Discover the incredible "Shining City", the archaeological ruins of a Medieval citadel constructed in the first half of the 10th century by Abd-ar-Rahman III, the first Umayyad Caliph of Cordoba.
Traveller photos
Medina Azahara Guided Tour Itinerary
Begin your tour of the Medina Azahara meeting in the centre of Cordoba for your short bus journey up to the remains of the fortress, located just 5 miles (8 km) from the city. Abandoned and looted just 80 years after construction, and buried over time, the former capital of al-Andalus was discovered at the end of the 19th century. Spreading across 276 acres (112 hectares), it is one of the largest archaeological sites in Spain.
On arrival at the ruined palace-city, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the Medina Azahara, exploring the ten per cent of the site that has been uncovered while your guide reveals the secrets hidden in the fortress. Limestone walls with intricate arabesque carvings, golden ceilings and pools of mercury made the Medina Azahara a magnificent palace complex that was as popular with the princes, artists and philosophers of the time as it was important politically.
Travel back in time to the 10th century and see how the Caliph of Cordoba lived as you wander through the different parts of the ancient fortified city, admiring the splendour of its mosques, towers, servants' quarters, bath complexes and aristocratic residences.
After exploring the archaeological site, you'll have the opportunity for a brief rest before you visit the Medina Azahara Museum to discover the remains of the palace-city up close and learn more about the fascinating site. At the end of your visit, you'll return to Cordoba by bus.
Tour without transport
If you have access to your own vehicle and prefer to reach the Medina Azahara at your own pace, you can reserve this activity without transfers. If you book the tour without transport, please be ready and waiting at the Medina Azahara car park at 10:30 am.
Important information
In the case that the Medina Azahara Museum is closed, you'll watch a short film about the archaeological site instead of visiting the museum.
Covid-19 Measures
All of our providers comply with local legislation and applicable health recommendations regarding protection and safety, to help avoid the spread of Covid-19. Specifically, the provider of this tour will apply the following measures:
- Tours or activities will not consist of more than 15 people per group.
- A safe distance of one metre between clients will be maintained whenever possible.
- The use of masks is obligatory. The client must bring their own mask.
- Alcohol gel will be available before, during, and after the service.
- All those running the service (guide, driver etc...) will wear a mask throughout its duration.
- All those running the service (guide, driver etc...) will wear gloves throughout its duration.
- Disinfected radio units will be provided, and headphones will be single-use.
- Handing out of printed material such as maps or brochures will be avoided.
- The temperature and wellness of all those taking part in the service will be monitored daily, excluding and maintaining in quarantine any who display fever or symptoms.
- The temperature of all attendees will be taken, and admission will be denied to those with a temperature of more than 37 degrees Celsius (99 Fahrenheit), and a full refund applied.
- The transport used will be disinfected before and after each service and deep-cleaned every 24 hours.
- The capacity of all means of transport will be reduced to 50% of their maximum capacity.
- At monuments, museums and attractions, the maximum permitted capacity will be a 50% of the total maximum capacity.
- Showing your voucher on your phone will be enough, and it is not necessary to print anything.
- Alcoholic drinks are not available.
Price
More Information
Duration
3 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in english.
Included
Official English speaking guide.
Entrance to the Medina Azahara.
Transport from Cordoba by bus (optional).
Shuttle bus service from the Reception Centre to the archaeological site.
When to book?
Bookings are permitted up until 18 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book as soon as possible to guarantee availability.
Digital voucher
Show the voucher on your phone to take part in the activity.
Accessibility
No, not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Pet-friendly?
No.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
Meeting point
Glorieta de la Cruz Roja (in front of Hotel Eurostars Palace).
