Córdoba’s old town is compact: white lanes, patios and riverside walks around the Mezquita-Cathedral. The high-speed railway station is north of the historic core, so pick the monument side for sightseeing and the station side for a quick rail stop.
The Mezquita-Cathedral and its Patio de los Naranjos sit beside the Judería. From there, narrow streets lead to the synagogue, the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and the Roman Bridge across the Guadalquivir. Stay in this quarter and the main sights are all close on foot. The lanes are busy by day, and driving access is limited.
San Basilio, also called Alcázar Viejo, is known for its flower-filled patios and lies beside the Alcázar. The Fiesta de los Patios takes place in May. Farther east, Plaza de la Corredera and the Axerquía lead toward Santa Marina and the Palacio de Viana, where you can see courtyards all year. Plaza de las Tendillas is the central shopping and meeting point between those districts and the station.
Córdoba is a useful rail stop between Madrid, Seville and Málaga. The train and bus stations stand next to each other; the Mezquita-Cathedral is farther south through the centre. Medina Azahara, the ruined caliphal city, is outside town. You need a bus or a car to get there from a central hotel.
Plan summer days around the heat. July and August average highs near 99 °F at the airport, with little rain. Visit the Mezquita-Cathedral and riverside early, use midday for shade, and check air conditioning in the exact room. Long walks are more comfortable in spring and autumn. The May patio festival brings extra visitors.