Visit Cordoba - Spain
Introduction
Situated in the south of the Iberian Peninsula, Córdoba is renowned for its historic sites and cultural festivals. Its charming little streets and courtyards sit on the right bank of the Guadalquivir River, in the southern region of Andalusia, Spain. The Old Town features Roman, Islamic and Jewish influences, and has held World Heritage Status since 1984.
With no airport of its own, Córdoba is well-served by train services from Malaga (138km) and Seville (112km). Alternatively, jump on the high-speed line from Madrid, which takes just under two hours.
What is the weather like in Córdoba?
Boasting some of Europe’s highest average temperatures, Córdoba is the place to go for summer sun. Expect average monthly temperatures to peak at 37°C in July and August, when days topping 40°C are not uncommon. Limited rainfall is seen throughout the summer and its virtually non-existent from July to September. Winters are mild, with November the wettest month.
Top things to do in Córdoba
Recognised by UNESCO for its cultural significance, the city’s Courtyards Festival – also known as the Patios festival – is not to be missed. Celebrated annually during the first fortnight of May, locals decorate their patio spaces, accompanied by street celebrations, flowers, Flamenco music and the blissful smell of jasmine and orange blossom. The Calleja de las Flores – or Alley of the flowers – is an Instagram hotspot.
Found in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage history centre of the city, the vast Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is viewed worldwide as a symbol of Muslim heritage in the country. It dates to 785 and mixes architectural styles and influences from across nine centuries. The Alcázar fortress of the Christian Monarchs is home an impressive castle and fine gardens, while the medieval Synagogue is one of Spain’s best preserved religious spaces.
Other top things to do include crossing the Roman Bridge of Córdoba, climbing to the top of the Torre de Calahorra fortified gate and unearthing the past at the city’s extensive archaeological and ethnological museum, the Museo Arqueológico de Córdoba.
Where to stay?
If the budget allows 5 star luxury stay at Hospes Palacio Del Baillio. Sophisticated and with a moorish influence the hotel is centrally located with beautifully appointed rooms and facilities. A hotel from big brand NH Hotels is the Amisted Cordoba also centrally is contructed from two former palaces around traditional courtyards.
If smaller boutique hotels are more your style Hotel Viento10 rated 8/10 by the Daily Telegraph travel stands out. Situated in a 15th Century hospital located just outside the old town. Other hotels to consider Hotel Selu Cordoba and Hotel Cordoba Centro.
Best restaurants in Córdoba
From casual local food to Michelin-starred fine dining, Córdoba’s food scene has something for everyone. With two Michelin stars, Noor Restaurant showcases the best of Andalusian cuisine from medieval Muslim Spain. The tasting menu from chef Paco Morales is pricy, but totally unique. Restaurante Choco, the city’s other Michelin starred establishment, puts creative twists on some of the region’s best flavours.
Restaurante La Cuchara de San Lorenzo is renowned for its striking décor and high-quality food, while Regadera offers dishes with a fusion of Spanish influences. Taberna La Cuarta has a menu focused on the best produce from the Córdoba region, while for tapas and local flavours, head to Casa Pedro Ximénez in the Jewish quarter or stop off at La Compañía.
What’s nearby?
Venture just 10km to the west of Córdoba, and you’ll find Spain’s largest archaeological site, Medina Azahara. Recognised as a World Heritage site since 2018, the remains of a medieval palace, mosques and basilicas represent its time as the former capital of the Caliphate.
The historic sites of Seville to the south-west can be reached in under an hour by train, with it taking a similar amount of time to reach the beaches and nightlife of Malaga and Marbella to the south.
More information visit Cordoba Tourism website.
Insurance you should consider if you are travelling to Spain and renting a car Car Rental Excess Insurance and Travel Insurance from Questor Insurance.