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

Should you visit Cordoba or Nantes?

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 Nantes 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 beautiful, colorful, and flower-filled town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nantes

Nantes is a historical, beautiful, and vibrant city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Nantes?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Nantes are roughly the same size, Cordoba has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cordoba is very popular for its museums and historical sights, while Nantes attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Nantes 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. Nantes is famous for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Cordoba different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Nantes

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.


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

Cordoba
Nantes

Nantes is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Nantes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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).

Is Cordoba or Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Nantes

Both Cordoba and Nantes are high quality 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.

Nantes has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Cordoba or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Nantes

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Cordoba offers plenty to see. 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 go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Nantes?

Cordoba
Nantes

Nantes 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 Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes Better for Families?

Cordoba
Nantes

Nantes 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.

Nantes is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Nantes

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

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

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.


Is Cordoba or Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Nantes

Cordoba is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Cordoba or Nantes Better for Students?

Cordoba
Nantes

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Cordoba
Nantes

Nantes 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 Nantes. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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


Is Cordoba or Nantes a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Nantes

Cordoba and Nantes both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Nantes. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

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

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Nantes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Nantes?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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


Five days in Cordoba or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantes 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 Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Cordoba. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Nantes 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 Nantes is €108. 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 Nantes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Nantes 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Nantes 120
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Nantes

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Nantes? 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 Nantes


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 Nantes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Nantes 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

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

  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Nantes?

Prices for flights to both Nantes 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
    Nantes 27
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 Nantes

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

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Nantes 13
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 Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $50
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Welcome to Private Tour with a Local: $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59
  • PANORAMA TOUR OF NANTES by electric bike: $60
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Nantes 6.43

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 Nantes

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

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Nantes, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. And not only is Nantes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nantes would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nantes and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cordoba would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cordoba than you might in Nantes.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Nantes?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and Cordoba during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantes because of the family-friendly experiences.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Nantes in the summer. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Nantes, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Nantes. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Nantes 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Nantes in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Nantes. The autumn months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

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

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Nantes. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Nantes in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Nantes. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 10°C (50°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Nantes. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Nantes 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Nantes in the Spring?

Both Nantes and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the spring for the natural beauty.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Nantes in the spring. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Nantes. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Nantes 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Nantes and Cordoba

Cordoba Nantes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)