Visiting Córdoba in 3 days
Three days gives you time to go past the Mezquita and Alcázar. Day 3 you're in San Basilio, eating lunch somewhere with no English menu, and that's when Córdoba clicks.
At a glance
- Total walking distance: around 12 km over 3 days
- Estimated budget: €80–120 (entry fees + meals, excluding accommodation)
- Book ahead: Mezquita online, Noor restaurant (optional)
- Transport: Shuttle bus for Medina Azahara (Day 2)
Day 1: The historic heart
Mezquita, Judería and Alcázar
Mosque-Cathedral (Mezquita)
Start with Córdoba's jewel. Arrive at opening time to enjoy the morning light on the forest of columns. Take time to admire the mihrab, get lost in the naves and climb the bell tower.
Strolling through the Judería
Get lost in the whitewashed lanes of the Jewish quarter. Walk through the Calleja de las Flores and visit the Synagogue (free for EU citizens).
Discover salmorejo, Córdoba's star dish. Thicker and creamier than gazpacho, it is the city's emblematic dish.
Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Explore this fortress where the Catholic Monarchs received Christopher Columbus. The terraced gardens are magnificent late in the day.
Roman Bridge and sunset
Cross this 2nd-century bridge and continue to the Torre de la Calahorra. Spectacular view of the Mezquita at sunset.
Dine at a traditional tavern. Try rabo de toro (braised oxtail) and flamenquín.
Cultural option: Round off the evening with a flamenco show at a tablao in the Judería (from €18, 8:30pm).
Day 2: Northern neighbourhoods and Medina Azahara
Palaces, Fernandine churches and the Caliphate city
Palacio de Viana
The "patio museum": 12 flower-filled patios in a Renaissance palace. Essential for understanding Córdoba's patio culture, listed as UNESCO heritage.
Santa Marina neighbourhood
Discover the 13th-century Fernandine churches and the authentic atmosphere of this working-class neighbourhood, the birthplace of Córdoban flamenco.
Plaza de la Corredera
Andalusia's only rectangular square, surrounded by arcades. Terrace coffee before the afternoon excursion.
Quick tapas before heading to Medina Azahara. The shuttle bus leaves at 3pm.
Medina Azahara
Excursion to the 10th-century Caliphate city, Córdoba's 4th UNESCO site. Built by Abd al-Rahman III, it was the capital of Al-Andalus before being destroyed 70 years later. The museum and ruins are fascinating.
Book the shuttle bus in advance at medinaazahara.org
For an exceptional experience, book at Noor (2 Michelin stars), which reimagines Al-Andalus cuisine. Starred alternatives: Choco (1 star, chef Kisko García) or ReComiendo (1 star 2026, chef Periko Ortega).
Day 3: San Basilio and hidden treasures
Authentic patios, museums and a relaxed departure
San Basilio neighbourhood
The neighbourhood of authentic Córdoban patios, away from the crowds. Several are open to the public year-round. Calm and local atmosphere, flowers and azulejos.
See the patios to visit →Caballerizas Reales
The 16th-century royal stables, birthplace of the Andalusian horse. Remarkable architecture and fascinating equestrian history.
Equestrian show Wednesday to Saturday at 9pm (70 min, from €13.50)
Archaeological Museum
In the Palacio de los Páez, discover Córdoba's Roman, Visigoth and Andalusian treasures. Free for EU citizens.
The twelve patios of the Palacio de Viana, highlight of the third day
Final Córdoban meal. Try what you haven't tasted yet: berenjenas con miel (aubergines with honey), croquetas, mazamorra (a salmorejo cousin made with almonds).
Relaxation option
End with a session at the Hammam Al Andalus, restored Arabic baths for a relaxing end to your stay.
Culture option
Visit the Museo Julio Romero de Torres, dedicated to the Córdoban painter of Andalusian women. Or browse the craft shops one last time.
Adventure option
Head to Almodovar Castle, a medieval fortress 22 km from Córdoba. A Game of Thrones filming location and one of Spain's best-preserved castles.
A wine excursion in the Montilla-Moriles region
- Córdoba leather: a thousand-year-old tradition (wallets, bags)
- Ceramics: azulejos, hand-painted plates
- Olive oil: the Baena region is renowned
- Montilla-Moriles wine: local sherry, smoother than Jerez
- Pastel cordobés: pastry with quince jam filling
Recommended accommodation
For an exceptional stay
The Hospes Palacio del Bailio (5 stars) is located right in Córdoba's centre. This 16th-century palace houses the remains of a 1st-century Roman villa visible beneath its restaurant. Ideal for combining culture and luxury during your 3-day stay.
- • Bodyna spa with restored Roman baths
- • 5-minute walk from the Mezquita
- • Arbequina gastronomic restaurant
- • From €218/night
Other options in the Judería
Check our complete accommodation guide to discover other hotels at every price point.
- • Hotel Madinat – Private hammam, panoramic terrace (€120–200)
- • Las Casas de la Judería – 5 palaces, spa, pool (€120–200)
- • La Ermita Suites – Monument Hotel 1412, Mezquita views (€106–235)
- • Hotel Viento10 – Charming, sauna/jacuzzi (€55–95)
- • Casa de los Azulejos – Pool, free parking, 9.5/10 (€72–110)
Your stay in numbers
UNESCO sites
Monuments visited
Neighbourhoods explored
Specialities tasted
Adapting the itinerary
In May (Patio Festival)
Replace Day 3 with a day dedicated to festival patios. Walk through the San Basilio, Alcázar Viejo and Santa Marina neighbourhoods to visit the competition patios, decorated with flowers.
With children
Add the Botanical Garden (Day 2 morning) and the Guadalquivir Mills. Shorten Medina Azahara if children are tired.
In summer (heat)
Visit monuments early morning (8am–12pm), long air-conditioned lunch break (12pm–6pm), resume in the evening. Favour indoor venues (museums, Mezquita) during the hottest hours.
Without a car
The entire itinerary is doable on foot and by public transport. Use the shuttle bus for Medina Azahara. Córdoba is a compact city ideal for pedestrians.
Medieval history enthusiasts
Replace Day 3 with an excursion to Almodovar Castle. This 8th-century fortress, a Game of Thrones filming location, is 30 minutes from Córdoba. Allow half a day including travel.
Game of Thrones fans
Combine the Roman Bridge (Day 1), the Alcázar (Day 1) and Almodovar Castle (Day 3) for a complete tour of Córdoba's filming locations.
Plan your stay
Check our practical guides to organise your 3-day visit to Córdoba.