10 BEST Things to Do in Cordoba, Andalusia

Looking for the best things to do in Cordoba, Spain? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article I have outlined all of the best things to do in Cordoba, as well as some useful tips like where to stay in Cordoba, the best tours to join, how to get around the city and more.

With its prominent Arab heritage, Cordoba is one of the most unique cities in Spain.

I visited Cordoba for the first time on my Year 7 school trip, and I remembered the arches and columns of the Mezquita so vividly I knew it had to be the first stop of our Cordoba itinerary.

But that’s not all there is to Cordoba. So what are you waiting for? Read on, and discover all the epic things to do in Cordoba! 

About Cordoba

The charming city of Cordoba has a lot going on among its layers of history. Firstly the Romans, and later the Visigoths, laid claim to the city, before the conquest of Cordoba by the Umayyad Caliphate in the 8th century. 

Under these new rulers, Cordoba was made the capital of Al-Andalus (the Iberian peninsula) and flourished as a centre of learning for the Muslim world. That is until the city was re-conquered by Christian Spain in 1236. 

This patchwork of history is reflected in the sights and architecture of Cordoba — things to do and see here can be found around its winding lanes and medieval quarter.

Best things to do in Cordoba

Visit the Mezquita, the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba

A real must-see in Cordoba is the Mezquita.

Called the Mosque-Cathedral, and considered an important example of historic Islamic architecture, the vast building started life as a mosque in 785 (though some claim that there was a Visigoth church here first).

Replete with impressive arches and columns inside, and largely built using stone from Roman and Visigoth buildings in the area, additions over the next two centuries included the towering minaret. 

When the city was captured by the Castilian forces in 1236, the mosque was converted to a cathedral and remains one to this day.

It’s open 10AM to 6PM, and the entrance fee is 13 EUR. If you plan on visiting in the middle of the day, you should purchase your ticket online beforehand, or join a skip-the-line tour like this one, so that you can avoid the queues.

However, if you don’t mind waking up early, you can also get free entrance to the Mezquita from 8:30AM to 9:30AM from Monday to Saturday. We did this and it’s a great way to save some money!

Click here to purchase your fast track ticket & tour to the Cordoba Mezquita!

Wander around La Judería & discover Calleja de las Flores

Easily one of the top things to do in Cordoba is to take yourself to La Juderia, the former Jewish quarter of Cordoba. This was once the home of Cordoba’s sizeable Jewish community, who lived here between the 10th and the 15th centuries.

Today it’s an attractive quarter to explore on foot. The Calle de los Judios forms the centre of the district, and is home to a bronze statue dedicated to Moses ben Maimon, a Cordoban Jewish philosopher and doctor. 

For even more photogenic surroundings, take yourself to the Calleja de las Flores — a narrow, picturesque lane within La Juderia that overflows with geraniums that bloom in late spring and look dramatic against the white-washed walls.

Click here to book your Jewish Quarter tour in Cordoba!

Walk across the Roman Bridge 

If you were wondering “Is Cordoba worth visiting?” when there are ancient sights like the Roman Bridge to see, I think you can answer that question for yourself.

It’s a definite yes! The Roman Bridge spans the Guadalquivir River and was first constructed in the 1st century BC. Since its original construction, it has been rebuilt several times, most recently under Arab rule in the 8th century.

Running for a length of just over 330 metres, the UNESCO-recognised bridge is pedestrianised, so you can wander over it and enjoy the storied structure while taking in views of the river and the city skyline. 

Climb up Calahorra Tower

For some great views of the river, rooftops and Mosque-Cathedral, don’t miss out on visiting the Calahorra Tower.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in Cordoba for those who are keen on good vistas. The Calahorra Tower is actually a fortified gate, built to protect the city, and sits on the left bank side of the Roman Bridge.

Step inside and you’ll find a museum detailing the history of the city, while if you climb up to the ramparts you’ll get a great view of the mosque and the rooftops of Cordoba. Entry is 4 EUR and it’s open 10AM to 6PM.

See the Bridge Gate

Also known in Spanish as the Puerta del Puente, this gate to the city of Cordoba was constructed in the 16th century to mark a visit by King Philip II.

It was constructed on the former site of Roman-era city gates that stood here, along what was once known as Via Augusta.

It was decided by the local leaders that the city needed a new, updated gate to handle the large number of people and goods that were coming in and out of the city.

Restored in recent years, the gate now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s particularly dramatic to see at night when it’s illuminated.

Eat at Mercado Victoria

Foodies take note: this is one of the top attractions in Cordoba for hungry people. Whether you’re just here for lunch, or if you’re looking for some of the best eats in the city, the traditional marketplace of Mercado Victoria is the place to go.

Made up of around 30 stalls that sell a mouthwatering array of gastronomic delights, you may find it difficult to choose just one place to spend your money.

You can get just about everything from Arabic food to vegetarian breakfasts. Come in the evening for an even more lively atmosphere. Open 8:30AM to 12:30AM (closes 2AM on weekends). 

Visit the Roman Temple

When you’re in Cordoba, things to do that involve ancient history are never very far away. This Roman temple, which was only discovered in the 1950s when building work was taking place on the city hall, is one of them.

Built in the 1st century, and constructed almost entirely of marble, the remains of the temple represent a strong Roman presence in the region.

It is thought that Roman emperors were worshipped here as divine leaders. It’s illuminated at night, which makes for a dramatic sight.

Explore Plaza de la Corredera

This impressive 17th-century public square has long been a meeting point for locals and visitors alike in Cordoba.

Come here to gaze at the ornate apartments and porticoes that edge the square, and stop off for a coffee or lunch at one of the eateries located here.

There’s also a market, the Mercado de la Corredera, which takes place in the mornings and is packed with an array of fresh produce.

Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos

One of the top sights in Cordoba is the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, aka the Alcazar. Situated near the Mezquita, this enormous structure is not only a fortress, but was also a lavish palace for the rulers of the city.

Today you can explore the fortress, its keep and towers, with gardens dotted with flowers.

Elsewhere you can see Roman remains, such as a sarcophagus and the Hall of the Mosaics, which features Roman mosaics that were found around the city. It’s open from 8:15AM to 8PM, and admission 5 EUR.

This is another popular attraction, so make sure to purchase tickets online beforehand, or to join a guided tour so you can skip the queue. Plus, with a guide you’ll learn a lot more about the history of this beautiful palace.

Click here to book your guided tour of the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos!

Go on a day trip to Castillo Almodovar del Rio

Castillo Almodovar del Rio is a Cordoba must-see for any Game of Thrones fan.

Situated just outside the city proper, this very cool and well-maintained castle was used as the location for not just one but two places from GoT, serving as the setting for parts of Casterly Rock and the castle of Highgarden.

Perched high on a hill, the castle was built in 760 during the Arab rule of Cordoba. Throughout the years it has changed hands many times and was extensively restored in the 20th century.

Climbing up the towers (you can enter 7 of the 9 towers) gives good views over the surrounding area. It’s open 11AM to 7PM, and entrance tickets are 10 EUR.

Click here to purchase your entrance ticket to the Castillo Almodóvar del Río!

How to get to Cordoba

From Malaga

By train: From Malaga Maria Zambrano Train Station to Cordoba Station, the journey by rail is just over 1 hour and costs from around 22 EUR.

By car: Driving from Malaga to Cordoba (165 kilometres) takes just under 2 hours via the A-45 motorway.

From Granada

By train: The rail journey from Granada Train Station to Cordoba train station takes around 1 hour 45 minutes and costs from 32 EUR. Once you’re done visiting the Alhambra, just jump on a train and you’re set!

By car: It takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to drive from Granada to Cordoba (200 kilometres) along national road N-432.

From Seville

By train: The train from Seville Santa Justa Train Station to Cordoba Train Station takes around 45 minutes, with tickets costing from 22 EUR.

By car: Driving to Cordoba from Seville (145 kilometres) takes around 1 hour 50 minutes along the A-4 motorway.

Where to stay in Cordoba

Here are some of the best places to stay in Cordoba for every budget.

Budget – Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero: This boutique property is the perfect place to base yourself to take in the culture and history of the city.

Run by a friendly team, the hotel is located inside a charmingly restored historic property. The hotel itself may be small, but it’s beautifully decorated and feels like a charming oasis to return to after exploring the city.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero!

Mid-range – Balcón de Córdoba: Staying here means the best things to do in Cordoba are at your fingertips; the location, right in the middle of the old town, is excellent!

The interiors of the property utilise period features and modern amenities alike for the utmost comfort. One of the best things about the hotel is its rooftop terrace, offering mesmerising views of the Mezquita (the perfect spot for a glass of wine at sunset).

Check out prices & availability at Balcon de Cordoba!

Luxury – Hospes Palacio del Bailio: For 5-star service and amenities, book a room at this sumptuous hotel. For one thing, it takes up space in what was once a 16th-century palace. 

Here you’ll find lush gardens with a chic pool area, an on-site restaurant and plenty of luxurious rooms to choose between.

Don’t miss out, book your stay at Hospes Palacio del Bailio in Cordoba!

Do you need travel insurance to visit Cordoba?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance.

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo.

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance!

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Cordoba 

There you have it, the ultimate guide on the best things to do in Cordoba! Have you been to Cordoba before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

It might not be as famous as Barcelona, but Cordoba has a special charm to it. Personally I’m more of a fan of the Spanish islands, of Tenerife, Mallorca and Fuerteventura, but there’s no denying the beauty and history of Cordoba.

With its picturesque streets, unique Arabic heritage, stunning architecture and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to see why Cordoba is a must on everyone’s Spain bucket list.

I hope my Cordoba travel guide will help in planning your trip. If you still have any questions about Cordoba, just let me know in the comments below!

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