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

Should you visit Cordoba or Zagreb?

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 Zagreb 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 colorful, flower-filled, and historical town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a authentic, under-rated, and local city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
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 Zagreb?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cordoba than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Cordoba, Cordoba has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is known for its shopping and big city activities. Cordoba is more touristy than Zagreb 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. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Cordoba different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Zagreb

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Zagreb offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historical sights around town, particularly in the historic Upper Town. Make sure you visit the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrscak Tower, and the historic Stone Gate.


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

Cordoba
Zagreb

Both Cordoba and Zagreb offer a number of very good 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 Zagreb. The food is heartier than you might expect with many recipes that involve stew or dumplings. Cheese and meat are common ingredients as well, with far less seafood than you'll find in the coastal cities. Popular dishes include Zagrebački odrezak (a rolled up ham, cheese, and veal sandwich), Štrukli (dough filled with cheese), and Ajngemahtec (vegetarian stew).

Is Cordoba or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Both Cordoba and Zagreb are very good 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.

Zagreb has a large number of nightlife venues. There are a huge number of live music venues, clubs, and bars around town where locals hang out late into the evening. The city's nightlife has a more local vibe than other Croatian cities, so you can party with the students and residents and get a true feel for the Croatian culture.

Is Cordoba or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zagreb. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Zagreb?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Zagreb 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 Zagreb. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

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 Zagreb Better for Families?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Both Cordoba and Zagreb 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.

Zagreb is a family-friendly town. The city is filled with parks where kids can run around. There are also kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Illusions and markets that are fun for the whole family. While it doesn't have the coastal activities that many Croatian towns offer, this is a unique city in its own way.

Is Cordoba or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Cordoba is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cordoba frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Zagreb is a good town for couples to visit. Filled with history and beautiful parks, this often overlooked Croatian city actually has a lot that couples can enjoy. The historical monuments offer a glimpse into the country's past and the markets let you experience a more authentic side to what has become a very touristy country.


Is Cordoba or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Both Cordoba and Zagreb are very good 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.

Zagreb is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Because it's not the most touristy city, prices are reasonable. There are also a wide range of hostels in town where you can meet other backpackers and enjoy the fun environment.

Is Cordoba or Zagreb Better for Students?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Zagreb is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. There's an endless supply of bars and cafes where students hang out. This is a great student city that offers access to many beautiful parts of Croatia and Europe in general.

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

Cordoba
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

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


Is Cordoba or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Zagreb

Cordoba and Zagreb both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Zagreb is very walkable. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Zagreb?

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

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

One day in Cordoba or Zagreb?

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 Zagreb, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Zagreb?

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 Zagreb, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zagreb has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Zagreb?

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.

Zagreb 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 Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical 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 Zagreb. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb 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 Zagreb is €77. 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 Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Zagreb 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Zagreb 96
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Zagreb? 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 Zagreb


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 Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Zagreb 9.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zagreb

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zagreb:

  • Bus transfer from/to Rijeka: $6.95
  • From Plitvice Lakes Round-Trip Comfort Bus Transfer: $16
  • Zagreb to Franjo Tudman Airport(ZAG) - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $20
  • One-Way Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $32
  • Franjo Tudman Airport (ZAG) to Zagreb-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Luxury Private Transfer Zagreb - Zagreb Airport: $40
  • Zagreb Airport: One-Way Private transfer To/From Airport: $41
  • One-Way Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $43
  • Private Transfer from Zagreb City to Zagreb Train or Bus Station by car or van: $47
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Zagreb Airport ZAG to Zagreb City by Business Car: $47
  • Private Transfer: Zagreb to Zagreb International Airport (ZAG): $52

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb 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
    Zagreb 16
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 Zagreb

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

  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $74
  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $75
  • Private Authentic Croatian Cooking Class in Central Zagreb: $114
  • Private Authentic Market Tour and Cooking Class in the Heart of Zagreb: $144
  • PRIVATE Half-Day Food Tour: The 10 Tastings of Zagreb With Locals: $196
  • Wine & Food tour of Plešivica near Zagreb: $952

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Zagreb 12
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 Zagreb

Here are a few actual costs in Zagreb for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum Ticket: $4.28
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Skip-the-Ticket-Line Museum of Broken Relationships: $7.49
  • Zagreb Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zagreb's Old Town: Walking In-App Audio Tour(ENG): $11
  • Small-Group Walking Highlights Tour: $16
  • City Walking Tour w/ Funicular Ride and WW2 Tunnels: $19
  • City Walking Tour with Funicular Ride & WW2 Tunnels: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Zagreb 8.90

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 Zagreb

Also in Zagreb, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Zagreb Pub Crawl: $16
  • Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
  • Zagreb Wine Tasting & Jarun Lake Tour: $75
  • Plesivica countryside Wine Tasting: $199
  • Fairytale castle & delicious wine tasting and lunch: $202
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb: $208


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Zagreb?

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

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 Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Zagreb. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zagreb. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zagreb can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Cordoba during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the activities around the city.

In April, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the spring, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zagreb. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Cordoba

Cordoba Zagreb
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)