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

Should you visit Cordoba or York?

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 York 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.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and York: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cordoba or York?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than York. Cordoba is bigger than York, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums and impressive beauty, while York is more popular for its food. Cordoba is more touristy than York 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. York is well known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is Cordoba different from York?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
York

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.


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

Cordoba
York

York is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in York have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cordoba. Like much of Spain, international travelers will have to adjust to the shifted meal schedule which means most meals are served are later than they are in other parts of Europe. The ingredients are fresh and popular dishes include Salmorejo (a tomato based soup), Rabo De Toro (stewed oxtail), and Flamenquín (deep-fried pork roll).

Is Cordoba or York Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
York

Both Cordoba and York are excellent 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.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is Cordoba or York Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
York

Both Cordoba and York have terrific historic old towns worth visiting.

The rich history of Cordoba can be explored in its historical center. 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.

York has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or York?

Cordoba
York

Both Cordoba and York are notable 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 York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is Cordoba or York Better for Families?

Cordoba
York

York is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Cordoba is a family-friendly town. 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.

Is Cordoba or York Better for Couples?

Cordoba
York

Both Cordoba and York are excellent 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.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.


Is Cordoba or York Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
York

Both Cordoba and York are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Cordoba is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

York is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Is Cordoba or York Better for Students?

Cordoba
York

Cordoba is a world-class destination for students. However, York is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

York is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
York

Both Cordoba and York offer notable public transit options.

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

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.


Is Cordoba or York a more walkable city?

Cordoba
York

Cordoba is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in York or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or York?

It's fun to spend time in either Cordoba or York. Generally, people tend to spend more time in York 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 York.

Families should spend more time in York than Cordoba. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in York, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than York. 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 York 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 York? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    York 2-4

One day in Cordoba or York?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cordoba. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In York, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city 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 York?

Cordoba is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In York, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that York has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or York?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Cordoba. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

York is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cordoba or York?

The colorful town of Cordoba offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting York. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, York 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 York is €124. 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 York in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    York 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    York 138
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and York

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or York? 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 York


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 York Hotel Prices.

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

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $163
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $271
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $279

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or York?

Prices for flights to both York 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
    York 38
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

Typical Food Prices in York

Some typical examples of dining costs in York are as follows:


  • Dinner
    26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

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

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $56
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    York 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 York

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

  • York Guide - Everybody Hates a Tourist: $6.35
  • Tower Tour: $7.63
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Discover York's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of the City Walls: $11
  • York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private York Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting: $12
  • Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    York 15

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

Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    11

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57


When comparing the travel costs between Cordoba and York, 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 York Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or York?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and York, 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 York?

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 York in the Summer?

Both York and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to York in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cordoba is much warmer than York. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and York averages at about 16°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than York during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 196 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than York. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while York receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    York 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or York in the Autumn?

Both York and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to York for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Cordoba is generally much warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and York fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than York. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 112 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in October than York. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    York 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or York in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and York. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to York because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in York can be very cold. Cordoba is much warmer than York in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and York fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than York during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than York. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while York receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    York 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or York in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as York. The spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cordoba is much warmer than York. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and York averages at about 8°C (46°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 York. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 151 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than York. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    York 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for York and Cordoba

Cordoba York
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)