Madrid and Cordoba train trip

Route

This 5-day train journey connects two iconic Spanish cities. You begin with two nights in Madrid, where royal squares, the Prado Museum and lively neighbourhoods blend effortlessly. You then travel by high-speed train to Córdoba for two nights of Moorish architecture, charming patios and a visit to the impressive Mezquita.

Pace

Two nights in Madrid, two nights in Córdoba. No rental car, no daily hotel changes. You travel comfortably by train and explore both cities on foot and by bike.

Highlights

Private tour of the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor, the Prado with a Dutch-speaking guide, tapas tour in Chueca and Malasaña, high-speed train to Andalusia, the Mezquita of Córdoba, flower-filled patios, wine tasting and optional hammam experience.

Accommodation

Four nights divided between two carefully selected Caractère hotels in the heart of each city.

Profile

Ideal for culture lovers who wish to combine art, history and gastronomy in a comfortable train journey without the need for a rental car.

Day 1: Flight to Madrid

You arrive at Madrid airport where a transfer takes you to your Caractère hotel for a two-night stay, located in the heart of the city with a cosy terrace. After check-in, you head straight into the city. A three-hour private tour with a local guide introduces you to Madrid in your own language. You visit the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol while discovering hidden gems and stories that reveal the city’s authentic character.

Day 2: Madrid

Your day begins at the famous Prado Museum. During a two-hour visit with an English-speaking guide, you discover highlights including works by Botticelli, Raphael and Rembrandt. When hunger strikes, you continue to Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid’s iconic food hall. In the afternoon, you explore the city by bike with a guide and experience Madrid from a different perspective.

Day 3: Madrid – Córdoba

Today you taste the authentic flavours of Madrid on a gastronomic tour through the lively districts of Chueca and Malasaña, known for their tapas bars. You stop several times to sample local delicacies. In the afternoon, you board the high-speed train to Córdoba. In just 1 hour and 45 minutes, you arrive in this magnificent city where you stay two nights in a Caractère hotel. The day ends with a wine tasting near your hotel.

Day 4: Córdoba

Time to explore beautiful Córdoba. On a private bike tour with an English-speaking guide, you cycle past the main highlights and admire several flower-filled patios. You then visit the impressive Mezquita, the true highlight of your stay. If you wish, you can unwind in the oldest hammam in the city — the perfect way to conclude your journey.

Day 5: Return home

Your journey comes to an end. You fly home from Málaga airport. Prefer to stay a little longer? We are happy to arrange an extension in one of our Caractère hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Madrid and Córdoba train journey

Is a rental car necessary?

No. Transfers and the high-speed train connect Madrid and Córdoba. In both cities, everything can easily be explored on foot or by bike.

When is the best time to travel?

March to June and September to November are ideal. Pleasant temperatures for city walks, cycling tours and terraces. July and August can be very hot, especially in Córdoba.

What makes this journey different from a self-drive tour in Spain?

You focus on two cities instead of moving every day. More time for the Prado, the Mezquita, tapas and a hammam. The train connects both cities quickly and comfortably, without driving stress.