La Ribera follows the Guadalquivir south of the old town. The main draw is the river walk, which gives unobstructed views of the Roman Bridge, the Torre de la Calahorra, and the stone mass of the Mezquita above the medieval wall.

Arab mills and hydraulic history

The ancient Arab mills on the riverbank are the most visible remnant of the milling system that fed Córdoba during the Caliphate. The restored Albolafia wheel turns again, though without its original function. The Botanical Garden sits on the riverbank with plant collections from five continents.

Sunset and waterfront terraces

At sunset, the riverside bar terraces fill. Sojo Ribera, a rooftop bar, has a direct view of the Guadalquivir, the Roman Bridge, and the Mezquita. Bar Amapola serves cocktails and live music in a 1970s-style setting on the Paseo de la Ribera. Both are worth booking ahead.

Getting around La Ribera

Allow 1 hour for the riverside walk, ideally timed for sunset. Casa Rubio has a terrace facing the Roman Bridge and a fish-focused menu. The bar terraces along the Paseo work well for early evening drinks before moving further into the city.