Córdoba , Spain

Guided tour of Medina Azahara

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About this experience

Visiting Medina Azahara is like entering a labyrinth of emotions. Let yourself be carried away by the history and beauty of a place that was the scene of political intrigues, lavish receptions and moments of great cultural splendour.

To discover the secrets hidden in Medina Azahara, there is nothing better than touring it with a tour guide. A professional passionate about history who will open the doors to this fascinating enclave and help you understand its meaning and importance.

Available options

Guided tour of Medina Azahara

What's included

Face-to-face guide in Spanish

If the group exceeds 10 people, they will be provided with radio guides and headphones.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit Medina Azahara with an official tour guide and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this palatine city, built in 936 by the first caliph of Al-Andalus Abderramán III and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The visit to Medina Azahara is divided into three parts.

1. REGISTRATION: The first step is to enter the Visitor Centre to check in. Once you have done so, you will go to the museum that houses the most significant pieces found in the excavations of the site.
2. SITE: The second step is to visit the Site, the place where the Shining City was. There we will discover what happened to it (depopulation, ruins and looting). Of the 112 hectares that were buried, only 10% has been excavated today.
3. AUDIOVISUAL: And the last step will be to enter an auditorium to watch a short film. It is a 3D recreation of what the city was like and it is great to complete the visit.

What's not included

If you go by car you have to park in the Parking and take a shuttle bus that costs €3.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you don't have a car, you have to buy a bus ticket from Medina Azahara, which leaves Cordoba at 10:00 a.m. It costs €10 per person round trip and includes the shuttle bus.

Meeting point

The guide will be waiting on the esplanade where the Visitor Centre building is located. Ask for Córdoba Única. It is easy to find us and since we have your phone number, we will call you if we cannot find you.

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.