HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT DAY IN CORDOBA ON THE CAMINO MOZARABE.
The Camino Mozarabe allows you to walk through through some of southern Spain’s most beautiful and lesser-known landscapes, quaint villages, mountains and olive groves.
But few moments on the Camino Mozarabe, are quite as spectacular as the arrival into Cordoba. After long days of walking through olive groves and sleepy villages, the sight of the city’s grand architecture, shady courtyards, and lively streets is a true reward. And that’s not to mention the grandeur of crossing into the city on the old Roman bridge.
If you’re walking the Camino Mozarabe and passing through Cordoba, here’s our guide to making the most of your time – including where to stay, what to see, and where to eat and drink.
Where to Stay in Córdoba
First things first, it’s best to book accommodation in Cordoba in advance. Luck
Cordoba offers a lovely mix of pilgrim-friendly, luxurious, and low-key accommodation – depending on whether you’re looking to treat yourself or keep the spirit of the Camino alive.
If you are after an inexpensive double room – consider Hotel Maestre or Hotel de Los Faroles. There are quite a number of hotels in this area that will work well for walkers.
If your Camino ends in Cordoba, or you want a little luxury to break up the journey – consider staying somewhere like boutique hotel Eurostars Conquistador.
10 Things To Do in Cordoba
It’s tempting to just sit in a leafy courtyard with a cold drink, but Cordoba rewards a little gentle exploration – everything is easily walkable once you’re inside the old town. Especially if you’ve managed to score a rest day in Cordoba, take your time to explore.
1. Marvel at the Mezquita-Catedral
No words can really prepare you for the Mezquita. The endless red-and-white arches, the golden prayer niches, the Gothic cathedral built right in the centre – it’s an astonishing place. We visited just after lunch and were surprised to find there weren’t too many crowds.
When we visited, we didn’t take a tour. There isn’t a huge amount of information within the building, and whilst it is wonderful to gaze at the beautiful surroundings, I would have preferred a bit more info. Skip the line and get a guide with this tour.
Whilst visiting – don’t forget to get a stamp for your Camino credential. Available at the ticket office.
2. Wander the Judería
The old Jewish quarter, with its narrow alleys and whitewashed houses, is perfect for aimless wandering. We loved getting slightly lost and stumbling across tiny squares and hidden courtyards.
3. Visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
A fortress and palace with stunning gardens, pools, and panoramic views from the towers. It’s smaller and quieter than Seville’s Alcázar, and a lovely place to stretch your legs gently after days on the Camino.
You can take a tour of the Alcazar and the Jewish Quarter on this four hour city tour. An easy option if you want to have everything taken care of.
4. Pause at the Puente Romano
Of course, you’ll get to cross this bridge when you arrive to Cordoba. But once you’re all settled in and cleaned up I’d recommend heading back to the beautiful Roman bridge to soak it all in, and maybe see some more pilgrims arriving. It’s also a lovely spot to watch sunset.
5. Cool Off in a Hammam
Treat yourself to a visit to one of Córdoba’s Arab baths. We didn’t get a chance to visit, but have experienced similar Hammams in Seville and Malaga before, and highly recommend this for some R&R. Absolute heaven for our aching bodies.
Hammam Al Ándalus is one of the most popular in the city.
6. Discover the Patios de Cordoba
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the annual Patio Festival (usually May), you’ll see Córdoba in full bloom. But even outside festival season, many patios are open for visitors. The Viana Palace is a good place to admire several beautiful examples in one spot. There’s also a collection of patios in the “Ruta de Patio” area – here.
You can organise an inexpensive tour of the patios – get to see the best bits with a guide.
7. Climb the Torre de la Calahorra
At the far end of the Roman bridge, this tower houses a small museum, but the real highlight is the rooftop view back over the bridge and the old city skyline.
8. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Cordoba
A fascinating and compact museum set partly over Roman ruins, with plenty of finds from the city’s many layers of history. Great for a quiet, cooler hour if the heat gets intense.
9. Go for Tapas Near Plaza de la Corredera
By the time you reach Cordoba, you’ll be well versed in Spanish tapas! But Cordoba’s food scene does take things up a notch. Córdoba is one of the best cities in Spain for tapas, and no visit is complete without an evening of hopping between little bars. We loved Taberna El No 10, a relaxed and atmospheric spot near Plaza de la Corredera with excellent traditional dishes.
10. Simply Sit and Watch the World Go By
After all that walking, don’t forget to take a moment just to relax. Grab a cold drink, sink into the smell of jasmine and enjoy the sun on your face.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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