Cordoba is a fascinating city in northern Spain. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it’s brimming with ancient history and culture. In fact, the entire city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s just waiting to be explored.
You’ll struggle to find a city in Spain more perfect for Instagram. The patios are overflowing with flowers, the streets are lined with incredible Roman, medieval and Moorish architecture, and the people are always smiling.
And the best part? Cordoba is a city that’s meant to be discovered on foot. While there is great public transport and infrastructure for those who prefer not to walk, the labyrinthine streets are simply ideal for getting lost in.
So plan your visit to Cordoba and see what all the fuss is about for yourself. Are you looking for the best Cordoba accommodation or where to stay in Cordoba for families? We’ve got the lowdown.
Wondering where to stay in Cordoba? Here are our top two recommendations for the very best hotel and hostel to stay in this ancient yet modern city:
Photo: Ana Pereira
Traditional loft with charm | Best Airbnb in Cordoba
For your first stay in Cordoba, we highly recommend checking out this Airbnb. The beautiful interior design is traditional, yet stylish and makes you feel like you’re at home. The location is amazing too, only minutes from the mosque, right in the middle of the historic centre. Definitely, a great place to live in.
Option Be Cordoba Hostel | Best Hostel in Cordoba
One of the leading design hostels in the world, Option Be Cordoba Hostel is one of the best places in Cordoba to stay because it’s the only hostel in the city with a rooftop pool! Freebies include free breakfast, Wi-Fi, towels, and sangria each evening. Choose from shared dorms and private en-suite rooms.
Córdoba Cool La Estación | Best Hotel in Cordoba
Perfect for couples and families, this two-bedroom apartment is hands down one of the best places to stay in Cordoba. Sleeping up to five people, it offers a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, and access to a seasonal rooftop pool. Other perks include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a washing machine.
Juderia
Juderia is hands down the best neighborhood to stay in Cordoba for those with an interest in architecture and history. This neighborhood is where the Jewish community first settled in Cordoba back in the 10th century, and their influence dates back to Roman times.
Cordoba Train Station
Wondering where to stay in Cordoba on a budget? The area around the Ave Renfe Cordoba Train Station is one of the most affordable areas in the city.
Downtown Cordoba
Trying to decide where to stay in Cordoba for nightlife? The Downtown Cordoba district is your best bet. This vibrant town center is filled with modern streets, beautiful sidewalk cafes, restaurants, bars, craft beer pubs, and nightclubs.
San Basilio
If you’re looking for one of the coolest places to stay in Cordoba, pick a spot in San Basilio – also known as Alcazar Viejo – or one of the beautiful suburbs along the riverfront.
Vial Norte
Vial Norte is one of the best places to stay in Cordoba for families. Why? Well, it has plenty of beautiful green city parks, botanical gardens, and castles to explore.
Cordoba’s neighborhoods are picture-perfect, like something out of a fairy-tale. If you don’t believe us, consider this: the city hosts a competition each year to see who has the prettiest patio, balcony or courtyard.
Homes and outdoor spaces are decorated with colorful flowers, grapevines, trickling fountains, and gorgeous décor from sculptures to mosaics. Everything is photogenic in this city.
There’s so much to do in Cordoba, from foodie adventures to family-friendly activities. If you’re wondering where to stay in Cordoba for one night, we’d suggest Juderia – the Jewish Quarter for a real look into the city’s age-old history and culture.
If you’re looking for the best neighborhood in Cordoba to stay in for nightlife, then Downtown Cordoba with its great bars, pubs, and nightclubs is for you.
The coolest quarter for Instagram views is San Basilio with its award-winning flower-filled patios. Budget travelers can find cheap accommodation around the train station.
Top 5 Cordoba Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a closer look at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Cordoba, Spain. Whether you’re wondering where to stay in Cordoba for one night or a few weeks, each district is a little different to the last, so be sure to check out which is right for you!
#1 Juderia (The Jewish Quarter) – Where to Stay in Cordoba for Your First Time
Juderia is hands down the best neighborhood to stay in Cordoba for those with an interest in architecture and history. This neighborhood is where the Jewish community first settled in Cordoba back in the 10th century, and their influence dates back to Roman times.
If you only have one night or day in Cordoba, Juderia is where you want to be. There’s so much history and culture to be found by wandering the streets of the Jewish Quarter. But it’s not just history, there are plenty of modern attractions too – tapas bars, restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
Set on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, this charming part of the city has a network of interesting alleyways to explore. The best part about staying in the Jewish Quarter is being able to step out of your hotel, which will very likely be a historic building or a boutique lodge, and walk to the Mezquita, the Mosque-Cathedral of the city.
While there are many hotels all over this part of the city, there are only a few for backpackers or budget travelers. As one of the most popular neighborhoods in Cordoba, you should expect to pay a little more when you stay here.
Traditional loft with charm | Best Airbnb in Juderia
For your first stay in Cordoba, we highly recommend checking out this Airbnb. The beautiful interior design is traditional, yet stylish and makes you feel like you’re at home. The location is amazing too, only minutes from the mosque, right in the middle of the historic centre. Definitely, a great place to live in.
Hacienda Posada de Vallina | Best Hotel in Juderia
Set right beside the famous Mezquita Cathedral in the Jewish Quarter, this 3-star hotel offers a choice of twin and double rooms with free Wi-Fi, an en-suite bathroom, and private patio. Facilities include an indoor courtyard and an affordable buffet breakfast. You’ll love the traditional Andalusian architecture!
Eurostars Maimonides | Best Hotel in Juderia
This 3-star hotel faces the Cordoba Grand Mosque in the heart of the historic Jewish Quarter. Rooms come with marble flooring, free Wi-Fi, and a patio – some with mosque views. Facilities include an Andalusian courtyard with a fountain, secure on-site parking, and an on-site restaurant.
Option Be Cordoba Hostel | Best Hostel in Juderia
Option Be Cordoba Hostel is one of the leading design hostels in the world – and the only one in the city with a rooftop pool! Just five minutes’ walk from the Mezquita of Cordoba, it offers free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a free towel, and free sangria each evening. Choose from shared dorms and private en-suites.
Things to See and Do in Juderia
- Take a stroll to the Mezquita, Cordoba’s famous mosque-cathedral. The Islamic architecture is incredible!
- Visit Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos (Castle of the Christian Kings) and gardens set within the ruins of a Moorish fort
- Explore the Historic Center
- Admire the Viana Palace, a gorgeous Renaissance palace with 12 flower-filled patios
- Discover the 14th-century synagogue, now a National Monument
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI#2 Cordoba Train Station – Where to Stay in Cordoba on a Budget
Wondering where to stay in Cordoba on a budget? The area around the Ave Renfe Cordoba Train Station is one of the most affordable areas in the city.
You’ll find all sorts of budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and B&Bs here. Bear in mind that while most of the Cordoba accommodation around the train station is no-frills, they do all the basics really well. Just don’t expect to find a One&Only here.
The district around the train station is one of the best areas to stay in Cordoba if you’re looking to save some cash. There are a few attractions within walking distance, such as the Merced Palace and gardens and Malmuerta Tower.
Plus, because of its location right by the train station, it’s also convenient and affordable for getting around the city and beyond.
Affordable private room | Best Airbnb in Cordoba Train Station
This room might be a bit further from the centre (roughly a 15min walk) but it’s very affordable. Kitchen, bathroom and living area are shared with the hosts. Previous guests loved their stay and the incredible hospitality – they felt properly taken care of. The train station and bus stops are just moments away.
Station Cordoba Apartment | Best Hostel in Cordoba Train Station
One of the best value places to stay in Cordoba, this air-conditioned apartment offers one bedroom, a living room with a sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and a bathroom with shower. Cordoba Mosque, Costasol Plaza, Merced Palace, and the train station are all within easy reach.
Lofts Cordoba Estacion | Best Hotel in Cordoba Train Station
Enjoy a choice of great value apartments close to the train station, Merced Palace, and Cordoba Mosque. These two-bedroom apartments sleep from two to eight people each. Guests can look forward to perks such as free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a living room with a sofa, and a well-equipped kitchen.
Apartamento Centro | Best Hotel in Cordoba Train Station
Take advantage of this six-sleeper apartment with free private parking in Cordoba. Inside, you’ll find three bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a dining area. Added luxuries include a washing machine, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Popular landmarks such as Merced Palace and the Cordoba Mosque are all nearby.
Things to See and Do in Cordoba Train Station
- Walk to see the Merced Palace, now home to Cordoba’s provincial government
- See the Torre de la Malmuerta watchtower, once part of a 1400s medieval fortress
- Explore the Roman mausoleum
- Take a day trip to Seville, approximately 45 minutes away by train
#3 Downtown Cordoba – Best Places to Stay in Cordoba for Nightlife
Trying to decide where to stay in Cordoba for nightlife? The Downtown Cordoba district is your best bet. This vibrant town center is filled with modern streets, beautiful sidewalk cafes, restaurants, bars, craft beer pubs, and nightclubs.
Plaza de las Tendillas is one of the best areas to stay in Cordoba. Start your evenings off sampling craft beer in the sunshine before heading out to one of the live music venues or night clubs later on. You’ll never be bored here!
And while this area certainly has no shortage of nightlife venues, it’s also a popular shopping destination during the day – one of the best places for retail therapy. For those wishing to discover the city’s history, the Jewish Quarter is just a few blocks away.
Comfy flat in the best area | Best Airbnb in Downtown Cordoba
Super bright, comfortable and free coffee – now if this doesn’t convince you, we don’t know what will. This Airbnb is a great choice for nightlife enthusiasts. Located in the liveliest area of the city, you’ll find cool bars around every corner. The apartment itself is super stylish, with massive windows and has been designed with an eye for detail.
Hotel Boston | Best Hostel in Downtown Cordoba
Choose affordability with a great location at Hotel Boston, located in Plaza de las Tendillas between the historic city center and the bus and rail stations. Guests staying here can enjoy free WI-Fi, air-conditioning, 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and an on-site restaurant. The Mezquita is just 400 meters away!
H10 Palacio Colomera | Best Hotel in Downtown Cordoba
This 4-star hotel offers a garden, terrace and outdoor pool in Plaza de las Tendillas. Twin or double rooms come with a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries, and city views. A great breakfast is available each morning. Hotspots nearby include the Roman Temple, Calahorra Tower, and Cordoba Mosque.
Soho Boutique Capuchinos & Spa | Best Hotel in Downtown Cordoba
This 4-star hotel is well placed in the heart of the city. Guests can look forward to facilities like a sun terrace, a bar, car hire facilities, and a spa with hammam, a hot tub, and sauna. Each room (twin, triple, or family) comes with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, and free Wi-Fi.
Things to See and Do in Downtown Cordoba
- See the crucifix of Christ of the Lanterns
- Have a drink at one of the bars and cafes off Plaza de las Tendillas
- Admire the ruins of the Roman Temple
- Listen to live music at Café Malaga
- Admire the beautiful San Miguel Church
- Taste fine local wines at Wineberia
- Visit the bars, antique stores, and markets on Plaza de la Corredera – an enormous 17th-century square previously used for executions
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!#4 San Basilio – The Coolest Place to Stay in Cordoba
If you’re looking for one of the coolest places to stay in Cordoba, pick a spot in San Basilio – also known as Alcazar Viejo – or one of the beautiful suburbs along the riverfront.
The beautiful old neighborhood of San Basilio is one of the most picturesque and Instagram-worthy areas with whitewashed homes and flower-filled patios. It’s also the best area in Cordoba to stay in if you want to experience the Feria de los Patios in May every year – where the locals compete to win the title of the best looking patio.
But it’s not just the well-tended homes that are great to look at. The hotels are often set within some of Cordoba’s oldest buildings. The historic Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos (Castle of the Christian Kings) is one of the district’s best pieces of architecture.
Small charming studio | Best Airbnb in San Basilio
This very cute Airbnb has been recently renovated, so everything that you find inside is brand new, clean and high in quality. The home is cosy and small but has everything you need, from a small patio to a well-equipped kitchen. Close to the main attractions but a bit further in a quiet area, the studio is ideally located as well.
May Flowers Hostel | Best Hostel in San Basilio
May Flowers Hostel is one of the coolest places to stay in Cordoba because of its excellent location in one of Cordoba’s prettiest districts. Perfectly situated for walking, the Mezquita is just five minutes away. Perks include free city maps, free Wi-Fi, towel rental, and bathrooms in every room.
Apartamento Acogedor en los Patios de San Basilio | Best Hotel in San Basilio
This lovely one-bedroom apartment in San Basilio can cater for two to five people. It comes with a balcony, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can look forward to a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering, a washing machine, and a living room with a sofa bed.
Patio Cordobés San Basilio | Best Hotel in San Basilio
This cozy 3-star apartment sleeps two, four or five people in a central location just 900 yards from Cordoba Synagogue. Facilities include one bedroom, a patio, a fully equipped kitchen with a washing machine, and a living area with a sofa. Guests staying here will have access to a flower-filled outdoor area.
Things to See and Do in San Basilio
- Follow the Cordoban Patios route to see the beautiful houses and patios taking part in the famous Feria de los Patios
- Take a stroll along the riverfront and admire the San Rafael Bridge lit up at night
- Visit the nearby Mill of Happiness, now a museum
- Take the kids to Children’s City with its many swings and playgrounds
- Explore the stunning gardens of the Royal Botanical Garden of Cordoba
- Visit the Municipal Park Zoo
#5 Vial Norte – Best Area in Cordoba to Stay in for Families
Vial Norte is one of the best places to stay in Cordoba for families. Why? Well, it has plenty of beautiful green city parks, botanical gardens, and castles to explore.
The hotels here are often a lot more modern and functional – most will include a Continental breakfast in the rate – which is fantastic if you’re wondering where to stay in Cordoba with kids!
Due to its great location close to Downtown Cordoba and the rest of the city’s attractions (the city isn’t that big) and affordable prices, it’s no surprise this neighborhood is so popular for families, students, and budget travelers.
Spacious family apartment | Best Airbnb in Vial Norte
If you’re thinking about travelling to Cordoba with your family, this place might be worth having a look at. 5 people fit into this home easily, which is perfect for bigger families. It’s in a quiet neighborhood but in walking distance to supermarkets, public transport options and restaurants. The host also provides great recommendations for your stay and two bicycles.
Hotel Serrano | Best Hostel in Vial Norte
Wondering where to stay in Cordoba with kids? This family-friendly hotel offers a choice of twin, double or triple rooms, just a 15-minute walk from the old town. Rooms come with air-conditioning, a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and a good daily breakfast included in the rate.
Apart.Centro Jitkey | Best Hotel in Vial Norte
Perfect for families, Apart.Centro Jitkey is a superior apartment with city views, sleeping two, three or four people. Inside you’ll find a bedroom, a living room with a TV, a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private on-site parking. Merced Palace and Viana Palace are within walking distance.
Córdoba Cool La Estación | Best Hotel in Vial Norte
Córdoba Cool La Estación is one of the best places to stay in Cordoba. This two-bedroom apartment caters for up to five people, making it a popular choice for families. Inside you’ll find a full kitchen and two bathrooms. Perks include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a washing machine, and a seasonal rooftop swimming pool.
Things to See and Do in Vial Norte
- Relax around the fountain or explore the gardens of Jardines de la Merced
- Have a bite to eat at the popular La Mar De Gambas Vial Norte restaurant
- Discover the flower-filled gardens and playgrounds inside Jardines de la Victoria
- Have a picnic at La Ciudad de los Ninos – an open playground with slides, castles, a mini-golf course, musical pathways, and water features for kids under 12
- Have dinner at Bodegas Mezquita Céspedes, one of the most family-friendly restaurants in Cordoba
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cordoba
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Cordoba and where to stay.
What To Pack For Cordoba, Spain
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cordoba, Spain
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cordoba, Spain
We hope our Cordoba neighborhood guide has been helpful for planning your Cordoba vacation, whether you’ve been wondering what’s best for families or where to stay in Cordoba for nightlife.
While the top five neighborhoods we mention above are all worth a stay in their own right, we couldn’t finish this post without giving our own two cents.
When it comes to choosing the very best neighborhood in Cordoba to stay in, we’d recommend Juderia (the Jewish Quarter) simple because it offers all of what Cordoba has to offer in once place – historic buildings, beautiful landmarks, and stunning cafes and restaurants.
We hope you have a fantastic time in Cordoba! Have we left anything out? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Spain.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Cordoba.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Spain instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Spain to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Spain.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
