Córdoba weekend
Two days covers the Mezquita, the Judería, the Alcázar and a proper sit-down dinner. You'll want more time, but you won't leave feeling cheated.
Why Córdoba for a weekend?
- Easy to reach: 45 min by AVE from Seville, 1h45 from Madrid
- Compact: all the sights are walkable — no car needed
- 4 UNESCO sites: the highest concentration in Andalusia
- Food: salmorejo, flamenquín, Montilla wines
- Atmosphere: less touristy than Seville or Granada
Friday evening: Arrival
Settling in and first impressions
Arrive in the late afternoon to make the most of your evening. Drop off your bags and head out into the historic quarter at dusk, when the alleyways light up.
Choose a hotel in the Judería to be right in the heart of things: Balcón de Córdoba (terrace with Mezquita views), Casas de la Judería (5 palaces), La Ermita Suites (Monument Hotel 1412, Mezquita views) or Hotel Viento10 (charm, affordable).
Dine the Spanish way (from 9pm). Your first taste of salmorejo and Córdoban tapas.
If you have the energy, walk down to the Roman Bridge to see the Mezquita lit up at night. A truly magical atmosphere.
Saturday: The must-sees
Mezquita, Judería and Alcázar
Mosquée-Cathédrale (Mezquita)
The iconic monument. Arrive at 10am (opening time) to beat the crowds. The forest of columns in morning light is unforgettable. Climb the bell tower for the view.
Book online at mezquita-catedraldecordoba.es
La Judería
Wander through the white alleyways. Stop at the Calleja de las Flores (the must-have photo) and visit the Synagogue (15 min, free for EU citizens).
The Mezquita-Cathedral — the unmissable first visit of the weekend
On Saturday, book ahead — restaurants fill up fast. Try the flamenquín (breaded pork roll) and rabo de toro (oxtail stew).
Alcázar des Rois Chrétiens
A fortress with magnificent gardens. Christopher Columbus was received here by the Catholic Monarchs before his voyage. The pools and fountains are stunning in late afternoon light.
Roman Bridge and sunset
Cross the 2nd-century bridge for the best viewpoint. Continue to the Calahorra Tower. Magical at sunset.
Do a bar crawl around the Plaza de la Corredera. The Saturday night atmosphere is festive and relaxed. To keep the evening going, try a cocktail at Distrito Cocktail Bar or a glass of wine at Vinoteca Ordonez with views of the Mezquita.
Sunday: Neighbourhoods and patios
The other side of Córdoba
Palais de Viana
The "patio museum": 12 flower-filled courtyards in a Renaissance palace. This is where you will understand why Córdoba's patios are listed by UNESCO.
Quartier San Basilio
The neighbourhood of the real patios, away from the crowds. Several are open to the public year-round. Calm and authentic atmosphere.
Plaza del Potro
Mentioned by Cervantes in Don Quixote. Next door, the Julio Romero de Torres Museum displays portraits of Andalusian women by the local painter.
Bodegas Campos — an iconic address for a gastronomic pause
Your last Córdoban meal. Try what you haven't had yet: berenjenas con miel (aubergines with honey), croquetas, mazamorra.
Weekend budget
Monument entry fees
- Mezquita €13
- Alcázar €5
- Palacio de Viana €6–10
- Synagogue Free (EU)
- Total €24–28
Meals (2 people)
- Friday dinner €40–60
- Saturday lunch €50–70
- Saturday evening tapas €30–50
- Sunday lunch €40–60
- Total €160–240
Estimated total budget: €200–300 for 2 people (excluding accommodation and transport)
Accommodation: €80–150/night for a good hotel in the historic centre
Weekend tips
Bookings
- Mezquita: book online 2–3 days ahead
- Saturday lunch and dinner restaurants: always book!
- Hotel: May weekends fill up fast
Opening hours to know
- Sunday morning: Mezquita free 8:30–9:30am (Mass)
- Siesta: shops closed 2–5pm
- Dinner: from 9pm (not before!)
Avoiding the crowds
- Mezquita: arrive at opening time (10am)
- Alcázar: best between 5–6pm
- Judería: quieter in the morning
Transport
- AVE: book early for the best fares
- Station is 15 min walk from the centre
- No car needed in Córdoba
Plan your weekend
Everything you need to organise your Córdoba getaway.
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