Ronda or Cordoba

Would you recommend Ronda or Cordoba?

Honestly, the Mosque/Cathedral in Cordoba is a must-see. Period. I'd choose Cordoba simply for that.

If it’s your first time to Spain and you’re not sure if you’ll get back to that area, my choice would be Córdoba. If for no other reason, to see the Mezquita.

Cordoba because it is a much easier, faster trip from Seville.

Another vote for Cordoba…hands down! The Mezquita is absolutely amazing, the city is lovely, people are welcoming and food is excellent. Ronda is super crowded, touristy and unwelcoming. No comparison.

I’ve stayed at both of them, and I would choose Cordoba. Cordoba has a similar look to Sevilla in my opinion, but it has the Mezquita. Another option by direct train from Sevilla that would give you a different look is Cadiz. We stayed there five nights and would rate it above Ronda and probably tied with Cordoba for your choices.

Thank you for you thoughts!

Cordoba, as others have said. We did enjoy seeing the countryside on the way to Ronda, but that doesn’t compare to the Mezquita.

Haven't been to Cordoba yet but I am in awe with the spectacular landscape of Ronda and the surrounding area. We did the Caminito del Rey walk and it was breathtaking.

Cordoba! In addition to the amazing Mezquita, Cordoba has the Alcazar and its lovely gardens, the Roman Bridge, the Victoria Market, the courtyards of the Palacio de Viana. https://www.palaciodeviana.com/

And walking around the Juderia is lovely, with its narrow lanes, white-washed walls, blue flower pots, and patios. And the Roman Bridge and Mezquita illuminated at night are magical.

Sevilla, Granada, and Cordoba are considered the jewels of Andalusia!

We chose not to visit Ronda, so can't compare them. We spent 3 nights in Cordoba and loved it there. The Mezquita night tour was one of the best things we did in Spain.

I have been to both and would recommend Cordoba. The Mezquita is not to be missed and maybe a chance to see the patios with flowers. Ronda’s big sight is the bridge, maybe the bullring and neither one is comparable to the Mezquita.

Thank you all for your input. We are set to visit Cordoba!

It’s a shame you can’t visit both, as Córdoba and Ronda are quite different from each other. Ronda offers a smaller-scale, more local and peaceful experience — very charming and relaxed. But Córdoba has a much richer historical depth. You’ll see incredible architecture, from Moorish styles to more recent influences, with layers of history everywhere you look. The Jewish Quarter is especially beautiful, and the city has a deep Jewish heritage. I’ve visited both and, personally, I’d choose Córdoba if you’re drawn to culture and historical sites.

We spent time in both cities in the fall of 2023. Both were very interesting and enjoyable, I would pick Cordoba. The Mesquite is not to be missed and there is also much more to do in the city.

Barb,
How was your visit to Córdoba?

I presume your trip took place in June of this year, correct?

Anyway, the following recommendation is for future reference.

Córdoba is a very popular day trip from Sevilla, but if you have the time, consider staying a few days in order to fully experience the magic of this beautiful city.

If you can only visit as a day trip, consider spending an overnight (especially if in route to Madrid, Sevilla, or Granada) instead of just a day trip.

Besides visiting the famous sites, such as The Mezquita/Cathedral, The Royal Alcázar, Viana Palace, the Roman Bridge, etc, etc., consider attending the Córdoba Equestrian Show at the Royal Stables.

Thank you all for your suggestions. We chose to visit Cordoba and loved it.