Panic as tourists abandon beautiful Spanish city leaving streets ‘empty’

One of Spain's most beautiful cities is in the midst of a tourism crisis, according to reports, as hot weather and other issues leave the streets empty and hotels on the brink. In fact, nine hotels have already closed this summer due to declining demand while others continue to struggle.

The recent heatwave has hurt businesses as people in the city are more likely to remain inside rather than venture out onto the streets. However, other longer-term problems like a lack of events and nightlife have also taken their toll.

EuroWeekly, the largest English newspaper in Spain, reports that Cordoba now feels "more abandoned than alive", as the streets are often "empty."

Elena Rizos, president of Aehor, a local hospitality association, told El Dia de Cordoba: “We need more. People walk around the Judería at night and… that’s about it.”

Jesús Guerrero, head of Hostecor, added: “The Cordobese doesn’t go out when it’s 43 degrees. And if they can, they go to the beach.

“There’s heat everywhere in Spain, but other cities give people a reason to stay."

Cordoba has previously been considered one of Spain's more underrated tourist destinations.

It is known for, among other things, its tapas, serene atmosphere, and historial monuments like the iconic Mosque Cathedral.

The building's beautiful red and white arches have become an iconic centrepiece for the city.

In fact, it's so spectacular, the mosque earned UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1984.

Cordoba was also hailed as one of the best places to visit in 2025.

Destination expert Eddi Fiegel visited cites across Spain, and gave Cordoba a solid 8/10 rating.

Speaking to the Telegraph, she said: "If you just visit Córdoba for the day, you will be missing out. You don’t need me to tell you about the extraordinary, monumental Mezquita cathedral, nor the Jewish quarter, which is one of the best preserved in Europe.

"Where the coachloads don’t go, however, is to the courtyard-filled, old silversmiths neighbourhood of Azerquia. If you can, visit in May when there’s a kind of open house event for gardens and patios, so you can admire the bougainvillea and geraniums in all their fuchsia and crimson glory."