Cordoba is one of the most charming cities on the Iberian Peninsula. Located in the south of Spain, in Andalusia, it is surrounded by several mountain ranges. Known for its Arabic influences and as one of the locales of the adventures of Don Quixote, it’s an essential stop on any tour of this part of the country. Cordoba Central railway station is an important transport hub in the region and a major stop on the Madrid-Seville route, with many services operated by Renfe. The train to Cordoba from Madrid is an incredibly quick journey, with direct services taking approximately 1h40mins.
Visiting Cordoba
After catching the train to Cordoba, a walking tour is needed to see the best of the city. From the train station, visitors are not far from the Iglesia de San Lorenzo and the Palacio de Viana (both are within a 30-minute walk). Another of the most iconic attractions of the city is the courtyards that are known as the Patios de Cordoba, which can be found after an 8-minute stroll from the palace. Wandering through the streets here, visitors are treated to an eclectic assortment of houses, which are adorned with flowers of all colours and varieties. The old town district is filled to the brim with beautiful buildings, gorgeous gardens and pretty patios at every turn. Visitors have the best pick of local cuisine here too, with pickled whitebait, ham, and pork rolled fritters offering a delicious way to recharge the batteries. The Mezquita-Catedral is another essential site to see in Cordoba. Built centuries ago and finished in traditional Andalusian style, this cathedral boasts stunning columns constructed from marble and features incredible levels of ornate detail.
The Arab baths and local synagogue are located close by and are both highly recommended tourist attractions that provide popular photo opportunities. Heading away from these spots, a 6-minute walk leads to the Puente Romano, another eye-catching landmark. This bridge comes alive at night with unique lighting displays. Finally, heading south from the city centre, visitors will find the Parque Cruz Conde and the local zoo. This is an ideal choice for those travelling with children. The Jardín Botánico de Córdoba (the city’s botanical garden) is located on the banks of the Guadalquivir and is an exceptional place to relax for a few hours, getting lost in the stunning scenery and floral displays.