Cordoba is a city in the region of Andalusia on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. This city is well known for its’ old Jewish quarter near the Mezquita Cathedral. Yet, there is more things to do in Cordoba aside from this iconic cathedral. Cordoba is brimming with history, quaint streets and exciting events. Cordoba is certainly one of the most picturesque and must-see cities in Andalusia.
Best Things to do in Cordoba Spain
Mezquita
The Mezquita, Cordoba’s Mosque Cathedral is the most iconic site in the city. The original mosque was built between 785 to 787 and is one of the earliest examples of Spanish Islamic architecture. When the region returned to Christian rule, this mosque was converted into a cathedral. The mosque became a church as soon as Cordoba was retaken in 1236, and from then a number of chapels were built. The Mezquita is an interesting example of the melding together of Moorish and Christian elements, including elements such as the Patio de las Naranjos and the Torre del Alminar. The most recognized part of this mosque cathedral is the more than 850 red and white columns welcome you into the Mezquita.
General Admission Price: €10 ; Free Entry Entry to the Cathedral is free from Monday to Saturday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.. In order to make the most of of your visit and learn about the history of the impressive Mosque Cathedral, Book a Guided Tour of the Mezquita.
Patio de las Naranjos
Patio de las Naranjos is the patio adjacent to the Mezquita cathedral. This patio is named for its 98 orange trees that cover the courtyard. Patio de las Naranjos is free to the public.
Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos
Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos is a palace-fortress in Cordoba built in 1328 for Alfonso XI in the Mudejar style of architecture. Most notably, the Alcazar is where Fernando II and Isabella stayed when they were capturing Granada for the Moors. The Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos is more of a fortress than a palace. You will not find any opulent palace rooms such as in the Alcazar in Seville. However, the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos is certainly worth a visit.
The grounds are beautiful and a highlight of the Alcazar. After strolling through the grounds, head up to the towers of the Alcazar where you will have stunning views of Cordoba.
General Admission Price: €5 . In order to make the most of of your visit and learn about the history of the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, Book a Guided Tours.
Roman Bridge
An arched pedestrian bridge leading to the center of Cordoba. The Roman bridge is a great spot to walk and offers beautiful views of Cordoba. From across the bridge you can get a view of the Mezquita across the Guadalquivir River. If you are a Game of Thrones fan, you may recognize this bridge as as a filming location.
Torre De Calahorra
At the end of the Roman Bridge is Torre de Calahorra. Torre de Calahorra is a 14th century Moorish tower that was built to guard the entrance to Cordoba. Today this tower houses a museum documenting Cordoban history about the peaceful coexistence of Jews, Muslims, and Christians over centuries. Head to the top of the tower for an aerial view of the Roman Bridge.
Palacio de Viana
Palacio de Viana is an impressive 17th century aristocratic home in Cordoba. This mansion is also known as the Museo de los Patios and has 12 interior patios that you can visit. Palacio de Viana is worth a visit while in Cordoba as these are so of the most beautiful patios in the city. Visiting the Palacio de Viana gives you a glimpse at the patio culture in Cordoba.
General Admission Price: €5 to visit the patios.
Calleja de las Flores
Calleja de las Flores is one of the most photo worthy streets in Cordoba. This picturesque flower lined alley is located in the Juderia neighborhood, near the Mezquita. This flower lined alleyway beautifully frames the Mezquita is the background.
Click here to read more about Calleja de las Flores.
Plaza de la Corredera
As with most Spanish cities, Cordoba too has a large central plaza. Plaza de la Corredera is a classic Castilian plaza that was built in the late-1600s. For many years the city’s bullfights were held right here. Now this plaza is home to the city’s food market, restaurants and surrounded by apartments. Plaza de la Corredera is considered to be the center of daily life in Cordoba.
Historic Center
Spend some time strolling around the Historic Center of Cordoba. The Historical Center, which encompasses the area surrounding the Mezquita is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical significance of the different cultures that have existed there. The Historic Center of Cordoba is one of the largest in Europe. You could spend hours roaming through these streets. Additionally, this area is where you will find some of the most authentic patios in Cordoba.
Juderia
The old Jewish Quarter in Cordoba, known as Juderia is a great area to walk around. This neighborhood has a plethora of winding cobblestone streets and white washed houses. It is incredibly picturesque.
Cordoba Patio Festival
One of the best times to visit Cordoba is during the Patio Festival in May. During the Patio Festival, residents throughout Cordoba open their patios for visitors to witness the spectacular array of flowers.
