Córdoba in 1 Day: Perfect 24-Hour Express Itinerary
One day covers the three UNESCO sites in the historic centre, two neighbourhoods, and enough Córdoban food to understand what the fuss is about. Start early — the Mezquita at 10am beats the tour groups.
At a glance
- Walking distance: around 4 km total
- Estimated budget: €25–40 (entry fees + meals) — see our full budget guide
- Getting here: AVE from Madrid (1h45, from €7) or from Seville (45 min)
- Book ahead: Mezquita tickets online (strongly recommended)
- Tip: Start early to avoid queues
Day itinerary
From 9am to 10pm - The essentials of Córdoba
Coffee and churros
Start with a typical breakfast near the Plaza de la Corredera. Churros con chocolate or tostada con aceite to kick off the day the Spanish way.
Mosque-Cathedral (Mezquita)
Córdoba's iconic monument. Arrive at opening time to enjoy the morning light on the forest of columns. Don't miss the mihrab, the Patio de los Naranjos and the Renaissance cathedral at the centre.
Strolling through the Jewish Quarter
Get lost in the whitewashed lanes lined with flower-filled patios. Be sure to visit the Calleja de las Flores, Andalusia's most photographed alleyway with its view of the Mezquita bell tower.
Córdoba Synagogue
One of only three medieval synagogues preserved in Spain. A quick visit (15–20 min) but unmissable for its exceptional Mudéjar plasterwork.
Price: Free for EU citizens
You cannot visit Córdoba without trying salmorejo, thicker and creamier than gazpacho. Pair it with flamenquín (breaded pork roll) and croquetas.
The Alcázar gardens, a must-stop on your day
Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
The fortress where Isabella and Ferdinand received Christopher Columbus. The terraced gardens with pools and fountains are especially beautiful in the late afternoon.
Roman Bridge
Cross this 2nd-century bridge to admire the view over the Mezquita. Continue to the Torre de la Calahorra for Córdoba's best panorama.
Stay on the Roman Bridge or on the south bank of the Guadalquivir to watch the sunset over the Mezquita. This is the magical moment of the day, when the stones take on a golden hue.
The Roman bridge offers a magnificent view at the end of the day
End your day with dinner at a traditional tavern. Try rabo de toro (braised oxtail), Córdoba's signature dish.
What you will have discovered
UNESCO sites
Major monuments
Historic neighbourhoods
Local specialities tasted
Tips to make the most of your day
Bookings
- Buy your Mezquita tickets online at mezquita-catedraldecordoba.es
- Reserve your lunch restaurant, especially at weekends
- The Alcázar can be visited without booking (reasonable queues)
Timing
- The Mezquita opens at 10am (8:30am for the free mass)
- Avoid 11am–1pm at the Mezquita (peak crowds)
- Restaurants serve lunch from 2pm
Comfort
- Wear comfortable shoes (uneven cobblestones)
- In summer, pack a hat and water (temperatures can reach 40°C)
- The Spanish siesta: many shops close 2–5pm
- Active option: a guided bike tour (2h, €29) covers the same sites without fatigue
Budget
- Mezquita: €13 adult (€16 with bell tower)
- Alcázar: €5 (free Tuesday morning)
- Synagogue: free for EU citizens
- Meals: €15–25 per person
- Or skip paid tours entirely: the free walking tour covers all these sites (tip-based, ~€10)
If you have a little more time
With an extra half-day, you could add:
Plan your visit
Check our practical guides to organise your day in Córdoba.