Although Córdoba City offers myriad things to see and do, simply walking along its streets is a thrilling experience. Explore spacious plazas lined with tapas bars and picturesque narrow streets with overhanging flowers. People traveling through the region often overlook this ancient capital of Andalucía, but its medieval splendor makes it a captivating and charming destination.
Many competing forces throughout history have shaped Córdoba. Visit the Archaeological Museum to trace the city’s transformation from Roman outpost in the 1st century B.C. to jewel of the Moorish Empire during the 10th and 11th centuries. The museum in the Calahorra Tower offers an insight into this golden age of Andalucía.
This clash of historical influences is evident in the Alcazar of Córdoba, a spectacular fortress and gardens. Search for Arabic and Roman ruins lying beneath the shadow of a 13th-century palace.
Stroll around Córdoba’s historic center, pausing for photos of the impressive Roman Bridge. At the foot of the bridge stands one of the city’s highlights, the awe-inspiring Córdoba Mosque. Explore a spectacular Islamic prayer hall, which is filled with red-and-white arches, before visiting the Christian cathedral in the center of the complex.
Head outside the city center to discover more cultural attractions. The Viana Palace is famed for its network of attractive courtyards. Wander around the ruins of the ill-fated Medina Azahara, a 10th-century city that stood for fewer than 100 years.
Don’t miss the Fosforito Flamenco Center. This colorful museum documents Andalucía’s abiding love of flamenco through interactive exhibits and regular dance performances.
Fly to the busy airports of Málaga or Seville for quick access to Córdoba. Trains link the airports to the city center, which is difficult to navigate by car.
With Old World streets full of atmosphere and a dazzling array of historic attractions, Córdoba is an enchanting destination to visit at any time of year. Come in May to take part in exciting fiestas and see the city’s flowers bursting into bloom.