Why Córdoba Is Worth the Trip
Located in Andalusia, in the South of Spain, Bilbao was chosen by National Geographic readers as the Best Urban Destination in Spain for 2026.
For centuries, Córdoba has been a point of interest for Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths, Muslims and Christians. You can see that in the mix of architecture and the city’s layout with narrow streets and white washed houses. Grand buildings stand close to palaces and modern statues. Catholic bell towers next to the Muslim Mesquita.
Bodegas Mezquita
We went to Bodegas Mezquita to try the Salmorejo with Jamón Ibérico and egg shavings. A cold tomato cream typical of Córdoba. What we liked about this version was the velvety texture and the high quality of the Jamon.
Another typical tapa for Córdoba is Berenjenas con cana de miel, meaning fried eggplants with cane syrup. These come hot and are so soft and satisfying to eat! It’s a mix we’re not really used to but we ended up loving it!
The decor at Bodegas Mezquita is modern, while keeping an Andalusian feel.
Next, another typical dish for Córdoba, which we shared: the Flamenquin. This is a breaded and fried pork and cured ham roll. It comes here with French fries and Spanish green peppers.
Last, we shared a tapa of Mozarabic meatballs in almond and saffron sauce. Mozarabic refers to the blend of Arabic and Christian cuisines. The sauce is slightly sweet and savoury, perfect for dipping the meatballs and the French fries in. We recommend this place!
Mezquita
Although it’s pretty hot outside, we want to see more of Córdoba. So we do what we like most: we wander around the narrow streets, admiring the exterior of the Mezquita and all its details.
The Mezquita, or the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, is one of the most complex buildings we’ve seen! First, there was a Visigothic church; then the Muslims built the Mosque on top of its ruins, and when the Christian won back the city, they integrated a Catholic cathedral. It’s fascinating!
Where we stayed in Córdoba
We chose a place outside the popular streets, so we can have relaxing walks! But the view from the rooftop terrace is amazing! The place is called Limehome.
Our room was spacious with a comfortable bed, small couch and coffee table, another breakfast table and a desk! It had air conditioning, which was very important, and a small kitchen area. We liked that they left a coffee machine and capsules. It’s a budget stay but we had everything we needed.
The bathroom was clean, with a good-pressure shower. And the internet speed was better than a lot of other stays!
Las Tapas de Casa Pepe
Now that we got some rest, it’s time to go for dinner. It’s great having to walk there and admire the architecture!
We chose Las Tapas de Casa Pepe – a more informal space of the century old restaurant Casa pepe de Juderia.
We got the eggplant with cane syrup, the fried pork ear, and a nice white wine.
The star was Jarrete de cordero – a juicy gelatinous lamb leg with couscous and mint
Morning coffee
The next day we went for breakfast at C Coffee. This is a popular Specialty coffee place with modern decor and friendly staff. We got the croissant and pain au chocolat, besides our usual café con leche and solo largo. We especially liked the coffee here!
The Sights
Close by there are the remains of a Roman temple. It’s amazing to see something last so long!
Next we went to see the Palace of the Marquises of Viana. This is a beautiful building with gardens, fountains, and historic objects. This is not just a museum, since people live here in the private areas. What you see is what the families used during their stay until the ‘80s. The gardens are what make this place special and worth visiting!
Time to see other parts of Córdoba. So we went towards the Plaza de las Tendillas. In the new part of the city, you can see another type of architecture and do some shopping.
We like walking, so we headed back to the Mosque area. You can go see the Roman bridge from there, which gives you an even nicer view of the Mosque-Cathedral.
Then go around the old walls towards the Alcazar to see a different area. While close to the Judería neighborhood, it feels like an undiscovered part of Córdoba. Going back into the historical city from here transforms this experience into a labyrinth-like journey. It’s actually fun!
We walk some more around the narrow streets of Córdoba. It feels like there is so much to discover!
Heading to their main square – Plaza de la Corredera – we see there are some festivities going on, with white decorations hanging from the buildings. We have to venture more and see what this neighbourhood looks like!
A more relaxed feeling, with old churches, small squares and hidden terraces.The kind of places we like to discover during our trips! Besides food!
Head straight from here to the Mosque area on Cardenal Gonzalez street to see more beautiful Andalusian white houses.
Taberna Trasmallo
We started with the Tosta de Tartar Atun Rojo – a red tuna tartar over mayo and toast – since red tuna is typical for Andalusia.
Then we got the Mollete de costilla iberica – a delicious iberian pork rib sandwich on soft bread and a little mayo.
Last, we shared the Oreja frita while resting under the AC. Fried pork ear – made differently here: with hot sauce and pickled peppers.
Taberna Rincon de las Beatillas
Our last stop is Taberna Rincon de las Beatillas – a bullfighting-atmosphere tavern with traditional decor. It seems like locals come here to eat.
First, we get the Alcachofas a la Montillana – soft artichokes with Jamón Ibérico. The sweet and salty flavors work very well! You should get these!
Next, the fried eggplants. They are amazing: the inside is very creamy, almost breaking when you bite into a strip. But the exterior holds up, and it’s crispy. Very interesting!
Last, we shared Rabo de toro – oxtail stew with French fries. This is a must when you come to Córdoba, and especially at a traditional taverna. The meat is so tender, and the sauce is perfect for the French fries!
We’ll definitely come back to this restaurant!
Download the Extended Córdoba Guide
Everything in this article is a starting point. The PDF goes further: more tapas, more restaurants, hidden cultural spots, and a private map with everything marked so you can explore without guessing.
What’s inside:
- More restaurant and tapas recommendations: Classic and modern tapas bars, and top choices for local specialties.
- More city and attraction recommendations: expanded routes beyond what is covered here
- Accommodation picks: curated stays for every budget
- A private interactive map: every recommended spot clearly marked
- Full offline access: download once, use without internet