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

Should you visit Cordoba or Bologna?

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 Bologna 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. With stunning beauty, Cordoba attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Cordoba travel costs.

Bologna

Bologna is a historical, culinary, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, Bologna attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Bologna travel costs.

Cordoba and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cordoba or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Bologna are popular destinations, Cordoba has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cordoba is very popular for its museums and attractions and historical sights, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Bologna 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 well known for La Mezquita. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Cordoba different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Cordoba on the map. 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.

Bologna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

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

Bologna 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 Bologna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

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 Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Both Cordoba and Bologna are superb 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.

Bologna has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

Is Cordoba or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Cordoba is revered around the world. 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 go to Bologna to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Bologna?

Bologna 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 Bologna. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

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 Bologna More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Cordoba and Bologna.

With stunning beauty, Cordoba attracts visitors from all around. The city is beautifully lit up at night, making this a great time to explore.

Bologna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's history and architecture make it among the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Is Cordoba or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Cordoba and Bologna are nice 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.

Bologna is a family-friendly town. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Is Cordoba or Bologna Better for Couples?

Cordoba is a well-known place for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Bologna is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

Is Cordoba or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Cordoba and Bologna are superb 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.

Bologna is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

Is Cordoba or Bologna Better for Students?

Cordoba and Bologna are both amazing 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.

Bologna is a very popular place to visit for students. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

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

Both Cordoba and Bologna offer nice public transit options.

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

Bologna has some public transit options. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Cordoba or Bologna a more walkable city?

Cordoba and Bologna both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Bologna is very walkable. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Bologna. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Bologna. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Bologna. 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 Bologna. 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.

One day in Cordoba or Bologna?

In Cordoba, 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 museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bologna, 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. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cordoba or Bologna?

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

In Bologna, 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 Bologna has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Bologna?

Cordoba 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.

Bologna 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 Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cordoba. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Bologna, we can see that Bologna 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 Bologna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bologna 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 Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Cordoba. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Bologna, 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 Bologna?

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 Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bologna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Bologna. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cordoba or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cordoba is a little warmer than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cordoba in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cordoba usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cordoba or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Bologna. The winter months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bologna in the winter. In January, Cordoba is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 10°C (50°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Bologna. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cordoba or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Bologna. The natural beauty are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Bologna and Cordoba