The Best Nightspots in Córdoba, Spain

Indie and rock fans and lovers of retro culture in general won’t want to miss a night out at Long Rock in Córdoba. Its main draw is a packed events calendar focusing on pop and rock from the 80s and 90s, which can be enjoyed in a quirkily decorated interior: there’s half a Cadillac attached to the ceiling and the walls are plastered with classic album covers. Drink prices are reasonable and bar staff are friendly and fast.

Another popular spot for live music, especially jazz, Café Málaga is a great place to come for a chilled cocktail in the wee hours. A small stage is set into one corner of a spacious, pubby interior which quickly fills up with locals at the weekends. Most cocktails are around €6 (USD$7) – a little on the pricey side for Córdoba, but given the quality of the live acts, it’s money well spent.

Located on the northern outskirts of the old town, En-Canto Copas is said by many locals to do the best night of karaoke in Córdoba. If you do want to strut your stuff, though, arrive early and put your name on the list; otherwise, you’ll be in for a long wait to take the stage. Trendy lighting, super-friendly staff and well-priced copas also make it a great nightspot in general.

Bar Amapola enjoys a premium location in Córdoba’s buzzing riverside district, just a few metres from the banks of the Guadalquivir. It offers tasty cocktails, a great mix of music (there are often live concerts at the weekends) and a slightly alternative ambience until 4am every night (except Sunday). It’s also popular for late afternoon coffee and cake, with customers raving about the homemade tarts.

Góngora Gran Café is a club for the true night owl, never shutting its doors before 6am. As well as a varied range of cocktails (priced about €7 (USD$8.10)), this popular club also stages an evening of monologues every Wednesday, for which entry is free. The rest of the time it’s €8 (USD$9.30) to get in, but it’s worth it for the sleek, contemporary interior, the hedonistic ambience and the quality music.

Situated in the heart of Córdoba’s beautiful old town, Jazz Café attracts a bohemian, arty crowd, especially on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, when jam sessions play out on the small stage. The cosy interior has loads of character, with saxophones hanging off the walls and old pub signs everywhere, and the bar does a good selection of beers as well as all the standard copas.

Glace’s barman José is something of legend amongst locals, known for producing imaginative and delicious flavour combinations not found elsewhere in the city. The quasi space-age interior of Glace is the perfect setting to enjoy his creations into the small hours of the morning, and there’s also a romantic outside terrace for hot summer nights. A must-visit if you’re serious about your your cócteles.