When most people think about Spanish cities, they often think of Barcelona, Malaga or Madrid. These cities are truly gorgeous, but the price of their popularity is the crowds of tourists who visit them every day. Cordoba is somewhat forgotten, but it has no shortage of attractions. The city that once rivalled Paris and Rome has incredible historical value. Here is our list of the best things to do in Cordoba that deserve to be discovered.
This gorgeous Andalusian city has all the ingredients you need for a relaxing break.
Why is Cordoba worth visiting?
Cordoba is worth visiting because it is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Many call it the pearl of Andalusia because it has a rich history and fascinating architecture. Moreover, Cordoba was once the world’s largest city and is home to numerous UNESCO sites.
What makes Cordoba famous?
Cordoba is famous for its Andalusian heritage – it has a mix of Roman, Moorish and Spanish cultures. Today this city has more UNESCO sites than anywhere in the world (four). Its most iconic landmarks are the Mosque-Cathedral, Medina Azahara and stunning courtyards with colourful flowers.
Top 21 attractions in Cordoba, Spain
If you are planning here and you wonder what the best attractions are, then you are in the right place. Here are just a few reasons why this Spanish city should be on your itinerary.
Best things to do in Cordoba for culture lovers
1. Mosque-cathedral
One of the first attractions most people head to is the Mosque of Cordoba, and there is a reason for that. The Mosque-cathedral is the city’s most iconic monument because it is one of the most remarkable buildings in the world. No wonder UNESCO added it to its precious list.
Did you know that the Great Mosque of Cordoba is one of the greatest works of Islamic architecture? This striking building represents a mixture of Moorish and Christian architecture. Because of that, visiting the Great Mosque is one of the best things to do in Cordoba.
Mosque-cathedral, or Mezquita as the locals call it, is one of the most beautiful buildings of Islamic art in Spain.
A short history of the mosque
The construction of the mosque began in the 8th century when this city was the capital of the Muslim-controlled region of Al-Andalus. Over the centuries, the Arabs enlarged this complex multiple times. The size of its mosque kept growing. At some point, it became the second-largest mosque in the world. The Mezquita became one of the largest sacred buildings in the Islamic world.
When the Christian monarchs conquered the city in the 13th century, they converted the mosque into a Christian cathedral. Instead of destroying the mosque, the Catholic rulers decided to preserve it. After a few centuries, they built a cathedral at its centre. Also, they added numerous chapels along the sides.
Interior of the mosque
When you step inside, you will soon realize that this mosque is one of the most unique places of worship in the world. This unusual structure is, even by today’s standards, an impressive building. It measures a whopping 180 by 130 metres (590 x 425 feet).
Many years ago, this mosque had 1293 columns. Today only 859 remain.
Here’s where it gets interesting: The Great Mosque of Cordoba is famous because it’s a precious testimony of the Caliphate of Cordoba. This stunning monument shows how two religions and cultures (Islam and Christianity) have shaped Andalusia. The Cordoba mosque also represents an artistic achievement due to its size. It covers 24,000 square meters.
The highlights are the Prayer hall with red and white columns, Mihrab and, of course, the cathedral.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- Buy your ticket at the vending machines located next to the ticket office.
- The entrance ticket to the Mosque-Cathedral costs €13 (as of May 2024).
- You can visit the mosque between 10 am – 7 pm every day. Alternatively, see it on Sunday until 11.30 am or between 3 pm – 7 pm.
- FREE ADMISSION: Visit the Mezquita for free at 8.30 – 9.30 am Monday – Saturday only (groups not allowed).
2. Orange tree courtyard
The Patio of oranges, divided into 3 parts with fountains in the centre, measures approximately 50 x 30 m.
You cannot take a trip to the city without a visit to the Orange tree courtyard. The locals refer to it as the Patio de los Naranjos because you can find here fragrant orange trees. This shady square with the fountains and orange, palm and cypress trees lies in the shadow of the mosque-cathedral. Many tourists visit it before they visit the mosque, but they forget to explore it.
The Patio of Oranges is one of the best places to visit in Cordoba because many people think this is the oldest “living” garden in Europe. The origins of this patio date back to the 8th century when the work on the Great mosque began.
The Orange tree courtyard was once the most important public garden in the city. The Cordoba mosque could accommodate up to 20,000 people.
During the Muslim era, the locals used this courtyard for ritual washing before praying in the mosque. The Patio de los Naranjos was also a popular place for social gatherings of its citizens. The courtyard originally contained plants such as palms, cypress trees, and olive trees. The orange trees arrived here in the 10th century when the Arabs introduced them to Europe.
FUN FACT:
98 orange trees with fruits planted in rows create green shade throughout the year. The network of channels waters the trees and refreshes the atmosphere where, in summer, temperatures often exceed 40 °C.
3. Medina Azahara
If you want to soak up the country’s rich past, then visiting Medina Azahara is one of the top things to do in Cordoba. Why, you may ask? This palatine city is an extraordinary witness of the Umayyad civilization and the development of Al-Andalus. Medina Azahara is also a perfect example of urban planning. It shows the adaptation of architecture to the terrain.
This place is so valuable that in 2018 UNESCO added it to its precious list. Because of that, Medina Azahara, located 5 kilometres outside the city, is one of the best attractions in the city.
Medina Azahara History
The first caliph of Al-Andalus was one of the most powerful rulers of the Middle Ages. In the 10th century, he decided to construct the palatine city near Cordoba. Until then, the Alcazar of Cordoba was the centre of political power. A new city was a symbol of his power. It put rivals across the Islamic world in the shade.
According to a legend, the first ruler of Cordoba named this city after his favourite concubine. This ‘’shining city’’ was the administrative capital of Moorish-ruled Spain. This fortified city with towers had 3 levels, and there was also a mosque.
The construction of this city took 10 years, and alterations continued for decades. However, this palace city in the foothills of the mountains lived only shortly. After only 65 years, with the fall of the Islamic state, the city got lost for over 1000 years. The excavation began in the early 20th century and continues to this day. Today we can see only about 10 per cent of the remains of what was once the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba.
Even though Medina Azahara is in ruins, you can still see horseshoe arches, carvings and typical Andalusian architecture here. The highlights are the caliph’s palace, the administrative and government offices, ruins of a mosque.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- Medina Azahara is a large site, and it contains two parts. The first part is a visitor centre and a modern museum. The second part is the archaeological site. The distance between the two is long. As of May 2024, you need to take a special shuttle bus for 3 euros (return ticket).
- Visit a museum underground where you can learn more about this site for the best experience. Afterwards, visit the site and see the ruins.
- Book a guided tour for the best experience, as the site is in ruins, and a tour guide can bring this area to life. Alternatively, a bus departs from Paseo de La Victoria (outside the Almodovar Gate). They leave from Tuesday to Sunday at 11 am and Saturdays and Sundays at 10 am, too. During the summer months, there is also a bus at 16.30 from Tuesday to Saturday. As of May 2024, the bus costs 10 euros. It gives you two and a half hours for exploration. Do not forget to reserve your ticket at the tourism office a day before you visit.
- If you visit independently, you should know that you do not need to pay if you are from the EU. Otherwise, expect to pay 1.50 euros for entry and 3 euros for a shuttle bus, as of May 2024. Taxis from the city centre are expensive and cost about 20 euros one way.
4. Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos
It is easy to see that Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos is one of the top attractions in the city. The Alcazar of the Christian Kings has played many roles during its long history. It was a caliphate residence in the 8th century, later a home for Catholic kings and even a prison.
The palace has beautiful backyard gardens with fountains. The patios and gardens with ornamental ponds also have a typical Islamic design.
The fortress with magnificent terraced gardens and watchtowers you can see today is from the 14th century. After the Christian reconquest, the Alcazar served as a primary residence for Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand. They even met Christopher Columbus here when he was trying to secure funds for his voyage that would lead to the discovery of the Americas.
The statues of monarchs in the garden commemorate a gathering with the famous navigator.
Today relaxing in the gardens of Alcazar of the Christian Kings is one of the best things to do in Cordoba. The fortress of the Christian Kings is one of Cordoba’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.
After exploring the gardens, do not miss the mosaic hall with remarkable Roman mosaics from the 2nd and 3rd century AD. This hall once housed the former chapel of the inquisitions. Also, visit the royal baths, patios and towers, which offer beautiful views of the gardens.
the square with orange trees in front of the Alcazar
Did you know?
The square in front of the main building may look like one of the most scenic places in the city. However, this beautiful square with orange trees was a site where the Arabs executed 42 Christian martyrs for proclaiming their faiths.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of May 2024, the entrance fee to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos costs 5 euros. The opening times vary depending on the season (closed every Monday).
5. Jewish Quarter
When you find yourself in this city, explore the Jewish Quarter. It is a beautiful area located in the historic centre. The Jews lived here between the 10th and 15th centuries. The current Jewish Quarter stretches between the Mosque-Cathedral and the Almodovar Gate.
FUN FACT:
Did you know that Cordoba, similar to other Spanish cities, went through a period when three cultures lived together in one town? Yes, that is right, Christians, Jewish, and Muslims lived together in this city. The non-Muslim population lived under Islamic law, but people of Jewish heritage had their own court system.
Jewish Quarter is a labyrinth of small streets which often have dead ends. Many years ago, the walls separated this district from the other parts of the city.
The old Jewish district is a part of the area declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The neighbourhood retains the traditional urban layout of a medieval Islamic city. This well-preserved area has a fascinating network of narrow white-washed lanes with flowery balconies and quiet little squares. The Jewish Quarter also has the majority of historical monuments in the city.
Because of that, exploring the Jewish Quarter is one of the best things to do in Cordoba.
The statue of Maimonides – many consider rubbing his feet good luck. He was a famous astronomer and philosopher in the 12th century.
6. Cordoba Synagogue
Did you know that only three medieval synagogues survived in Spain? They are a perfect testament to the time when the Christians and Jews lived together peacefully in the country. One of them you can find here.
Cordoba Synagogue is one of the best attractions in the city because it is the only existing synagogue in Andalusia. Moreover, this synagogue is one of the best-surviving testaments of the Jewish presents in medieval Andalusia. Even though it is small, it is well worth a visit.
According to the inscriptions in the building, it dates back to the beginning of the 14th century. The prayer hall is the largest room in the temple. Above the entrance halls was an upper gallery reserved for women.
This probably private or family synagogue has beautiful Mudejar decorations. It has Hebrew inscriptions and panels with geometric and floral patterns. Jewish people used it as a temple for almost 200 years until their deportation from Spain in the 15th century. Before it became a national monument, this synagogue was also a hospital and a school.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can find Cordoba Synagogue in the heart of the Jewish Quarter. The entrance to this synagogue is free for European Union citizens. Otherwise, you need to pay 30 cents. Do not forget the synagogue is open only between Tuesday and Sunday.
7. Calahorra Tower
Afterwards, visit the Calahorra Tower, which you can find on the other side of the Roman bridge. This fortified gate is now a national historical monument. However, many years ago, it guarded the southern entrance to the Roman bridge. The Arabs originally built this defensive tower, because they wanted to protect the city from invaders.
Christian kings later expanded the Calahorra Tower and gave it a fortress-like appearance. During its long existence, the Calahorra Tower also served as a school and a prison. Today it houses a small museum in the tower.
Visiting the Calahorra Tower is one of the best things to do in Cordoba because you can learn more about Andalusian history. The Living Museum of Al-Andalus celebrates the period of the coexistence of Jewish, Christians and Muslims living together in harmony.
The Calahorra Tower is one of the best places to visit if you want to learn more about Andalusian history.
The highlights are 3D presentations and impressive models of the mosque and Alhambra. Also, do not forget to visit the terrace. It offers some of the best views of the city and the river.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- You can visit the Calahorra Tower every day, but the opening times vary during the year. During the winter, visit the tower between 10 am and 6 pm. The Calahorra Tower is open between June and September from 10 am – 2 pm and 4.30 pm – 8.30 pm.
- As of May 2024, the entrance fee to the Calahorra Tower is 4.50 euros. You will also receive the audio guide, which is well worth it.
Top things to do in Cordoba for the best views
8. Cordoba bell tower
Many visitors turn back once they explore the Cordoba mosque, but it would be a mistake. Did you know that you can also visit its 54 metres high bell tower?
Here’s where it gets juicy: Before the Christian conquest, this bell tower was, in fact, a minaret. Minaret played a crucial role in people’s life. A mosque official called faithful locals to pray here five times a day. When the Christians reconquered the city in the 13th century, they converted the minaret into the bell tower. After that, the bell tower had the same function, but its style changed over time.
Today climbing 200 steps of the bell tower is one of the best things to do in Cordoba. Why, you may ask? Because the bell tower is the tallest building in the city and offers gorgeous views. You can see the cathedral punching its way through the Muslim place of worship. Also, the tower offers beautiful views of the Jewish Quarter and the entire city.
When climbing 200 steps up to the tower, you can see some original caliphal vaults and arches from the old minaret inside. The original minaret was 47 meters high. It had two staircases – the separate for ascent and descent. You can still see the original staircase when climbing the bell tower.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- If possible, visit the bell tower first thing in the morning when it is not too hot. Also, the light is soft, and your pictures will be better.
- As of May 2024, the entrance fee to the bell tower is 3 euros.
- Only 20 people can visit the bell tower at the same time. A tour is every half hour, and they sell out quickly.
- Opening times for the bell tower are from 9.30 am – 6.30 pm daily. There is no afternoon visit in July and August (only 9.30 am – 2.30 pm).
9. Find Calleja de las Flores
If there is one street you should visit when exploring this city, it is Calleja de las Flores. Those who speak Spanish already know that the name of this street translates to the Lane of Flowers. As the name suggests, this charming street in the Jewish Quarter is famous for beautifully decorated building facades with flowers.
Finding Calleja de las Flores is one of the best things to do in Cordoba because this street is one of the prettiest streets in the city. This typical Andalusian street is famous for white houses decorated with flowers in blue pots. Moreover, the narrow Calleja de las Flores is one of the most photographed places in the city. It is because this street offers beautiful views of the Mezquita Bell tower in the background. All you need to do is walk to the end of a small courtyard and turn around. From there, capture the views of the cathedral framed by eye-catching flower pots.
TIP:
Visit the Calleja de las Flores early in the morning before the other tourists get the same idea. Everyone who visits the city wants to find this pretty street. Therefore, it is not easy to take a picture of it during the day.
10. Roman bridge
If you have any energy left, stroll across the Roman bridge of Córdoba. Did you know that this bridge was the only bridge in the city for almost 20 centuries? The bridge over the Guadalquivir River dates back to the 1st century BC. It is one of the oldest structures in the city. The Roman emperor Augustus constructed it as a part of the ancient Via Augusta road, which ran from Girona to Cadiz.
Moreover, the Roman bridge of Córdoba offers some of the best city views. From here, spot the gorgeous Great Mosque in the background and the Calahorra Tower in the distance. Because of that, seeing the Roman bridge is one of the best things to do in Cordoba.
For thousands of years, this Roman bridge was the main access to the city.
The locals rebuilt the bridge several times over the centuries. The 16-arched bridge you can see today is mostly from the Islamic period. If you look closely, you can see the typical Moorish arches. Only two arches are original (numbers 14 and 15 when counting from the Puerta del Puente).
GOOD TO KNOW:
Stroll across the bridge at sunset for the best pictures. Do not miss a statue of San Rafael, who is the patron of the city. You can find him in the middle of the bridge.
Unique things to do in Cordoba
11. Patios in Cordoba
Did you know that Cordoba is one of the warmest places in Spain and in Europe? Yes, that is right, this Andalusian city lies inland – it does not have the cooling effect of the coastline. During the summer months, the temperature is regularly high (around 36 °C). Because of that, the locals built their white houses with open-air atriums since the Roman times. They decorate them with flowers, plants and even fountains.
Patios offer an escape from the sun and keep their homes cool during the warm summer months. Moreover, the plants and water elements add much-needed moisture to the air.
The best time to visit this city is undoubtedly in May when the whole city is in full bloom. This is when the locals celebrate the annual Patio festival (around 3rd – 16th May), which is popular among the residents. The locals take the competition seriously and decorate their courtyards with colourful flower pots. They even open their decorated patios to the public.
UNESCO-listed courtyards are, in fact, works of art. Because of that, exploring patios is one of the top best things to do in Cordoba. Many beautiful courtyards are in the San Basilio neighbourhood. You can visit them from mid-September until June. Also, do not miss Alley of the Flowers in the Jewish Quarter and the Palacio de Viana with 12 courtyards.
12. Caliphal Baths
If exploring unique attractions is your thing, then visit the Baths of the Caliphate Alcazar. The Caliphal Baths were once an Islamic bathhouse complex in the city. The emperor Al-Hakam ordered its construction in the 10th century for the monarch, his harem and his court. The palace residents would use the bathhouse for personal hygiene and social and religious purposes.
Here’s where it gets interesting: the Caliphal Baths were once a part of the Caliphal Alcazar. They were the biggest baths of their kind in the city. Even though they are in ruins, they are well worth a visit. It is because they are a perfect example of baths found in Medieval Spain.
Because of that, the Caliphal Baths are one of the best things to see in Cordoba.
The Caliphal Baths had a perfect design. After leaving the changing room, the bathers would pass through the cold room to the warm room, which was the most important room in the baths. It was an area for washing where the Caliph would receive daily hygiene and cosmetic treatment. There was also a hot room and other rooms with walls made of stone blocks.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of May 2024, entry to the Caliphal Baths costs 3 euros. You will need about 20 minutes to see the remains of the Arab bath. Opening times vary during the year – check before visiting (closed on Mondays).
13. Hammam
After a long day exploring the city, relaxing in the Arab bath is one of the best attractions in this city.
Did you know that there were more than 300 bathhouses in this city during the 10th century? The city had over 500,000 residents at its height, and they all had access to bathhouses. While some of them had no decoration, the other bathing complexes, enjoyed by the Caliph, his family and advisors, had rich decoration.
Travel back in time, and soak up the Moorish atmosphere at Hammam. Relaxing at Hammam is one of the unique things because it creates the experience of visiting Arab baths. Even though it isn’t the original bathing complex, it is worth a visit.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- You can find Hammam of Cordoba in the Jewish Quarter, just a short walk from the mosque.
- Opening times to the bathing complex are from 10 am – 10 pm.
- The entrance fee starts at 48 euros (standard bathing experience).
14. Royal stables
If you love horses, then the Royal stables are one of the best places to visit in Cordoba. King Felipe II was a horse lover. He founded these Royal stables in the 16th century. He built this centre for breeding horses for the service of the Royal House.
Today Royal stables are home to one of the most popular attractions in the city – the Andalusian Horse Show. Passion and Spirit of the Andalusian Horse Equestrian Show showcases the incredible talent of the Andalusian horses.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- You can attend an evening show in the Royal stables on Wednesday, Friday or Saturday. Alternatively, watch the horses during their practice session in the courtyard of the Royal stables in the afternoon.
- As of May 2024, expect to pay about 16.50 euros for a ticket.
- You can find the Royal stables next to the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs.
Top things to do in Cordoba for museum lovers
15. Archaeological Museum
If you have a spare hour (or two) while exploring the city, visit the Archaeological Museum. Why, you may ask? Because this Archaeological Museum is one of the finest archaeological museums in the country. Even though it is one of the less-visited attractions, it is well worth a visit if you are a history lover.
The museum has eight halls and three courtyards full of various objects from prehistoric up to medieval times. The highlights are artefacts from the al-Andalus era, such as fine Moorish art and a collection of Roman objects discovered in the city. The museum is also home to an impressive coin collection and archaeological finds from Medina Azahara.
Moreover, the basement houses the remains of the city’s Roman theatre. The locals discovered it when the excavations for the new museum building began. That is when they rediscovered the theatre underneath the site.
16. Julio Romero de Torres museum
Museum lovers looking for things to do in Cordoba have plenty of options. There are numerous museums to choose from, and Julio Romero de Torres museum is one of the best. Why should you visit this popular museum in the city?
Julio Romero de Torres museum is one of the best attractions because it contains valuable paintings by this artist. If you do not know, Julio Romero de Torres was one of the greatest painters in Spain. This talented artist painted more than 500 portraits during his career.
His paintings often expressed his admiration of Andalusian women. They also show his deep love for his home town, flamenco and bullfighting. When exploring the museum, you can also see his brushes, pallets, furniture, and library.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Entry to the museum of Julio Romero de Torres costs 4.50 euros per person.
17. Museum of Fine Arts
Museum of Fine Arts is also one of the less visited attractions.
Next, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, or Museo de Bellas Artes, as the locals call it. The Museum of Fine Arts shows the evolution of painting and sculpture throughout the centuries in the city. It has an excellent collection of pictures from local artists from the 15th to the 21st centuries. Most of the paintings are either Baroque or from the 19th century. You can also find works by masters of the Italian Renaissance here.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of May 2024, the Museum of Fine Arts is not open on Mondays. Otherwise, visit between 9 am and 3 pm on Sundays or between 9 am and 9 pm on other days. If you are not from the EU, you need to buy an entry ticket, which costs 1.50 euros.
Other attractions in Cordoba
18. The Chapel of San Bartolome
Not many would place the Chapel of San Bartolome high on their list of places to visit, but it would be a mistake. Even though it is small, the Chapel of San Bartolome is a perfect example of Mudejar art and architecture.
After exploring the courtyard, visit the chapel itself. The richly decorated Chapel of San Bartolome, with its rectangular shape, dates back to the 14th century. The interior walls have beautiful decorations. They combine illustrations of plants and geometric patterns.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- this funerary chapel now forms part of the Faculty of Philosophy and Arts. It is very close to the synagogue.
- opening times vary during the year– check before visiting.
- As of May 2024, the entrance ticket to the Chapel of San Bartolome costs 2 euros on Saturdays and holidays (Mo – Fri 1.50 euro).
19. Almodovar gate
We would also recommend that you check out the beautiful Almodovar gate. The Almodovar gate is one of several gates the city had in its history. In reality, the Almodovar gate is the only survivor of the nine city gates built by the Arabs. Moreover, the Almodovar gate is, together with the Puerta del Puente and the Puerta de Sevilla, the only three medieval doors currently preserved in the city.
The Almodovar Gate is a valuable heritage site in the city. The Arabs used to call this gate Walnut Gate. After the reconquest in the 13th century, it received a new name. The locals renamed it after the town of Almodovar because it lies on the way to this town. The Almodovar gate gives access to the Jewish Quarter. It is famous for its tiny squares and narrow streets.
TIP:
Visit in the afternoon and walk along the impressive city wall with a defensive moat and decorated gardens. You can see a statue of Seneca right by the gate. If you do not know, Seneca was the Roman philosopher from Cordoba. He became Nero’s trusted advisor.
20. Gate of the bridge
Next, find the Gate of the Bridge, which is also one of the top attractions. Do not worry – you cannot miss it. As the name suggests, it lies between the Mosque-Cathedral and the Roman Bridge.
Maybe you do not know it, but this gate was once a part of the city walls. During the Roman Cordoba, this was one of the many entrances to the city. The Gate of the Bridge you can see today lies on the site of the previous Roman and Moorish gates. This triumphal arch with soft yellow stone is a part of the UNESCO historic centre.
21. Roman temple
It is hard to believe, but this Roman monument was once 32 metres long and 16 metres wide.
If you love all things Roman, put the Roman temple of Cordoba on your list of things to see in Cordoba. Even though it is in ruins and you can see only a few columns, this Roman temple is worth a brief visit. Its construction began during the reign of Emperor Claudius in the first century. At that time, this area was an important settlement founded by the Romans in Spain. The Romans called it Colonia Patricia.
This two thousand years old Roman temple was not the only temple in the city. However, archaeological excavations suggest that it was possibly the most important. Skilled workers built it almost exclusively from marble. This Roman temple had a beautiful Roman mosaic – now it is on display at the Alcazar of Christian Kings. Other remnants of the temple put the locals for better preservation at the Archaeological and Ethnological Museum of Cordoba.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can find this Roman temple not far from the Plaza de las Tendillas, right next to a modern town hall.
Now you know what are the top attractions in Cordoba, Spain!
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Last updated: 06/05/2024