Housing over 10 Treasures of Spain, charming travelers from all over with its colorful and dense flower patios, and an enriching cultural culmination between three religions: Jewish, Christian, and Islamic, it’s easy to see why 449,314 travelers visit Cordoba, Spain annually!

Explore the profound Islamic influence embedded within Cordoba’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, Mosque-Cathedral and Jewish Quarter. From history to architecture, you’ll be amazed at the coexistence of these religions down to style!

Wander through the equally fascinating Jewish Quarter, and learn about the story of the Jewish people who arrived in Corodoba between the 10th and 15th centuries as you stroll the quiet pebbled streets.

For thrill-seekers, consider bungee jumping 25 meters into the Almodóvar River or the Guadiato River and paragliding over scenic and historic Cordoba.

Of course, a visit to this top Andalucian city requires a bite out of the local flavorful cuisine, from bull tail stew to a refreshing bowl of Salmorejo soup, and tapas!

Hungry for more? Let’s get right into it and see some of the fun things to do in Cordoba!

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Cordoba tours

1 – Soak in over 1,500 years of history at the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba

Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is one of the most incredible sites to visit in the city, offering a peek into the Islamic influence in Spain. Abd-ar-Rahman III established the Caliphate of Cordoba and during his reign, the region prospered.

Dating back to 785, the mosque was later converted into a Cathedral when the city was converted to Christianity. Due to its history as a mosque and cathedral, the Moorish structure is also known as La Mezquita and is an exemplary piece of architecture combining two historical influences in the city.

Known as one of the most important Islamic constructions in the world, browse through the Roman arches and columns, the Patio of the Orange Trees, the Bell Tower, and much more!

Learn more about all the ways to experience the incredible Mezquita with our complete guide to Mosque-Cathedral tickets, including information on the different tickets and tours available.

Nearby is the dreamy Calleja de las Flores, a popular narrow street with white houses dotted with potted plants!

Mosque Cathedral tickets and tours

2 – Glimpse epic sights of the city from the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs

Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, Cordoba

Make your way to the incredible Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (or Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs in English), the hub for the political and religious power during the reconquest, and the home of Isabella l of Castile and Ferdinand ll of Aragon.

Though the Alcazar of Cordoba has an incredible history, including the space where Christopher Columbus met with the Christian Kings before he voyaged to the new world, the major showstopper is the Mudejar Gardens and the four towers.

The Mudejar gardens are a stunning Moorish courtyard, which is still in its original design, and the four main Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos towers offer incredible views of the city worth the climb. The interior of the church dazzles with its Roman mosaics, patio, and baths, very traditional Islamic architecture as well as quaint fountains adding a sense of tranquility.

Ferdinand and Isabella had a lasting political and religious impact on Europe that lasted centuries, so a guided tour of the Alcazar where they reigned and were inspired should be on any history lover’s agenda.

Make sure to check out Alcazar tickets and tours available ahead of time!

Alcazar tickets and tours

3 – Walk around the historic Jewish Quarter (La Judería)

La Judería, Cordoba

No Cordoba city tour is complete without a stroll through the historic and fascinating Jewish Quarter (La Judería), the neighborhood where the city’s Jewish population lived between the 10th and 15th centuries.

Roam the narrow, pebbled streets, learning about this community in Cordoba, and its influence on the city during their time there. Learn about the small synagogues dotting the quarter, and how at one point the city became the home of multiple religions coexisting at once (Jews, Muslims and Christians).

On your tour, you’ll also see the bronze statue of Maimonides, who was believed to be an influential philosopher and doctor from Cordoba. Additionally, you can visit the Casa de Sefarad, a museum dedicated to the city’s Jewish heritage.

Depending on the tour that you choose, you can opt for a tour of the Jewish Quarter with the Cordoba Mosque-Cathedral and the Alcazar with priority access, or the Mosque, Jewish Quarter, and Synagogue tour with tickets.

Jewish Quarter tours

4 – Step inside the Cordoba Synagogue

Cordoba Synagogue

The Cordoba Synagogue is an important religious building located in the Jewish Quarter, overflowing with intricate design and an interesting story worth learning about.

Learn about what happened to the church after the reconquest of the Catholic Monarchs and the new rules that the Jewish people had to follow after the reconquest, including building restrictions for their synagogues.

Check out the mystical courtyard of the Jewish synagogue, as well as the Entrance Hall with the basin called Maskilta, used for rituals. Take in the extensive Mudeja-style plant motifs throughout the Prayer Hall and Women’s Section of the synagogue and other fascinating designs pointing to a few theories on who owned the synagogues at the time.

Pro tip: If you’re a female traveler, make sure to enter the synagogue with modest clothes, covering your shoulders, back, and legs.

walking tours in Cordoba

5 – Walk across the beautiful Roman Bridge

Roman Bridge, Cordoba

Connecting The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba and the Torre De Calahorra is the scenic Roman Bridge dating back to the 1st century BC!

Over the centuries, the Roman Bridge has suffered multiple destructions, and much of its renovations make it a medieval bridge. Nonetheless, the bridge is a true beauty and gem in Cordoba worth checking out and getting a selfie at, especially during sunset or sunrise for the early risers!

Don’t miss the Puerta del Puente, sitting on the side of the Mosque-Cathedral of the bridge, which is known as the most recent gate to the city. If you visit the Puerta del Puente, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the Roman Bridge through the stunning arch.

Fun fact for all Game of Thrones fans: In Season 5 of the show the Roman Bridge of Córdoba makes an appearance as the Long Bridge of Volantis! To see these sites and more, check out our list of the best city tours in Cordoba!

6 – Breathe in the serenity at Viana Palace

Viana Palace, Cordoba

The Palacio de Viana, or Viana Palace, is a stunning Renaissance-esque building with Moorish and Roman influence located in the heart of Cordoba, most commonly adored for its idyllic courtyard, garden, and arts, and antiques display.

If you’re visiting Cordoba on an especially hot day, there’s nothing better than to step inside these shady courtyards, allowing the intoxicating smell and sight of colorful and fresh flowers to take over the senses.

The 14th-century Palacio de Viana has beautiful collections of dinner sets, tapestries, paintings, and even firearms, belonging to the last resident of the palace, Sophia of Lancaster.

Check out a guided tour through the Viana Patios and Palace that offers a historical and cultural lens into the use of the courtyards, how they began, and how they have influenced local culture in Cordoba. Plus, you’ll get to see a few more patios along the colorful streets.

Viana Palace tickets and tours

7 – Find beauty in the Patio de los Naranjos and the Patios de Cordoba

Patio de los Naranjos, Cordoba

A few steps away from the Mosque-Cathedral is one of the most emblematic Cordoba attractions, the Patio de los Naranjos – a beautiful courtyard previously used by the Muslim community for religious purposes, surrounded by a pattern of fragrant orange trees.

Named after the orange trees in the courtyard, the Patio de los Naranjos has free entry, so you should stop by and see the other details such as the peaceful fountains, galleries, and detailed arched ways that lead to the Mosque-Cathedral.

As such, one of the best things to do in Cordoba is to go on a tour of the patios. From the beautifully colorful flower pots hanging from house exteriors to dense gardens tucked inside alleyways and local homes.

Visit during the Patio Festival in May where you can visit, explore and admire about 50 patios that are normally closed off to the public. Pro tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famed patios of San Basilio, which are located in the historic city center.

Patios of Cordoba tours

8 – Enjoy Cordoba on a bike tour

bike tours in Cordoba

Explore Cordoba’s picturesque and narrow streets on a beautiful bike tour! Enjoy spinning around some of Cordoba’s most iconic sights from the Mosque-Cathedral to the Roman Bridge, and even get to experience some of the local life as you bike through residential areas.

As you bike through the city, with the guidance of your tour guide, you’ll be able to also get a sense of direction as to where everything is in the historic center of Cordoba, as well as get local suggestions and tips on where to find the best local food!

Enjoy the shade and refreshing sight of the stunning patios and so much more during this 1-hour biking experience, where you’ll receive a helmet, bike, poncho, and the guidance of your tour leader.

Cordoba is known as a pedestrian and bike-friendly city, so no worries about cycling around traffic!

bike tours in Cordoba

9 – Book a day trip to Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol, Spain

At only 2.5 hours away from the city, Costa del Sol (Sunshine Coast) is an ideal destination for a Cordoba day trip, thanks to its whitewashed homes, diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, and proximity to the Mediterranean.

For the day, escape to the beach, and enjoy a little fun out in the water with incredible jet ski activities or parasailing. Try the local cuisine such as the regional specialty of Espetos, fried sardines with a squirt of lemon, and local white wine.

Costa del Sol offers a completely different landscape and vibe to Cordoba which is equally just as enjoyable, especially if you’re looking for something more lax.

So if you enjoy the beach, and are looking for a few moments of relaxation, check out a fun tour to Costa del Sol from Cordoba!

Costa del Sol tours

See also; Fun things to do in Marbella

10 – Climb up Calahorra Tower for scenic views

The Calahorra Tower, Cordoba

Step inside the historic 14th-century Calahorra Tower, located beside the Roman Bridge, to gain insight into what Cordoba and the Andalusian region overall looked like when the Moors lived in Cordoba.

The tower is a very important building for the empire of the Almohad Caliphate, but during the reconquest, the tower was transformed into different uses from a prison to an all-girls school in the 1800s, and also as a defense against attacks.

Today, you can visit this interesting piece of Cordoba history, especially the museum housed inside that offers exhibits showcasing day-to-day life in the city during the 13th century. Deep dive into the information on how Christians, Jewish people, and Muslim people all coexisted together during those times.

Make it to the top of the tower to get impressive views of the city, including the Mosque-Cathedral and the Roman Bridge.

11 – Feel dazzled by the thousand lights at a Candlelight concert

candlelight concerts in Cordoba

Enrich your cultural experiences in Cordoba, and plan to attend a memorable and beautiful Candlelight concert!

Offering a magical evening lit up by thousands of candles, you will experience a musical concert in a unique way, with classical renditions of popular artists and their discographies from a wide range of musical genres.

From Spanish stars like Enrique Iglesias to international icons like ABBA and Queen, rest assured that you’ll know a song or two when attending one of these impressive and romantic concerts!

To pick out your concert, make sure to head to the Candlelight concert’s website, check out the available concerts, and purchase tickets right then and there. You’ll then receive an electronic ticket via email.

See price & reviews

12 – Sink deep into Spanish history at the Castillo de Almodóvar

Castillo de Almodóvar, Spain

Get to the roots of Southern Spain when you visit the spectacular Castillo de Almodóvar, an Islamic building that dates back to the year 740 in a region in Cordoba called Almodóvar del Rio, hence the name of the castle.

The building beautifully brings together Christian and Muslim design and was constructed due to the river’s location, where many Christians and Muslims traveled. After the reconquest, the castle was transformed into a royal residence.

Join a guided tour to wander through this impressive castle and explore everything, from the fascinating four towers and dungeons, to the intricate bedrooms of the royals who lived there.

For Game of Thrones lovers, this castle was featured in the show’s 7th season! If you want to learn more about the behind-the-scenes, check out a tour included in the general admission price.

Castillo de Almodóvar tickets and tours

13 – Go zip lining across the River Aldómovar

zip lining in Cordoba

Enjoy a thrilling zip line ride that will take you 120 meters above and across the River Aldómovar!

Take in the local scenery from the Sierra Morena Mountain range to the Roman Bridge below, the Mosque-Cathedral, and even far out into the olive trees and more!

If you want your day action-packed with adventure, check out a package ticket where you can enjoy some rock climbing, rappelling, hiking and zip lining! Hikes take place in the beautiful Sierra Morena mountain range, which is only 15 kilometers away from the city center.

The zip-lining experience starts as low as US$7 and goes up based on how many more activities you want to add to your overall experience!

zip lining in Cordoba

14 – Learn about life in the 10th century at Medina Azahara

Medina Azahara, Cordoba

Only 15 minutes away from Cordoba is the historical and archaeological site of Medina Azahara, a once-booming palace city that housed the seat of the Caliphate of Cordoba in the 10th century.

A historic complex with various buildings within, each building served a purpose for the times and is in great condition to experience today. The name means “Brilliant City” in Arabic.

Check out the different Medina Azahara tickets and tours available, offering great ways to experience this historic palace, including a tour with fascinating stories about what life was like in the palace during the 10th century.

Learn about the incredible detail of the building, and its architectural style and influence, from its symbolism to the monuments inside, and so much more.

Choose a 1 to 3 hour tour, which includes transportation and a scenic drive by Cordoba’s olive groves.

Medina Azahara tickets and tours

15 – Take in the details left at the Roman Temple

Roman Temple, Corboda

Walk around the stunning Roman Temple, a historic sight that shows off the city’s riches during its Roman era and that surprises many who visit due to its size.

Considering the temple is around 2,000 years old, dating back to the reign of Emperor Claudius (41-54 AD), the temple has been renovated over the years to conserve its original design. Today, the temple is open to the public for everyone to witness its true beauty, as close as it was back then.

On your visit, you can admire the intricate design of the 11 Corinthian columns, the decor at the top and its surroundings. When the temple was originally built, there were six additional marble-made columns on the front and ten columns on each side.

The Roman Temple is free to see and is located near the Cordoba city hall.

16 – Glide through Cordoba’s sky paragliding

paragliding in Cordoba

Reach new heights on a paragliding adventure overlooking Cordoba’s scenic countryside and some of the city’s main sights from a vantage point of 1,000 meters above the ground!

See the Mosque-Cathedral, the Roman Bridge, and the Alcazar as you glide through the sky on a truly unique sightseeing trip, with the wind blowing through your hair, making the experience that much more exciting!

At the start of your paragliding flight, you’ll receive a safety briefing and the time and experience of your pilot who will be on the adventure with you. The activity accommodates two people.

The whole experience will take anywhere between 20-30 minutes, and as an added bonus, your whole flight will be filmed by a staff member using your camera, so later on you can share it on your socials with your friends!

Paragliding activities start at US$66.

paragliding in Cordoba

17 – Rest your feet and sightsee on the hop-on hop-off bus tour

bus tours in Cordoba

Ready to see more of Cordoba, but don’t feel like walking? Then grab your camera and join one of the city’s hop-on hop-off bus tours, which are ready to take you on a sightseeing adventure across Cordoba!

Enjoy two bus routes showing you different sides of the city, and listen to the audio guide as you pass by the most famous landmarks and tourist attractions in the city. See the Jewish Quarter, the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, and the Roman Bridge.

As a bonus, you’ll also get access to a free walking tour of the Jewish Quarter and the local Gourmet Market to use later on!

Aside from the sightseeing, a hop-on hop-off bus tour also offers unlimited transportation throughout the city, so if you need to get from one point to the other, simply find the nearest tour bus stop and hop on there!

bus tours in Cordoba

18 – Unearth some fascinating artifacts at The Archaeological Museum of Cordoba

The Archaeological Museum of Cordoba

Set foot inside the Archaeological Museum of Cordoba, which houses centuries’ worth of historical and archeological findings within Cordoba, including one of Spain’s largest theaters.

The museum is divided into eight rooms, and has three incredibly beautiful courtyards, all within a Renaissance-style heritage palace dating back to the 16th century belonging to the Páez de Castillejo family.

Wander back in time, explore some of the most amazing archeological finds that uncover medieval history, and gain insight into the various influences in Cordoba, from Muslim, Jewish, and Christian.

Other than finding these examples, you’ll learn more about the interesting locations and accidental ways in which some of these pieces have been found, in order to get a better idea of the historical layout of Cordoba a few centuries back.

Tickets start at 10 euros.

19 – Experience an Arabian Bath at Hammam Al Ándalus

Arabian Baths, Cordoba

Bathe in the traditional underground cistern the way that people did in the 10th century at Cordoba’s Hammam.

Relax inside a candlelit cistern, and look around to see the light of the candles gently illuminate the motifs and detailed arches on the walls, depicting what an ancient Arabian bath looked like.

Offering a variety of services to indulge in, treat your body to some luxury and pampering after so much walking with a soak in the Arab baths, followed by a full body massage with essential oils or a hot stone bed.

If you’re looking for specific wellness treatments, check out the Bayyah services, which offer specialty massages to help your body with mobility and overall flexibility – perfect for prepping your body for more adventures in Cordoba!

Prices vary based on the services you’d like to experience, however, a hammam bath with a massage package starts at 73 euros.

Arabian baths experiences

20 – Enjoy a drink and some tapas at Plaza de la Corredera

Plaza de la Corredera, Cordoba

Relax for a bit in one of the main socializing spaces in all of Cordoba, Plaza de la Corredera!

Similar to Plaza Mayor in Madrid, Plaza de la Corredera is a square plaza with a special Andalucian charm, showing off its Islamic-styled arches and golden colors.

Step inside and get a feel of Cordoba’s local life, from the outdoor terraces, restaurants, and cafes to the locals selling traditional artisan items and much more. Find a cozy spot to enjoy breakfast with coffee, or head to the tapas bars for a drink and bite with your friends!

Only 5 minutes away from Plaza de las Corredera is the equally buzzing Plaza de las Tendillas, known as a local gathering space with a grand statue of Gran Capitan, the square’s main clock, and nearby some of Cordoba’s main shopping streets.

Side note: if you’re visiting Cordoba during Christmas, the Plaza de las Tendillas is where the Christmas Market is held!

21 – Roll around Cordoba on a segway tour

segway tours in Cordoba

Don’t want to join a walking tour of Cordoba or bike around the city? Go for a Segway tour!

Roll around the most emblematic sites, from the historic center, the Mosque-Cathedral to the neighborhoods with the most gorgeous Andalucian patios, including San Basilio, and other hidden gem corners of the city away from the common tourist spots!

Never been on a Segway before? Don’t worry, your experienced guide will give you a brief safety introduction to the Segway and how to use it, with practice rounds for your peace of mind. Cordoba city center is overall pretty flat, so no worries about steep hills to ride around.

Segway tours in Cordoba last around 1 hour and 30 minutes and start around US$23

segway tours in Cordoba

22 – Get in touch with nature at the Real Jardín Botánico de Cordoba

credits to Real Jardín Botánico de Cordoba

Get inspired by the botanical beauties inside the Real Jardín Botánico de Cordoba where you’ll be able to see everything from the arboretum to a rock garden, desert plants originating from Africa, and the fragrant garden of varied species.

With over 200 different plant varieties, check out the Ethnobotany Museum, which is filled with exhibits showcasing the connection between certain cultures and nature.

You can also step inside the Paleobotany Museum to discover more about the evolution of prehistoric plants and how they have transformed today’s world.

Venture into the greenhouses showcasing exotic plants, such as flowers from the Americas, orchid gardens, or tropical plants from the Canary Islands in Spain.

If you had a great time exploring the Patios of Cordoba, you’ll surely enjoy the natural beauty of the Botanic Garden!

23 – See a horse show at the Royal Stables

Royal Stables, Cordoba

Situated within the grounds of the Alcazar are the Royal Stables, which were designed and built under the order of King Phillip ll in 1570 to create a purebred Spanish horse.

Although the stables were burned down in a fire in 1735, they were quickly rebuilt and renovated in an even more affluent manner, which are the stables seen today.

The stables, also known as the “Cathedral of the Horse” are definitely fit for royalty, with impressive, dimly lit, tall arched walkways and beautiful cobblestone paths. Today the Royal Stables are open to the public to come in and see some of the beautiful Spanish horses that live there.

Something to check out while you’re in Cordoba is a horse show, which takes place every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for these shows cost 15 euros.

24 – Go kayaking in Spain’s 5th largest river

kayaking in Cordoba

If you’re looking for a water sport to add to your itinerary, then you won’t want to leave out kayaking from your list of activities to do in Cordoba!

Head to La Breña reservoir or to the Guadalquivir River, the fifth longest river in Spain, where you’ll join your guide and a few other kayakers to paddle your way around the river for the perfect day activity.

If you’ve never been on a kayak, there are tours perfect for beginners as they include lessons before the actual kayak ride down the river.

Enjoy learning from a patient kayak instructor who will teach you the basics of how to balance, paddle, and maneuver yourself around the kayak.

When you’re ready, you’ll be able to take off and get in touch with the local nature in a unique way!

kayaking in Cordoba

25 – Admire the works of art inside the Museum of Fine Arts

Museum of Fine Arts, Cordoba

To add a splash of culture to your visit, check out the Museum of Fine Arts, which features works of art dating to the 19th century.

From Italian Renaissance painters to Spanish painters such as Luis de Morales and Valdés Leal, as well as works by sculptors such as Mateo Inurria, the museum is dedicated to honoring the local artists of Spain, especially those of Cordoban legacy.

The museum, which was first opened by the father of a famous Cordoban painter, Julio Romero de Torres, is a work of art in itself. The museum is built in a stunning Renaissance architecture style, with a very photogenic Baroque staircase and thick, wooden ceilings.

The museum is divided into two floors with six main exhibit rooms, mostly designed to show the chronological order of the art pieces, leading up to contemporary pieces by famous local painters.

The museum is located in Plaza del Potro in the city center of Cordoba.

26 – Get social on a wine tour

wine tastings in Ghent

Enjoy a stellar wine tour through the vineyards and shops near and within Cordoba, trying out the spectacular wines from Sherry to an aged Oloroso.

Cordoba is quickly but surely making a name for itself in the wine-producing world, so a visit to nearby vineyards should be considered!

Check out the different types of wine-tasting opportunities like engaging your senses inside a small wine shop in Cordoba, where you’ll taste four wines from the Montilla-Moriles region with a side of tapas in an intimate group.

Or if you’re looking for a mix of activities, check out a walking tour of the Mosque-Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter with a stop at a local Spanish restaurant to try some Montilla-Moriles wine.

Pro tip for cheese lovers! If you’re dying to sample a variety of Cordoba’s rich cheeses, make sure to look through our list of the best cheese tastings in Cordoba!

Lastly, if you want a close-to-authentic wine-tasting experience, check out a cheese and wine tasting on a rooftop during sunset, in an intimate group of eight people.

wine tours in Cordoba

27 – Enjoy a stroll through the Puerta de Almodóvar

Puerta de Almodovar, Cordoba

Known as one of the entrances into the Jewish Quarter, the Puerta de Almodóvar offers incredible and immediate access to the ancient City Walls, beautiful fountains, manicured gardens, and a small viewpoint.

Situated in the heart of Cordoba near the Cordoba Synagogue, the Puerta de Almodóvar is a historic entryway that dates back to the 14th century!

The city wall has three doors and has some medieval flair in its construction thanks to the King who renovated parts of the gate after the reconquest of Andalucia. Some of the details of the gate include pointy tower arches along the top.

The gate is located on the western side of the city wall, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the gate when you see a bronze sculpture of the Corodban-born philosopher, Seneca.

The Puerta de Almodóvar is free to access.

28 – Bungee jump into the Almodóvar River

bungee jumping in Cordoba

Feel the thrill of jumping some 25 meters high into either the Almodóvar River or the Guadiato River on a bungee jumping experience!

Starting as low as 28 euros, you can take the leap of faith on a bungee jumping activity, setting aside your fears for a split second.

Depending on the experience you choose, you can opt for a single bungee jump experience for yourself only, and if you’re traveling with friends, you can opt for the multiple-people bungee jump package.

The minimum age for this experience is 16 years old, and bungee jumps can be booked any time throughout the year on weekends. The activity includes accident insurance and a specialist who will ensure you’re perfectly safe and ready to take the leap.

bungee jumping in Cordoba

29 – Make the city your playground on a scavenger game

scavenger games in Cordoba

Unleash your inner detective with a fun and enthralling scavenger game around Corodoba!

Run around the city, finding all the items on your smartphone, from large landmarks to not-so-obvious city marks that not even the locals know about!

See places you’ve already seen before like the Mosque-Cathedral and the Roman Bridge in a different light, this time, looking for something specific within the landmark itself. This game will truly allow you to see deeper into the details that make Cordoba that special!

After you purchase the scavenger game, you’ll be prompted to download the list of items that you’ll be challenged to find around the city. The game is perfect for a self-guided tour with friends or even on yourself to discover more of Cordoba!

At only US$9, a scavenger game is one of the most budget-friendly activities for exploring Cordoba!

scavenger games in Cordoba

30 – Get into the wild at Cordoba Zoo

Bears, lions and ostriches, oh my! Brace yourself for a close meet and greet with several local and exotic animals that call the Cordoba Zoo home, located only 9 minutes away from the city.

The Cordoba Zoo, recognized as one of Spain’s earliest zoological gardens, is home to over 100 different mammal species. It also serves as a conservation center, showcasing various projects they have undertaken to aid different animal species, with examples of their work on display for visitors to see.

There are various programs to choose from, mostly geared towards children learning about specific animals like lemurs and reptiles.

Check out Reptile World, see different examples of these animals, and even see them get fed on different occasions. Check the calendar to see when special animal events like these take place!

Skip-the-line entrance fees start at 5 euros for adults and 3 euros for children.

31 – Let out some screams on a parachuting adventure

parachuting in Cordoba

Are you ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun? Look no further than a parachuting adventure, dropping some 3,500 meters back down to earth with a professional guide!

After receiving a proper safety briefing and meeting the professional parachuter that you’ll be jumping with, you’ll depart Cordoba airport and mentally start preparing for the leap!

See all of Cordoba open up to you as you make your leap back down to earth from the plane, allowing gravity to take full force while gliding through the sky!

Get to see incredible city monuments as well as the equally stunning countryside and olive trees – you won’t know where to even start looking with so much beauty!

The duration of parachuting back to earth will take around 7 minutes, but it will probably feel much quicker with so much thrill in one go!

parachuting in Cordoba

32 – Grab your spot to go rafting

rafting in Cordoba

Looking for some more adrenaline to pump into your Cordoba itinerary? Visit sites like the Genil River, a few hours away from Cordoba, and embark on a thrilling rafting journey with a few other like-minded travelers!

Place your confidence in the company’s professionalism, honed over more than a decade, and in the expertise of their knowledgeable staff, who are prepared to provide you with comprehensive safety training for maneuvering the raft, particularly beneficial for first-time rafters.

Other equipment is made available, so all you need to bring is your adventurous spirit and open mind!

Depending on the experience, some tours may also record and take photos, which will make for great take-home gifts for you, and to share later on your social media platforms!

rafting in Cordoba

33 – Experience a show at the Plaza de Toros de los Califas

Los Califas, Cordoba

From bullfighting to concerts, there isn’t a dull moment happening at Plaza de Toros de los Califas, and it’s surely not something that you should miss out on!

With a capacity of 17,000 people, the Plaza de Toros de los Califas ranks as one of the largest of its kind within Spain, meaning that it draws in many forms of large-scale entertainment to look out for while visiting Cordoba!

Located only 17 minutes away from the city center of Cordoba on public transportation and 10 minutes by car, make sure to check out the Plaza de Toro’s main website to see upcoming acts and performers, and be able to purchase your tickets through the website.

Admission prices vary based on the artist.

34 – Ride in style on a tuk tuk

tuk tuk in Cordoba

Ditch the taxi, and instead opt for an exciting Tuk Tuk ride to get you around Cordoba in a fun and unique way!

Visiting some of the most famous landmarks and sites throughout Cordoba, enjoy this amazing little tour through the city in an open vehicle that is small enough to fit even through the most narrow streets of Cordoba.

And don’t worry about driving it yourself, leave that to your guide and driver who will take care of gettin you to all the highly coveted spots, plus a few other secret gems for the perfect lookout points of the city, and more!

Tuk tuk tours in Cordoba start at US$27 for 1 hour.

tuk tuk tours in Cordoba

35 – Feel the cool water and fun at Aquasierra

Aquasierra, Cordoba — credits to Aquasierra

If you’re traveling with kids, you must take them to Aquasierra Waterpark to escape the heat and turn up the cool fun!

Enjoy everything from a lazy pool to adult pools, twisty slides, various other games with funky names, and even pool volleyball.

Though the waterpark is mostly designed for children, adults will certainly not mind hanging out poolside with a drink from the local bar or a snack from the Chiringuito (small beach shack) to enjoy as the kids release all their energy.

If you want to have a VIP experience, then check out the VIP zones, which offer private terraces with umbrellas, sun loungers, better views, and exclusive bars and restaurants.

Basic entry tickets to visit Aquasierra start at 16 euros and 11 euros for children, and after 4:00 PM, adult tickets start at 10 euros while children 7 euros.

36 – Taste test some Salmorejo

Salmorejo, Cordoba

Expand your culinary palette and enjoy a taste of the regional dish, Salmorejo, while you’re in Cordoba!

Salmorejo is a typical Andalucian dish made with a tomato base, mixed with bread, olive oil, and garlic, and then sprinkled with bits of Spanish ham and hard-boiled eggs.

Since it’s a dish that is served widely throughout the region, each province has its own twist on the classic dish, including Cordoba, which is served cold and typically in the summer.

Simply step into any restaurant when you’re in Cordoba, and order the Salmorejo to give this traditional cold soup a try!

37 – Sharpen your cooking skills in a cooking class

cooking classes in Cordoba

Though you could try some Salmorejo and other traditional Cordoban dishes at the local restaurants, how about getting your hands dirty to make some yourself?

Join an exciting and educative cooking class, and step inside either a local’s home or a professional kitchen, each offering a unique experience to indulge in the scents, colors, and flavors of traditional Andalucian cooking.

On these cooking classes you will learn how make some of Cordoba’s most authentic zesty, fresh, flavorful, and comforting dishes. This includes everything from rabo de toro (bull’s tail stew) to a typical desert like berenjenas fritas con miel (fried eggplant with honey), and more!

On your cooking class, you’ll also get to experience a traditional Spanish market with your host and learn about the different ingredients you’ll need to make your Spanish feast later.

Another tour to consider is an Olive oil tasting in Cordoba, a local product known for its delicious taste as a result of Cordoba’s weather and ancient production techniques still in use!

cooking classes in Cordoba

38 – Wakeboard in style

wakeboarding near Cordoba

If you’d like to try this increasingly popular endeavor and throw in a few more tricks, then try an epic wakeboard session on the waves! The main difference here is the cable system, which provides stability and perpetual motion that will benefit riders of all levels.

Whether you’re getting your bearings or want to try some massive flips, wakeboarding is a great way to get some action in, plus you don’t have to be a pro to participate! Beginners are welcome to join in on the fun and learn as they go!

Situated right outside the city center, in Almodovar del Rio, you won’t be too far out, but just enough to get away from the city hustle and into nature!

wakeboarding in Cordoba

39 – Giddy up on a horse riding journey

horse riding near Cordoba

Visit a nearby farm to meet and hop on one of the horses for a little spin around the iconic Cordoban countryside.

See what a Spanish purebred looks like, and learn about the local farm life from the farmers themselves and how they tend to their animals on the daily. When you get assigned your horse, you’ll be able to trek down the established paths for a little joy ride or go a little bit beyond and into the roads.

Whether you do this experience on your own or with your partner or group of friends, you can rest assured that you’re about to embark on a memorable and beautiful experience getting close to these smart creatures.

Horseback riding activities start at 39 euros and the experience includes transportation. The duration of the activity is around 1 hour.

horse riding in Cordoba

40 – Get a lucky strike at Golden Center Park

Golden Center Park in Cordoba

Want to beat the heat for a while? Tuck into Golden Center Park, an indoor park with numerous arcade-style games, bowling, plus more games perfect for all ages!

Whether traveling with young children or it’s just you and your friends, Golden Center Park is a great way to spend some time just for fun in Cordoba, with the locals!

Located 29 minutes away from the city center but easily reachable via public transportation, check out the different sections within the park, starting with New Chiquipark, which offers child-centered games and other arcade activities for all ages

Hungry? Visit Bocamia, featuring yummy and filling snacks and meals for all, and lastly, Cordoba Bowling where you can aim for the perfect strike with your friends!

41 – See all of Cordoba on an airplane tour

airplane tours in Cordoba

Enjoy privileged views of Cordoba’s main sites and its stunning countryside as you fly an airplane through the Spanish skies.

Take the reigns of the plane, get a detailed lesson on how to manage the controls of the plane, and practice yourself a bit. The professional pilot will be on board with you.

From admiring the Almodóvar Castle to catching a glimpse of the Cordoba mountain range, you’ll truly see it all from above like nowhere else!

You’ll also fly directly over the historic center of Cordoba, seeing the Mosque-Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, the Almodovar Gate, the Alcazar amongst many other sights.

The whole plane ride will take around 15 minutes, but in those 15 minutes, you will have seen what many take days to see throughout the region. So bring your camera, and get ready to take photos! That is when you’re not the one flying!

airplane tours in Cordoba

42 – Place your bets on who wins at Go Karting

karting in Cordoba

If you’re looking for an activity to get a little competitive with your friends, you must check out Go Karting in Cordoba!

For a little afternoon activity, consider looking through the best karting in Cordoba, and check out deals that offer 2 sessions, where each session lasts 8 minutes or so, only starting at US$16.

Wondering if go karting is for you if you’ve never tried it before? Consider visiting anyways, and learn as you go, as this activity is beginner friendly and the trained staff are ready to assist you as you get ready for your first go around the course!

Just make sure to pay attention to the times and days that karting is available.

karting in Cordoba

43 – Be mesmerized by a traditional flamenco show

Flamenco show in Cordoba

Feel the passion and discipline that it takes to dance and sing flamenco when you book seats for a flamenco show!

Offering numerous types of packages to enjoy an evening of Andalucian traditional dance, consider a dinner and show package deal at the famous Tablaro El Cardenal in the historic center.

For an intimate experience, check out the show inside what used to be a historic Arab bath, that is now the Baños de Santa Maria, the center stage of flamenco dance.

Enjoy the intimate concert, and be one with the dancers and musicians, as they take you on a passionate journey of history, dance, and folklore.

Analyze their typical dress, the clapping, and the sound of the few instruments necessary for this special dance, especially in the small spaces where these dances take place.

Flamenco tickets start at US$27.

flamenco shows in Cordoba

44 – Order the cocktail of the house at the best bars

Long Rock, Cordoba — credits to Long Rock

For a traditional Spanish bar experience, topped with flamenco guitar, step into La Fuenseca and Bar Parreño! Order a local beer, and enjoy the tapas that come with them while swaying along to live music and live singing.

Start the night out at Glace Lounge Bar, where locals like to visit and enjoy a round of drinks with tapas, before heading out to the local dance clubs until the wee hours of the morning. Afterward, head to Glam, where the music stops until the sun rises!

Enjoy the music while the breeze hits you on the terrace of Sojo Confusion, situated next to the River Guadalquivir. Start slow with some drinks on the terrace, until the DJ arrives and sets up the party scene.

Speaking of dancing all night, Long Rock is another great live music dance club in the heart of Cordoba. Listen to local acts and a few bigger ones as you discover new artists and mingle with the locals.

Likewise, O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub knows how to throw down a good party, Ireland style, in Cordoba! For live music, good vibes, and some Guinness, make your way to O’Donoghue’s!

45 – Come hungry to the best tapas restaurants

Casa Pepe De La Juderia, Cordoba — credits to Casa Pepe De La Juderia

Tucked within the charming historic center of Cordoba is the dreamy restaurant El Rincon de Carmen, a traditional Spanish and Mediterranean restaurant serving a variety of cheese plates, meat dishes, and an excellent seafood menu. Dine outside on the garden terrace under the glowing string lights for the ultimate experience.

Pro tip: Nearby you can also visit the Mercado Victoria, which is Cordoba’s main gastronomic market, to get a glimpse of the fresh ingredients used throughout the city’s restaurants.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, make sure to head to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Casa Pepe De La Juderia, located in the Jewish Quarter. Offering incredible views of the historic district like the Synagogue, you’ll get a truly authentic taste of Cordoban dishes like grilled octopus and salmorejo.

Taberna La Cuarta is another great fine dining option with an incredible twist on classic Spanish and Andalucian dishes such as wild red tuna tartar and bull tail stew with potatoes, and more! The chef-inspired dishes will surely entice your tastebuds for an incredible dining experience in Cordoba.

As always, if you are unsure where to start and what to look out for, you can join a tapas tour in Cordoba, where you will get to visit many different places and savor some of the finest taps in the city!

How to get to Cordoba?

The main airport to fly into Cordoba is Cordoba Airport, which is only 18 minutes away from the city center.

When planning on how to get to your hotel from Cordoba Airport, we recommend looking into airport transfers in Cordoba for an easier journey to the door of your hotel. Otherwise, you may take a few buses, however, the journey will take double the time.

Where to stay in Cordoba?

Enjoy the authentic charm of the wonderful Eurostars Patios de Cordoba, a fine hotel oozing with heritage on the outside and with modern and bright rooms on the inside. The hotel is only 200 meters from the Mosque-Cathedral and the Alcazar Castle, making this a perfect hotel option for sightseeing.

Pick up an espresso every morning on-site when you stay at the Hotel Maestre, and enjoy it in the picture-perfect courtyard of the hotel! Arriving early or is your flight not leaving until after check-out? Enjoy complimentary luggage storage! Rated highly for its close proximity to the historic center of Cordoba, with reasonable prices, this hotel is a steal!

Eurostars Conquistador is another great option, this time located in the Jewish Quarter, and brimming with Spanish charm. Enjoy air-conditioned rooms a TV, and comfortable beds. In the morning, you can enjoy a buffet breakfast in the courtyard.

best hotels in Cordoba

Visiting Cordoba on a budget?

Make the most of your travel budget by booking an informative and exciting free walking tour in Cordoba! Enjoy learning about the city’s main landmarks on foot while you also use this as an opportunity to get acquainted with the city streets.

Discover the wonders and rich history of the city as you connect with the local guide and other fellow travelers while on tour!

Where to go next?

After exploring all the beautiful sites to see in Cordoba, check out our list of the best places to visit in Spain, starting with Seville!

Feel the magic of Plaza de España, and enjoy a stunning sunset from the top of the Metropol Parasol (Setas de Sevilla) when you read our list of the best things to do in Seville!

See more incredible things to do in Granada, starting with examples of Moorish influence when you set foot inside the Alhambra. Next, get lost in the charming white streets of the Albacín neighborhood.

Take in Roman history and other incredible things to do in Malaga, from the Roman theater to the Gibralfaro Castle for sprawling city views! Afterward, make sure to hit the refreshing beaches on the Mediterranean.

Some of the best things to do in Marbella include going canyoning at Guadalmina Canyon and balancing it with a scenic walk through the Marbella Promenade.

Final thoughts

With its incredibly tangible history through the Mosque-Cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, it’s easy to see why Cordoba is one of the top 3 cities to visit in the Andalucian region of Spain.

Dowsed in history and mystique, we hope our list of the best things to do in Cordoba has inspired you to make the trip!

Feliz viaje!

Table of contents:

45 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Cordoba