25 Reasons to Visit Córdoba World Heritage City (Spain)

There are dozens of reasons to visit Córdoba, a UNESCO listed World Heritage City in Southern Spain.

Walk across the Roman river bridge, marvel at the Grand Mosque-Cathedral, visit the Alcázar Palace and Gardens, wander through the old Jewish Quarter, look into flower-filled patios, admire the historical plazas, watch an Andalusian Horse Show, listen to authentic Flamenco, luxuriate in the Arab Baths, enjoy local fusion cuisine… these are just a few of the unique things to do in Córdoba that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Here’s my choice of the 25 top sites to see in Córdoba. Although you won’t be able to fit everything into a day trip, you’ll still get to see a lot as it’s a small and walkable city. Ideally, visit Córdoba for 2 or 3 days, stay for a couple of nights to soak in the atmosphere, and discover the heritage left by the ancient cultures who passed this way.

The Andalusian cities of Granada and Seville are famous throughout the world, and many people ask ‘is Córdoba worth visiting too?’. The answer is yes, there are countless reasons to visit Córdoba!

The 25 Top Sites to See on a Visit to Córdoba

UNESCO Historic Centre of Córdoba

The entire Historic Quarter of Córdoba is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of ‘outstanding universal value’. It’s a must-visit if you’re touring Spain, or indeed if you live here like us!

Guadalquivir River frames Córdoba Historic centre to the south. Alcázar Fortress and the San Basilio quarter mark the western boundary, which circles northwards up to modernist Plaza Tendillas. The Roman walls along San Fernando street define the eastern side of the old city.

The historical neighbourhood around the Mosque-Cathedral is the heart of an extraordinary legacy left by the Romans, Arabs, Jews and Christians who lived in Córdoba over the millenniums.

As you’ll see, the succession of different cultures who have passed through Córdoba since the first Romans arrived in 2 BC, have made their unique impact on the old town cityscape and local way of life.

This is evident as you’re wandering through narrow streets lined with ancestral architectural wonders, photographing the famous flowering patios, watching artisans and craftsmen at work, observing traditional rituals of worship, dining on Cordoban cuisine, and enjoying any festivities that are on.

Historic Cities near Córdoba to Visit

A visit to Córdoba can easily be combined with Granada, Málaga and Seville. Here are some related posts from our Andalusia road trip that you might be interested in reading these related posts:

• 1 day Córdoba Itinerary;
• Our guide to 3 days in Granada;
• What to see in Málaga and places nearby;
• 2 days sightseeing in Seville.

Photos of Cordóba by Kali Marco unless otherwise stated.

1. Puente Romano (Roman Bridge)

If you’re driving to Córdoba from Seville, the landmark Roman Bridge will be the first thing that comes into sight as you approach the historical city from the south. This massive multi-arched bridge was originally constructed by the Romans 2000 years ago to take troops and provisions across the Guadalquivir, the wide river which hugs Córdoba to the south.

Córdoba’s Old Bridge is one of the most beautiful Roman bridges in Europe along with Rialto Bridge in Venice or Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Like the Italian counterparts, it was remodelled over the centuries so the actual structure mainly dates to the Mediaeval Ages. The only crossing over River Guadalquivir into Córdoba until recent times, it is now a pedestrian bridge and heritage site.

A truly instagrammable place with views to the old city’s Mosque-Cathedral and Alcázar Palace, pose on the buttresses of ‘Puente Romano’ against the stunning riverside backdrop (time this for sunset for the perfect photo shoot in Córdoba).

Córdoba Roman Bridge
Public footbridge, free access, always open.

2. Torre de Calahorra (Gate Tower)

Calahorra Gate Tower is the 13^th century fortification at the end of the Roman Bridge on the left bank of the Guadalquivir, facing Córdoba old town across the waters. As you can imagine, the panorama from here is stunning too. Capture the scene from the riverbank or visit the Museo Vivo de Al-Andaluz which is housed inside and go up to take photos from the rooftop.

Part of the UNESCO site that encompasses the whole historic centre, Torre de Calahorra is now an educational museum. Step back in time to discover what it was like to live in the city a thousand years ago, the culture and customs of the Muslims, Jews and Christians who together made Córdoba glorious and a point of reference in Medieval Europe.

Vivo Al-Andaluz Museum
Open every day 10am till 2pm and 4.30pm till 8.30pm June to September, or 10am to 7pm October to May. Entrance 4.50€.

3. Molino de la Albolafia (Waterwheel)

Long ago down by the riverside, the Romans erected a giant wooden waterwheel to bring water up into the city. Like many ancient sites in Córdoba, the Molino de la Albolafia underwent significant changes throughout the course of history. During Arab times the Albolafia wheel was used for irrigating the Alcázar Palace Gardens, the ‘noria’ was converted into a flour mill for a time, and eventually dismantled.

The watermill was finally restored to resemble it’s 9^th century visual aspect. Glance across from the Roman Bridge and you’ll see this emblem of Córdoba which appears on the city coat of arms.

If you’re in Córdoba for longer than a day, explore the ‘watermills route’. This walk takes in 11 hydro mills once used for irrigation, grinding flour, transforming wool or producing power, along the Guadalquivir watercourse.

4. Puerta del Puente (Gateway to Córdoba)

Walk through the Puerta del Puente ‘bridge gateway’ into the heart of the city, following the footsteps of millions of Cordoban folk down the centuries. This monumental columnated triumphal archway dates to the 16^th century. Most interestingly, it replaced a former Roman gateway, the original entryway to Córdoba from the Roman Bridge, on the Via Augusta highway.

Start your self-guided tour of the ancient walled city of ‘Cordova’, pass through the old gate and into Plaza del Triunfo Square.

5. Tourist Info Bureau (in Plaza del Triunfo Square)

A statue of Archangel San Rafael watches over Plaza del Triunfo from the top of a towering column. Legend has it that Córdoba’s favourite saint fights evil to keep the township safe from hardship and plague.

Pop into the information bureau in Triumph Square and they’ll mark on a tourist map the must-visit sites in Córdoba, along with any other places you wish to see. This would also be a good spot to meet an official guide if you’ve booked an organised day tour of Córdoba.

Armed with a street map or smart phone app, enter the atmospheric world of Córdoba medina!

6. Córdoba Mosque-Cathedral

The first stop on a day trip to Córdoba should be the world famous Mosque-Cathedral. Book an early slot to see the Roman Catholic and Moslem historic ensemble before it gets busy with day trippers, then you have the rest of the morning to enjoy other top sights.

Officially called Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, and also known as the Grand Mosque of Córdoba, this unique mosque-cathedral is an important Islamic heritage site in Spain, and a fusion of Christian and Arabic cultures with extraordinary artistic value, only rivalled by the Alhambra Palace in Granada.

Created for the 1^st Emir of Córdoba in the late 8^th century, earlier sites are buried under this monumental temple. Take a peak at the ruins of a Visigoth church and a section of Roman mosaic tiles, which are exposed beneath glass panels.

A bewildering 856 stone pillars support double-tiered horseshoe arches (crafted from porphyry, onyx, jasper, marble and granite) decorate the main prayer hall, making this one of the most distinctive mosques in the world. Meanwhile, the sacred mihrab chamber is exquisitely embellished with gold mosaics.

During the 13^th century, Córdoba Mosque was transformed into a Cathedral by King Ferdinand the third, and numerous chapels have been added over the years. The Royal Chapel, Renaissance nave and Gothic ribbed vault are focal points of the Christian ornamentation.

7. Patio de los Naranjos (Orange Tree Courtyard)

There has always been a courtyard garden at the Mosque-Cathedral filled with orange trees and palms, providing a peaceful, shady and scented respite from Córdoba’s hot summers.

At first used for cleansing ablutions and later for Catholic ceremonials, Courtyard of the Orange Trees appears essentially the same as a millennium ago although somewhat more enclosed – portico running along one façade, water features in the centre, and the minaret cum bell tower standing to the side.

If you want to pack the most into your trip to Córdoba, or plan to stay overnight, there’s an evening entrance to see the Mosque-Cathedral that includes a light show in the Orange Tree Courtyard and a theatrical dose of mysticism which reveals the ‘Soul of Córdoba’.

8. Torre Campanario (Córdoba Bell Tower)

Although there’s almost 200 steps inside Córdoba minaret bell tower, it’s worth the effort to climb to the top. Observe the World Heritage City from above and capture the best views over Córdoba old town.

Listening to the huge church bells, it’s hard to imagine that time long ago when Moslems were softly called to prayers from this same tower during the Islamic rule. Take our advice and avoid 12 o’clock chimes!

The Renaissance style belfry was built up and around the 10^th century minaret in 1593, adding extra height. Remains of the caliphal vaults, horseshoe arch windows and the bronze cupola, are fascinating to glimpse on your way up. At 54 metres high, this is still the tallest building in Córdoba.

Opening Times and Prices to Visit Córdoba Mosque-Cathedral Complex

Córdoba Mosque Cathedral
Open for tourist visits at 10am, last entrance at 6pm. Check times for Sundays, full prices, disability information and times of worship on the official site Mezquita-Catedral Córdoba (in English).
Adult entrance ticket 11€, children 6€, under 10s free of charge.

Evening entrance for ‘The Soul of Córdoba’ at 9.30pm or 11.30pm, adult price 18€ (costs 12€ for over 65s, kids aged 7 to 14 years, or students up to 26 years. Children under 7 free of charge).

Courtyard of the Orange Trees
Open 8.30am to 6pm everyday. Free entrance.

Bell Tower Minaret
Usual opening times 9.30am, last slot 6.30pm (earlier on Sundays). Entrance costs 3€. There are steep flights of stairs which are not accessible for wheelchair users. Not advised for those who do not have a reasonable physical ability. Children under 7 years of age are not allowed up.

Tickets can be purchased at the door by phone app or bank card, although booking online in advance is advised on Tickets Mezquita-Cathedral Córdoba.

9. Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
(Royal Palace of the Christian Monarchs)

Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos is a 2 minute walk from the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba. This is an important part of the city’s overall World Heritage Site and a major landmark.

As the name suggests, Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs was the Royal Palace where the ‘Christian Monarchs’ lived in the 14^th century – King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabel I of Castile were the famed monarchs given this name. Their marriage united the kingdoms of Spain. and the ‘Christian’ troops they marshalled ousted the Moors from Al-Andalus.

In Roman times there was a fortress on this strategic position overlooking River Guadalquivir. Around the 8^th century the fort was transformed into the ‘Alcázar of the Caliphs’, a luxurious fortified palace and legislative hall for the Government of Al-Andalus during the Islamic era.

However, the Alcázar of Córdoba as it stands now mainly dates to 1328, when it was massively rebuild by Alfonso XI of Castile in Medieval Mudecar style. The colourful history continues through the Middle Ages when the premises were used for the Courts of the Holy Inquisition, and later as a prison.

Córdoba Alcázar has been beautifully restored and listed by UNESCO. It’s worth visiting to see the extensive landscaped gardens, and for panoramic views from the battlements. Main points of interest include the museum, towers, courtyards, and the Alcázar Gardens which we’ve listed separately below. Musical evenings, special events and exhibitions are also held in the castle and grounds.

Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs is located on Plaza Campo Santo de los Mártires, 600 m from Córdoba Mosque-Cathedral.

10. Jardines del Alcázar de los Reyes (Córdoba Alcázar Gardens)

Citrus orchards and flower gardens were laid out in the grounds of the Alcázar fortress more than a thousand years ago, when the first Caliph of Córdoba came to reside here. An aqueduct brought water up from the river to fill pools and irrigation channels.

Although vastly changed since those days, the Gardens of Córdoba Alcázar still have a Moorish design. Thirteen acres of landscaped gardens are tiered onto 3 levels, creating a succession of ornamental pools, fountains, flowerbeds and cypress lined avenues. A sculpture of Christopher Columbus with the Christian Monarchs on the ‘Kings Promenade’ is just one of the focal points.

11. Baños del Alcázar Califal (Caliphal Baths)

Left in ruins for centuries, the Caliphal Baths have been partly reconstructed and are now open as a museum.

Part of Córdoba World Heritage Site, this 10th century Islamic bathhouse adjoins the Alcázar and originally featured a series of cold, warm and hot bathing rooms, a reception hall and gardens. In the 1300s, when new baths were installed in the Alcázar Palace, the old spa was sealed off and covered over by a town square (this later became known as Campo Santo de los Mártires).

Times and Prices of Visits to Córdoba Alcázar and Gardens, and Caliphal Baths

Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Opening Hours: September 16 to June 15: Tuesday to Friday 8.15am to 8pm, Saturdays 9.30am to 6pm, Sundays and holidays from 8.15am to 2.45pm;
Summer schedule: June 16 to September 15 from 8.15am to 2.45pm Tuesday to Sunday;
Closed Mondays.

Entrance Fee for Córdoba Alcázar, the museum and gardens
Adult ticket costs 5€, or 2.50€ for students and those under the age of 26, free for children under 14.
Advisable to book your time slot online in advance. Payment at the door is by card only.

Entrance Fee Caliphal Baths
Adult ticket 3€, or 1.50€ for students and those under the age of 26, free for children under 14.
Opening hours for Caliphal Baths are the same as Córdoba Alcázar (above). Closed Mondays.

Online reservation and tickets on Museos de Córdoba.

12. Caballerizas Reales (Royal Stables)

Adjacent to Córdoba Alcázar, the Caballerizas Reales is an unmissable stop for horse enthusiasts. The Royal Stables came about in 1570, when Felipe II decided to breed a pure strain of Andalusian Horse. Córdoba Purebred Spanish can still be seen in the Royal Stables, at dressage shows and local festivities, and equestrian performances throughout the world.

The main stable where the horses sleep is a long rectangular building, with the boxes under arched columns and a vaulted ceiling, which faces the central courtyard. A collection of 19^th century horse-drawn carriages are also on display. An evening, flamenco-themed horse show takes place in the riding arena.

Entrance to the Royal Stables is free. Usual opening hours: every morning 10am to 1pm, and afternoons 4pm to 7pm (Tuesday to Saturday and holidays).

Passion and Spirit of the Andalusian Horse Show at the Royal Stables

The 70 minute performances take place on Thursdays, Fridays and weekends at 9pm during the summer, 8pm October, 7.30pm November and December (2022). Adults 16.50€, see full prices / timings and book online at Córdoba Equestrian Association or purchase tickets at the door.

15. Patios de Córdoba (Flower Festival and Courtyards)

The ‘Festival of the Patios’ is Córdoba’s most famous event, a UNESCO listed tradition which began a century ago. Held during the first two weeks of May, this is when the characteristic potted plants are at their prettiest. Jasmines and roses are flowering, orange trees are in bloom. Imagine the scent of millions of petals, water trickling over fountains, and the strains of Flamenco guitar on the air.

Since Roman days, local folk have built their homes around a central patio and well, to create a cool outdoor space shaded from the summer sun.

Dozens of private cobblestone courtyards, hidden away behind medieval walls, are opened to visitors in the yearly competition. Many of these are part of the owner’s home, while communal patios are shared and tended by neighbours, and others now belong to associations.

Although it’ll be busy, this 12 day flower festival is must-see if you can time your visit to coincide with the dates. There are several patio houses to visit in the Jewish Quarter. Meanwhile, you can always pop along to see the courtyards in the Zoco Municipal or in La Casa Andalusí (Andalusian house museum with 4€ entrance fee).

You’ll also find these flower-filled patios at restaurants, tearooms and craft shops, and in the iconic Viana Palace.

Patios de Córdoba Festival is held throughout the historic city centre over the first 2 weeks of May. Participating courtyards are open from 11am to 2pm and 6pm to 10pm (last evening until 8.30pm).
Entrance is free of charge. Full info and wheelchair accessibility on the official site Patios de Córdoba.

13. La Juderia (Jewish Quarter)

The Jewish Quarter of Córdoba, known in Spanish as the Judería, is the maze of cobbled streets just to the north east of the mosque-cathedral. This is where the local Jewish people resided for 500 years (10^th to 15^th century).

Points of tourist interest include the Synagogue, Sefardi Museum, Artisans Market or mini souk, and the Bullfighting Museum. Souvenir shops and street cafés line the busy alleyways.

14. Calleja de las Flores

One of Córdoba’s top tourist attractions is called Calleja de las Flores. This is the pretty alleyway of whitewashed dwellings with wrought iron balconies, hung with geranium and carnations in blue flowerpots.

Located in the Jewish Quarter not far from the Great Mosque, you’ll recognise this well-known scene of the view towards the bell-tower. Souvenir shops line the little cul-de-sac which opens onto a typical Córdoban courtyard patio.

16. Córdoba Synagogue

In contrast with the Mosque-Cathedral, Córdoba Synagogue is remarkably small. Dating to 1315, the minimal dimensions are due to the restrictions imposed by the Christian governors who ruled the city at that time. Nonetheless, the Hebrew sanctuary is considered one of the best synagogues in Spain, and is worth a quick visit.

In the heart of the old Jewish Quarter, this Sephardi house of worship is reached through a brickwork arch and small courtyard. Inside, delicate latticework and stucco panels embellish the archways and 2^nd floor galleries. Daylight spills in from upper windows and picks out Hebrew inscriptions engraved on the walls.

Location: Calle Judíos 20, Córdoba – 5 minutes walk from the Mosque-Cathedral;
Open July and August 9am to 3pm, September to June 9am to 9pm, closed Mondays;
Entrance is free for EU residents, other nationalities pay a nominal 0.30€.

17. Casa de Sefarad (Sefardi Museum)

Before leaving the narrow streets of the Jewish quarter, take a look at the Casa de Sefarad opposite Córdoba Synagogue. Within the whitewashed walls of this 14^th century abode you’ll find the Sefardi Museum and Cultural Centre. Discover the history of the Hispanic Jews of Andalusia, and learn more about the Sephardic traditions, music, art and literature in the exposition rooms.

Located on Calle de los Judios, corner Calle Averroes;
Opening Times: Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am to 6pm, Sundays 11am to 2pm.
Entrance fee: Adults 4.50€.

18. Plaza de las Tendillas (Córdoba Main Square)

Córdoba’s main pedestrian square, Plaza de las Tendillas is a contrast to the medieval neighbourhoods as the surrounding modernist buildings were designed in the 1920s. Colmera Palace Hotel and La Unión y el Fénix (building with the phoenix statue on the roof) are the emblematic premises.

As you walk into the plaza, you see a large ornamental fountain and the ‘Gran Capitan’, the landmark equestrian statue. Tendillas Clock is another unusual focal point, as it ‘chimes’ with piano notes instead of bells.

Plaza Tendillas roughly translates to ‘market stall place’ and refers an outdoor market which was set up during 17^th and 18^th centuries. Córdoba Christmas Market still takes place here, along with the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Approximate distances to places of interest near Plaza Tendillas:

• Córdoba Synagogue 800 m
• Viana Palace 800 m
• Roman Temple 300 m
• Plaza de la Corredera 450 m
• Mosque-Cathedral 800 m

19. Palacio de Viana (Viana Palace and Courtyards)

If you’re visiting Córdoba for the first time, the Mosque-Cathedral and the Alcázar Palace will no doubt top your list of places to see. However, you may want to fit in a visit to the Palace of Viana, in the heart of Santa Marina neighbourhood, in the old town’s north-western corner.

This 14^th century palace was the residence of Spanish aristocrats, the Marquesses of Viana. Behind the stone façade, a succession of 12 courtyards filled with scented plants and flowerpots lead to an ornamental garden.

Antiques furnish the stately home, Renaissance paintings and tapestries decorate the walls, treasures which portray the opulent life of local nobility in times gone past.

Location: Plaza de Don Gome 2, Córdoba.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 7pm, Sundays 10am to 3pm (July and August 9am to 3pm), closed Mondays. Guided tours at 11am, 1pm, 4pm and 5.30 pm (July and August 11am & 1pm only).
Adult entrance tickets: garden patios 6€; palace museum 6€; or 10€ for a guided tour of the palace and patios. More info and bookings on Palacio de Viana.

20. Plaza de la Corredera (Old Town Square)

Fancy some tapas for lunch or a cool drink under a sun umbrella. Plaza de La Corredera is a historic town square in the heart of Córdoba, the largest rectangular plaza in Spain. Walking through the narrow streets of the old quarter one doesn’t expect to come across such a huge open space, a paved courtyard overlooked by fine buildings which have stood here since the 17^th century.

Plaza de La Corredera’s roots go back much further than the 1600s, this site was originally a Roman Circus where the crowds cheered chariot races. In times of the Inquisition, history grows even more gruesome as the righteous watched executions from surrounding balconies and porticoes. However, the name ‘Corredera’ comes from the bullfights, the popular ‘Corrida de Toros’ which held here until 1846.

It’s now a peaceable setting around a central fountain, perfect for a taste of Spanish cuisine and glass of chilled wine while sitting at café terrace just people watching.

* Public square with free entrance and always open, excepting special events.

21. Corredera Indoor Fresh Food Market

Multifunctional Plaza de Corredera was also used as an outdoor marketplace in the Middle Ages, where the townsfolk bought their groceries from street stalls. A famous butcher’s shop sold meat in adjacent premises, the same renovated site where Córdoba’s indoor fresh food market is still held today some eight centuries later.

Although smaller than the Boqueria in Barcelona or the Central Market of Valencia, you can peruse an enticing display of Mediterranean foodstuff -fruit and veg, spices and nuts, fish on beds of ice, meats and strings of Spanish sausage- or stop at the café bar for a slice of Spanish omelette and other tasty tapas.

Open mornings 8am to 2.30pm, closed Sundays.

22. Roman Temple

Imagine the excitement when the ruins of a Roman Temple was discovered in Córdoba not so long ago in the 1950s. Tall marble columns, stairs surrounding a podium, and an altar, are the visible remains of this pagan temple from the 1^st century AD.

A veritable landmark right by the Town Hall, the dig site is still being studied so more archaeological treasures may still come to light.

Located on Calle Claudio Marcelo 29 (opposite Córdoba Town Hall).

23. Roman City Walls

Three sets of city walls protected old Córdoba. The Romans first enclosed the Medina, then the Moors built up sections around the Axerquía neighbourhood, and the Christians later bounded the Royal Alcàzar and Gardens.

You’ll walk alongside a large segment of restored Roman walls on Calle San Fernando. This street binds the west side of the original Medina, from Miraflores Bridge up to Plaza Colón.

Detour to Plaza del Potro hidden in the backstreets on the right-hand side, then it’s a five minute walk to Plaza de La Corredera.

Of course, you might get distracted along the way, tempted to explore alleyways and come across lesser-known sites. San Francisco Church is one of these gems.

24. Plaza del Potro

This little square and its infamous XV century inn were immortalised in Cervantes classic ‘Don Quixote’. You’ll recognise Plaza del Potro by a stone fountain which dates to 1577. The legendary ‘potro’ was placed on top a hundred years later – the carved statue of a colt rearing up, and holding the city coast of arms between its hooves.

Posada del Potro still exists today. No longer a tavern, it’s been transformed into a cultural space which promotes the art of Flamenco.

Come to one of the evening performances, if you want to hear authentic Flamenco music, to watch the singer-composers and their dancers. Find the dates on El Centro de Flamenco Fosforito website.
* Bookings are not taken, entrance is free.

Many of the whitewashed and wooden beamed houses in Axerquia neighbourhood once had stables. In fact, Plaza del Potro was used as a cattle market in the Middle Ages. Not as busy as the Jewish Quarter, sit’s a joy to amble down these peaceful backstreets not far from the river.

25. Hammam Al Andalus Spa (Arab Baths)

Of course, Córdoba is much more than sightseeing. If you’re on a day trip, visit the icon sites in the morning. You’ll come across the historic points of interest while you’re wandering through the old quarters.

Enjoy a late lunch on a flower-filled patio, then relax for an-hour-and-a-half in the genuine Arab Baths.

Hammam Al Andalus Spa is a memorable way to spend siesta time in the heat of summer, or for making the best of the occasional rainy afternoon. In fact, any excuse is valid!

In the ambiance of Medieval indulgence, float your worries away in a lamplit pool set against a backdrop of arabesque mosaics and marble columns.

Located on Corregidor Luis de la Cerda Street 51, Córdoba.
Opening Times: 10am to midnight, sessions every 2 hours. Spa prices from 34€ pp, see Hammam Al Andalus Córdoba for different treatments and their cost, for special offers and discounts.

Useful Information for Visiting Córdoba

Official information on opening hours and prices for the monuments of Córdoba on Turismo de Córdoba (in English and Spanish).

Map of Córdoba

Best Seasons to Visit Córdoba and Weather

Spring is the best time to visit Córdoba, particularly May when the patios are in full bloom, and the weather is habitually sunny and pleasant. The most famous festivals are held in Spring, including the religious Easter Processions, Battle of the Flowers Parade and May Cross Festival (usually last Sunday of April or 1st Sunday of May), Festival of the Patios (10 days beginning of May), Córdoba May Fair (last week of May).

Summertime weather in Córdoba is the hottest in Spain. July and August can be very hot with temperatures reaching 45ºC, and many sites are only open mornings to 3pm. Although summer is not the best season to visit Córdoba, don’t let this put you off if you’re touring Spain at this time of year. Take advantage of the fact that there are fewer tourists around and that it will still be light until around 9 or 10pm.

Summer means lots of daylight hours, so start off early and see the main sites first. Relax on a shady patio for a late lunch, and wallow in the Hamman during the afternoon heat, then wander around the shady narrow streets, sit back and sip something cool in a plaza, and enjoy the cooler evening air.

Staying overnight? Make sure your hotel has a swimming pool! Combine a summer visit to Córdoba with a holiday in Málaga or anywhere else along the Andalusian coast.

Autumn is generally sunny and warm, one of the best times to visit Córdoba, and less crowded than spring.

Winter is cooler in Córdoba but usually warm enough during the day with an average tempertaure of 14-16ºC, chillier at nights. Occasional days of rain don’t last long and it will usually be sunny. December is a good month to combine with Seville or Granada, orange trees are bearing fruit and Xmas lights brighten these amazing Andalusian cities.

How to Get to Córdoba

By Car:
Traffic is restricted in Córdoba historic centre. If you’re hotel includes parking, give them your registration number for permission to enter the old town. Alternatively, leave your vehicle in car park on the outskirts of the city.

Córdoba is reached on the A-4 Autovía del Sur motorway from Seville (1 hour) or Madrid (3 hr 30 mins. ). From Málaga on the A-45 (1 hour). From Granada A-45 (2 hr 20 min) or N-432 (2 hr 30 min).

By Bus
Córdoba bus station is located north-east of the historic centre. See bus timetables and prices to all parts of Spain.

By Rail
The train station is located to the north-east of town.
Córdoba is connected to major cities across Spain by highspeed AVE train: from Cordoba to Seville 40 minutes; Málaga 50 mins; Granada 1 hr 30 mins; Madrid 1 hr 40 mins; Valencia 3 hours; Alicante 4 hours; Barcelona 4 hr 35 mins.
More info and tickets on Renfe.

By Air
Nearest international airports are Málaga (AGP), Seville (SVQ), and Granada (GRX).

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