Córdoba: The Complete Guide
Córdoba is a city in Andalusia, southern Spain, and the capital of the province of Córdoba. The city combins ancient Roman and medieval Moorish architecture and history, Cordoba is home to the great Mosque-Cathedral, one of the most important tourist attractions in Spain. Strategically located on the north bank of the Guadalquivir River, Cordoba was Spain’s capital during Roman and Moorish times. The typical Spanish white alleys, decorated with colorful flower pots, are surrounded by exquisite remnants of Islamic architecture such as its old quarter and famous Mezquita or mosque.
History of Córdoba
Early History
Córdoba, located in the southern region of Andalusia, Spain, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally a Carthaginian settlement before being conquered by the Romans in 206 BC. Under Roman rule, Córdoba became a significant city, serving as the capital of the Roman province of Hispania Baetica.
Roman Era
During the Roman era, Córdoba flourished as a center of commerce and culture. The city was known for its impressive infrastructure, including bridges, aqueducts, and temples. The Great Roman Bridge, which still stands today, is a testament to the city’s importance during this period. Córdoba also produced notable philosophers such as Seneca and Lucan.
Visigothic Period
Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Córdoba came under the control of the Visigoths in the 6th century. The city experienced a period of decline as it lost much of its former significance. However, it remained an important religious center for Christianity.
Islamic Conquest and the Umayyad Caliphate
In 711 AD, the Moors conquered Córdoba, and it quickly became a prominent city under Islamic rule. In 756, Abd al-Rahman I declared Córdoba the capital of the independent Emirate of Córdoba. The city reached its peak under the Umayyad Caliphate in the 10th century, when it was transformed into one of the largest and most advanced cities in Europe. Córdoba became a center of learning, culture, and architecture, renowned for its libraries, universities, and medical schools.
The Great Mosque of Córdoba
One of the most iconic landmarks from this period is the Great Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita), constructed in 785 AD. It was expanded multiple times over the centuries and is celebrated for its stunning architecture, including its vast prayer hall with hundreds of arches and columns. The mosque symbolized Córdoba’s status as a leading center of Islamic culture and religion.
Christian Reconquest
In 1236, Córdoba was captured by King Ferdinand III of Castile during the Christian Reconquest. The Great Mosque was converted into a Catholic cathedral, and many other Islamic structures were repurposed or destroyed. Despite this, much of the city’s Islamic heritage remains evident in its architecture and layout.
Renaissance and Baroque Periods
During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Córdoba experienced a revival. The city saw the construction of many new buildings, including palaces, churches, and public squares. This period also saw the expansion of the city’s infrastructure and the improvement of its urban planning.
Modern Era
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Córdoba underwent significant changes as it modernized and industrialized. The city’s population grew, and it became an important agricultural and industrial center. Despite these changes, Córdoba has managed to preserve its rich historical and architectural heritage.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1984, the historic center of Córdoba, including the Great Mosque-Cathedral, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the city’s outstanding cultural significance and its well-preserved historical monuments.
Contemporary Córdoba
Today, Córdoba is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with modern life. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful architecture, lively festivals, and rich cultural traditions. The annual Festival of the Patios, where residents open their flower-filled courtyards to the public, is just one example of the city’s enduring charm and cultural vitality.
Visiting Córdoba for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Córdoba on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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48 Best places to See in Córdoba
This complete guide to Córdoba not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Córdoba and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba
Location: CORDOBA Calle Cardenal Herrero, 1 14003 | Website | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba
Palacio de Congresos
Location: Palacio De Congresos Y Exposiciones De Córdoba Calle Torrijos, 10 14003 Córdoba Spain | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Palacio de Congresos
Triunfo de San Rafael de la Puerta del Puente
Location: Triunfo de San Rafael de la Puerta del Puente Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda, 85 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Triunfo de San Rafael de la Puerta del Puente
Puerta del Puente
Location: Puerta del puente Plaza del Triunfo, s/n 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Monday to Thursday from 10 am. to 3 pm. Friday from 10 am. to 2 pm. and from 6 pm. to 8:30 pm. Saturday from 10 am. to 2 pm. and from 6 pm. to 8:30 pm. Sunday and Bank Holidays from 10 am. to 3 pm. Summer, Monday to Sunday from 10 am. to 3 pm.| Price: Tickets: 1 € Free Entrance for children under 5 years | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Puerta del Puente
Mills of the Guadalquivir
Location: Molino de la Albolafia Av. del Alcázar, 512 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hour | Price: Free | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Mills of the Guadalquivir
Calleja de las Flores
Location: Calleja de las Flores 1 14003 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Calleja de las Flores
Baños Árabes de Santa María
Location: Baños árabes de Santa María Calle Velázquez Bosco, 8 14003 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Baños Árabes de Santa María
Puente Romano de Córdoba
Visiting Puente Romano de Córdoba
Maimonides Statue
Location: Estatua de Maimónides 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Maimonides Statue
Baños del Alcázar Califal
Location: Campo Santo de los Mártires, s/n, 14004 | Hours: From September 16 to June 15: From Tuesday to Friday from 8:30 am. to 8:45 pm. Saturday from 8:30 am. to 4:30 pm. Sunday and bank holidays from 8:30 am. to 2:30 pm. From June 16 to September 15: From Tuesday to Saturday from 8:30 am. to 3 pm. Sunday and bank holidays from 8:30 am. to 2:30 pm.| Price: Adult: € 2.50 Student up to 26 years: € 1.25 Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 to 9:30 am., except for bank holidays, is free. | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Baños del Alcázar Califal
Hospital del Cardenal Salazar
Location: Hospital del Cardenal Salazar Plaza Cardenal Salazar, 6 14003 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Hospital del Cardenal Salazar
El Zoco
Location: Zoco Municipal de la Artesanía Calle Judíos, s/n 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Everyday 10.00 - 20.00 | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting El Zoco
Museo Taurino de Córdoba
Location: Bullfighting Museum of Cordoba Plaza Maimónides, 3 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Open Winter, 9.30h-13.30h and 16.00h -19.00h. Summer, 9.30h-15.30h and 17.00h -20.00h. | Price: Regular: 4 EUR Kids, Students under 26 years: 2 EUR | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Museo Taurino de Córdoba
Capilla de San Bartolomé
Location: San Bartolomé, Córdoba Faculty of philosophy and letters Calle Averroes, S / N 14004 Córdoba | Hours: From September 15th to June 14th: From 10:30 am. to 1:30 pm. and from 3:30 pm. to 6:30 pm. From June 15th to September 14th: From 10 am. to 2 pm. Closed on Mondays (mornings) and Sundays (afternoons) | Price: From Monday to Friday: 1,50 € Saturday and holidays: 2 € | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Capilla de San Bartolomé
Plaza Maimónides
Location: Plaza Maimónides, Córdoba, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Plaza Maimónides
Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Location: Calle de las Caballerizas Reales s/n | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8.45 a.m. to 3.15 p.m. Last admission 30 minutes before closing time. | Price: Adult: € 5 Students up to 26 years : € 2.50 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Torre de Belén de Córdoba
Location: Belem Tower Calle Martín de Roa, 2 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Torre de Belén de Córdoba
Casa Andalusí
Location: Calle Judíos, 12, 14004 Córdoba, Spain | Hours: 10.30am-7.30pm Apr-Oct, 10am-7pm Nov-Mar | Price: €4 | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Casa Andalusí
Caballerizas Reales de Córdoba
Location: Caballerizas Reales Calle Caballerizas Reales, 1 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-1.30pm, 4pm-8pm, Sun 10am-11am; closed Mon, early Jul, 1 and 7 Jan, 25 Dec | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Caballerizas Reales de Córdoba
Museo Arqueológico y Etnológico de Córdoba
Location: Palacio de los Paez de Castillejos Plaza de Jerónimo Páez, 7 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 9am-8pm Tue-Sat & 9am-3pm Sun mid-Sep–mid-Jun, 9am-3pm Tue-Sun mid-Jun–mid-Sep | Price: E.U. citizens free, all others 1.50 EUR | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Museo Arqueológico y Etnológico de Córdoba
Torre de la Calahorra
Location: Torre De Calahorra s/n Puente Romano 14009 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Summer (May to September) 10.00 to 14.00 and 16.30 to 20.30 Winter (October to March) 10.00 to 18.00 | Price: 4.50 euro, reduced 3.00 euro | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Torre de la Calahorra
Casa de Sefarad
Location: Judería de Cordoba Calle Averroes, 2 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: From September 16 to June 15. Monday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. From June 16 to September 15. Monday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. | Price: Adults: € 4. Reduced: € 3. | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Casa de Sefarad
Sinagoga de Córdoba
Location: Córdoba Synagogue Calle Judíos, 20 14004 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00h - 15:30h / Monday closed. Closing days: 1st and 6th January and 25th December. | Price: Free admission for EU Citizens. 0,30 € for the rest | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Sinagoga de Córdoba
Judería de Córdoba
| Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Judería de Córdoba
Posada del Potro
Location: Plaza del Potro s/n 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Posada del Potro - Centro Flamenco Fosforito Plaza del Potro, 7 14002 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Posada del Potro
Centro Flamenco Fosforito
Location: Posada del Potro - Centro Flamenco Fosforito Plaza del Potro, 7 14002 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 8.30am-2.30pm Tue-Sat, from 9.30am Sun mid-Jun–mid-Sep, 8.30am-7.30pm Tue-Fri, to 2.30pm Sat & Sun mid-Sep–mid-Jun | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Centro Flamenco Fosforito
Plaza del Potro
Location: Plaza del Potro s/n 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Plaza del Potro
Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba
Location: Plaza del Potro, 1, 14002 Córdoba, Spain | Hours: 9am-3pm Tue-Sun mid-Jun–mid-Sep, 9am-8pm Tue-Sat & 9am-3pm Sun mid-Sep–mid-Jun | Price: EU Citizen/other free/€1.50 | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba
Museo Julio Romero de Torres
Location: Julio Romero de Torres Museum Plaza del Potro, 1 14002 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 8.30am-3pm Tue-Sat & 8.30am-2.30pm Sun mid-Jun–mid-Sep, 8.30am-8.45pm Tue-Fri, 8.30am-4.30pm Sat & 8.30am-2.30pm Sun mid-Sep–mid-Jun | Price: Adults: €4.50. | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Museo Julio Romero de Torres
Alminar de San Juan
Location: Alminar de San Juan Plaza de San Juan, 4 14003 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Alminar de San Juan
Almodóvar Gate
Location: Puerta de Almodóvar Calle Judíos, n2 14003 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Almodóvar Gate
Plaza de las Tendillas
Location: Plaza de las Tendillas, 6, 14003 Córdoba, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Plaza de las Tendillas
Plaza de la Corredera
Location: Plaza de la Corredera s/n 14002 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Plaza de la Corredera
Puerta de Sevilla
Location: Puerta de Sevilla Calle Puerta Sevilla 14004 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Puerta de Sevilla
Templo Romano de Córdoba
Location: Templo Romano Calle Capitulares, 1 14002 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Templo Romano de Córdoba
Real Colegiata de San Hipólito
Location: Parroquia San Hipolito Plaza San Ignacio de Loyola, 0 14008 Córdoba Spain | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Real Colegiata de San Hipólito
Roman Mausoleum
Location: Roman Mausoleum Paseo de la Victoria, 17 14008 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Roman Mausoleum
Palacio de Orive
Location: Palacio de Orive Plaza de Orive, 2 14002 Córdoba Spain | Hours: From Monday to Saturday: 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 21:00 Sundays: 10:00 to 14:00 | Price: Free | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Palacio de Orive
Plaza del Conde de Priego
Location: Plaza del Conde de Priego, 1, 14001 Córdoba, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Plaza del Conde de Priego
Palacio de los Marqueses de Viana
Location: Plaza de Don Gómes, 2, 14001 Cordova, Spain | Hours: Tue - Sat: 10 am - 7 pm Sun: 10 am - 3 pm | Price: €8 | Website | Viana Palace Gardens and Patios Entry Ticket | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Palacio de los Marqueses de Viana
Palacio de la Merced
Location: Plaza de Colón, 15, 14001 Córdoba, Spain | Hours: Monday to Friday from 7 am. to 3 pm.| Price: Free | Website | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Palacio de la Merced
Santa Marina
| Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Santa Marina
Malmuerta Tower
Location: Torre de la Malmuerta 14001 Córdoba Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Malmuerta Tower
Centro de Interpretación de la Fiesta de los Patios Trueque Cuatro
Location: Interpretation Center of the Fiesta de los Patios Calle Trueque, 4 14002 Córdoba Spain | Hours: From September 1 to March 31 From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday, Friday and Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sundays and holidays: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Price: Free | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting Centro de Interpretación de la Fiesta de los Patios Trueque Cuatro
Palacio de Maximiano Hercúleo
Visiting Palacio de Maximiano Hercúleo
Medina Azahara
Location: Medina Azahara - Conjunto Arqueológico Madinat al-Zahra Ctra. Palma del Río, km 5.5 14005 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Sunday — 9:00 to 15:00 (year round) Tuesday to Saturday — 9:00 closing at 15:00 (July to mid-September), at 18:00 (mid-September to end March), and at 21:00 (April to June). | Price: Entrance is free if you are a resident of the EU, otherwise there is a EUR 1.50 charge. | Website | Distance: 7.8km
Visiting Medina Azahara
Monasterio de San Jerónimo de Valparaíso
Location: Real Monasterio de San Jerónimo de Valparaíso Ctra. Palma del Río, Km 5,5 14005 Córdoba Spain | Hours: Only certain days a year through Medina Azahara. | Distance: 7.9km
Visiting Monasterio de San Jerónimo de Valparaíso
Castillo de Almodóvar del Río
Location: Castillo Almodovar del Rio Calle Castillo 14720 Almodóvar del Río Córdoba Spain | Hours: Monday to Friday 11am-2.30pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am-7pm. | Price: 7 euros; children aged 4-12: 4 euros: children aged under 4: free | Website | Distance: 22.9km
Visiting Castillo de Almodóvar del Río
Best Time to Visit Córdoba
Spring in Córdoba
Spring in Córdoba, from March to May, is arguably the best time to visit. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season also brings the famous Córdoba Patios Festival in May, where locals open their beautifully decorated courtyards to the public. The city is filled with blooming flowers and vibrant colors, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer in Córdoba
Summer in Córdoba, from June to August, can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). While this might be too intense for some, the city does offer numerous shaded areas and air-conditioned attractions. If you don’t mind the heat, you can enjoy fewer crowds and longer daylight hours. Evening events and festivals, such as the Noche Blanca del Flamenco in June, provide cultural entertainment after the sun sets.
Autumn in Córdoba
Autumn in Córdoba, from September to November, is another great time to visit. The weather cools down to a more comfortable range, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The city’s cultural calendar is still active, and the changing colors of the foliage add a beautiful backdrop to your explorations. This season is perfect for strolling through the historic streets and visiting attractions without the peak summer crowds.
Winter in Córdoba
Winter in Córdoba, from December to February, is mild, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). This is the off-peak tourist season, so you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience. It’s an excellent time to visit indoor attractions like museums and the Great Mosque-Cathedral. Additionally, the city’s holiday decorations and festivities provide a festive atmosphere, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
Average Temperatures in Córdoba
- January 17°C 63°F 5
- February 20°C 69°F 6
- March 23°C 73°F 8
- April 30°C 86°F 5
- May 32°C 90°F 3
- June 36°C 98°F 1
- July 42°C 107°F 0
- August 40°C 104°F 0
- September 33°C 92°F 3
- October 30°C 87°F 6
- November 21°C 70°F 8
- December 19°C 65°F 9
Festivals held in Córdoba
How to get to Córdoba
By Air to Córdoba
The nearest major airport to Córdoba is Seville Airport (SVQ), located about 130 kilometers (81 miles) away. From Seville Airport, you can take a train, bus, or rent a car to reach Córdoba. Another option is to fly into Málaga Airport (AGP), which is about 160 kilometers (99 miles) from Córdoba. Both airports offer various domestic and international flights.
By Train to Córdoba
Córdoba is well-connected by train, with the Córdoba Central Railway Station serving as the main hub. High-speed AVE trains from Madrid take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach Córdoba. From Seville, the train journey is about 45 minutes, and from Málaga, it takes around 1 hour. The train station is conveniently located close to the city center.
By Bus to Córdoba
Several bus companies operate routes to Córdoba from various cities in Spain. From Madrid, buses take around 4 to 5 hours to reach Córdoba. From Seville, the bus journey is about 2 hours, and from Málaga, it takes approximately 2.5 hours. The main bus station is also centrally located, making it easy to access the city’s attractions.
By Car to Córdoba
Driving to Córdoba is a convenient option, especially for exploring the surrounding regions. From Madrid, the drive takes about 4 hours via the A-4 highway. From Seville, it takes around 1.5 hours, and from Málaga, it takes about 2 hours. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and visit nearby attractions.
Local Transportation in Córdoba
Once in Córdoba, you can explore the city by walking or biking, as many attractions are within a short distance from each other. The local bus network operated by AUCORSA provides convenient transportation within the city. Taxis are also readily available for getting around Córdoba and offer a convenient option for short trips.