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

Should you visit Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina 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 historical, beautiful, and colorful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a charming, authentic, and historic town. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Cordoba and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Piazza Armerina are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known 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. Piazza Armerina is popular for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Cordoba different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Cordoba are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Piazza Armerina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.


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

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

Cordoba has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

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 explore the old town while visiting Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.


Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina Better for Students?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for students. However, Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

Cordoba is a very popular place to visit 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.

Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Both Cordoba and Piazza Armerina offer good public transit options.

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

Piazza Armerina has some public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.


Is Cordoba or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Piazza Armerina

Cordoba and Piazza Armerina both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Piazza Armerina is very walkable. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cordoba than Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Piazza Armerina 1-2

One day in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

The beautiful destination of Cordoba offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Piazza Armerina, you'll find food and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

The town of Cordoba offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

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


Five days in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Piazza Armerina 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.

A week in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Piazza Armerina. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Piazza Armerina. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina is €93. 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 Piazza Armerina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Piazza Armerina 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Piazza Armerina 112
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Piazza Armerina

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Piazza Armerina? 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 Piazza Armerina


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 Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

Prices for flights to both Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33
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
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
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 Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Piazza Armerina 13

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 Piazza Armerina, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Piazza Armerina?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Piazza Armerina, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

Both Piazza Armerina and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Piazza Armerina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Piazza Armerina. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

Both Piazza Armerina and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Piazza Armerina. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 189 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Piazza Armerina. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Piazza Armerina. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 10°C (51°F).

Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Piazza Armerina during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Piazza Armerina. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Piazza Armerina. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Piazza Armerina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Piazza Armerina. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 204 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Piazza Armerina. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Cordoba

Cordoba Piazza Armerina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)