Where to watch the sunset in Córdoba

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Córdoba is one of the jewels of southern Spain, a fascinating city in Andalusia, filled with top attractions and beautiful architecture. It’s a great place to visit for a day or two, which is made easy with a car hire near Malaga airport. Cities always look their best at sunset, so in this guide, we have included some of the best places to watch the sunset in Córdoba. From old bridges to historic towers, there are plenty of beautiful spots to choose from.

Alcázar of Córdoba

The Alcázar of Córdoba is a must-visit when in the beautiful city of Córdoba, being a fascinating medieval castle and palace. Its full name translates as the ‘Castle of the Christian Monarchs’, as it was one of the primary residences of Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, two hugely important figures in Spanish history.

Built in 1328 on the site of earlier structures, the Alcázar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s not just a place to uncover history, however, as this grand location in Córdoba’s historic centre is one of the city’s best spots at sunset. The gardens look more magnificent than ever at this time of day, but if you climb up to the Tower of the Lions, you can witness panoramic city views draped in tranquil light from the setting sun.

Linda and David, from the travel blog, Retired and Travelling, visited the Alcázar, and they spoke to us about the experience: “We learned a lot about the history of Cordoba wandering around the Alcázar in Cordoba. The history was reflected in the varied architecture. Don’t miss a climb to the top of the Lion Tower for a panoramic view of the city and the fascinating Alcázar layout from above.

“The Alcázar is still being excavated, so each visit can show you something different. The gardens were a lovely spot to wander and relax in the heat of Cordoba. Reflecting ponds, statues and topiary were found as we wandered in the colourful, fragrant gardens.”

The Roman Bridge of Córdoba

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Built in the 1^st century BC over the Guadalquivir River, the Roman Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in the city. Constructed by the Romans, with later Islamic additions, not only is this famous old bridge a place of history, but it’s also one of the best places in Córdoba to watch the sunset. When the sun sets over the Roman Bridge, pedestrians are treated to a spectacular scene, with the orange sky reflected in the water.

Whether on the bridge or looking at it, the picture painted at sunset won’t disappoint. The Roman Bridge, also known as Puente Romano, has been visited by Krista from the travel blog Krista the Explorer, and she talked to us about what she loves about this spot:

“The Roman Bridge in Cordoba will most likely be one of the first attractions that you’ll come across as you make your way into the old town and was one of my favourite places to visit in the city – other than the Mezquita and the fortress. During the day, you can expect the bridge to be very busy, and you’ll often find musicians along it, playing a variety of tunes which helps to add to the charm of the bridge.

“It’s a beautiful bridge to walk over, but it’s even more breathtaking at sunset when you can gaze across the river with the Roman bridge and Cordoba’s old town as the backdrop. There’s a reason that it was used for a Game of Thrones filming location, and it really is a must-see during any trip to Cordoba.” 

READ ALSO: Interesting facts about Cordoba

Calleja de las Flores

Córdoba is a beautiful city, but one of its most lovely spots is Calleja de las Flores. This is one of the most popular tourist locations in the city, being a unique narrow street passageway with arches and wonderful flowerpots on the sides of houses. It leads right up to the world-famous Mezquita-Catedral, so make sure you approach from this direction for the most romantic views.

It’s the perfect place to be at sunset, with the light streaking in through the narrow gap in the roofs and the Mezquita glowing in the background. Of course, you should take a stroll down Calleja de las Flores at any time of day, but if you can time it for the evening, its magic is only amplified.

Jackie, from the travel blog Jou Jou Travels, has visited this enchanting spot herself and shared her thoughts with us: “Calle De Las Flores is one of Cordoba’s most picturesque streets. The street name translates to ‘alley of the flowers.’ I absolutely loved strolling through the narrow-whitewashed pathway filled with potted flower plants perfectly lining the pathway. The wonderful Mosque-Cathedral (one of the most important landmarks in the city) can be seen perched in the background, and capturing this moment at sunset is a must. This spot can be rather busy with tourists, so my pro tip is to go early or catch it on a less busy day before the sunsets.”

Mezquita Bell Tower

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The Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba is world-famous, thanks to its unique history and stunning architecture. This former mosque turned Cathedral has to be seen to be believed, featuring the best examples of both Muslim and Catholic design.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Spain’s major historic monuments, built back in A.D 785. The Mezquita’s historic Bell Tower is one of the most popular visitor attractions; standing 54 metres tall, it is the highest point in the city.

As a result, the Bell Tower is the perfect place to enjoy views over Córdoba at sunset. For visitors happy to make the short climb up a flight of stairs, the tower affords a great glimpse of the Cathedral complex, portico, and old city district, made all the more beautiful amid the sunset glow.

READ ALSO: What to see and do in Córdoba

Las Ermitas

A mountainous escape awaits those seeking the best sunset views of Cordoba and the surrounding area. Las Ermitas, or ‘The Hermitages’ in English, is a special location just outside the city, nestled high in the Sierra Morena mountains. This holy location is a place of retreat and peace for a community of monks amid the cypress trees, including a spectacular viewpoint to admire the city of Córdoba.

Heading to Las Ermitas at sunset is one of the most peaceful and breathtaking things to do when in the area, with the quite incredible viewpoint presided over by a monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. When paired with a gorgeous Andalucian sunset, a visit to this historic hermit’s retreat is something you won’t forget.

READ ALSO: The advantages of renting a car in Andalusia

The best places to watch the sunset in Córdoba, Spain

– The Roman Bridge of Córdoba

– Alcázar of Córdoba

– Calleja de las Flores

– Mezquita Bell Tower

– Las Ermitas

Andalucia is home to so many amazing locations, and Córdoba is certainly among them. If you are heading to this incredible area of Spain soon, visiting the above locations is a must, especially at sunset. If you want to visit Córdoba on a day trip from the Costa del Sol, you can book a hire car from our Malaga airport location.

For more tips, guides, and advice, visit our blog.