdrop for a couples holiday, whether it's part of a longer trip to France or a short weekend away.

Cordoba makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cordoba is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba is a world-class destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.


Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Both Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel offer good public transit options.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel has some public transit options. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Mont-Saint-Michel

Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very walkable. There are many stunning walks in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Cordoba Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cordoba than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Mont-Saint-Michel. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel than Cordoba. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mont-Saint-Michel that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Cordoba, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the historical town of Cordoba, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the flower-filled destination of Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cordoba is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel is €156. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Mont-Saint-Michel 140
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel? 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 Mont-Saint-Michel


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 Mont-Saint-Michel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Mont-Saint-Michel 70

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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

Prices for flights to both Mont-Saint-Michel 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
    Mont-Saint-Michel 44
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
    Mont-Saint-Michel 30
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 Mont-Saint-Michel

Here are a few actual costs in Mont-Saint-Michel for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Audio Tour around Mont Saint-Michele island: $5.45
  • Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in the Middle Ages: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Airborne Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Battle of the Hedges Museum: $11
  • Normandy Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Abbey du Mont Saint-Michel Priority Entrance Tickets: $16
  • Walking Tour in the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel: $16
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking tour of the Mont Saint Michel : $33
  • Cherbourg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $44
  • Mont-St-Michel: Shared Tour (10 max) "Abbey Ticket Included": $162
  • Private walking tour of Mont Saint Michel with a licensed guide: $215
  • Mont-St-Michel: Private Walking Tour "Abbey Ticket Included": $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Mont-Saint-Michel 7.86

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 Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 4020 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel, 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

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 Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Mont-Saint-Michel. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Mont-Saint-Michel this time of year.

In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Spring?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Cordoba during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty.

In April, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the spring, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Mont-Saint-Michel 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Cordoba

Cordoba Mont-Saint-Michel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 16°C (61°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)