Day trip Seville–Córdoba
The AVE takes 45 minutes and runs 43 times a day. You can be in front of the Mezquita before 9am. Here's how to use the day well.
AVE train
One-way fare
Distance
Trains/day
Transport options
Train AVE
RecommendedRenfe - High speed
The high-speed train is the fastest and most comfortable option. Air conditioning, free WiFi, power sockets and a buffet car. Book 1–2 weeks ahead for the best fares.
Book on Renfe.comBus ALSA
Budget alternative
Slower but cheaper. First bus at 8:30am, last at 10pm. Bus station in central Seville.
Car
Maximum flexibility
Ideal for a stop in Carmona en route. Paid car parks near the Mezquita (La Ribera, La Mezquita) or free at Parque Cruz Conde (further away).
The Mezquita, an architectural masterpiece not to miss from Seville
Optimal 1-day itinerary
Leave early — the train at 7am gets you there before the tour groups hit the Mezquita. The full day runs like this:
Departure from Seville
AVE train from Santa Justa. Arrive at Córdoba Central around 8–8:30am. Journey to the centre (15–20 min by bus or taxi).
Mosque-Cathedral + Roman Bridge
Visit the Mezquita in the morning (fewer crowds, cooler). Continue to the Roman Bridge for photos.
Jewish Quarter + Lunch
Stroll through the Judería, discover the Calleja de las Flores. Lunch at a local restaurant (salmorejo, berenjenas con miel).
Alcázar + Free time
Visit the Alcázar and its gardens. Stop for a coffee on a terrace or browse souvenir shops.
Return to Seville
Train around 5–6pm. Arrive in Seville around 6–7pm in time for your evening.
Recommended stop: Carmona
A hidden gem on the road to Córdoba, Carmona deserves a 1–2 hour stop. This fortified town preserves exceptional Roman and medieval heritage.
What to see:
- Puerta de Córdoba — 1st-century Roman gate
- Roman Necropolis — Famous monumental tombs
- Historic centre — Picturesque medieval lanes
- Parador de Carmona — Hotel inside an Arab alcázar
Practical information
- Distance from Seville
- 33 km (30 min)
- Distance from Córdoba
- 108 km (1h15)
- Visit time
- 1–2 hours
- Parking
- Free on the outskirts
Tip: Stop on the way back so as not to lose time in Córdoba.
Day budget
Budget per person
Money-saving tips
- Book the train 1–2 weeks ahead (up to 70% cheaper)
- Mezquita free 8:30–9:30am (limited access area)
- Alcázar free on Tuesdays
- Menú del día at lunch (~€12–15 for starter + main + dessert)
- ALSA bus if on a tight budget (€9 vs €25 train)
- Free walking tour: 2h covering all the main sites, tip-based (~€10 suggested)
From the station to the city centre
On foot
16–23 minutes (2.1 km)
Pleasant in fine weather, following Avenida de América towards the historic centre.
Bus
6–10 minutes (lines 3, 4, 5)
Economical and convenient. Stop in front of the station, alight near the Mezquita.
Taxi
6 minutes (~€8–10)
The fastest and most comfortable. Taxi rank in front of the station.
Ready to discover Córdoba?
Explore our guides to the must-see monuments and book your Mezquita tickets.