How To Spend 1 Day In Córdoba: Top 5 Things To Do

While Córdoba is a beautiful city in its own right, and is certainly a city you could spend more than 1 day exploring, it also makes for an excellent day trip. Córdoba is easily reached by bus or train from Sevilla, Cadiz, Granada, Málaga, and almost any other Andalusian city. If you are visiting the south of Spain, a trip to Córdoba is an absolute must, even if it is just for the day. Keep reading to discover how to make the most of a short visit to Córdoba!

If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with Córdoba’s famous flower festival, the Fiesta de los Patios. On my first trip to Córdoba, I wasn’t able to see this festival, held annually in May, but after visiting the city I knew I had to return to see it! Sure enough, when I moved to Spain to teach English as an Auxiliar de Conversación, I was able to see the courtyards of Córdoba in all their glory, and I highly recommend going if you have the chance! You can read more about my experience (and see the beauty of Córdoba during the festival) in this post.

And now, without further ado, I present the top things to do in this Andalusian gem!

1. Wonder at The Mezquita, or Mosque of Córdoba

The first place you will want to head is the Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba. Years ago, I remember studying this building in my Art History class and knew it would be on my bucket list. Sure enough, seeing it in person was even better than I could have imagined. If you only see one thing in Córdoba, make it the Mezquita.

Not only does the site have a fascinating history, switching hands between Muslim and Catholic traditions in 1236, but the interior is truly one-of-a-kind. There are over 800 columns supporting the Mezquita, with iconic red and white horseshoe shaped double arches, many of which are original.

My visit was truly a highlight of my time in Spain. Just be sure to arrive early, particularly in the summer months to avoid waiting in any lines! As of now, tickets are not available online (if you find online tickets they are sold by companies offering tours), but you can check opening times on the official website. 

2. Explore the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos

The Alcázar of Córdoba, or “Castle of the Christian Monarchs” is a medieval castle that was once the home of Isabella I and Ferdinand II. And by Isabella and Ferdinand, I mean the Isabella and Ferdinand that helped fund Christopher Columbus’s exhibition to the “New World” and were also leaders of the Spanish Inquisition. In fact, the Alcázar was used during the inquisition and even housed torture chambers.

While the palace itself isn’t as impressive as some that I have visited and many of the rooms are now vacant, the visit was worth it. There were some pretty great views of the city and nearby Guadalquivir river from the tower, and the gardens are gorgeous and the perfect place to have a little picnic. 

Again, you’ll want to visit at off-peak hours, as tickets can only be purchased at the door.

3. Cross the Roman Bridge of Córdoba

Just steps away from the Mezquita lies the Guadalquivir river and the roman bridge, built in the 1st century BC. Seriously, talk about a city filled with history! The best part is, the bridge is totally free, and you won’t have to walk far to get there. At the end of the bridge lies the Torre De Calahorra, which offers a view of the city and has a small museum and audioguide. I opted to skip a visit to the tower, as the museum doesn’t seem  impressive.

4. Attend a Flower Festival

If you can, try to visit Córdoba in May, as this is the month in which the city’s famous flower festivals occurs. While there are several flower-related festivals in the city, the Festival of the Patios, where citizens compete for the most beautifully decorated patio is the most famous. During my first visit to Córdoba, I didn’t visit during the month of May, when the festival is held. However, I was still able to see vestiges of Córdoba’s flower festival throughout the city. The colorful flowerpots and accompanying blooms really give the city a sense of character and charm. Upon moving to Spain, returning to Córdoba during the festival was at the top of my list of must-dos. I am happy to report that the festival lived up to the hype! Though I typically try not to repeat visiting cities (it’s a big world!) I am so glad I returned. You can read all about why the festival was my favorite day trip I’ve taken and see more pictures of this unique festival here!

5. Get the Perfect Shot at the Calleja de las Flores

Looking for a picture-perfect photograph to remember your time in Córdoba by? Then be sure to make a stop at the Calleja de las Flores. This beautiful street features stunning blue flowerpots and whitewashed walls, perfectly framing the bell tower of the Mezquita. I challenge you to get a shot between all of the tour groups that stop here! 

Beyond the Top 5…

While there are many other things to do in this historic and beautiful city, these top 5 will have you well on your way to a perfect (and not overwhelming) day trip itinerary! If you have extra time, you may also want to consider checking out the Córdoba Synagogue, the Plaza del Potro (the city’s main square), the Caliphal Baths, the city’s Roman temple, or some of the many museums located in Córdoba.

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What Córdoba sights are on your must-see list? Let me know in the comments!

Discover all of my Spain posts, or check out some of these popular posts:

• Patios de Cordoba: The Enchanting Spanish Flower Festival You Won’t Want To Miss
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