Looking for an Andalusian getaway full of charm and surprises? Cordoba is the ideal destination! With over two thousand years of history, this fascinating Spanish city transports you between Muslim, Christian and Jewish cultures, in a setting of flower-filled patios, white alleyways and sumptuous monuments. You can already see yourself there, can't you? From the majestic Alcázar to the lively atmosphere of the Judería district, there's something magical about every moment in Cordoba. Let's discover the best things to do in Cordoba in 3 days, with our detailed itinerary.
Day 1: What to do in Cordoba in 3 days? Viana Palace, beautiful squares and Madinat Al-Zahra
It's north of the city center that your discovery of the best things to do in Cordoba in 3 days begins.
You can book this guided bus tour of the city, which will take you to 27 different stops around the city. You can get on and off at your own pace.
Morning: A stroll through downtown Cordoba
Your stroll through downtown Cordoba begins in the neighborhoods of San Andrés-San Pablo, and San Pedro. The Plaza de las Tendillas is a must-see. With its central fountain and a clock that plays flamenco every hour (yes, yes!), the charm is immediate.
Your steps then lead you to the nearby Plaza de la Corredera. Rougher, more popular, it's still very much alive. Its vast, rectangular shape is reminiscent of Castilian squares. And with good reason! Because the Kingdom of Cordoba was once a territorial entity attached to the Crown of Castile, established after the Reconquest and remaining in force until the administrative reorganization of Spain in 1833. Here you'll find colorful arcades, terraces and a nearby covered market.
You then head for the Viana Palacewhich opens its doors at 10 a.m. In this bucolic setting, each of the twelve patios is a flower-filled paradise. Between fragrant gardens, art collections, antique leather goods and a historic library, you can travel back in time with elegance.
Good to know the Palais de Viana is open every day except Monday, from 10am to 7pm. On Sundays, it closes at 3pm (opening hours in May 2025). Take advantage of our partner's special rates by booking your tickets for the gardens and patios of the Palais de Viana here.
Afternoon: Madinat-Al-Zahra
Eight kilometers west of Cordoba, Medina Azahara reveals the remains of a caliphal dream. Built by Abd al-Rahman III in the 10th century, this palatial city was originally intended to embody the power of his fledgling Caliphate. According to legend, it was also dedicated to his favorite, Azahara. A touch of romance in an eminently political project..
Click here to book your guided tour of the Azahara Medina and discover the history of this fascinating site!
The archaeological site is divided into three levels:
- the Royal Alcazar at mid-height,
- the residential quarters below,
- a mosque on the outside.
During your visit, you'll travel through ruins sculpted in red and purple marble, criss-crossed by arches and decorated with astonishingly fine vegetal stucco. Simply sublime! The charm is particularly strong in the Salon Riche, the symbolic heart of the complex, which still radiates thanks to its beautiful volumes and light, once filtered by a mercury basin that would have flooded the room with moving reflections.
Still have a little time left after this must-see visit to Cordoba? Head for the Jardins de la Victoria! They're simply perfect for recharging your batteries in the shade of palm trees, in a place that's 100% romantic.
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Day 2: What to do in Cordoba in 3 days? La Juderia, Cordoba's Jewish quarter
A good day can be devoted to the Juderia during your 3 days in Cordoba.
Morning: Cordoba Mosque-Cathedral and synagogue
It's impossible to visit Cordoba without stopping off at the dazzling Mosque-Cathedral! This masterpiece of Umayyad art, transformed into a cathedral after the Reconquista, is a fascinating fusion of cultures. As soon as you enter, you can't help but be dazzled by the orange patio and its forest ofred and white columns andarches. The visual effect is striking, almost hypnotic!
Just 450 m away on foot is the Cordoba synagogue. Here you find a discreet little jewel, hidden away in the heart of the Judería, but steeped in history. Dating from the 14th century, its construction might lead us to believe that it's an austere edifice. Not so! The finesse of its Mudejar stuccowork and the elegance of its three arches supporting the women's tribune are pure wonder.
Good to know: the synagogue closes at 3pm (and is closed on Mondays). Keep this in mind if you decide to postpone your visit! Also, avoid the wait at the entrance by booking your guided tour of Cordoba's Mosque-Cathedral here .
Afternoon: Julio Romero de Torres Museum, Fine Arts Museum and El Arenal Park
The afternoon begins at the julio Romero de Torres Museumwhich plunges you into the world of the Cordovan painter of the same name. Here you'll discover his emblematic canvases, which reveal a sensual yet melancholy Andalusia.
Stay a little longer to marvel at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed in the former Hôpital de la Charité. With its peaceful patio, it offers a charming setting for admiring masterpieces by Zurbarán, Murillo and Valdés Leal.
To get the most out of your visit, we recommend you book this guided tour of the Jewish Quarter and the Mosque-Cathedral.
Petit Futé Tip: if you plan your 3-day visit to Cordoba in May, you can take part in the Feria de Mayo, in the Parc Al Arenal, on the other side of the Roman Bridge. Traditional songs, dances and music immerse you in the Andalusian atmosphere!
Day 3: What to do in Cordoba in 3 days? Alcázar De Los Reyes Cristianos, Royal Stables and Baños Califales
Total immersion in history on your last day in Cordoba! Be prepared, you're in for a real treat.
Morning: Alcázar De Los Reyes Cristianos and Royal Stables
Your last morning of your 3 days in Cordoba begins at the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos. Flanked by four towers, it impresses from the moment you arrive - and that's only the beginning! This palace-fortress, at the crossroads of Roman, Arab and Christian influences, has seen it all in its "lifetime", from royal residence to seat of the Inquisition. Inside, the enchantment ranges from flower-filled patios to fragrant gardens, where water still flows between pools and canals. You could almost imagine yourself in the heart of a tale from 1001 Nights!
We recommend that you book your ticket for the Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos here in advance , to avoid the wait at the entrance.
From here, just 300 meters away, you'll reach the Royal Stables. Far from the stables as we know them, they are dazzlingly luxurious, with their superb columns giving us the impression of walking through the underground passages of an ancient castle. Founded by Philip II in 1570, the stables give pride of place to the Andalusian horse. The main stable, which the poet Lorca called "the cathedral of the horse", has three naves, brick arches and black-and-white paving. Astonishing!
Good to know: equestrian shows are held here, combining grace, dressage and Andalusian music.
Afternoon: Cordoba Botanical Gardens and Caliphal Baths
Fancy a digestive stroll? Head for the Cordoba Botanical Garden, located south of the Royal Stables. Created in 1997, it combines science, education and a zen-like stroll. A veritable paradise of greenery! There's also a sensory garden designed for the visually impaired, where touch and smell are king! And don't miss the Molino de la Alegría, a former mill turned paleobotanical museum, where you can discover some amazing plant fossils.
Finally, your 3 days in Cordoba come to a gentle close at the Caliphal Baths(Baños Califales), located next to the Botanical Gardens. Built in the 10th century for the Caliph Al-Hakam II, these baths were once reserved for the court and harem, but are now open to all! The tour, inspired by the Roman baths, alternates cold, warm and hot rooms under superb star-pierced vaults. Simply sublime, unmissable, enchanting!
Where to stay in Cordoba for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Cordoba's city center is not very large. You can easily choose from the best accommodation in Cordoba in one of its main districts: San Basilo, La Juderia, San Pedro, San Andres - San Pablo, Campo de la Verdad-Miraflores.
- The perfect compromise
Affordable accommodation, ideally located in the city center, with an impeccable welcome - that's the promise ofHostal Alcázar. The vintage decor, with its superb collection of antique plates hanging on the wall, brings a retro charm to your stay, book here.
- The most bucolic
While the interior ofHostal Los Arcos is fairly simple, the outdoor patio is resolutely romantic! Book your roomhere at this welcoming, well-located and inexpensive establishment in La Juderia.
- The most complete
Hostal, hotel or apartment: make your choice at Le Maestre, with its wide range of services. Elegant yet simple, it's the ideal place to set down your suitcases near the Mosque-Cathedral, right in the heart of the city! Click here to make your reservation.
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With its affordable hotels, Cordoba is an ideal destination for a cheap weekend getaway. Want to see even more after all that driving? Discover the 15 must-sees in Andalusia, including sumptuous Seville. The best time to visit Andalusia is in spring, no later than May, or in autumn, around November, to avoid the heat of southern Spain.
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