This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Dreaming of Córdoba? This is the perfect starting point!
This sun-soaked city in the heart of Andalusia is bursting with history, culture, and flavor. We’ve spent time wandering its winding streets, soaking up the Moorish and Christian influences, and savoring the delicious tapas that seem to appear on every corner.
From the serene Hammam baths to the hidden stories of Medina Azahara, Córdoba has a way of sweeping you up in its magic. We couldn’t help but fall in love with this city and can’t wait to share our favorite experiences with you. Here’s our guide to the five best things to do in Córdoba!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this walking tour of Córdoba’s top sights! We visited the Mosque-Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, and the famous Alcázar while learning all about it from our guide.
Things to do in Cordoba, Spain
1. Relax in Cordoba’s Hammam baths
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, and 9 pm (3 pm and 11 pm on Saturday)
- Highlights: Enjoy the thermal baths and steam room at Córdoba’s Hammam Al Ándalus, relax during a 15-minute massage (30-minute upgrade available)
- Inclusions: 75-minute spa session at Hammam Al Ándalus, mint tea, water, towel, shower gel, shampoo
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 360+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Traveling can be an incredible rush—new sights, new sounds, new experiences. But sometimes, the pace can catch up to you fast. We were feeling that very rush when we stepped into Córdoba’s Hammam Al Ándalus. Tucked away in the heart of the Old Town, this tranquil spa experience was exactly what we needed to reset and recharge.
Winding our way through the candlelit walkways of this underground sanctuary felt like entering a secret world. The air was thick with rose, lavender, and red amber scents, and the warm thermal pools melted away every bit of tension I’d been carrying. Frank, my masseur, was an absolute magician as he worked out every last knot during a massage that was worth every second.
The small group atmosphere made it feel personal and peaceful, and sipping on mint tea between dips in the hot and cold pools was the perfect touch.
The experience comes with a 15-minute massage, but we couldn’t resist the 30-minute upgrade, which included an exfoliating body scrub that left my skin smooth and refreshed. By the end, our minds felt clear, our bodies rejuvenated, and we walked out feeling lighter than air.
We loved how this experience blended ancient rituals with modern relaxation in such a beautifully intimate setting. But don’t just take our word for it—check out hundreds of five-star reviews here to see why travelers say this tour was a highlight of their trip!
Book this relaxing spa experience at Hammam Al Ándalus here!
2. Explore the famous Mosque-Cathedral, Alcazar, and the Jewish Quarter
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9:20 am–1 pm
- Highlights: Visit Córdoba’s famous landmarks and monuments, hear about religious influences on the city’s architecture and history
- Inclusions: Professional guide, headphones, Synagogue, Mosque, and Alcazar admission tickets
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 650+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Córdoba’s streets are a living museum, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the layers of history woven through every corner. We wanted to go beyond simply admiring the architecture and truly understand how Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences shaped the city’s soul. That’s why we signed up for this guided tour of Córdoba’s most important monuments, and it turned out to be our favorite experience in the city.
We started at the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the former palace of Isabella and Ferdinand. Walking through its grand halls and tranquil gardens, we listened as our guide, Jose, brought the past to life. The headphone system was super helpful, ensuring we didn’t miss a word, even in the bustling crowds.
From there, we wandered the Jewish Quarter, stopping at the medieval synagogue and paying tribute to Maimonides under his bronze statue. But our absolute favorite part was the Mezquita—the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.
Standing in its vast forest of columns, we could feel the weight of centuries pressing down, blending Islamic artistry with Catholic tradition. Jose explained how this magnificent space once rivaled the world’s greatest mosques and how its story still echoes through Córdoba today.
We were absolutely captivated by how this tour wove together the city’s complex heritage in such a clear, engaging way. And it’s clear we aren’t the only ones who felt this way—read the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour!
Secure our FAVORITE tour here and explore Córdoba’s history!
3. Learn how to cook traditional Andalucian food in a cooking class
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 1 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a paella and traditional Córdoban salmorejo cooking class, prepare each dish step by step, learn the history of your dishes, get local tips
- Inclusions: Snacks, drinks, small-group class
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Córdoba’s cuisine is legendary, but eating out only scratches the surface. We wanted to dive deeper and actually learn how to make some of the city’s most iconic dishes, so we joined this small-group cooking class, and it was hands-down the tastiest way to experience the culture and flavors of Andalusia.
Our host, Chef Adrian, greeted us with a warm smile and a table full of the freshest local ingredients. He guided us step by step through making salmorejo, a creamy tomato and bread dish that’s a Córdoban classic. Hearing about its history and cultural importance made us appreciate every spoonful even more.
Then, we moved on to paella, learning the Cordobesian style and how each ingredient adds its own magic to the dish. Watching the vibrant rice transform into a pan full of flavor was a surprising highlight!
The cozy atmosphere and small group made it feel intimate and relaxed. Adrian’s instructions were clear, his love for cooking was contagious, and he even shared tips on the best local spots for food and drinks. To top it off, he served us perfectly paired local drinks while flamenco music played softly in the background, setting the scene for an unforgettable evening.
We loved how this class was more than just cooking—it was a warm, shared experience that left us feeling connected to Córdoba’s culinary heritage in the most delicious way possible. Walking out full and happy, we even felt confident enough to try recreating these dishes back home!
Join this cooking class here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
4. Visit Medina Azahara with an expert guide
- Duration: 2.5–3 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 9 am–10 pm
- Highlights: Go on a private guided tour of Medina Azahara, visit a virtual reality projection room
- Inclusions: Transfer from Córdoba to the Medina Azahara car park, shuttle to and from the archaeological site, guide, entrance to the museum, and interpretation center
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Getting to Medina Azahara isn’t always easy. It’s just outside the city, and trying to piece together the layers of this ancient palace complex on your own can leave you feeling lost. That’s why we chose this private tour, and it was the perfect way to explore one of Córdoba’s most fascinating and lesser-known historical sites.
Our guide, Isabel, picked us up in Córdoba and whisked us out to the archaeological site, sharing stories of this once-glittering city built in the 10th century by the Caliphate of Córdoba. After a short shuttle ride from the car park, we stepped into the remains of the “Bright City,” where palaces, gardens, and intricate arches reveal the grandeur of Al-Andalus at its peak.
Isabel brought it all to life with her stories, connecting each crumbling wall and column to the people who once lived here. However, one of the best parts was visiting the virtual reality room, which helped us visualize how this magnificent city looked at its prime. It’s a real treat for history lovers!
This private tour turned what could have been a confusing tangle of ruins into a vivid journey back in time. And we didn’t have to worry about navigating on our own—the seamless transfers made the whole experience smooth and stress-free.
It was the perfect balance of learning and exploration, and left us with a newfound appreciation for the hidden stories that make Córdoba so special!
Reserve this private tour now and pay later when you book it in advance here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Taste locally made wines and tapas
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 8 pm
- Highlights: Savor Spanish wines and local tapas, learn about Córdoba’s winemaking history, and how to recognize wine from the Montilla-Moriles region
- Inclusions: Wine, local tapas
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Córdoba is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, but it also has a lesser-known secret—its local wines. We didn’t want to miss out on tasting the region’s best, so we signed up for this small-group wine tasting, and it turned out to be the perfect way to experience a different side of the city.
Our host, Francisco, welcomed us into a cozy winery shop, and as soon as we arrived, the intimate atmosphere set the tone for the evening. He shared stories about the Montilla-Moriles wine region and the unique production methods behind each wine, all made from the same grape but with such different characteristics.
It was fascinating to hear how the local winemaking process differs so much from what we’re used to back home.
We sampled four regional wines, including the bright Fino and the sweet Pedro Ximénez, paired with delicious local tapas. Each sip and bite revealed new layers of flavor, from creamy cheeses to spicy chorizo. Francisco’s passion for his craft was contagious, and he even shared tips on what to look for in each glass so we could really appreciate every note.
This experience was a highlight of our trip—it was fun, flavorful, and left us with a new appreciation for Córdoba’s local wine culture!
Read five-star reviews and book this small-group tasting here!
Where to Stay in Córdoba, Spain
Córdoba is a city brimming with history and charm, and finding the right place to stay can make your visit even more special. Whether you’re looking for five-star luxury, a comfortable mid-range spot, or a cozy budget stay, there’s something here to fit your travel style and budget.
To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of our top hotel picks in Córdoba. If any of these options still have availability, grab a spot before they fill up and make your trip truly unforgettable!
Hospes Palacio del Bailio – $$$
Set in a stunning 16th-century palace, Hospes Palacio del Bailio blends historic elegance with modern luxury in the heart of Córdoba. This five-star hotel features an outdoor pool surrounded by orange trees, a serene flower garden, and an exclusive Bodyna Spa. Rooms are refined and unique, with original wall paintings and plush furnishings.
Prices typically range from €160–€500+ per night. Check out all the options and book your stay at Hospes Palacio del Bailio on Booking.com.
Eurostars Conquistador – $$
Nestled in Córdoba’s Judería district, Eurostars Conquistador is a comfortable mid-range stay with an unbeatable location—right across from the Mezquita. Guests love the charming Andalusian courtyard, spacious rooms, and helpful staff. Rooms come with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and modern amenities, while the on-site restaurant offers a delicious breakfast buffet.
Prices usually range from €60 to €250 per night. Explore available room types and secure this hotel on Booking.com!
Hotel Marisa – $
For a budget-friendly stay right in the heart of Córdoba, Hotel Marisa offers unbeatable convenience and comfort. Located directly across from the Mezquita, this simple yet cozy hotel features air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and a 24-hour reception. Guests love the central location, making it easy to explore the city’s top attractions on foot.
Prices here start as low as €30 per night for a single room, depending on the season. Browse your options and reserve a room at Hotel Marisa on Booking.com!
For more options, check out all of Córdoba’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Spain
Renting a car in Spain is the perfect way to explore beyond the cities—think small villages, coastal towns, and hidden gems impossible to reach by public transit! The roads are well-maintained, and driving here is generally pretty relaxed, making it ideal for a road trip.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Spain
- Drive on the right: Like most of Europe, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side in Spain. And make sure you stick to the speed limit, speed cameras are common here!
- Pick the right car: Some of Spain’s smaller towns and villages have narrow streets and tight parking, so I recommend going for a compact car. Also, most rentals here are manual, so if you need an automatic (like me!), be sure to filter for it on Discover Cars when booking.
- Insurance is a must: I always add full coverage insurance, whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Toll roads: Spain has both toll and toll-free roads. Toll roads are usually marked with “AP” and can be paid using cash, credit card, or electronic devices like VIA-T. Plan your route accordingly and have a payment method ready.
- Parking tips: In urban areas, parking can be challenging. Look for designated parking zones and be aware of local regulations to avoid fines. Some areas may have restricted parking zones or require a resident permit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Spain
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Spain on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Cordoba is everything you’d hope for in a Spanish getaway – stunning streets lined with historic buildings, sunny afternoons, amazing tapas, and some truly unique things to do! This list captures the top activities, but there is so much more to Cordoba that you’ll just have to see for yourself.
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other Spain blogs. We have tons of resources for where to stay, top activities, itineraries, and more. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:
Where to Stay in Seville, Spain: 8 Best Areas & Hotels