Sitting in the heart of Andalusia, C\u00f3rdoba is one of the most important cities when it comes to Spanish history. Home of three cultures, populations of Jews, Muslims, and Christians all coexisted peacefully here for hundreds of years. <\/span><\/p>\n Today, C\u00f3rdoba is a captivating city full of plenty of things to do for any kind of traveler. <\/span><\/p>\n Museums, archaeological sites, diverse houses of worship, patios, hidden terraces, and plenty of cobblestoned streets for getting lost in, C\u00f3rdoba truly has it all. <\/span>If you\u2019re planning a trip, here are a few of the best things to do in C\u00f3rdoba to add to your itinerary!<\/span><\/p>\n The large cities of Portugal and Spain get a lot of buzz from travelers. Tourists flock to places like Lisbon<\/strong><\/a> and Porto in Portugal, and Barcelona<\/strong><\/a>, Madrid, and Seville in Spain. However, if you\u2019re interested in exploring a lesser-known destination, C\u00f3rdobais one of our top recommendations. Nestled between Madrid and Seville, C\u00f3rdoba has some of the most exquisite Moorish architecture in Europe.<\/p>\n Be prepared to be wowed as C\u00f3rdoba is an architectural dream and such a striking departure from the more traditional Spanish cities. It was one of my favorites in Spain, and a must-see in my opinion.<\/p>\n C\u00f3rdoba was a Roman colony (Corduba) founded in 152 BC, and it fell to Muslim invaders in 711 AD. Just a couple hundred years later, it became the largest city in Europe where Jews, Christians, and Muslims mostly peacefully coexisted. It was captured by Spain in the mid-13th century and then underwent a period of decline.<\/p>\n C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s architecture reflects a blend of the cultural groups (Roman, Visigoth, Islam, Judaism, and Christian) that occupied the area. It is known for its talented artisans in leather, tile, and silver. The Jewish Quarter of C\u00f3rdoba is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing the historic center for the outstanding examples of religious architecture.<\/p>\n \u2728The 1 Thing We Never Leave Home Without\u2026<\/strong>\u2728<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Coming from someone who has been traveling the world for the last 8 years AND has been in the hospital 2x, travel insurance is something everyone NEEDS to get. Get a quote below!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n As mentioned, C\u00f3rdoba is located between Madrid and Seville. It\u2019s around a 2-hour trip from Madrid on the high-speed train or only a 40-minute train ride from Seville, making it a great day trip from either city.<\/p>\n Alternatively, you can take a train from Madrid to C\u00f3rdoba, and end your evening in Seville, which is what I did. I loved it and wished I had an extra day or two to explore as there is so much to see and do.<\/p>\n There are some magnificent structures to visit when you\u2019re in C\u00f3rdoba, along with a wander through the old Jewish Quarter. You can do this on your own or find a local walking tour. If you\u2019re a bit of a history nerd like I am, definitely consider a day tour. You can learn a lot more about this amazing city exploring with a local.<\/p>\n There are a number of free tours, and I have found them to be wonderful as the tour guide receives payment only in tips. How\u2019s that for motivation?<\/p>\n We’ve scoured the internet for the best ALL-AROUND travel shoe and Tropicfeel wins by far. We’ve taken ours through rivers, jungles, and cities and they’re still alive and kickin’. Check them out below. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n The Great Mosque of C\u00f3rdoba, also known as the Mosque-Cathedral or the Mezquita<\/strong>, is the largest mosque in the world and the best-known building in C\u00f3rdoba. It was built in 785 AD on the ruins of a church and has been enlarged and embellished since it was originally constructed.<\/p>\n The Mezquita-Catedral is one of the most incredible examples of Islamic art in Spain.<\/p>\n After the Christian conquest, a Renaissance cathedral was erected in the center so it is now a blend of Moorish and Christian architecture. Its opulence is magnificent, and it is worth spending as much time as you can here. Tour the great hall with the detailed stone arches, the Patio de Los Naranjos courtyard, and the Bell Tower.<\/p>\n Today, the monument is a religious mishmash with striped arches supported by tall pillars (850 of them, to be exact) and gilded altarpieces dotting the halls. There are secrets hidden in the walls and various religious motifs around every corner, making it a thrilling place to visit to learn about C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s religious past.<\/span><\/p>\n If you love history, book this <\/span>guided tour complete with a skip-the-line ticket <\/b><\/a>-a must-have as this is C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s most popular attraction!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/figure>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The entrance to the Jewish Quarter (La Juder\u00eda) is through the Almodovar Gate. When you enter, you are in the historic center of C\u00f3rdoba. This neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes many of the historical monuments that attract visitors to this city.<\/p>\n This was once a vibrant Jewish community from around the 10th to the 15th century until their expulsion from Spain by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. This happened in 1492, the same year that Christopher Columbus made his maiden voyage seeking western route to the Far East.<\/p>\n The Jewish Quarter is now a bustling area with many shops and restaurants, though there are still reminders of its history in the street names like Calle Judios. There are also some signs and statues throughout the quarter reflecting the history of this area.<\/p>\n It is a lovely maze of narrow streets and beautiful courtyards with lots of shade from the strong southern Spain sun. For an insider look at the Jewish Quarter, I highly recommend taking a <\/span>walking tour with a local guide<\/b><\/a> who will bring you to hidden streets, markets, and breathtaking sites in this neighborhood.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Another one of C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s most famous monuments is the Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristanos, a glimpse of the city\u2019s Christian past.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This beautiful compound was constructed as a residence for Catholic kings by the order of King Alfonso XI, but was subsequently used as the Holy Office headquarters during the Spanish Inquisition, housing prisoners instead of royalty.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The Alcazar was built atop the ruins of a Moorish fort and then further completed in a Mudejar style, allowing visitors to imagine what Cordoba looked like during the 10th century.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The gardens of the Alcazar are a true highlight, spreading throughout numerous courtyards filled with baths, perfectly trimmed hedges, and stunning flowers. Another unmissable sight is the tower which you can climb for panoramic views of C\u00f3rdoba.<\/span><\/p>\n Located just beside the Mezquita, the Alcazar is no stranger to crowds. Book early and opt for a <\/span>skip-the-line ticket and tour<\/b><\/a> so you can spend more time exploring and less time waiting around!<\/span><\/p>\n There is a large and magnificent outdoor garden surrounded by the four towers of the Alc\u00e1zar. The garden is one of the highlights of the building. It features large paths lined with cypress trees, beautiful fountains, ponds, citrus, and palms. It\u2019s hard to believe you\u2019re in the center of a city while in the garden, though you can climb the towers and walk along the ramparts to enjoy city views.<\/p>\n The main hall is known as the \u201cHall of Mosaics\u201d for the stunning mosaics covering the walls. There are also royal baths and two beautiful courtyards. The building is impressive, though the gardens and the mosaics are the true highlights.<\/p>\n Flamenco is central to traditional Spanish culture and catching a show is something you simply must do while in Spain.<\/span><\/p>\n This authentic experience consists of a <\/span>flamenco show held in a 10th-century Arabian bathhouse<\/b><\/a>\u2026 ideal for ambience <\/span>and <\/span><\/i>acoustics! Mix some history with culture, killer music, and stomping feet and here you have an outstanding show!<\/span><\/p>\n The intimate performance starts at 10.00pm, but arrive a little early and sip on a complimentary beverage before the dancers take to the stage. This is truly one of the best things to do in C\u00f3rdoba for a really reasonable price, so don\u2019t miss out!<\/span><\/p>\n The C\u00f3rdoba Synagogue is the only remaining Jewish Synagogue in Andalusia and one of the best-preserved remaining in Spain.\u00a0 Due to its small size, it may have originally been a private synagogue for a wealthy family.<\/p>\n Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, it served as a temple until the Jews were removed from Spain during the Spanish Inquisition. The Synagogue was then used as a hospital and a school before it became a recognized national monument in the 19th century.<\/p>\n Though the building is small, there are some intricate carvings and scrolling work on the walls. There are also Hebrew inscriptions on the interior walls and beautiful scalloped archways. It is worth getting a guided tour if you\u2019re interested in learning more about the history of this synagogue and the Jewish Quarter.<\/p>\n One of the top things to do in C\u00f3rdoba is to walk across the Roman Bridge, especially for an evening-time stroll. It crosses the Guadalquivir River and leads directly to the heart of C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s historic center, providing postcard-worthy views of the city and lush surrounding countryside<\/span><\/p>\n The bridge was originally constructed by the Romans in the 1st century but has undergone multiple renovations throughout history. What stands today is greatly credited to the Moors from their 8th-century restoration.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In the 1950s, the remains of a Roman Temple dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries was found. 10 marble columns remain and you can see them today. Built around the same time, the Roman bridge is a famous C\u00f3rdoba landmark. It has 17 stone arches and provides great city views.<\/p>\n At the end of Puente Romano, you will find Calahorra Tower, a large tower built during Muslim times.<\/p>\n Fun Fact: For any Game of Thrones<\/em> fans sightseeing in C\u00f3rdoba, t<\/span><\/b>he Roman Bridge was featured in the show as the entrance to Volantis!<\/span><\/p>\n What else is there to do in C\u00f3rdoba? Well, eat of course!<\/p>\n Definitely check out some of the local tapas bars while you\u2019re here. The good ones may not look impressive from the outside, but you will find them packed with locals. Tapas is a tradition in Spain, and one I highly recommend.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t leave without tasting salmoreja, a traditional dish that is perfect for the hot weather. It\u2019s a cold tomato soup made of olive oil, garlic, vinegar, bread crumbs, and has bits of serrano ham and eggs sprinkled on top. It\u2019s like a substantial gazpacho, and originated in this area.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll find that there are countless places to have an outstanding meal in C\u00f3rdoba, but to find spots frequented by a local crowd, consider taking a local food tour.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This<\/span> three-hour evening tour<\/b><\/a> visits a secret terrace with stunning views of the city, a palace that was converted into a five-star hotel, an authentic Roman villa, and a tavern that\u2019s a local staple, with yummy bites to eat and drink along the way.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Alternatively, opt for this <\/span>full-day tour<\/b><\/a> where you\u2019ll mix dining with sightseeing, accompanied by a local guide committed to bringing you to the best hidden food spots!<\/span><\/p>\n No matter what you choose, you\u2019re sure to end up with some unmatched meals from one of the best places to eat in the world!<\/span><\/p>\n The most famous street in C\u00f3rdoba is without a doubt Calleja de las Flores, the Alley of Flowers. Lining the narrow little street are dozens of hanging flowerpots and patios, overflowing with colorful fauna and bright green leaves as if out of a fairytale.<\/span><\/p>\n You\u2019ll see patios and flowerpots along many streets in C\u00f3rdoba, but they\u2019re definitely most abundant and picture-perfect along Calleja de las Flores. This street is easily accessible as it\u2019s right in the heart of Old Town, so you can\u2019t miss it during a day out on the town.<\/span><\/p>\n Insider Tip:<\/strong> Because Calleja de las Flores is so small and it\u2019s on everyone\u2019s C\u00f3rdoba bucket list, head there early in the morning or later in the evening to beat the crowds.<\/span><\/p>\n The most stunning place to take in C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s patios is Palacio de Viana, a massive compound complete with 12 different gardens.<\/span><\/p>\n Each of the interior patios are intricately designed, full of different plant varieties, exotic flowers, and shady trees, in a position to compliment the 14th-century residence surrounding the gardens.\u00a0<\/span>All of the patios have a unique theme, creating a stunning experience as you wander between each of the different ones.<\/span><\/p>\n The residence is also open for visits and guided tours where you can see antique collections of furniture, artwork, tapestries, and mosaics, giving some insight into how the wealthiest families of C\u00f3rdoba lived.<\/span><\/p>\n Sitting on the southern side of the Roman Bridge, you\u2019ll find Calahorra Tower, the main defensive point of the city, standing guard over C\u00f3rdoba.<\/span><\/p>\n Torre de la Calahorra has been standing tall since the mid-1300s and has kept countless enemies and undesirables outside of the city.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Today, you\u2019ll find a museum inside the tower with presentations of C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s history and evolution over time. Once you finish making your way through the displays, climb the winding staircase to the top of the tower for panoramic views out over the Roman Bridge and the rest of the city.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Like most Spanish cities, C\u00f3rdoba is home to some world-class museums, perfect for exploring on a rainy day or when you need some refuge from the hot Spanish sun.<\/span><\/p>\n To get an outstanding picture of C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s past, head to the <\/span>Archaeological Museum. <\/b>It\u2019s filled with prehistoric and medieval artifacts, rounded out by an outstanding collection of bits and pieces from Iberian and Roman periods. The Archaeological Museum also encompasses the remains of a Roman theatre which was stumbled upon and then fully excavated, turning it into one of the most captivating exhibits in C\u00f3rdoba.<\/span><\/p>\n Art lovers, you may want to visit the <\/span>Museum of Fine Arts<\/b> where you\u2019ll be met by stunning collections of Spanish and Baroque art. The works here span the 14th to 20th centuries, with works by famous names such as Zubaran, Antonio del Castillo and Valdes Leal lining the walls. Admission is free for members of the EU, otherwise, it\u2019s \u20ac1.50 per person \u2013 a total steal!<\/span><\/p>\n Finally, if you\u2019re ever curious about Spain\u2019s deep history of bullfighting, head to the <\/span>Museo Taurino<\/b> where you can learn everything there is to know about this controversial sport.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n After exploring all of C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s past, step back into present-day with a visit to Plaza de la Corredera, the beating heart of C\u00f3rdoba.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This is where you can find a great deal of the hustle and bustle in the city, filled with sprawling patios, endless arcades, and classic Spanish architecture everywhere you turn. It\u2019s always full of life, making it a great place to settle down after a long day of walking.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The plaza was crafted in the late 1600s and has been a staple in the city ever since. It\u2019s where bullfights were previously held, and then it became the central spot for C\u00f3rdoba\u2019s markets after that.<\/span><\/p>\n In the present day, Plaza de la Corredera is a great place to grab a meal or a coffee and watch the daily life of C\u00f3rdoba swirl around you.<\/span><\/p>\n Throughout the year (especially in the spring months), C\u00f3rdoba holds several annual festivals, giving visitors a taste of local life as it\u2019s been for hundreds of years.<\/span><\/p>\nBrief History of C\u00f3rdoba<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Travel](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Untitled-design-23-min-1440x960.jpg\"\/)
![\"Travel](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Untitled-design-23-min-1440x960.jpg\")
\n<\/source><\/picture>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nHow to Get to C\u00f3rdoba<\/span><\/h2>\n
Top Things to Do in C\u00f3rdoba<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n Psst…Want in on a Secret? \ud83e\udd2b
\n <\/h3>\n<\/p>\n![\"Tropicfeel\"\/](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Untitled-design-24-min.jpg.webp\"\/)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript>\n <\/div>\n1. Marvel at the Mezquita-Catedral<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n
![\"the](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/cordoba-mezquita-interior.jpg.webp)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n2. Explore the Jewish Quarter of C\u00f3rdoba (La Juder\u00eda)<\/span><\/h2>\n
3. Discover the Alc\u00e1zar (Alc\u00e1zar de Los Reyes Cristianos)<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"cordoba](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/cordoba-alcazar-gardens.jpg.webp)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n4. Watch a Flamenco Show in an Arab Bathhouse<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
5. Visit the C\u00f3rdoba Synagogue (Sinagoga de C\u00f3rdoba)<\/span><\/h2>\n
6. Discover the Roman Temple and Roman Bridge (Puente Romano)<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"things](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/cordoba-mezquita.jpg.webp)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n7. Eat Your Way Around C\u00f3rdoba<\/span><\/h2>\n
8. Admire Calleja de las Flores<\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"streetview](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/cordoba-streetview.jpg.webp)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n9. Enjoy the Patios at Palacio de Viana<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
10. Climb to the Top of Calahorra Tower<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Large](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Depositphotos_47936227_xl-2015-min.jpg.webp)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n11. Visit a Museum<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
12. Sip a Coffee at Plaza de la Corredera<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
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\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n13. Catch a Festival<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
![\"Patio](\"https:\/\/k7g2e5d2.rocketcdn.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Depositphotos_277906036_xl-2015-min.jpg.webp)
\n<\/picture>\n<\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n