Half an hour's drive from Córdoba, Almodóvar Castle rises from a hilltop like something out of another era. This medieval fortress has dominated the Guadalquivir valley since the 8th century, when the Arabs raised the first walls. One of the best-preserved fortresses in Spain — and one of the more recognisable Game of Thrones filming locations.
A fairytale castle... and a TV set
Crenellated towers, dark dungeons, a medieval throne room: everything you imagine in a fortress is here. What hits you first, though, is the view. From the top of the ramparts, the river winds below and olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see. Series fans will recognise Highgarden, the Tyrell stronghold filmed here in 2016. Props from the shoot are displayed inside — costumes, accessories, actor photos. To discover all the filming locations in the region, see our Game of Thrones in Córdoba guide, including the Roman Bridge that served as the backdrop for Volantis.
What the visit covers
The tour is self-guided, with free audioguides in English. You enter through the Arms Courtyard, then climb the towers — nine in total. The dungeons use realistic tableaux to recreate medieval detention conditions. The armoury displays swords from different eras, the hexagonal chapel screens a film on the castle's history, and the throne room takes you back to the time of King Pedro I the Cruel, who held grand banquets here.
The stone staircases are narrow and some passages are dark. It climbs up and down — which is exactly what makes the visit absorbing. Allow an hour and a half for the full circuit.
Theatrical visits and medieval banquets
Weekend visitors can opt for a dramatic tour with actors in costume playing Pedro I, Doña Blanca and other historical figures, narrating intrigues and battles in the rooms where they unfolded. Medieval banquets on certain evenings add a festive touch, with dishes inspired by the Middle Ages.
Combining with other excursions
If you enjoy out-of-town visits, Almodóvar Castle pairs well with the excursion to Medina Azahara, the UNESCO-listed caliphal city 8 km from Córdoba. The two sites together give you a deep dive into the region's medieval history. Back in the city, the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos rounds off the fortresses itinerary with its remarkable gardens.
For a more physically demanding day out, Caminito del Rey is a 7.7 km suspended walkway through the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, about 1 hour 50 minutes south of Córdoba towards Málaga. It's a full-day commitment but widely considered one of the most spectacular outdoor experiences in Andalusia — worth planning around if you're spending three or more days in the region.
Families will enjoy the AquaSierra water park in Villafranca — slides and pools 25 minutes from the castle. A medieval castle in the morning and a water park in the afternoon is a reliable winner for families.
Getting there
The castle is 22 km from Córdoba. By car, allow half an hour. A bus stops at the foot of the hill (line M-250, around €4). On weekdays you can drive to the entrance. At weekends, park below and take the shuttle (€1), or walk the 15 minutes up if you don't mind the climb.
The site is not wheelchair accessible due to the steps, but pushchairs can manage. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially in summer.
