Córdoba the city and capital of the province, lies primarily on the right bank of the Guadalquivir somewhere between Seville & Jaén. But lets not get caught up in the geography, not my strong point. A bus ride of 2 hours 30 mins will get you there, from Malaga. If you’re short on time or don’t fancy the bus journey, the train will get you there in just over an hour but will cost more. Unlike, Seville the bus and train stations sit side by side, so as far as access to the city goes, neither has an advantage.
In Andalucia, June is early summer time. But beware, Córdoba has the highest summer temperature in Spain and Europe. Average high temperatures are around 37 °C (99 °F) in July and August, with June not falling far short. A cool 32 °C was the score on the board – 15 June 2024. Summers are very dry and winters mild with frequent rain. No matter the time of year, the skies are amazing.
Córdoba is the third most populated municipality in Andalusia and it’s a great place to visit. Like most Spanish cities it blends the old with the new. It’s home to stunning examples of Moorish architecture. Such as the renowned Mezquita. named as a Unesco World Heritage site in 1984 and now a cathedral.
Why did I go in June Noche Blanco Del Flamenco and the slightly less threatening temperatures are 2 reasons, as if I needed any, other than a weekend away. I’ve skimmed the surface with what’s on offer hoping it’s enough to get you out there, exploring!
Landmarks
But let’s start with the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral Monumental Site of Cordoba | Web Oficial – Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba (mezquita-catedraldecordoba.es) and move on to the surrounding monuments. The design is magnificent. You don’t need to know all the in’s and outs to appreciate the beauty and colour. Be amazed by it, just enjoy!
The Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs alcazardelosreyescristianos.cordoba.es Just around the corner and across the road. The fortress, once one of the primary residences of Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon hosts far reaching views and gardens that exude calm, just perfect to wander or sit.
Just walk and enjoy more
There’s a lot to admire in the streets of Córdoba. My advice, take the time to amble through the Jewish Quarter and wander across the Roman Bridge. Stop admire the views and be entertained by the various street performers. The riverside park and walk offers up ideal spots for a picnic. Climb the Calahorra Tower.
Wander through the Santa Marina neighbourhood but don’t pass by the Palacio de Viana. Stop, go in! It’s a personal favourite, more tangible history. Tours of the Palacio itself are guided & timed (in Spanish). A written history is offered in other languages but it’s very visual. With a combo ticket you also get to explore the 12 patios and surrounding gardens at your own pace.
Events in the Annual Calendar
Los Patios de Córdoba usually celebrated around the second or third week of May but check the dates before you go . It’s a unique opportunity to visit many of the private patios in the centro historica as they open their doors to the public during the competition.
Plan your route, as opening times are typically between 11 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon and then 6 till 10 in the evening. There are different categories in the competition. The surrounding architecture as well as the floral displays is taken into consideration when the judging takes place.
La Noche Blanco Del Flamenco
Not just an event but an experience! Depending on you’re staying power could be referred to as ‘pulling an all-nighter’. This years programme included 9 performances in different locations around the city. The audience moves through the streets in giant waves. The entertainment started at 22:30 and went on through the night with last performance starting sometime between 05:00 and 06:00am. This night is a chance to experience the variety that flamenco offers.
Royal Stables of Córdoba-Caballerizas Reale
You can visit throughout the year and you won’t be disappointed. Pasión y Duende del Caballo Andaluz is a spectaular show, performances usually take place in the evening Wednesday to Saturday. Córdoba Ecuestre 🐴 | Flamenco, caballos y pasión (cordobaecuestre.com) But the weekend of the Cabalcor in September is something special. A magnificent display of Andalucian horses and horsemanship. Competitions take place over 3 days in various disciplines. On the Saturday night of ‘Cabalcor’ weekend if you’re lucky enough to get a ticket there’s an extraordinary spectacular showcasing the Pasión but usually with a twist. I’ve been lucky enough to see guest troops perform including visitors from Russia! Check out the website for other special events.
Córdoba’s Cuisine
I love a traditional Spanish breakfast and for that I’d head to ‘Cafeteria Don Pepe‘ but after an all-nighter a good brunch might be in order. I recommend heading to ‘The Club’. The only place I know that takes reservations for breakfast and it’s advisable! Hats off to them for accepting reservations for solo diners!
I discovered this place when it was known as The Breakfast Club and occupied much smaller premises in the centro histórico. They’ve moved. You’ll now find them on the Guadalquivir – Av. Fray Albino,3. It’s a pleasant spot, easy to find but on the opposite side of the river. The food is fabulous and they are not shy when it comes to portion size. But don’t forget to make that reservation! You get you table for 90 minutes so it’s a chilled vibe, definitely not fast food.
Tapas, for the best tortilla in Córdoba, ‘Bar Santos’ is the place. Minute capacity, customers dine standing on the street and expect to queue. Nothing better with a caña (small beer).
There’s an array of bars and restaurants, too many to mention! Explore make a choice: try some ‘Rabo de Toro‘ (Spanish bull tail stew).
Hostel’s & Pensions are a plenty
I’ve stayed in Córdoba on 7 occasions usually in September, choosing to stay in different neighborhoods to get a real feel for the place. All good, all varied. I’ve seen comments about availability and high prices, festival time but there are still good options out there.
This trip, I took a room at ‘Hostel Mayflowers‘. What a find! I was more than happy with my room and it justified the price. Very clean & comfortable. Toni my host, was very helpful, nothing was a bother. An unexpected bonus was the communal kitchen off the traditional central patio. This offers guests a great place to relax and enjoy a tea, coffee or water before or after exploring the city. A quick glimpse, the patio in the picture was private, off my room.
Go make your on discoveries and memories. Don’t forget to look up! Have fun and stay safe! If any info here, has been of use and you had a good experience please share. Happy travelling!