Cordoba

Cordoba, life and inspiration

Cordoba seduces every single visitor with its breathtaking cities and its exuberant nature, with activities for all tastes, fun-filled fiestas and an exquisite cuisine.

The Mezquita de Córdoba,

a must-see on your trip

The best of the East in the West

You simply cannot miss Western Islam's most important monument and one of the most impressive buildings in the whole world. Its architecture sums up the complete evolution of the Umayyad style in Spain, as well as the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles of Christian buildings. From ancient times, there were temples on this site, used to worship different divinities. In the times of the Visigoths, the basilica of San Vicente was built here, which gave way to the primitive mosque. This outstanding basilica was for a period of time a place of worship for Christians and Muslims, but when the population was mostly Muslim, Abderraman I built the first Alhama Mosque, where you can see Visigoth elements in the first section of Abderraman I. The Gran Mezquita de Córdoba has two distinct areas, the courtyard, where the minaret stands (below the Renaissance tower) and the prayer room. The dramatic red and white columns and arcades inside the mosque are truly jaw-dropping. A must-visit, and even better by night.

Further information

Plan your trip

You can start preparing your trip to Andalusia right now. We've got all the information you need to make your trip perfect.

WHEN TO GO

Andalusia enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year due to its pleasant Mediterranean climate. This region dotted with stunning beaches and unique landscapes boasts a microclimate verging on the tropical, with very mild winters and hot yet very pleasant summers.

If you want to discover Andalusia at the best price, head there in low season. Prices tend to go up on specific dates such as Christmas, Easter, Spanish public holidays and the summer months.

Autumn and winter are the best times of the year to discover the quieter and more authentic side of Andalusia, as well as its excellent cuisine. In spring, you can soak up natural beauty at its prime that will astound you with its contrasts. These seasons are perfect for hiking, cycling, mountaineering, climbing, horse riding, golf, and many other activities.

You can even go cross-country skiing and enjoy the snowy winter of the Andalusian countryside! Awaiting you in the long and hot summer are 249 beaches of all types and colours, unique entertainment options, an amazing holiday environment, water sports, diving, and much more.

Where to stay

Andalusia boasts a huge range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Andalusia WITH CHILDREN

On Andalusia's beautiful coastline, you can choose between spectacular resorts and charming boutique hotels, many of them geared specifically to families and offering all-inclusive or half-board stays. Converted into leisure and relaxation complexes, they boast swimming pools, children's playgrounds, leisure and entertainment programmes, activities throughout the day, etc.

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

For couples and romantic getaways, Andalusia offers many adults-only hotels. At these properties, the atmosphere, food, activities, facilities and services are all geared towards this type of guest. For more intimate stays, Andalusia has a wide range of exclusive villas. With all home comforts, they are designed in the very best taste.

RURAL HOTELS

And to savour the true Andalusian countryside, a paradise chosen for Hollywood blockbusters, there's nothing better than the region's charismatic rural hotels and magnificent restored castles nestled in idyllic surroundings.

Currency and customs

In Spain, the official currency is the euro. As in the rest of the country, credit cards can be used in Andalusia for most payments, especially in tourist areas.

Off the beaten track, some small bars and local shops may only accept cash. Except in very small villages, there's an extensive network of cash machines throughout the region. Keep in mind that banks will charge commission for withdrawing money with cards from other banks.

PHONE NUMBERS FOR CANCELLING BANK CARDS

4 B - VISA Electron - MasterCard - VISA: 0034 902 114 400 / 0034 913 626 200
Servired (VISA - VISA Electron - MasterCard): 0034 902 192 100
American Express: 0034 902 375 637 Red 6000: 0034 915 965 335

Healthcare

TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can take out an insurance policy that covers healthcare during your trip. There are travel insurance policies that cover the cancellation of your trip and theft, as well as medical expenses. Several private healthcare companies provide medical services and private treatment in all provinces of Andalusia.

MEDICAL CARE

To request medical care at any public centre or hospital, you will need your Spanish health card. All towns and villages in Andalusia have medical services. The public healthcare system has hospitals in the main towns and cities, while outpatient care is available throughout the region.

There are also several private medical centres in Andalusia. The Red Cross has first-aid stations in many towns and on beaches. As in the rest of the country, call 112 in the event of an emergency. The call is free and will be answered quickly in 5 languages (Spanish, English, French, German or Arabic). This phone number coordinates all calls to the ambulance service, the fire brigade and the police.