A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Luxor vs. Cordoba for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Luxor or Cordoba?

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

Should I visit Luxor or Cordoba? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Where Should I go: Luxor or Cordoba?

Luxor

Egypt is surely on the top of every history lover's bucket list. Nowhere is the history more engrossing than in Luxor. From amazing monuments dating back to ancient Thebes to rows of temples up the Nile, this remarkable city is full the stories of past greatness.

The East Bank – or the central part of Luxor Township – is the hotbed for tourism. This is where most of the hotels and resorts are, while the West Bank is home to the ancient ruins and archaeological wonders you'll want to explore.

Before traveling to Egypt, be sure to check on the current affairs and political climate. It could have a major effect on the amount of tourists visiting, and, if conditions are too dangerous, you may want to reschedule. Also note, ladies, to avoid any issues, dress modestly. This is a very conservative region of the world. The less skin showing, the better.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a Spanish city located in the southern province of Andalusia. With a culture embedded in Islamic heritage, the city is home to many architectural gems, the most significant being La Mezquita. Andalucía's major river, the Guadalquivir, flows just below the Mezquita, and the riverfront streets are bustling with lively restaurants and bars. Other popular centers of activity include the Jewish Quarter, Muslim Quarter, and the Old City.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Egypt, The Best Luxury Tours to Egypt, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.


Which place is cheaper, Cordoba or Luxor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Luxor is $17, while the average daily cost in Cordoba is $138. 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 Luxor and Cordoba in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Luxor $7.62
    Cordoba $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Luxor $15
    Cordoba $146
Compare Hotels in Luxor and Cordoba

Looking for a hotel in Luxor or Cordoba? 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 Luxor


Hotels in Cordoba


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: Luxor Hotel Prices and Cordoba Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Luxor $3.91
    Cordoba $30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Luxor

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


  • Taxi Ride
    $0.42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Luxor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Luxor:

  • Luxor Airport Private Transfer: $6.00
  • Private Transfer from & to Luxor Airport from Any Hotel in Luxor: $6.00
  • Departure Transfer from Luxor Hotels to Luxor airport: $6.40
  • private Transfer From Luxor Hotel To The Airport Or Vice Versa : $7.00
  • Transfers from Luxor Airport to Hotels or to Nile Cruise: $7.00
  • Luxor Airport Departure: Convenient Private Hotel Transfer: $7.02
  • Luxor Airport Private Luxury Transfer (Arrival or Departure): $7.20
  • Pick up Transfers From Luxor Airport To Luxor Hotels: $7.50
  • Pickup Transfers And Taxi Services From Hotel In Luxor To Luxor Airport: $7.50
  • Luxor Private Transfer From East&west Banks hotels to the Airport: $8.00
  • Private Transfer from Luxor Airport to Luxor Hotels: $8.00
  • Luxor Private Transfer East Bank hotels to Airport or vice versa: $8.00

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Luxor or Cordoba?

Prices for flights to both Cordoba and Luxor 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
    Luxor $5.83
    Cordoba $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Luxor

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

  • Dinner on the River Nile with Belly Dancing: $35
  • Eat Like a Local:Traditional Egyptian Food / Dinner at Local Family Home - Luxor: $36
  • Luxor Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner: $38
  • Dinner Cruise on the Nile River: $43
  • Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner Luxor: $45
  • Luxor Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner : $50
  • Private Half Day Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner From Luxor: $52
  • Karnak Sound And Light Show With Dinner, Felucca  : $64
  • Luxor & Mummification Museums & City Tour by H. Carriage & Dinner: $70
  • Enjoy Half Day Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner: $90
  • Full day trip west Bank, Dandara and dinner on a boat.: $128

Typical Food Prices in Cordoba

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


  • Ice Cream
    $1.95

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Luxor $6.74
    Cordoba $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Luxor

Here are a few typical costs in Luxor for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Boat Ride (for 2)
    $0.57
  • Temple Karnak for Two
    $2.74
  • Camel Ride for Two
    $1.26

Tours and Activities in Luxor

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

  • Ramesseum Mortuary Temple of Ramses II Entry Ticket: $4.56
  • Entry Ticket To Valley of the Queens: $4.60
  • Valley Of The Queens Entry Ticket: $4.60
  • Valley Of The Kings Entry Ticket: $4.60
  • Mummification Museum Entry Ticket: $5.10
  • Souvenir Shopping Tour, Luxor: $5.13
  • Luxor Museum Entry Ticket: $7.60
  • See the Valley of the Kings & More: Shared Tour (All-Inclusive): $8.80
  • Karnak Temple And Luxor Temple Private Day Tour : $8.95
  • Explore Luxor temple and City Private Tour by Flucca: $9.00
  • Temple Of Queen Hatshepsut Entry Ticket: $9.20
  • Temple of Queen Hatshepsut Entry Tickets : $9.20

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Garden Entrance Fee
    $6.50

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Luxor $2.26
    Cordoba $40

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Luxor and Cordoba, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. And not only is Luxor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Luxor is in Africa and Cordoba is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Luxor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Luxor 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 Luxor.

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


Which is Bigger, Luxor or Cordoba?

Luxor has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Cordoba. When comparing the sizes of Luxor 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 Luxor or Cordoba?

Cordoba has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Luxor experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Luxor or Cordoba in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Luxor and Cordoba. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Luxor year-round. Also, most visitors come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Luxor. In the summer, Luxor is a little warmer than Cordoba. Typically, the summer temperatures in Luxor in July average around 33°C (91°F), and Cordoba averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In July, Luxor usually receives less rain than Cordoba. Luxor gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Luxor 33°C (91°F) 
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Luxor or Cordoba in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Luxor as well as Cordoba. Luxor attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Luxor is generally a little warmer than Cordoba. Daily temperatures in Luxor average around 25°C (77°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Luxor usually gets less rain in October than Cordoba. Luxor gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Luxor 25°C (77°F) 
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Luxor or Cordoba in the Winter?

Both Cordoba and Luxor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Luxor throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year.

Luxor is a little warmer than Cordoba in the winter. The daily temperature in Luxor averages around 14°C (57°F) in January, and Cordoba fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In January, Luxor usually receives less rain than Cordoba. Luxor gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Luxor 14°C (57°F) 
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Luxor or Cordoba in the Spring?

Both Cordoba and Luxor during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Luxor because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cordoba for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Luxor is much warmer than Cordoba. Typically, the spring temperatures in Luxor in April average around 25°C (77°F), and Cordoba averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Luxor usually gets less rain in April than Cordoba. Luxor gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Luxor 25°C (77°F) 
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Cordoba and Luxor

Luxor Cordoba
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 14°C (57°F) 0 mm (0 in) 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 15°C (59°F) 0 mm (0 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 20°C (68°F) 0 mm (0 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 30°C (86°F) 0 mm (0 in) 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 32°C (90°F) 0 mm (0 in) 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 33°C (91°F) 0 mm (0 in) 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 31°C (88°F) 0 mm (0 in) 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 30°C (86°F) 0 mm (0 in) 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 20°C (68°F) 0 mm (0 in) 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 15°C (59°F) 0 mm (0 in) 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)