How to Experience the Cordoba Patios Festival (Fiesta de los Patios de Cordoba)

The city of Cordoba explodes into bloom for the Cordoba Patios Festival (Fiesta de los Patios de Cordoba), a celebration of local architecture, flowers, and flamenco that’s recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Heritage. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

When to Go

The Cordoba Patios Festival is held during the first two weeks of May, when the participating houses are open for visits every day during set hours; Each day of the festival also brings both free and ticketed musical performances, shows, and expositions, but Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays tend to offer the most scheduled events.

Where to Go

Festival organizers publish an online map of all the open patios, but with dozens of options it can be hard to know where to start. Patio tours offer a curated experience and hand-picked destinations, so you’re sure to see the festival highlights. Tours range from 90-minute introductions to half-day trips, leaving you plenty of free time. Because most of the patios are equipped with access ramps, the festival is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, and Cordoba’s accessibility office is available to answer questions about getting around. 

How to Go

Though traffic can get snarled during the most popular events, many of the patios are located in walkable neighborhoods, so exploring on foot is a great alternative to driving. A bike tours can be an appealing way to see even more of the city than you could on a walking tour, or you can get a different perspective entirely by climbing to some of Cordoba’s rooftop terraces; the hidden spots feature great views across the city.