Medieval Córdoba: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
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Medieval Córdoba: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In the early Middle Ages, Córdoba UNESCO-listed historic centre thronged with Muslims, Christians, and Jews. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll follow the same little-changed streets and maze-like alleyways that those three cultures walked in Medieval times.

The tour starts outside the magnificent Mosque-Cathedral‘s bell tower. You‘ll skirt around the walls of the Patio de los Naranjos and pass through Puerta del Puente on your way to Puente Romano.

Along the way, I‘ll tell you about Abd al-Rahman I, the remarkable man who ordered the construction of the Great Mosque. You‘ll also explore the old Jewish quarter‘s labyrinthine streets, and learn about some of the fascinating figures who lived there, including Sephardic rabbi and philosopher, Maimonides, and the Andalusian jurist, Averroes.

By the end of this tour in the beautiful Calleja de las Flores, you‘ll have seen the city‘s highlights and found out about the three communities who lived there in the Middle Ages.

Available options

Medieval Córdoba: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

1

This self-guided audio tour starts by the Cathedral's bell tower, which was originally built as the minaret of the mosque. Entry to the tower is not included in the tour.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

We'll pass by the beautiful mosque-cathedral of Córdoba, one of the great symbols of Spain's rich Islamic heritage. However, entry to the mosque is not included in the tour.

3

We'll peek into the famous Orange Tree Courtyard, where the faithful used to perform their ritual washing before entering the mosque. Entry to the courtyard is free of charge, so you can go in if you want to.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

We'll explore the charming maze of alleyways in the Judería, Cordoba's old Jewish quarter. You'll get a flavour of what the medieval city would have been like.

5

We'll walk around the historic centre of Córdoba, where shops and lively bars and restaurants occupy many of the elegant old buildings. You'll learn how the various cultures who have lived here helped to shape the city you see today.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

We'll pass the Roman Bridge, which in spite of its name wasn't built by the Romans! You'll get great views of the River Guadalquivir and see where the city's port once was.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

We'll skirt around the mighty Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Gothic castle built by Alfonso XI on the site of a former Muslim palace. Entry to the castle is not included in the tour.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

We'll pass by the Caliphal Baths, which as well as being a place to relax and socialise were the venue of some dramatic events. Entry to the baths in not included in the tour.

9
Stop 9 Pass by

We'll pass Córdoba's beautiful old synagogue, which is the best-preserved synagogue in Andalucía. Entry to the synagogue is free for EU citizens.

10

We'll pass by the Casa de Sefarad, a small museum which tells the story of Córdoba's Jewish community in the Middle Ages. Entry to the museum is not included in the tour.

11

We'll pass the lovely Chapel of San Bartolomé, which is one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in Cordoba. Entry to the chapel is not included in the tour.

12

We'll pass the Casa del Guadameci Omeya, which showcases the decorative leatherwork of the artist Ramón García Romero. Entry to the museum is free, but a donation is appreciated.

13

We'll go up to the Casa Arabe, which consists of five beautifully restored houses from the Muslim period. Depending on the time of day, you can go in and explore the patios and some of the rooms.

14
Stop 14 Pass by

We'll end our tour in Calleja de las Flores, one of the most-photographed spots in Córdoba. You'll get a great view of the bell tower where we started our tour and learn about the history of using flowers to decorate the patios and alleyways of Córdoba.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at the Bell Tower of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba on Calle Cardenal Herrero. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Córdoba

Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. The city's iconic Mosque-Cathedral, a testament to its Islamic past, stands as a symbol of its unique blend of cultures. With its charming streets, lively patios, and delicious cuisine, Córdoba offers an unforgettable Andalusian experience.

Top Attractions

Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of Islamic and Christian architecture. The Mosque, originally built in the 8th century, was later converted into a Catholic cathedral.

Historical/Architectural 2-3 hours €11 (general admission)

Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos

This medieval Alcázar, or fortress, was once the residence of Christian kings. It features beautiful gardens, Roman mosaics, and stunning views of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours €4.50 (general admission)

Jewish Quarter (Judería)

The Jewish Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled courtyards. It's a charming area to explore and offers a glimpse into Córdoba's multicultural past.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Roman Bridge

This ancient bridge, originally built by the Romans in the 1st century BC, spans the Guadalquivir River and offers stunning views of the city.

Historical/Architectural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to walk across

Medina Azahara

This ancient palace-city was built in the 10th century by the Caliph of Córdoba. Today, it's an archaeological site with ruins and a museum showcasing its history.

Historical/Archaeological 2-3 hours €5 (general admission)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmorejo

A thick, creamy soup made from tomatoes, bread, garlic, and olive oil, often topped with ham and hard-boiled eggs.

Cold soup Contains gluten and dairy

Berenjenas con miel

Fried eggplant slices drizzled with honey and sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Rabo de toro

A rich stew made with oxtail, red wine, and vegetables, slow-cooked to tender perfection.

Main course Contains beef and alcohol

Flamenquín

A rolled and breaded pork loin stuffed with serrano ham and cheese, then fried or baked.

Main course Contains pork and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Biking through the historic center and along the Guadalquivir River Enjoying a leisurely meal or drink at a rooftop terrace Taking a stroll through the beautiful patios and gardens Visiting the Mosque-Cathedral and other historic sites Exploring the Jewish Quarter and its charming streets Taking a boat ride on the Guadalquivir River Visiting the Medina Azahara archaeological site

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions. The famous Patio Festival takes place in May, showcasing the city's beautiful courtyards.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Córdoba is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's essential to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and insist on the meter being turned on

Getting there

By air
  • Córdoba Airport • 6 km from city center
  • Seville Airport • 140 km from Córdoba
By train

Córdoba Central Station

By bus

Córdoba Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is an affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and well-connected.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Casco Histórico) San Basilio Viana

Day trips

Seville
140 km • Half day to full day

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. It's home to the iconic Alcázar of Seville, the Seville Cathedral, and the beautiful Plaza de España.

Granada
200 km • Full day

Granada, a city in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is famous for its stunning Alhambra palace and fortress complex, as well as its vibrant tapas culture and Moorish history.

Ronda
100 km • Full day

Ronda, a picturesque town in the mountains of Andalusia, is known for its dramatic cliff-top location, historic bullring, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Festivals

Patio Festival (Festival de los Patios) • Mid-May Feria de Córdoba (Córdoba Fair) • Early May Cruces de Mayo (May Crosses) • May 3

Pro tips

  • Visit the Mosque-Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Explore the Jewish Quarter on a Sunday morning when the streets are less crowded, and the atmosphere is peaceful.
  • Try salmorejo, a local specialty, at a traditional tapas bar for an authentic taste of Córdoba.
  • Attend a flamenco show at a local tablao for an intimate and cultural experience.
  • Take a day trip to the Medina Azahara archaeological site to discover the city's rich history and stunning views.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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