NH Collection Palacio de Córdoba

For a polished, full-service hotel right in the Jewish quarter, the NH Collection Palacio de Córdoba is the practical choice. Previously known as NH Collection Amistad Córdoba, it was renamed and now presents itself as a five-star historic palace hotel. It combines two noble houses, one from the seventeenth century and one from the eighteenth, joined behind the old city walls, and their courtyards, archways and woodwork have been restored to their eighteenth-century appearance. The 89 rooms are comfortable and well equipped, with the reliability of a large international brand. The Tablafina Córdoba restaurant is set in an eighteenth-century Cordoban patio and focuses on local and seasonal products, with classic dishes such as salmorejo, the thick cold tomato soup of the city, and flamenquín, a fried roll of ham and pork. The breakfast buffet is generous, with fruit, artisan breads, cheeses, cold cuts, healthy options and hot dishes made to order. There is a pool and a gym, courtyards with outdoor seating, and on-site indoor parking, which is a rare advantage inside the old town. The Mezquita, the synagogue and the Alcázar are all within a few minutes’ walk.

Location and getting around: the hotel is at Plaza de Maimónides 3, in the heart of the Jewish quarter and part of the UNESCO-listed historic centre. The Maimonides statue and the synagogue are around the corner, the Mezquita is a short walk east through the lanes, and the Alcázar and the Royal Stables are a few minutes south. The hotel is about five minutes’ walk from shops and from the city’s main conference centre, and taxis can reach the hotel for arrivals and departures.

Rooms: rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with the NH Collection standard of good beds and bathrooms; those overlooking the courtyards are quieter than those facing the streets. Ask for a room in the older house if you want more character.

Who it suits: travellers who want five-star comfort and service in the old town, couples, families who appreciate the pool and space, and drivers touring Andalusia, thanks to the indoor parking.

Good to know: on-site parking costs extra per day and cannot be reserved in advance, so arrive with a backup plan in busy periods. Breakfast may or may not be included depending on your rate. The pool is most welcome from late spring to early autumn. Expect higher prices and minimum stays in May.