Things to do in Córdoba Spain

1. Mezquita Córdoba (Mosque - Cathedral)

The Mezquita is by far the number one attraction in the center of Cordoba Spain; the Mezquita is a huge Moorish mosque that was later converted into a cathedral after the reconquest by the Catholic Monarchs in 1236. The famous and impressive Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral with its characteristic red-white arches should definitely not be missed during your visit to Andalusia

📌 Tip: book your Mezquita tickets online or book a guided tour to learn more about the impressive history of the Mezquita.

2. Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos

The 'Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos' is the 'Palace of the Christian Monarchs', a medieval palace with beautiful gardens in the historic center of the city. The 14th century palace is a mix of Christian and Islamic styles and the beautiful gardens in particular are worth a visit. This imposing fortress served as a residence for several royal families and as a military stronghold during several historical conflicts (more info guided tours).

3. Juderia (Jewish Quarter of Córdoba)

The Judería is the Jewish quarter in the center with narrow and flowery streets and picturesque houses. This district has many sights such as the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral, the synagogue and the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos Palace. Stroll and wander through the narrow flowery and picturesque streets, look for souvenirs or relax in one of the many small tapas bars in this charming Jewish district.

4. Puente Romano

The Puente Romano is the 331 meter long Roman bridge that spans the Guadalquivir River that crosses the city. On one side of the bridge is the city gate 'Puerta del Puente' near the Mezquita, on the other side of the river Torre de la Calahorra. The bridge dates back to the 1st century BC and is one of the oldest and best preserved Roman bridges in the world.

5. De patio's van Córdoba

Cordoba's beautiful patios are known as some of the most beautiful in the world. These hidden courtyards are often beautifully decorated with flowers and there is the annual patio festival in May.

📌 Tip: To visit these patios, we recommend that you choose one of these two guided tours (Patio Tour 1 or Patio Tour 2), since for tourists the patios will not be easy to find or that they are not accessible.

6. Medina Azahara

Eight kilometers west of Córdoba lies Medina Azahara, also known as Al Madinah al-Zahr in Arabic. The site is one of the most important historical excavations in Spain and here you can view many remains of the old Moorish city from the 11th century.

📌 Tip: To visit the Roman excavations, it may be interesting to book this guided tour so you will also understand the story behind the stones.

7. Palacio de Viana

The Palacio de Viana is the palace of the Marquis of Viana. The 14th century palace with its beautiful patios and gardens can be visited as a museum. The palace consists of twelve courtyards, each with a unique design and decoration, ranging from Moorish to Renaissance styles. The gardens are lush and reflect the traditional Andalusian style, with fountains, colorful flower beds and fragrant orange trees. Get a nice idea of how the wealthy aristocrats lived in the Palacio de Viana (book tickets for Palacio de Viana).

8. Cordoba Synagogue

The 'Synagoga de Córdoba' is the synagogue from 1315 in the Jewish center district 'Judería'. This Mudéjar-style synagogue can be visited for free as a museum during a walk through the old city center. The interior is decorated with beautiful stuccowork, mosaics and geometric patterns that testify to the rich heritage of Córdoba's Jewish community.

9. Torre de la Calahorra

The Torre de la Calahorra is the tower on the left bank of the Guadalquivir at the end of the Roman bridge. Built in the 12th century, it served as an important fortification to protect the city from invasions. Originally built by the Moors, it was later expanded by the Christian rulers. The Calahorra Tower now houses a museum about the culture of al-Andalus. From the roof of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, especially of the nearby Mezquita.

10. Plaza del Potro

The 'Plaza del Potro' is a small picturesque square in the center of Córdoba. The square takes its name from the fountain in the center, which bears a bronze statue of a foal, dating from the 16th century. The square is home to the inn "La Posada del Potro", the Triunfo de San Rafael monument, the Museu de Bellas Artes, the Museo Romero de Torres and several charming tapas bars.

11. Royal Stables of Córdoba

The 'Caballerizas Reales', or the 16th century royal stables of Córdoba, are located near the Alcazar. See the beautiful equestrian stables and the old collection of carriages (free) or most impressively:

📌 Visit the horse riding show: Watch the unique horse riding show that is given four times a week. The art of Andalusian horse riding is combined with flamenco (more information and reservations horse show Caballerizas Reales).

12. Puerta del Puente

The 'Puerta del Puente' is a city gate dating from the 16th century and is located at the foot of the Roman bridge 'Puente Romano' that spans the Guadalquivir. This bridge gate is also called the Arc de Triomphe of Córdoba. The bridge is in Renaissance style, with its decorative elements and massive stone construction. The gate is decorated with coats of arms and reliefs honoring the Christian kings of Spain, recalling the historical events and importance of Cordoba during the medieval period.

13. Templo Romano

The Templo Romano de Córdoba are the ruins of a Roman temple located next to the city hall. Only a few columns remain, but they still give an impression of the original temple from the 1st century AD. However, in the Middle Ages the temple was partially destroyed and its remains were used for the construction of surrounding buildings.

14. Museums of Córdoba Spain

Are you a museum lover? In this city you can also choose from the Archaeological Museum, a museum about bullfighting (Museo Taurino) or in the same building on Plaza del Potro are the Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) and the museum of painter Romero de Torres.

15. Plaza de la Corredera

Plaza de la Corredera is the cozy and typically Spanish square of Cordóba which originally served as an arena for bullfighting and other festivities. The square is now the ideal place for a drink on the terrace or to eat tapas at one of the restaurants located in the galleries.

16. Flamenco Show

Flamenco is the typical music, song and dance of Andalusia. It's impressiveto experience a live performance. This is possible in a beautiful location in Córdoba, namely at Tablao Flamenco El Cardenal (more info and tickets).

17. Bike tour in Córdoba

Recommended: A fun, and especially in the hot temperatures, pleasant way to discover Córdoba is by bicycle. Cycle along the sights of Córdoba with a guide. More information about these bike tours can be found on this website and more availability via this website where you will both travel with a very enthusiastic guide.

18. Botanical Gardens

Near the Alcazar Palace and the Guiadalquivir are the 'Real Jardínes Botánico de Cordoba', or the botanical gardens of the university. You can stroll around among beautiful flowers, green trees and fountains or visit the small paleobotanical museum.

19. Plaza de Capuchinos

The 'Plaza de Capuchinos', or Capuchin Square, is a small and sober square and a little further away from the center. The granite-tiled square features the more than 200-year-old cross 'Cristo de los Faroles'. The beautiful church of San Andrés is also located on the square, with its Baroque facade and impressive interior.

20. Castillo de Almodovar (28 km from Córdoba)

The beautiful 12th century castle of Almodóvar is located on the hill near the village of Almodóvar del Rio, 28 kilometers from Córdoba. The castle, that you can see from afar, is known for its good condition with some beautifully furnished rooms (some even say it is the best preserved castle in Spain). During a visit you will learn more about the castle's turbulent history (book your tickets).