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

Should you visit Cordoba or Zurich?

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 Zurich 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Cordoba and Zurich: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Zurich are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, while Zurich is known for its music and shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Zurich 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. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Cordoba different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Zurich

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.


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

Cordoba
Zurich

Both Cordoba and Zurich 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 Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Cordoba or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Zurich

Both Cordoba and Zurich 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.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Cordoba or Zurich Better for Music?

Cordoba
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Cordoba is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Cordoba is not a live music destination.


Is Cordoba or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Zurich

Both Cordoba and Zurich have fantastic 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.

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Zurich?

Cordoba
Zurich

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich Better for Families?

Cordoba
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Zurich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Zurich

Both Cordoba and Zurich are very good 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.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Cordoba or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Zurich

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

Cordoba is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Cordoba or Zurich Better for Students?

Cordoba
Zurich

Cordoba and Zurich are both fantastic destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.


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

Cordoba
Zurich

Zurich 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 Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Cordoba or Zurich a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Zurich

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

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

Zurich is very walkable. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Zurich?

In either Cordoba or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than Cordoba because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Cordoba. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zurich that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Zurich 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 Zurich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Zurich 2-5

One day in Cordoba or Zurich?

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 Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Zurich?

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.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cordoba or Zurich?

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 Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zurich 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 Zurich is €251. 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 Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Zurich 159
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Zurich 318
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Zurich? 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 Zurich


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 Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Zurich 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

  • Guided tour of Medina Azahara with transfer from Córdoba: $28
  • Medina Azahara Cordoba, with Transfer by Bus: $34
  • Private transfer in Cordoba from Airport or Train Station: $73
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $133
  • Cordoba to Granada Private Transfer: $243
  • Private Transfer from Córdoba to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $297

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich - Arrival Private Transfer: $42
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Hotels to Zurich Airport: $54
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Zurich Hotels: $59
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Vals Thermal Resorts - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Noumea Cruise Port to Noumea hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $72
  • Private Transfer from Zurich City Center to Zurich Airport (ZRH): $74
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Badenweiler Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $77
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $80
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Business Car: $83
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $84
  • Private Transfer: Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH in Luxury Van: $92
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Luxury Van: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich 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
    Zurich 58
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.

  • Feed the Fire Cordoba Cooking Class & Market Tour: $154

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich

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

  • Zürich Food Tour: $100
  • Culinary Tour from Zurich with Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue Dinner: $153

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Zurich 33
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:

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Córdoba’s History City of Caliphs: $9.99
  • Guided tour inside the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: $13
  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba Guided Tour : $15
  • Medina azahara night experience without transportation: $15
  • Medina Azahara Experience Without Transportation: $18
  • Visit in Spanish to the Cathedral Mosque. Does not include entrance ticket: $19
  • Patios & Perfums of Cordoba Festival Tour: $20
  • Authentic Patios of Cordoba Guided Tour: $20
  • Cordoba Old Town Evening Walking Tour: $20
  • Alcazar of Cordoba Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket: $20
  • Guided Tour to the Popular Patios of Cordoba: $20
  • Guided tour Jewish Quarter + House of SEFARAD : $22

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • St. Gallen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Zurich Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Stein am Rhein Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Rapperswil Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Neuhausen Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • St. Gallen Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Entry Ticket Giza Plateau: $18
  • Tour of the old town with a visit to the Textile Museum: $25
  • City e-bike tour: $29
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: $29
  • FIFA Museum Tickets: $30
  • Giza: Half-Day Giza Pyramids and Sphinx Private Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Zurich 27

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

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

  • Pub Crawl Zurich: $32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Cordoba much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cordoba would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cordoba 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich than you might in Cordoba.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Cordoba. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Zurich, 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Zurich. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Zurich 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Zurich 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Zurich. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cordoba is much warmer than Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zurich. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Zurich 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Zurich. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty.

In April, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°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 Zurich. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Zurich 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Zurich and Cordoba

Cordoba Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)