The options compared
| Mode | Time | Indicative price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-speed train (AVE, Avlo, iryo, Ouigo) | 1 h 40 to 1 h 55 | 5 to 130 EUR (average seen: 43 EUR) | Almost everyone |
| Bus | Longer than the train | Check alsa.es | Tight budgets, few useful departures |
| Car | About 4 h for 400 km | Fuel and tolls | Continuing around Andalusia |
Our advice
Book the AVE early: the low fares (5 to 9 EUR seen on low-cost operators) sell out fast, and Renfe's basic fare has no cancellation, while the Estándar and Confort fares allow a free change. There are around twenty Renfe departures a day and about ten with iryo. A day trip is possible; to enjoy the Mezquita and the patios, stay at least one night.
Car: only to continue to Seville or Granada
If you are continuing through Andalusia, compare rental on Discover Cars and check one-way drop-off fees. In the city, much of the old town is pedestrian: park in a car park.
Where to stay in Cordoba
The most practical area is around the Mezquita and the Judería, with everything on foot. Compare hotels in Cordoba on Booking with free cancellation.
Going further
See Madrid's stations for Atocha and day trips from Madrid if you are torn with Toledo.
La rédaction Madrid Authority
