Top reasons to visit Cordoba in Andalusia

Known for its Moorish architecture, Córdoba has got plenty of wonderful monuments and places to see, such as the Mezquita-Catedral, which is both amazing from the outside and from the inside. On top of that, it has a vastly intrigueing history, having been both church and mosque over the centuries, depending on who was controlling the city. For that reason, it is a unique site that simultaneously features Christian elements such as an altar and choir stall, and Islamic art, with its intricate archways. You should also visit the impressive Roman ruins, such as the Roman bridge and the Roman Temple. The city has nothing to envy to Seville and Granada, thanks to the gorgeous medieval palace of Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos. And if you just want to stroll around in a relaxing way, make sure to take the time to walk through the old town, which features Unesco-protected quarters, and is the largest one in the country. Besides, you will find plenty of cute cobblestone streets, and the Calleja de las Flores, which is very popular both with tourists and locals alike.

You might not assume it at first, but Córdoba is an amazing city for foodies, with plenty of traditional recipes originating from the city. Try for instance the salmorejo, which is similar to a gazpacho, but with garlic and breadcrumbs being added to the tomato sauce and olive oil, as well as cured ham and a boiled egg. Besides, you can also try the flamenquin, which is a deep-fried croquette with ham, pork loin and cheese, as well as the rabo de toro, an oxtail stew. But don’t miss out either on the salchichon de pozo blanco, which is a sausage, and the morcilla, a blood sausage, as well as the calamares fritos

From traditional tapas to modern bars, Córdoba offers a wonderful nightlife which will give you the occasion to go bar-hopping all night long. Bar Santos, which is just opposite the Mezquita-Catedral, is for instance very famous for its delicious tortilla, while Bar Santa Marina will give you a traditional feel with its bullfighting photos, and you will find plenty of modern places in Calle San Fernando, also including tapas bars and restaurants. But if you wish to party into the wee hours of the morning, do not worry as there are plenty of options as well, such as the Bombo Club, the Sala Metropolis, which hosts famous Spanish musicians and DJs, as well as artists from all over the world. Places such as the O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub, the Sojo Ribera and the Cafe Malaga also close between 3am and 4am depending on the night.

If there are plenty of popular ferias in different countries, particularly in the south of France and in Spain, the feria in Córdoba definitely is one you should not miss. Called the Feria de los Patios and running through the whole month of May, it offers plenty of interesting attractions and events, such as processions, the Crosses of May with flowery crosses showing up all around the city, the Feria de Córdoba, which is a whole week dedicated to flamenco, and plenty of other events including bullfighting, eating and drinking, in the famous Spanish style that we all love.

Being in the south of Spain, the city of Córdoba has got the reputation of being the hottest city in the country, making it very hot during the summer, with temperatures easily reaching up to 40C. For that reason, the best time to visit is probably spring or autumn, where the temperatures remain at an enjoyable 25 degrees. But no matter the time you pick to visit, make sure to bring some sunscreen as you will definitely get the chance to work on your tan.

But for the perfect trip, you will need to get the perfect place to stay as well, and there will be plenty of choices for you to choose from. From the comfortable and beautiful Casa Turística San Agustín which is close to the center and features a great garden, terrace and patio, to the classy Soho Boutique Córdoba with its piscine, bar, fitness center and restaurant, you are bound to find an amazing place to fit all your needs.