A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cordoba vs. Novalja for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Cordoba or Novalja?

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 Novalja 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 Cordoba is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cordoba travel costs.

Novalja

Novalja is a backpacker-filled, wild, and energetic town. With stunning beauty, Novalja attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches. See Novalja travel costs.

Cordoba and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cordoba or Novalja?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Novalja are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Novalja is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Cordoba is more touristy than Novalja 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. Novalja is popular for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Cordoba different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.

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

Cordoba is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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).

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Novalja is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Novalja is a world class party destination. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

Cordoba has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Cordoba or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Novalja is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Cordoba is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Cordoba is not a resort destination.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Novalja is a well-known place for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Novalja attract visitors from all over. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba is very popular for its old town. However, Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Cordoba has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Novalja?

Cordoba is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

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.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Is Cordoba or Novalja More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Cordoba and Novalja.

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

Novalja is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The moon-like setting is a bit surreal and stunningly beautiful. The striking blue waters contrast the landscape in a breathtaking way.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for Families?

Cordoba is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cordoba. 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.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for Couples?

Cordoba is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja 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.

Novalja is a good town for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Novalja is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Novalja is a very popular town to visit for backpackers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

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.

Is Cordoba or Novalja Better for Students?

Cordoba is very popular for students. However, Novalja is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Cordoba. 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.

Novalja is not popular with students.

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

Both Cordoba and Novalja offer good public transit options.

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

Novalja has some public transit options. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Cordoba or Novalja a more walkable city?

Cordoba is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Novalja is a somewhat walkable town. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Novalja?

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

Families should spend more time in Cordoba than Novalja. 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 Novalja. 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 Novalja?

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 Novalja, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This town 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 Novalja?

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 Novalja, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Novalja has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Novalja?

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.

Novalja is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Novalja?

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 Novalja. Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Novalja. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Novalja?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Novalja, 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.