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

Should you visit Faro or Cordoba?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Cordoba, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a flower-filled, historical, and beautiful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Cordoba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Faro or Cordoba?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cordoba than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Faro is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Cordoba is more touristy than Faro and is popular 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. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Faro different from Cordoba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cordoba and Faro. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Faro or Cordoba?

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Cordoba from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cordoba is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Faro and Cordoba.

Many people head to Faro for the nightlife scene. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Cordoba has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Resorts?

Faro is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Cordoba is not a resort destination.

Faro is a world class resort vacation destination. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Cordoba is not a resort destination.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro is a resort town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cordoba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Cordoba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Beaches?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its old town.

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 people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Faro or Cordoba?

If you're looking to go shopping, Faro and Cordoba both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Faro. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Cordoba offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Faro or Cordoba Better for Families?

Cordoba is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Cordoba offers lots of family activities. Horse-drawn carriage rides and then a visit to the Royal Stables of Cordoba is a great option for horse-lovers. The city also has a zoo and an impressive park - Ciudad de Los Niños. If you're willing to head out of town, about 10 kilometers away you'll find Aquasierra Waterpark.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Couples?

Cordoba is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

Cordoba is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Cordoba is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Faro is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Is Faro or Cordoba Better for Students?

Cordoba is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

Cordoba is a great destination 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.

Faro is not popular with students.

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

Faro and Cordoba both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Faro offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

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

Is Faro or Cordoba a more walkable city?

Cordoba is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its high level of walkability.

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

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cordoba or Faro?

How long in Faro or Cordoba?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Faro and Cordoba. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Faro than in Cordoba. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Faro, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cordoba.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Faro if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cordoba.

One day in Faro or Cordoba?

In Faro, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Faro or Cordoba?

In Faro, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer.

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.

Five days in Faro or Cordoba?

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the flower-filled 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.

A week in Faro or Cordoba?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Faro. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The beautiful 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

When comparing the travel costs between Faro and Cordoba, we can see that Faro 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 Faro Expensive? and Is Cordoba Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Faro or Cordoba?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro and Cordoba, 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 Faro or Cordoba?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Faro or Cordoba in the Summer?

Both Cordoba and Faro during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Faro this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Faro is generally around the same temperature as Cordoba. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 25°C (78°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Faro. In the summer, Faro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cordoba. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 358 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Cordoba. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Cordoba in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Cordoba. Many travelers come to Faro for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Faro is around the same temperature as Cordoba in the autumn. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Cordoba fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Cordoba during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Faro usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cordoba. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Faro or Cordoba in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Faro as well as Cordoba. Many visitors come to Faro in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Faro is a little warmer than Cordoba. Typically, the winter temperatures in Faro in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Cordoba averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cordoba. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 162 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cordoba. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Cordoba in the Spring?

Both Cordoba and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Faro for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty.

In April, Faro is generally around the same temperature as Cordoba. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 17°C (62°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Cordoba during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Cordoba. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cordoba and Faro