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

Should you visit Cordoba or Toulon?

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 Toulon 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cordoba and Toulon: 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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular old town


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Toulon are about the same size, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Toulon and is known 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. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Cordoba different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Cordoba that are not to be missed. 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.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.


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

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cordoba makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cordoba
Toulon

Toulon is a moderate port city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cordoba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Cordoba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Cordoba
Toulon

Toulon is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Toulon. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Toulon?

Cordoba
Toulon

Toulon 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 Toulon. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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 Toulon Better for Families?

Cordoba
Toulon

Both Cordoba and Toulon 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly town. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.


Is Cordoba or Toulon Better for Students?

Cordoba
Toulon

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Cordoba. 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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Toulon

Both Cordoba and Toulon offer notable public transit options.

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

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Cordoba or Toulon a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Toulon

Cordoba and Toulon both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.


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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Toulon?

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Toulon?

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.

In Toulon, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Toulon?

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.

In Toulon, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Toulon has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Toulon?

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.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the flower-filled 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 Toulon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulon. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulon 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 Toulon is €119. 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 Toulon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Toulon 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Toulon 158
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Toulon

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Toulon? 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 Toulon


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 Toulon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Toulon 7.14

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 Toulon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Toulon:

  • Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille Provence Airport: $117
  • Private Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille city Hotels: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Toulon?

Prices for flights to both Toulon 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
    Toulon 30
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulon

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Toulon.

  • Culinary Heritage Guided Walking Food Tour: $102
  • Toulon Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Toulon 13
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 Toulon

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

  • Little Train Ticket: $9.62
  • Provence Abbey of Thoronet Entrance Ticket: $9.81
  • Guided Tour in Port & Old City: $55
  • Private Heritage Walking Tour in Toulon: $178
  • Ile de Porquerolles: VIP tour et déjeuner Fondation Carmignac: $217
  • Toulon Private Tour: $278

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Toulon 14

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 Toulon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toulon:

  • Cellar Visit & Bandol Wine Tasting (in French): $13
  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Ramatuelle + wine tasting: $97


When comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and Toulon, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Toulon?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cordoba is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Toulon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulon. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Toulon 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Toulon 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Toulon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Toulon. The winter months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Toulon in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Toulon during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Toulon. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Toulon 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Toulon. The natural beauty are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cordoba is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Toulon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Toulon. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Toulon 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Toulon and Cordoba

Cordoba Toulon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 20°C (69°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)