Cordoba 4 Day Itinerary

Córdoba 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Córdoba’s Historical Landmarks

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba. This unique monument is a perfect blend of Christian and Muslim architectural styles. Don’t forget to explore its beautiful gardens, Patio de los Naranjos, and the Mihrab in the old mosque.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos for a glimpse into the Middle Ages. This fortress is filled with rich history and stunning architecture. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming Jewish Quarter (Barrio Judío) to explore its narrow streets, traditional patios, and whitewashed houses.

  • Evening: For dinner, try Bodegas Altaba, offering a variety of delicious local dishes and an extensive wine list. Don’t miss their famous Cordoban salad!

  • Accommodation: Stay at the luxurious Hotel Hospitia de la Merced, located in the heart of Córdoba, close to all major attractions.

Day 2: Day Trip to Medina Azahara and Villaviciosa del Río

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Medina Azahara, an abandoned palace city from the 10th century. It’s a great place to learn about the Caliphate of Córdoba and enjoy stunning views over the Guadalquivir Valley.

  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby village of Villaviciosa del Río. Enjoy lunch at El Asador de San Marcos, known for its authentic Andalusian cuisine, especially grilled dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

  • Evening: Return to Córdoba and spend your evening exploring the lively streets of the city center or relax in a traditional tea house (tetería).

Day 3: Exploring Córdoba’s Surroundings

  • Morning: Visit the Museo Arqueológico de Córdoba, where you can learn about the history and archaeology of the region. Then, take a walk through the Parque de la Sierra Morena.

  • Afternoon: Head to the peaceful town of Lucena (30 minutes by bus) and explore its medieval quarter, castle ruins, and beautiful countryside. Don’t forget to try the famous Lucena ham!

  • Evening: Return to Córdoba for dinner at El Andaluz, offering a variety of traditional Andalusian dishes in a charming setting.

Day 4: Relaxation and Local Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Casa de las Conchas, an impressive 16th-century building adorned with more than 500 shell motifs. Nearby, you’ll find the Sala Arqueológica del Cabildo, home to various archaeological finds from Córdoba.

  • Afternoon: Take a pottery workshop at Talleres Cerámicos de Almodóvar, where you can learn about local ceramic traditions and even create your own souvenir. Alternatively, unwind with a relaxing afternoon at the Termas Romanas SPA, built on top of Roman baths from the 2nd century.

  • Evening: For your final dinner in Córdoba, try Mesón Córdobes, which offers an extensive menu featuring classic dishes from the region.

Transportation:

  • Bus: ALSA and Avanza are popular bus companies operating within Cordoba and to nearby towns.
  • Train: Renfe operates trains to cities like Madrid, Malaga, Sevilla, and Granada.

Things to Know:

  • Córdoba is famous for its local dishes such as salmorejo (cold tomato soup), gazpacho (a cold vegetable soup), and the aforementioned ham from Lucena.
  • The city is known for its friendly locals, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or chat with people you meet during your travels.

Tips:

  • Avoid visiting major attractions like the Mezquita-Catedral on weekends and holidays as they can get very crowded.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved, especially when exploring the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter.
  • Be respectful when entering religious sites and dress appropriately (shoulders and knees covered).