Córdoba with children
Córdoba works well for families: it's compact enough to walk, has a proper zoo, a kids-only playground, and monuments that hold attention. Here are the places that actually land with children.
Córdoba is a manageable city for travelling with children: flat streets, plenty of green spaces, and monuments that reward curiosity. Here is our selection of activities for the whole family.
Family must-dos
Zoo of Córdoba
One of Spain's first zoos (1968) with over 5,000 animals from 100 species: lions, elephants, giraffes, monkeys, tigers and bears. Children's camps are offered during summer holidays.
- Hours: 10am-2pm (until 7pm in summer)
- Prices: €5.50 adults, €3 children, free under 5
Ciudad de los Niños
This unique playground offers Córdoba-inspired attractions: the "Vulcano-Mezquita", water games "El Río", a supervised skate ramp and many play areas for all ages.
- Address: Av. Menéndez Pidal
- Price: Free
AquaSierra Water Park
Ideal for cooling down during hot Andalusian summer days. Slides, wave pools and relaxation areas for parents. Located 10 km from Córdoba.
- Season: June to September
- Distance: 10 km from the centre
AquaSierra Water Park
The only water park in the province at Villafranca (15 min from Córdoba). 47,000 m² with slides of various heights, lake pool and secure children's area. Lifeguards, on-site restaurant, free parking. Open in summer only.
- Hours: 11:30am-8pm (June-September)
- Prices: From €15, discounted rates
Tuk-Tuk Tour
An original and comfortable way to explore the city with children. The electric vehicle winds through the narrow alleyways of the historic centre inaccessible to cars.
- Duration: 1h to 2h depending on route
- English commentary available
Horse-drawn Carriage Tour
Children love horses! Horse-drawn carriage rides offer a charming, old-world experience through the historic centre. Ideal for children aged 4–5 and up.
- Duration: 30min to 1h30 depending on route
- Price: €50-110 per carriage (4-6 people)
Equestrian Show
At the Royal Stables, watch a spectacular show combining Andalusian dressage and flamenco. Pure-bred Spanish horses perform haute école, garrocha and amazona — a breathtaking display for the whole family.
- Hours: Wednesday-Saturday at 9pm (70 min)
- Prices: €13.50 children, €18.50 adults, free under 3
Botanical Garden
An educational green space with over 3,000 plant species. Children love the palaeobotany museum and the tropical greenhouses. Perfect for a cool stroll in summer.
- Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-2:30pm, 5:30-9pm (summer)
- Prices: €3 adults, free under 6
Parque de la Asomadilla
Córdoba's largest urban park with playgrounds, artificial lake and shaded green spaces. Ideal for a picnic or a break after cultural visits.
- Location: North of the city
- Price: Free
Family-friendly monuments
Córdoba's major sites can fascinate children if the visit is well prepared. Here are our recommendations.
La Mezquita
The 856 columns create a genuine labyrinth that fascinates children. Spot together the different reused Roman columns — a fun treasure hunt!
Learn more →The Alcázar
The gardens and reflecting pools are perfect for a refreshing break. The towers offer a panoramic view that young adventurers love.
Learn more →The Roman Bridge
A pedestrian crossing with views over the Guadalquivir mills. Game of Thrones fans will immediately recognise the scenery!
Learn more →Cycling around Córdoba
Córdoba is a flat city, ideal for cycling. 2-hour guided tours let you explore the city in a fun way with children.
- Children's bikes and baby seats available
- Family-friendly routes
- Cycle paths along the Guadalquivir
Practical tips
- • Avoid the hottest hours (1-5pm) in summer
- • Bring water and sun cream
- • Book in advance during peak season
- • Pedestrian streets in the centre are accessible to bicycles
Where to stay with children
With pool and gardens
Parador de Córdoba
120-200€/night • 4★ Parador
Outdoor pool with panoramic views, lush gardens. Ideal for relaxing after sightseeing. Free parking on site (a major advantage with children).
Eurostars Palace
120-200€/night • 5★ Moderne
Rooftop pool with panoramic views, spa with jacuzzi and hammam. 162 spacious rooms (27-35 m²), on-site parking. On-site restaurant, convenient with children.
Hospes Palacio del Bailío
200-350€/night • 5★ Luxe
Pool and spa with restored Roman baths. 5 patios to explore. Spacious family rooms available.
Historic centre
Apartamentos Calleja de la Hoguera
120-175€/night • Appartements
Full kitchen, washing machine and terrace with Mezquita view. Ideal for families: total independence, 200m from the Mezquita. 24/7 reception, quiet pedestrian alley.
Hacienda Posada de Vallina
100-150€/night • Boutique
Right in the heart of the Judería. Everything within walking distance: the Mezquita 3 minutes away, ice cream shops and restaurants all around. Charming flower-filled Andalusian patio.
Eurostars Conquistador
110-200€/night • 4★
Facing the Mezquita. Rooftop with views. Family rooms (bunk beds for children). Convenient on-site restaurant.
Family tip: Choose hotels with a pool in summer (Parador, Hospes) or those right in the centre to minimise walking (Conquistador, Hacienda). Children tire quickly on cobblestones! See all accommodation options.
Tips for visiting with children
Visiting hours
Opt for early morning (9am-12pm) for monuments. Children are more receptive and it's cooler in summer.
Food breaks
Ice cream shops (heladerías) are plentiful. Cold salmorejo is often a hit with kids. For sweet treats, the Pastelería Francesa offers tropézienne tart and homemade cookies (€2–8). Try to adjust to Spanish mealtimes — lunch from 2pm, dinner from 9pm.
Prams and mobility
The cobblestone streets of the historic centre can be challenging with a pram. Consider a baby carrier for toddlers. Check our accessibility guide for adapted routes and wheelchair-friendly monuments.
Budget option
The 2-hour free tour is tip-based and lets children discover the essentials: Mezquita, Judería and the Roman Bridge. Groups capped at 6–8 people.
See also: Full guide to visiting Córdoba with the family on a budget
Plan your family stay
See our 2-day itinerary and family accommodation options in detail.
Official sources
This guide draws on official and recognised sources to ensure the accuracy of the information provided.
- Córdoba Tourism Office
Official information on family activities in Córdoba
- Córdoba Botanical Garden
Official website of the Botanical Garden with activity schedule
- Córdoba Zoo
Official Zoo website with hours and prices
- Spain.info - Travelling with children
Official Spanish tourism guide for families