Balcón de Córdoba, Córdoba

Pros

• Set in the historic and picturesque Jewish Quarter, you'll be within walking distance of all Córdoba sites and less than a block from the Mezquita-Catedral.
• The building's history dates back to the 17th century, and the elegant rooms feature original details like wrought-iron window grills, painted shutters, and carved doors.
• You can sip a glass of local wine on the rooftop with views over the Mezquita-Catedral, then head downstairs to dinner at the on-site restaurant.
• Escape the midday heat in one of the three traditional Andalusian inner courtyards, full of plants, fountains, and shaded seating. 

Cons

• There's no parking on-site (standard for the historic center), but you'll find three public lots within easy walking distance.

Authenticity

Balcón de Córdoba (which translates to "Balcony of Córdoba") occupies a traditional 17th-century Andalusian house that typifies the city's blend of Arabic and Castilian influences. With three inner courtyards, countless balconies, and a rooftop terrace that gives the hotel its name, the overall effect is gloriously peaceful and private. There's rich history to be found throughout, from wrought-iron rejas (window grills) to heavy inlaid doors and intricate tilework, but you can delve even deeper into the past by perusing the collection of over 100 archaeological artifacts unearthed around Córdoba. 

Location

Tucked among the winding streets of Córdoba's Jewish Quarter, the hotel is within easy walking distance from most city landmarks. You'll be less than a block from the Mezquita-Catedral and its orange tree-filled Patio de los Naranjos, and a 5-minute stroll takes you to the Puerta del Puente and the first-century Roman bridge. You can stroll to the Alcázar or the historic Synagogue in under 10 minutes, and the train station is about 20 minutes away by taxi. There's no parking on-site, but there are three public lots within easy walking distance of the hotel.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The hotel offers just 10 rooms and suites, each with a unique layout and a name inspired by Persian and Roman myths. All incorporate original details like iron rejas and painted shutters, and the furnishings feel plushly understated, with neutral tones and cool tile floors. The ground-floor Pantea is fully accessible for those with limited mobility, Mitra sits behind a 15th-century door and includes a Juliet balcony overlooking the orange tree courtyard, and the Ruzbahan suite is the ultimate romantic bolthole, with a private rooftop with a large daybed and views over the Mezquita-Catedral. Most of the bathrooms are just as elegant as the rooms, with deep bath/shower combos and olive oil-themed amenities.

Amenities

The spectacular roof terrace is a real highlight here, with a bird's-eye view over the Mezquita-Catedral. It's the perfect spot to soak up some sun during the day or sip a glass of tinto de verano and nibble on some tapas at sundown. Downstairs, the on-site restaurant serves elevated Andalusian-inspired dishes and a nice selection of regional wines, with a dining area that spills out under the shade of an orange tree. A generous buffet breakfast spread is included in the rate, and the friendly staff are always eager to help you get the most out of your stay by making sure you're equipped with maps and plenty of local tips.

Family-Friendliness

Families are welcome at Balcón de Córdoba, though the clientele mostly tends toward couples. A few room options will suit families, including Artemisia, which can sleep two adults and two children with an extra sofabed. Cribs are available for infants, and foldaway beds are available for an added fee.