Home to the magnificent Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba), one of the greatest examples of Islamic architecture in the world, Cordoba has a history that sets it apart from other Spanish cities. Once the hub of Islamic Spain and now a cultural crossroads, this Andalucian town harbors mosques, synagogues, churches, and Roman ruins dating back a millennium. Spend the day marveling at Cordoba’s one-of-a-kind cityscape and delving into the Old Town's maze of medieval lanes and hidden courtyards, and end your visit with a flamenco performance, one of the top things to do in Cordoba.
Cordoba’s southern Mediterranean climate means the city is sweltering in the summer—temperatures are often the hottest in Spain. Avoid the months of June, July, and August to bypass the soaring mercury. Instead, visit in spring and fall when the city hosts its most popular festivals. Semana Santa (Holy Week) over Easter is a particularly animated time to visit, as is May when the Fiesta de los Patios Cordobeses brightens up Cordoba with flower-festooned courtyards.
The relatively compact size of Cordoba’s Old Town makes it easy to get around on foot, though the city also has a robust urban bus system that covers most of the old town and outskirts. Alternatively, the hop-on-hop-off route is an easy way to get between the main sights and comes with pre-recorded commentary to help you get your bearings. Both city buses and taxis make the trip between the train station and the old town for arrival and departure.
For centuries, Cordoba was a beacon of religious tolerance, and Jews, Muslims, and Christians lived in relative harmony for the 500 years between 700 and 1200 known as the Convivencia. Though this eventually came to an end, its legacy lives on in the city’s architecture and cuisine. Beloved local dishes such as salmorejo (a type of thick gazpacho), berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey), and pinchos morunos (spicy pork skewers) are all said to have roots in Moorish Spain.
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By far the most famous attraction in Cordoba is the Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba), a triumph of Islamic architecture and vestige of coexistence between Jews, Muslims, and Christians. This sun-soaked city is also famous for its historic Jewish Quarter, Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs (Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos) fortress, and ancient Roman bridge.
...MoreYes, Cordoba has some of Spain’s most spectacular architecture and a UNESCO-listed Old Town. Once you delve into the winding lanes and hidden plazas, the history of the town becomes palpable. Cordoba has a famed Michelin-starred restaurant Noor and plenty of classic tabernas, and a lively Flamenco tradition.
...MoreWith its multicultural roots, Cordoba has an eclectic cuisine that combines influences from across the Mediterranean. Try local specialties such as flamenquín (jamón serrano ham wrapped in pork loin cutlets and deep fried), berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey), salmorejo (cold tomato soup), and rabo de toro (stewed oxtail).
...MoreThat depends on what interests you most. Cordoba and Granada are two of Andalusia’s top cities, and both are worth a visit. Cordoba has a romantic Old Town with a clutch of important sights and a laid-back pace. Granada has an urban verve, with more attractions and shopping, plus a vibrant nightlife.
...MoreCordoba’s historic center is quite compact and easy to visit in a single day if you time your sightseeing right. Head straight to the Mezquita in the early morning to beat the crowds (and the heat), then spend the rest of the day exploring the Old Town with its Jewish Quarter, Roman bridge, and picturesque lanes.
...MoreBecause of its compact size, you can cover the Old Town of Cordoba on foot. Keep in mind, however, that the city has one of the hottest climates in Spain and the temperatures can be oppressive during the summer. Plan to tour on foot in the milder morning and evening hours and spend midday in the cool indoors.
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