Córdoba is the day trip with the best ratio between what you see and how long it takes. The Mosque-Cathedral is unique in the world, the Jewish Quarter is best on foot and the Roman bridge at sunset rounds off the day. Here's how to plan it depending on where you start.
How to get there
| From | Train | Car | Group tour | Private trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seville | high-speed, about 45 min | 1 h 30 | from €109 · small group by high-speed train | by train: €432 (2) · €668 (4) · by car: from €379 per person |
| Málaga | high-speed, just under 1 h | 1 h 50 | from €35 | €750 (2) · €920 (4) |
| Granada | — | about 2 h | — | €800 (2) · €1,040 (4) |
| Cádiz | — | 2 h 30 | — | from €780 (2) |
Prices on the tour pages at the date of this guide; they may vary by date.
What to see in Córdoba in a day
- Mosque-Cathedral (1 h 30 to 2 h): the forest of columns, the mihrab and the Renaissance cathedral at its centre.
- The Jewish Quarter: Calleja de las Flores, the Synagogue and Plaza de Maimónides.
- The Roman bridge and the Calahorra Tower, best at sunset.
- If there's time: the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs or a patio; in May, the patios festival.
Once in Córdoba: private guided tours
If you arrive on your own and want a guide just for your group: Mosque-Cathedral and Jewish Quarter privately€260 · 5.0 (€260 for 2, €396 for 4, 2 h 30) or the Mosque-Cathedral only€210 · 5.0 (€210 for 2, 1 h 30).
Tips
- From Seville and Málaga, the train beats the car: you arrive in the centre with no parking to find.
- Go into the Mosque early: there are fewer groups first thing.
- In summer Córdoba easily passes 40 °C: visit in the morning and save the evening for the bridge at sunset.
More ideas in day trips from Seville and day trips from Málaga.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get to Córdoba?
From Seville, about 45 minutes by high-speed train; from Málaga, just under 1 hour by high-speed train; from Granada, about 2 hours by car.
What to see in Córdoba in a day?
The Mosque-Cathedral (1 h 30 to 2 h), the Jewish Quarter, the Roman bridge and, if there's time, the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs or a patio.
Is the private trip worth it?
For 4 people it can be: from Seville, the private train trip works out at about €167 per person with tickets and a private tour, versus €109-110 for the group tour.
Do I need to book the Mosque?
It's advisable in high season and in May (patios). Private guided tours include entry.
