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

Should you visit Cordoba or Taormina?

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 Taormina 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Taormina

Taormina is a exclusive, opulent, and historic 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cordoba and Taormina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cordoba or Taormina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Taormina are popular destinations, Cordoba has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cordoba is very popular for its museums and historical sights, while Taormina attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Taormina and is popular for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. It is also well known for La Mezquita. Taormina is famous for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views.

How is Cordoba different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cordoba has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with monuments that reflect its past. The Great Mosque (La Mezquita) is one of the most iconic sights. You can also visit Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Palacio de Viana, and Puente Romano.

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

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

Both Cordoba and Taormina offer a number of great 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 Taormina. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Both Cordoba and Taormina are great 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.

Taormina has a large number of nightlife venues. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Resorts?

Taormina is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Cordoba is not a resort destination.

In Taormina, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Cordoba is not a resort destination.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Taormina is a town with good options for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Taormina. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for its Old Town?

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

Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Taormina?

Both Cordoba and Taormina are nice 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 Taormina. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Families?

Cordoba is a town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Cordoba offers lots of family activities. 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Couples?

Both Cordoba and Taormina are great 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.

Taormina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cordoba. It's well-established on the backpacker circuit, so you'll find plenty of hostels around town and many opportunities to meet up with other travelers.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

Is Cordoba or Taormina Better for Students?

Cordoba is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not popular with students.

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.

Taormina is not popular with students.

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

Both Cordoba and Taormina offer nice public transit options.

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

Taormina has some public transit options. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Is Cordoba or Taormina a more walkable city?

Cordoba and Taormina both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Taormina is very walkable. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Taormina or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Taormina?

It's fun to spend time in either Cordoba or Taormina. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Taormina due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-4 days is enough time in Taormina.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Taormina. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Taormina 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.

One day in Cordoba or Taormina?

The beautiful town of Cordoba offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cordoba or Taormina?

Cordoba is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cordoba, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Taormina 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. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taormina has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Taormina?

Cordoba is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Taormina is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Taormina?

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. Since Taormina is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Taormina, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. And not only is Taormina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Taormina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Taormina 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 Taormina.

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

Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Taormina?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Taormina, 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 Taormina?

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 Taormina in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Taormina. The summer months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Taormina this time of year.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Taormina in the summer. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Taormina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Taormina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Taormina. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cordoba or Taormina in the Autumn?

Both Taormina and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Taormina for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Taormina. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cordoba in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Taormina averages at about 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Taormina. In October, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Taormina. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cordoba or Taormina in the Winter?

Both Taormina and Cordoba during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Taormina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cordoba is generally cooler than Taormina. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 10°C (50°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 115 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in January than Taormina. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cordoba or Taormina in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Taormina. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Cordoba is around the same temperature as Taormina in the spring. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Taormina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Taormina. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Taormina and Cordoba