Cordoba

Friday, midday

Check into the Tyrp Cordoba (doubles from £62, www.melia.com), just on the edge of the packed streets around the Mezquita complex.

1pm

Cordoba was once the epicentre of Moorish Spain and at its heart was the lavish district around the Mezquita. The grand mosque was converted to a cathedral after the end of Moorish rule, but lashings of Moorish colour and style still ripple through this deeply dramatic oasis.

4pm

Don’t miss the walk across the Puente Romano just below the cathedral ramparts, which opens up the finest views of the Mezquita, once home to the world’s largest mosque.

5pm

Crossing back over the bridge, duck right and explore the Ribera quarter, where a sprinkling of cafes and bars are attracting people to the riverside.

8pm

Creative tapas with some nods to the city’s Moorish roots spice things up at Bodegas Mezquita (www. bodegasmezquita.com).

Saturday, 9am

Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to wander around the chocolate box pretty old town.

Midday

That Coward quote about Englishmen surely applies to Scottish people too so eschew the steaming streets (temperatures even in autumn can hit 40C) and recline in an old school tapas bar. At Taberna la Bodega (www.tabernalabodega.com) their jamon bellota is spot on as is their fino sherry.

4pm

Cordoba is renowned for the quality of produce conjured up by its famous craftspeople. Get the real deal in charming surrounds at the wee shops laid around a courtyard at Zoco (Calle Jud’os).

8pm

Arguably the finest Michelin starred restaurant in Andalusia is handily found in Cordoba. The highlight at Choco (www.restaurantechoco.es) is the local produce driven tasting menu.

Sunday, 9am

Cordoba is renowned as Spain’s hottest city so cool off at the hotel’s outdoor pool. ■

Robin Mckelvie

Easyjet fly to Seville (www.easyjet.com) from Edinburgh with returns

from £124.22. A car is the best way to get to Cordoba. Holiday Autos can arrange hire (www.holidayautos.com).