Intentional Wandering in Córdoba, Spain - 24-Hour Travel Guide

Interior of La Mezquita Cathedral

View for Hotel Boston, Plaza de Las Tendillas

Patio of Oranges with La Mezquita Catheral in the background

Overview - Córdoba, one of Spain’s famous medieval cities, had seen its share of Roman governors, Muslim caliphates and Christian kings leaving their trails of culture and history, all waiting to be discovered by the modern visitors. Listed as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, it still maintains the old world charm without being overwhelmingly ‘touristy’. The streets and squares of old Córdoba are best explored on foot, offering visitors with endless awe-inspiring moments, with most attractions in the old city takes between 10 to 20 minutes of delightful walking, I promise!

Breakfast - Chocolate sticks for breakfast!

Nothing beats having ‘Churros Con Chocolate’ (strands of fried dough dipped into thick chocolate drink) at one of the local bakeries to start the day. Córdobans know that they just can’t do without this cheap and fulfilling ‘cereal’ of choice. Should cost you around 2 Euros or 1 Euro, if you crack your best smile early in the morning! Most bakeries are open between 7AM to 10AM.

Had my morning sticks at El Realejo Pan Arenas bakery, on Calle Claudio Marcelo, a 2 minutes walk from my place of stay, Hotel Boston.

Morning - Marvel and contemplate simultaneously at La Mezquita Cathedral

Once you step into the main entrance of La Mezquita Cathedral, rows of fountains and shady orange trees of the Patio of Oranges (Los Patios de los Naranjos) immediately sets the tone of tranquility. The Patio is part of the second largest mosque complex in the world, which was built on top of Roman and Visigoth temples during Muslim rule. While pondering at the marvel of seemingly endless rows of the famed red and white arches inside the prayer hall, I was further awed by the seven imposing side entrances, with each entrance decorated with different, intricate forms of Islamic calligraphy. These people really took their time to do all this!

Quirky entrance names: Look out for the different names (and purposes) of each entrance leading into the Patio of Oranges and get a local to translate them for you!

Lunch - Grab a tasty Andalucian lunch on the go

With so much historical sites to discover at every corner, you know that you have to be on the move. Prep up your excursion with a ‘bocadillo de calamares’ (fried squid sandwich) at any restaurants serving ‘desayuno’ (lunch). Prior to ordering, insist on ‘fresca, por favor’ (fresh, please). You’ll be grabbing another one soon enough!

Try yours at this restaurant: Horno San Luis Cafeteria Pasteleria, Calle Cardinal Gonzalez, just off the southeast corner of the Mezquita Cathedral.

Afternoon - Lose yourself in Córdoban streets and squares

If you happen to catch the smell of flowers while walking, you might be making your way through Calleja de Las Flores. During your meanderings, consider yourself lucky if you are invited by house owners letting you to take a peek of the beautiful inner fountains and courtyards of their houses. Do not fret if you unwittingly let yourself lost in these neighborhoods as friendly Córdobans will guide you back to the Mezquita Cathedral.

Fun neighborhood Plazas to get lost into: Maimonides, Abades, La Concha, Angel Torres, Juda Leví, Agrupacíon de Cofradias, J. Paez, Cardinal Salazar, San Juan, Trinidad, de Señeca.

Dinner - Splurge or be picky at La Bodega Mezquita

Over 40 tapas and 60 local wines, with complete gourmet offerings of sweets, cheeses and tasty sausages, I know that I can’t help but stop by and chill out over relaxed dining after a day on foot. You can’t go wrong at Bodegas Mezquita, tucked in an alleyway called Calle Cespedes, located off the Mezquita Cathedral. Don’t let the prices spook you, go ahead and enjoy this Michelin’s listed restaurant, which is definitely a place to splurge on your last night in Córdoba!

After Dark - Eat and be merry at Plaza de La Corredera

Fine restaurants and bars offering tapas, Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, dot along this huge square. Prices border just a bit on the steep side for a late dinner and local wine. If you need to grab something quick and fulfilling, a meat Kebab and a Pepsi from one of the many Kebab restaurants will easily fit your time and budget.

Sleep - Small means big at Hotel Boston

Hotel Boston's unassuming façade belies its surprisingly moderately priced rooms with excellent facilities. The small hotel is located in front of Plaza de Las Tendillas, one of Córdoba's bustling city squares. As the hotel is tucked midway between the historic center and its new downtown makes it THE best spot for easy access to food, shopping, entertainment and public transport. Indulge in people-watching while gently sipping your ‘café con leche’ (espresso with hot milk) near the square’s large fountain adorned with the statue of Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, a local hero.

What did I get myself? I ordered a cuppa ‘para llevar’ (to go) and enjoyed the view from the comfort of my balcony! Get the best view: Most rooms front the square so don’t forget to book your room with a view!

Tags: History, romans, moors, architecture, Culture