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

Should you visit Cordoba or Oxford?

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 Oxford 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Oxford

Oxford is a scholarly, collegiate, and beautiful college town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Oxford: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Oxford?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Oxford. Cordoba is bigger than Oxford, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, and historical sights, while Oxford is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Cordoba is more touristy than Oxford 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. Oxford is well known for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Cordoba different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Oxford

Cordoba is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.


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

Cordoba
Oxford

Cordoba is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Cordoba or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Oxford

Both Cordoba and Oxford 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.

Oxford has a large number of nightlife venues. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Is Cordoba or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Oxford

Cordoba is very popular for its historic old town. However, Oxford 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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Oxford?

Cordoba
Oxford

Both Cordoba and Oxford 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 Oxford. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Cordoba or Oxford Better for Families?

Cordoba
Oxford

Both Cordoba and Oxford are notable to visit with kids.

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

Oxford is a family-friendly town. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Cordoba or Oxford Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Oxford

Both Cordoba and Oxford 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.

Oxford makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.


Is Cordoba or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Oxford

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

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Cordoba or Oxford Better for Students?

Cordoba
Oxford

Cordoba and Oxford are both first-rate destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Oxford is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

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

Cordoba
Oxford

Both Cordoba and Oxford offer notable public transit options.

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

Oxford has some public transit options. There are buses available if your legs get tired.


Is Cordoba or Oxford a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Oxford

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

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

Oxford is very walkable. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Oxford?

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

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Oxford?

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.

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. This college town 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 Oxford?

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.

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Oxford has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Oxford?

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.

Oxford 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 Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical 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 Oxford. Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Oxford 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 Oxford is €153. 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 Oxford in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Oxford 84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Oxford 168
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Oxford

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Oxford? 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 Oxford


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 Oxford Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Oxford 32

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 Oxford

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

  • National Express | Between Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airports Bus Transfers: $34
  • Fareham to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Gatwick city hotels to Dover Cruise Port: $55
  • Oxford Private Departure Transfer - Oxford Hotel/Accommodation to Oxford Airport: $68
  • Transfer in private Vehicle from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Central London: $96
  • Private One Way or Round Trip Transfer: Kensington SW London to Gatwick Airport: $147
  • Oxford City to London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $196
  • Arrival or Departure Private Transfer: Stansted Airport to Central London: $224
  • Gatwick Airport to Southampton Port or Hotel Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $230
  • Southampton - London Transfer: via Bath and Windsor: $234

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Oxford?

Prices for flights to both Oxford 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
    Oxford 48
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
    Oxford 22
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 Oxford

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

  • Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Carfax Tower Entry Ticket: $3.81
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Oxford's Literary Legends and Landmarks" A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Discover Oxford's Timeless Tales: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Explore Oxford's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour for Students: $11
  • Oxford Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Stepping Through Oxford Walking Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Oxford 24

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 Oxford

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oxford:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Cambridge: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Edinburgh: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Bristol: Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Eccentric Oxford 3-Hour Pub Tour: $150
  • Wine Tasting in the Garden of England: $221


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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Oxford?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Oxford, 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford in the Summer?

Both Oxford 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 Oxford because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cordoba is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Oxford averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Oxford 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Oxford in the Autumn?

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

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

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Oxford. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Oxford in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oxford. Cordoba is much warmer than Oxford in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Oxford fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Oxford. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Oxford 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Oxford in the Spring?

Both Oxford 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 Oxford in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cordoba is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Oxford averages at about 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Oxford. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Oxford 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Oxford and Cordoba

Cordoba Oxford
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)