Córdoba: Your City-Centre Escape

Cetina Casa de Aguilar: your boutique base for exploring Córdoba on foot

Step out onto Calle Barroso and, within a couple of minutes, you're among the flowerpots of the Calleja de las Flores. That's how days begin at Cetina Casa de Aguilar, a boutique hotel in the heart of Córdoba's historic quarter.

In the morning, the buffet breakfast, with gluten-free options, sets you up for a stroll through the Jewish Quarter, and the Mosque-Cathedral is about a five-minute walk away. If you're arriving by car, the 24-hour supervised Parking Sevilla is just a few metres from the door.

When the afternoon heat kicks in, the terrace with sun loungers and a parasol is waiting for a break between visits. At night, you choose from the pillow menu, so it's no surprise guests rave about how well they sleep.

Few hotels put the Mosque a stroll away with such a personal touch. Book your getaway and enjoy Córdoba at your own pace.

Córdoba is one of those cities that seem to slow time down. Set on the banks of the Guadalquivir in the heart of Andalusia, it weaves together Roman roots, the splendour of Al-Andalus and centuries of Christian tradition, all within a compact old town that's a joy to explore on foot. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can feel it on every corner.

It's a wonderful choice for couples looking for a romantic cultural break and for families who want history that's easy to walk and full of stories. Spring is especially magical, when the city's famous patios burst into flower.

Make sure you visit:

Begin at the Mezquita-Catedral, the city's unmissable icon. Step inside and you'll find yourself in a forest of red-and-white striped arches, with a Renaissance cathedral rising right in the middle. Go early in the morning to enjoy it at its calmest.

From there, it's a short stroll to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, whose terraced gardens of fountains, orange trees and pools are perfect for a slow wander. Then lose yourself in the Judería, the old Jewish quarter, where whitewashed lanes lead to the Synagogue and the photogenic Calleja de las Flores.

As the sun goes down, cross the Puente Romano towards the Torre de la Calahorra and turn back for the classic view of the Mezquita glowing over the river. Save time, too, for the Palacio de Viana, a noble mansion with twelve patios that sums up the Cordoban love of flowers and fountains.

Family-friendly activities:

Córdoba is easy to enjoy with children, as the old town is compact and full of surprises. Climb the Torre de la Calahorra, home to a museum about life in Al-Andalus, and enjoy the views over the Roman bridge.

Later, head to the Caballerizas Reales, the royal stables next to the Alcázar, where equestrian shows celebrate the Andalusian horse. In May, a walk through the decorated patios during the Patios Festival turns into a colourful treasure hunt that children love.

Local delicacies you have to try:

Food in Córdoba is honest and generous. Start with a bowl of salmorejo, the city's thick, creamy cold tomato soup topped with ham and egg, perfect on warm days. Order a flamenquín, a crispy rolled cutlet of pork and ham, and, if you're feeling hungry, a slow-cooked rabo de toro (oxtail stew).

For a budget-friendly classic, grab a wedge of the giant potato omelette at Bar Santos and eat it by the walls of the Mezquita. For something more special, book a table at La Cuchara de San Lorenzo, awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide. Pair everything with a glass of Montilla-Moriles wine and finish with a slice of pastel cordobés.

Make the most of your visit:

Córdoba is a great base for discovering the province, from caliphal ruins to white villages perched in the hills. These are our favourite day trips:

• Medina Azahara (20 minutes): the remains of a 10th-century palace-city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Almodóvar del Río (30 minutes): a striking medieval castle overlooking the Guadalquivir.
• Zuheros (1 hour): a white village clinging to the rocks of the Sierras Subbéticas.
• Priego de Córdoba (1 hour): baroque churches, flower-filled lanes and the famous Fuente del Rey.