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

Should you visit Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

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 Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a charming, quaint, and peaceful university town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cordoba and Saint Andrews: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Saint Andrews are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Saint Andrews is known for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Saint Andrews 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. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

How is Cordoba different from Saint Andrews?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Cordoba is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.


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

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Both Cordoba and Saint Andrews offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Cordoba is an experience not to be missed. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Andrews. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Cordoba is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for Beaches?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.


Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Cordoba is terrific for its old town. However, Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Cordoba has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Saint Andrews does not have a historic old town.

Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

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 Saint Andrews Better for Families?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Both Cordoba and Saint Andrews are good 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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly town. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Both Cordoba and Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Cordoba is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university 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.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.


Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews Better for Students?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Cordoba and Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

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

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Both Cordoba and Saint Andrews offer good public transit options.

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

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Cordoba or Saint Andrews a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Saint Andrews

Cordoba is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Saint Andrews or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful destination of Cordoba. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Saint Andrews is a small town with plenty to do. This university 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 Saint Andrews?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Cordoba. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful town of Cordoba. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Andrews. Since Saint Andrews 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 Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews is €252. 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 Saint Andrews in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Saint Andrews 136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Saint Andrews 272
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Saint Andrews

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Saint Andrews? 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 Saint Andrews


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Saint Andrews 61

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

Prices for flights to both Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews 72
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
    Saint Andrews 53
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 Saint Andrews

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saint Andrews are as follows:

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Saint Andrews 31

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Saint Andrews?

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

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 Saint Andrews in the Summer?

Both Saint Andrews and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Saint Andrews. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Saint Andrews fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Saint Andrews. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Saint Andrews in the Autumn?

Both Saint Andrews and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year.

Cordoba is much warmer than Saint Andrews in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Saint Andrews fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 100 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Saint Andrews in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Saint Andrews. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint Andrews. In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Saint Andrews. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Saint Andrews averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Saint Andrews during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Andrews receives 58 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Saint Andrews. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cordoba or Saint Andrews in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Saint Andrews. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Saint Andrews. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Saint Andrews fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Saint Andrews. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Andrews receives 155 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Saint Andrews. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Saint Andrews receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Saint Andrews and Cordoba

Cordoba Saint Andrews
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)