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

Should you visit Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

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-Etienne 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 flower-filled, historical, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Cordoba and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba than Saint-Etienne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne is known for its hiking. Cordoba is more touristy than Saint-Etienne 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 home to La Mezquita. Saint-Etienne is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Cordoba different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cordoba are world-renowned. 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-Etienne. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.


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

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cordoba has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Cordoba for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint-Etienne. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

Cordoba offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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-Etienne does not have a historic old town.


Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint-Etienne. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Both Cordoba and Saint-Etienne 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-Etienne is a family-friendly town. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.


Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Cordoba is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beautifully lit up at night, this is a truly romantic city. There are horse-drawn carriage rides, nice parks, and an impressive botanical garden. There are also many great restaurants that couples can explore.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

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

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many 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.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne Better for Students?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is an amazing town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.


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

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Both Cordoba and Saint-Etienne offer good public transit options.

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

Saint-Etienne has some public transit options. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Is Cordoba or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Saint-Etienne

Cordoba is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable town. There are several walkable areas in the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical 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.

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find nightlife and museums. This city 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-Etienne?

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.

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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-Etienne has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful 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-Etienne 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-Etienne?

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-Etienne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint-Etienne. 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 from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne 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-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Saint-Etienne? 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-Etienne


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-Etienne 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne 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-Etienne 34
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-Etienne 25
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Saint-Etienne 10

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

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-Etienne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Saint-Etienne?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 82% larger than the population of Saint-Etienne. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Saint-Etienne, 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-Etienne?

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 Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Saint-Etienne. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Etienne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Saint-Etienne. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

Both Saint-Etienne and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

Both Saint-Etienne and Cordoba during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint-Etienne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the natural beauty.

In April, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint-Etienne. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Cordoba

Cordoba Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)