Opening Hours: Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
Summer trap: mornings only
From mid-June through mid-September, the Alcázar is open only 8:15 to 13:00 (1pm). The ticket office closes at 12:40. If you are planning an afternoon visit in July or August, the gate will be closed. This is why many summer travellers book guided tours or the €28 evening visit instead — both guarantee a time slot.
Winter hours: longer days, more flexibility
From mid-September through mid-June, the hours are much broader. Tuesday through Friday, 8:15 in the morning until 8pm. Saturday opens at 9:30 and closes at 6pm. Sunday opens at 8:15 and closes at 2:45pm. This gives you much more flexibility to visit at a pace that suits you.
Monday closure: every Monday, year-round
The Alcázar is closed Mondays, without exception, every day of the year. If your Córdoba trip falls on a Monday, plan to visit the Mezquita, walk the Roman Bridge, or explore the neighbourhood instead.
Free entry: two days a year, plus permanent exceptions
Everyone gets free entry on 15 May (San Isidro, a local holiday) and 18 May (International Museum Day). The gate price (€5) does not apply those days. Beyond that, over-65s, children under 14, Córdoba residents, and students with valid ID enter free. But entry is still subject to the same hours and the same closure on Mondays.
How to check before you visit
The official ticket portal is alcazardelosreyescristianos.sacatuentrada.es (Spanish and English). The council updates it weekly. For an immediate answer, call +34 957 42 01 51; someone will answer in Spanish or English and confirm what is open and what times apply.
In summer, arrive between 8:15 and 12:30. In winter, you have much more flexibility. Monday visits are impossible; plan ahead.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Alcázar close for the day?
Mondays, year-round, it is closed all day. Tue–Sun, hours vary: summer (Jun 16–Sep 15) 8:15–13:00; winter (Sep 16–Jun 15) varies by day of week. See the key facts above for the exact winter schedule.
What time does the ticket office close?
At 12:40 in summer (8:15–13:00 day) and 20 minutes before the listed closing time in winter. Last entry is about 20–30 min before closing.
Is the Alcázar open in the afternoons?
Not in summer (Jun 16–Sep 15). Closed after 1pm. In winter (Sep 16–Jun 15), yes: open until 8pm Tue–Fri, 6pm Sat, 2:45pm Sun.
Can I visit on a Monday?
No. The Alcázar is closed every Monday of the year, without exception. Plan another Córdoba activity for Mondays.
Are there free entry days?
Yes. Everyone gets free entry on 15 May (San Isidro) and 18 May (International Museum Day). Over-65s, children under 14, Córdoba residents, and students are always free.