Guidebooks will tell you that the magnificent Mezquita is enough to entice you to visit Cordoba. What they don’t tell you is how delightful the city is and that you could easy spend two days and nights exploring. Here is your guide to the best things to do in Cordoba.
When to visit: April-May & Sept-Oct are best temperature wise. I visited in August and it was 39 degrees. I was melting.
One Day in Cordoba: Visit the Mezquita and mooch around the Jewish quarter.
Two Days in Cordoba: Visit the flamenco museum and take a selfie on the Roman Bridge.
Must see Site: The Mezquita.
Best Tour: Skip the line Mezquita tour.
Best Hotel: Hospes Palacio del Bailio ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Table of Contents
Mezquita
Step back in time as you explore the magnificent Mezquita Cathedral. This iconic landmark showcases a fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture which is a testament to Cordoba’s diverse heritage.
The Mezquita-Cathedral stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history, having witnessed centuries of cultural exchange. Each corner reveals a new tale, a blend of influences from the Umayyad Caliphate to the Catholic Monarchs. A guided tour can enhance your experience, providing insights into this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its significance in Cordoba’s story.
The Mezquita is one of the finest Islamic buildings in the world. I don’t want to spoil any surprises that await you in this magnificent building, but it really is a unique fusion of cultures and a total feast for the eyes.
So I will just say that this building features so much more than what you can see in the photographs. Make sure you go and experience it for yourself.
Flamenco Museum – Centro Flamenco Fosforito
This flamenco museum is one of the finest in the whole of Andalusia. It has exhibitions, films and lots of information guiding you through the history of flamenco. The museum is located in a building which is featured in Don Quijote. The building itself used to be a horse market and the fountain in the square dates from the 16th century.
Enjoy a Flamenco Show
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cordoba by experiencing a traditional flamenco show. This authentic flamenco experience is a must-do when visiting to soak up the real atmosphere of southern Spain.
Palacio de Viana
This incredible palace was occupied by the Marqueses de Viana until 1980. It features 12 patios in the palace, perfect for Instagram!
Museo Arqueologico – Archeological Museum
The archeological museum in Cordoba takes you through the history of the city and has many interesting exhibits including a famous coin collection.
Cordoba’s Jewish Quarter
Cordoba’s Jewish Quarter is known as the Juderia. It’s a wonderful place to get lost in the narrow streets and small squares. It’s the tourist area of Cordoba so if you are on the scout for souvenirs from your trip it’s the area to head to.
Puente Romano – Roman Bridge
Crossing the river just below the Mezquita, this roman bridge was featured in Game of Thrones. It is car free and is worth strolling across to get a different perspective of the city.
Medina Azahara
The Medina Azahara is situated slightly outside of Cordoba, but it’s an amazing city/palace and well worth a visit as it’s such a short journey from Cordoba. It’s eight km outside the city.
Visit During a Festival
In typical Spanish style, Cordoba features fiestas and festivals throughout the year. There is the Fiesta of the Patios which is a ‘bst patio’ competition that takes please in early May for two weeks.
In June there is a flamenco festival and also a guitar festival in July for two weeks.
What is Cordoba famous for?
Cordoba was the Islamic capital of Spain and over a thousand years ago was western Europe’s biggest city. Today the city is a charming, popular place to explore the melting pot of different cultures that have had a presence in the city over the past few thousand years.
Advice for Visiting Cordoba in Spain
- Cordoba is one of the hottest cities in Spain, so avoid August when the temperature regularly hits 40 degrees.
- Most of the fiestas are held between mid-April and mid-June.
- September and October are the best times to visit weather wise.
- Cordoba makes an excellent day trip from Seville or Granada. Find out how to travel from Cordoba to Granada.
- If you are keen to visit another world heritage site on your trip, don’t miss the Antequera Dolmens.
