Thing To Do In Cordoba-Granada,Spain
Things To Do In Cordoba-Granada, Spain: you will need a few days to visit.
These two alluring cities boast diverse attractions and historical sites that will captivate you. Cordoba is famed for its magnificent Mosque-Cathedral, one of Spain’s top attractions, and the picturesque Jewish Quarter, a network of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and lively patios.
In contrast, Granada is famous for the magnificent Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks. Moreover, the city’s Albayzin neighbourhood is perfect for exploring the city’s Moorish past.
Moreover, both cities boast diverse experiences, from delightful culinary adventures to trendy cafes and exceptional shopping opportunities. Whether your passion is history, architecture, culture, or food, Cordoba and Granada promises to surpass your expectations and create lasting memories.
Cordoba
El Zoco in Jewish Quarter
We stumbled across El Zoco while walking in the Jewish Quarter. The city’s Jewish Quarter is north and west of the Grand Mosque, and it retains the street plan it had as a ghetto hundreds of years ago.
The little alley leads into the courtyard—it’s worth a look. El Zoco is small but very interesting.
Many artisans both display and create their works in this place. Other studios had more leather goods, such as ceramics, tiles, jewelry and accessories, silver, and bags, from fans to leather.
I love the geraniums and wall-flowers on the white patio. In the 21st century, it’s quite a posh part of the city, home to the Calleja de las Flores (little street of flowers), and true to its name, it’s fragrant and colourful at any time of year.
The other reason to stop here is the traditional patio-style courtyard. Cordoba is famous for its patios. The arched passageways of the upper balcony levels are wrapped around all four sides of the cobbled courtyard.
There’s a garden pond, and the whitewashed walls are covered in blue hanging pots of flowers with splashes of geranium colour.
Plaza de la Corredera
After walking through Córdoba’s exotic ruins and the old city, here’s a reminder that you’re still in Spain.
In some ways, this plaza reminded me of the Plaza Mayor in Madrid. It’s a vast rectangular space surrounded by four-story buildings.
The square is bordered on all four sides at ground level by a series of uniform arches, covered galleries, or faded red and yellow arcades.
This quadrangular enclosed square is one of Andalusia’s most significant and unusual for this region. Beneath the beautiful arcades, you’ll find various dining options, from tapas to bars and cafés, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and a delicious lunch.
A few market stalls sold antique-like odds and ends and fun straw bags.
For many years, the city’s bullfights were held here, and then it was the site of the city’s food market. Now, it’s a lovely meeting point where cultural events are held.
At one end of the plaza, you’ll find the Vivienda del Corregidor (Chief Magistrate’s House), a structure that has seen many transformations over the centuries. Built in the 1580s, the basement was once a prison until 1821. It was then sold and became a hat factory, a unique historical twist. We strolled through at lunchtime on a weekday; it was a bustling scene.
Roman Bridge/Calahorra Tower
Walking down one of those little streets, you will find the bridge and the tower. It’s close to Los Reyes Christiano, but because we left the same way we came in, we did not know it was so close!! We found that out the next day.
The panoramas are postcard-worthy, whether you’re on the south bank viewing the Calahorra Tower and 16 arches with the Great Mosque in the background or making the exciting crossing of the old city.
Crossing the Guadalquivir along this Augustan footbridge is just one of those things every visitor to Córdoba has to do. Although the structure dates back to the 1st century, it is today downright medieval.
This helped earn it a role in Season 5 of the TV show Game of Thrones.
The Tower of La Calahorra rises south of the Roman bridge at the far end of the city center. It was initially an arched gate between two towers.
You can also go on the roof for a spectacular view of the mosque and the city.
Templo Romano: The Ancient Roman Temple
Down one street, I was amazed to see these Roman columns. Especially after nightfall, visitors are overwhelmed by their natural beauty when the illuminated columns appear in warm colours.
The ruins of the former Roman Temple are, apart from the Roman Bridge, the most considerable heritage of the Roman culture that influenced the entire region two thousand years ago.
More To Do In Cordoba
The Old Town Of Córdoba sat Inside The Wall.
We were happy that we stayed within the walls of Cordoba. When we visited Granada for a day, we travelled daily and visited the major sights. Being inside the walls put us within easy walking distance of the sights of the old town.
Instead of planning long days with multiple stops, we casually visited the sights individually. We saw a lot in the old town of Córdoba even though we did not see everything! Some days, we visited the major tourist sites; other days, we visited spots many people missed on day trips.
It is easy to lose yourself there—in a good way! Córdoba is one of the largest old towns in Europe, and UNESCO protects it. This city is famed for its patios and large interior courtyards.
The Bull Museum
Touring around the south of Spain, we had many Andalusian experiences. The central courtyard welcomed us with a bull statue and a matador’s head.
These sites offer a blend of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences.
**Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba (Mosque-Cathedral) A stunning example of Moorish architecture with a Renaissance cathedral built inside.
**Palacio de Viana**
A palace with twelve beautifully decorated courtyards and gardens.
**Medina Azahara**
Ruins of a vast, ancient palace city built by the Moors.
Accessible paths and a shuttle service from the visitor center.
**Museo Arqueológico de Córdoba**
An archaeological museum with artifacts from Córdoba’s rich history.
**Casa Andalusí**
A small museum depicting life in Córdoba during the Moorish period.
Granada
We took a one-day trip by train to Granada. It is quite a long walk from the train station to downtown, so time yourself if you have to take the train back.
The Alhambra, a sight to behold, was on my must-see list. Despite not purchasing the ticket online the day before, we explored the exterior and its surroundings. The sheer beauty and enormity of the place left us in awe. We took the scenic route up to the lower entrance, passing the Puerta de las Granada’s (Gate of Pomegranates), a magnificent triumphal arch. Only its colossal outer walls, towers, and ramparts remain, a testament to its grandeur.
As we ascended, we strolled along a narrow street lined with quaint shops. However, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment as each shop seemed to mirror the next, all bearing the same Moroccan style.
Granada, a city in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, nestled at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is a treasure trove of unique medieval architecture.
The Alhambra, a prime example, is a testament to the city’s rich history, dating back to the Moorish occupation.
This sprawling hilltop fortress, the Alhambra, is a sight to behold. It boasts royal palaces, serene patios, reflecting pools from the Nasrid dynasty, and the fountains and orchards of the Generalife gardens.
Each element is a testament to the grandeur of the Moorish dynasty that once occupied this space.
Good To Know
**Before you head to Granada, get online and book your Alhambra tickets with your Mastercard credit card on the Spanish Ticketmaster site. This will avoid the lines and ensure your spot at this World Heritage site.
**Shopping in Cordoba for clothes is good, reasonably priced, and fashionable.
**It will be heaven if you are a shoe lover like my sisters.
**Take a map and discover Cordoba. Everything is so close, and there is so much to see that you can get a bit dizzy, lol…
**Take your time to visit; going to Cordoba in 1-2 days is impossible.
**Many sights in the old town of Córdoba had an admission fee.
** Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
**Wear comfortable shoes and take breaks in cafes or shaded areas.
** Carry water and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
**Discover all the little streets—a photographer’s little secret.
Hotel
We discovered this quaint hotel nestled in a peaceful area near the historical center. The San Miguel Hotel provides a comfortable and tidy lodging choice. The hotel provides free WiFi and air conditioning for added convenience.
Though breakfast is not included, there are many dining options in close proximity. The hotel exudes a welcoming and cozy ambiance, with rooms that overlook a charming patio.
It boasts an excellent location, just a short distance from the town square and major tourist attractions. Close to all the animities.
The front desk staff were friendly and helpful, and they accommodated our late arrival without any issues.
At night, guests are required to leave their keys at the front desk and will be accessed upon their return.
additional cost. Read the disclosure
So many beautiful photos! Spain is on my list for the fall and I’m trying to decide where to go!
I love Spain,Cordoba,Barcelona and Madrid are my favorite for the moment. I git more places to visit this year.Fall or spring is good to visit,not so hot lol.
Cordoba is such a beautiful city, often so overlooked by travellers to Andalucia. When I was living in the South of Spain I often went to Cordoba for short breaks. The patios are so unique, especially when the city opens its doors during the Fiesta de Los Patios.
Right now ,I am thinking going to stay for one year in Spain. I love it there :O)
I really enjoyed La Mezquita in Cordoba. Wandering the city at night was magical for me.
Cordoba is one of my favorite cities! The history and the flowers are incredible – you captured it perfectly with your photos! I never made it to Granada though, so I hope I can return to do a day trip as you mentioned.