8 Best Tours in Córdoba

Take the plunge and join a guided tour of Cordoba to discover the most enigmatic and fascinating side of the city with an expert guide. You'll be amazed!
8 Best Tours in Córdoba

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More about: 8 Best Tours in Córdoba

Córdoba is a charming city. Strolling through its old town is a delight, as it boasts an endless wealth of monuments. However, for a newcomer, it can be overwhelming, as it is one of the largest in Europe. Having the help of a local guide will make it easier for you to discover the city and see its fascinating history from a different perspective. Are you up for this adventure?

1. Guided tour of the Patios of Córdoba

Roman Bridge illuminated at sunset| ©Herbert Frank
Roman Bridge illuminated at sunset| ©Herbert Frank

If you visit Córdoba in spring or simply want to discover one of its most emblematic corners, a tour of the Patios of Córdoba is an unmissable experience. During the tour, you will stroll through courtyards filled with flowers, fountains and unique architectural details, while learning about this tradition recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Accompanied by an expert guide, you will discover the history and best-kept secrets of these courtyards, many of which are located in old stately homes. You will also be able to take photographs in some of the most picturesque spots in the old town.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £15 per person.
  • Duration: 1.5 hours.
  • Times: morning and afternoon.
  • What the tour includes: specialised guide, access to several private courtyards, explanation of local history and culture.

Book a guided tour of the Patios of Cordoba

2. Bicycle tour of Córdoba

Interior columns of the Mosque-Cathedral| ©Andrew Gould
Interior columns of the Mosque-Cathedral| ©Andrew Gould

If you want to explore Córdoba in a comfortable and fun way, a bike tour will allow you to discover its most important monuments while cycling through its charming streets. Accompanied by a local guide, you will visit places such as the Mosque-Cathedral, the Roman Bridge and the Plaza de la Corredera, enjoying a different and sustainable experience.

This tour is perfect for those looking for an alternative to the traditional walking tour, allowing you to see more places in less time. In addition, you will have high-quality bikes and a guide who will explain the history of every corner you visit.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £30 per person.
  • Duration: 2 hours.
  • Times: morning and afternoon.
  • What's included in the tour: bike, helmet, expert guide, stops at the main points of interest.

Book a bike tour of Córdoba

3. Guided tour of Medina Azahara

Medina Azahara| ©manuel m. v.
Medina Azahara| ©manuel m. v.

If you are passionate about Andalusian history and culture, don't miss a guided tour of Medina Azahara, the impressive palace city built in the 10th century by Caliph Abd-ar-Rahman III. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will explore its ancient ruins while learning about the history of this place, which was once one of the most important political and cultural centres of Al-Andalus.

During the tour, you will explore palaces, halls and streets that still retain the splendour of their past. You will also receive detailed explanations about the architecture and significance of each space, taking you back in time to the era of the Caliphate of Cordoba.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £17 per person.
  • Duration: 3 hours.
  • Timetable: morning and afternoon.
  • What's included in the tour: specialised guide, optional transport from Córdoba, entrance to the site.

Book a guided tour of Medina Azahara

4. Guided tour of the Jewish quarter

Jewish Quarter of Córdoba| ©Joan Carles Doria
Jewish Quarter of Córdoba| ©Joan Carles Doria

Discover one of the most historic neighbourhoods in Córdoba with a guided tour of the Jewish Quarter. You will stroll through its cobbled streets while learning about the Jewish community that lived in this area for centuries and their legacy in the city. You will visit iconic monuments such as the Synagogue, Calleja de las Flores and the statue of Maimonides, immersing yourself in the cultural richness of this place.

The guide will tell you details about the coexistence of Jews, Muslims and Christians in medieval Córdoba, as well as interesting facts about the architecture and customs of the time. An ideal tour to discover the historical soul of the city.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £15 per person.
  • Duration: 1.5 hours.
  • Times: mornings and afternoons.
  • What's included in the tour: expert guide, entrance to the synagogue, tour of the most emblematic streets in the neighbourhood.

Book a guided tour of the Jewish Quarter

5. Complete tour of Cordoba

Roman Temple of Córdoba| ©Shadowgate
Roman Temple of Córdoba| ©Shadowgate

If you want to make the most of your visit, a complete tour of Córdoba will allow you to see the city's main monuments in a single day. Accompanied by a professional guide, you will visit iconic places such as the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Jewish Quarter and the Roman Bridge, discovering the history and cultural wealth of the ancient capital of Al-Andalus.

During the tour, you will explore the historic centre and learn about the Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences on the city. This tour is ideal for those who want a complete overview of Córdoba in a single day, with detailed explanations and priority access to some of the most important monuments.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £45 per person.
  • Duration: 4 hours.
  • Schedule: morning and afternoon.
  • What's included in the tour: specialised guide, entrance fees to monuments, tour of the main points of interest.

Book a complete tour of Córdoba

6. Olive oil tasting tour in Córdoba

Cordoba-style salmorejo| ©Javier Lastras
Cordoba-style salmorejo| ©Javier Lastras

Immerse yourself in Andalusian gastronomic culture with an olive oil tasting tour in Córdoba. You will visit a traditional oil mill and discover the production process of the famous liquid gold, from the harvesting of the olives to their pressing and bottling. In addition, you will learn to distinguish the different varieties and qualities of oil with a guided tasting by an expert.

This tour is a unique opportunity to understand the importance of olive oil in the Mediterranean diet and its impact on local cuisine. You can also enjoy a rural setting surrounded by olive groves and purchase artisanal products directly from the producer.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £25 per person.
  • Duration: 2 hours.
  • Timetable: morning and afternoon.
  • What the tour includes: visit to an oil mill, oil tasting, explanation of the production process and tasting of local products.

Book an olive oil tasting tour in Córdoba

7. Guided tour of Cordoba by tuk tuk

Tuk tuk| ©Robert Grounds
Tuk tuk| ©Robert Grounds

Explore Cordoba in a comfortable and original way with a tuk tuk tour, a perfect experience for those who want to see the city without breaking a sweat. On board an electric vehicle, you will visit some of the most emblematic places, such as the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and the Torre de la Calahorra, while a guide tells you about the history and curiosities of the city.

This guided tour is ideal for families, couples or any traveller who prefers a panoramic and relaxed tour. It will also allow you to access narrow streets and less travelled corners, enjoying a different and sustainable experience.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £35 per person.
  • Duration: 1 hour.
  • Schedule: morning, afternoon and evening.
  • What's included in the tour: tuk tuk ride, expert guide, tour of the main tourist attractions.

Book a guided tuk tuk tour of Cordoba

8. Tourist bus tour with stops throughout the city

Inside the bus| ©-JvL-
Inside the bus| ©-JvL-

Discover Córdoba in the most comfortable way with a tourist bus tour, ideal for exploring the city at your own pace. With stops at the main points of interest, such as the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and the Torre de la Calahorra, you can hop on and off as many times as you like during the day.

The City Sightseeing bus has an audio guide in several languages, allowing you to learn about the history and curiosities of the city while enjoying the views from the top of the vehicle. It is a perfect option for those looking for a flexible and complete experience.

Details of interest

  • Price: from £25 per person.
  • Duration: ticket valid for 24 hours.
  • Timetable: departures throughout the day.
  • What's included in the tour: access to the tourist bus, audio guide in several languages, stops at the main monuments.

Book your ticket for the Córdoba tourist bus

Why is a guided tour of Córdoba worth it?

Inner courtyard of the Palacio de Viana| ©Paul VanDerWerf
Inner courtyard of the Palacio de Viana| ©Paul VanDerWerf

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994, the historic centre of Córdoba is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.

Throughout history, different peoples such as the Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, Jews and Christians settled in this land and left their mark, which today constitutes the beautiful historical and artistic heritage of Córdoba.

Strolling through the streets of the old town is a real treat. There is always something amazing to see around every corner, but I admit that it can be a little overwhelming for a first-time visitor. The centre is very large, there is so much to see and you may not know where to start your visit.

That's why I recommend hiring a local guide. From experience, I think it makes all the difference between seeing Córdoba and feeling it. What's more, taking a guided tour of Córdoba makes it easier to discover the city and its secrets. I particularly like the fact that the guides show visitors the city in a different and entertaining way, sharing interesting facts that would probably go unnoticed on a self-guided tour.

Advantages of taking a guided tour of Córdoba

  • You will be accompanied by a local guide who is passionate about the historical and artistic heritage of Cordoba.
  • You won't have to wait in long queues to buy tickets at the ticket office.
  • Direct access to the monuments.
  • You will discover the most iconic tourist attractions in Cordoba, their history and surprising curiosities that will make for a very entertaining day during your stay.

What other places to visit in Cordoba?

Medina Azahara| ©-JvL-
Medina Azahara| ©-JvL-

The old town of Cordoba is one of the largest in Europe and boasts a vast historical and cultural heritage, the result of the mark left here by various peoples over the centuries. It is a place that moves you because you can truly feel the history of the city.

If you are planning a getaway to the Caliphate capital and want to know what other places you cannot miss during your visit, I recommend you take a look at my article on what to see and do in Córdoba. It is one of the most beautiful cities in southern Spain!

Reviews from other travellers

4.6
· 30723 Reviews
  • M
    M. T.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The tour was interesting and eye-opening, but would benefit from including more local stories to enrich the experience.
  • L
    L. A.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    I loved this free tour; I discovered the secrets and legends of Cordoba in a very entertaining way.
  • G
    G. I.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    I loved this walk through Cordoba, I discovered stories I never imagined. It was a unique experience that made me see the city with different eyes.
  • D
    D. W.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    The visit to Cordoba was incredible, the mysteries and legends left me with my mouth open. Super recommended, don't miss it.
  • B
    B. W.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    The experience was enriching and the guide very knowledgeable, but it would be ideal if the tour schedule could be extended to offer more options.