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15 Must-Visit Attractions in Zaragoza, Spain

Zaragoza lies in the northeast of Spain, around halfway between Barcelona and Madrid. It’s the capital of the region of Aragón and is Spain’s fifth-largest city. One of the most underrated cities in the country, it’s filled with a wealth of historical architecture and museums, from old Roman theatres to Moorish fortresses. Here’s our pick of the 15 must-visit attractions in Zaragoza.

1. caesaraugusta forum museum.

Archaeological site, Museum

The Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta explores the history of the heart of the old Roman city of Caesaraugusta, which once stood where Zaragoza stands today. The ancient city is believed to have been founded in the year 14 BC and is the only Roman city to have featured the full name of the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus. The museum forms part of the Route of Caesaraugusta, which also includes the Public Baths Museum and the Caesaraugusta Theatre Museum .

2. Palacio de la Aljafería

3. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

5. Caesaraugusta Theater Museum

Archaeological site

6. Zaragoza Museum

Building, Museum

7. Museo Pablo Gargallo

8. Goya Museum

9. Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza

The Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza, more commonly known simply as La Seo, was built on the site of the temple of the Roman forum, a Visigoth church and a Muslim mosque, and features elements of all these styles and more. These include Mudéjar, gothic, Renaissance, baroque and neoclassical. La Seo was finally completed in the 16th and 17th centuries with the addition of a elegant baroque tower and a classical doorway. Head inside to see the beautiful altarpieces, including the main altarpiece, which dates back to the 15th century.

10. Museo de las Termas Públicas De Caesaraugusta

The Museum of the Public Baths of Caesaraugusta sits between the Forum Museum and the Caesaraugusta Theatre Museum, and was part of the ancient Roman city which once stood here. The public baths are thought to date back to the 1st century BC, and visitors can still see remains of structures such as latrines and pools. Inside the museum, guests are taken on an audiovisual tour of the baths to see what they used to look like and to find out all about the hot and cold pools, steam room, sauna, massage room and gymnasium. The museum also displays some of the original old marble tiles that were once in use around the pools.

11. Zaragoza Central Market

12. School Origami Museum of Zaragoza

Museum, School

13. Alma Mater Museum

Church, Museum

14. Puente de Piedra

15. Sala de Exposiciones La Lonja

Art Gallery, Building

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18 Things to Do in Zaragoza, Spain

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: September 18, 2023

There are so many amazing things to do in Zaragoza, Spain, you’ll no doubt want to extend your trip after just a few days.

Zaragoza, sometimes spelled Saragossa in English, is a beautiful city in northeastern Spain. If you are looking for a slightly off-the-beaten-path city in Spain that hasn’t become a huge part of the tourist trail of Spain just yet, Zaragoza is that city.

I added Zaragoza to my recent Spain itinerary as a way to break up my journey from Barcelona to Bilbao, and I am so glad that I did. This city surprised me so much.

It is far less visited than many other places in Spain, but it’s a shame because Zaragoza has Roman ruins, incredible cathedrals, and some of the best tapas bars outside of Madrid.

You can easily spend 2-3 days in Zaragoza, but if you are pressed for time, it’s still possible to do it on a day trip from Barcelona .

Where is Zaragoza Spain

Zaragoza, Spain is the capital of the Aragon region of northeastern Spain. It is the fifth largest city in Spain by population, but the center of the city where many of the Zaragoza attractions are located is easily walkable.

It is located about 300km or 186 miles from Barcelona. You can take a fast train from Barcelona-Sants to Zaragoza train station and arrive in about an hour and a half.

The close proximity by train, makes it an easy day trip or addition to the end of a trip to Barcelona for a day or two, without much trouble getting back to Barcelona to head to the airport.

If you are spending a few days in Madrid , you can also easily reach Zaragoza from here. It is located about 320 km or just under 200 miles from central Madrid and can be reached via fast train in only an hour and 15 minutes.

You don’t want to miss visiting the Catedral de Salvador.

Is Zaragoza Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, yes!

In my humble opinion, Zaragoza has one of the best food scenes in Spain and the history and museums are world-class.

There are so many amazing things to do in Zaragoza, but especially if you are a foodie or a history buff.

This isn’t the city for you if you prefer Spanish beach towns like Malaga or Alicante . This is more of a city break if you loved what you saw in places like Seville or Granada.

Zaragoza is also one of the most affordable cities that I have been to in Spain. When comparing tourist attractions in other cities like Barcelona, Seville, or Madrid, Zaragoza is a fraction of the cost, with some places even having free entrance in Zaragoza.

Food prices at tapas bars are also significantly lower when compared to tourist spots around Malaga, Marbella, Seville, or Barcelona.

Best Things to do in Zaragoza, Spain

If you want to know what to do in Zaragoza, don’t miss out on these exciting excursions.

The Aljafería Palace is one of the best things to do in Zaragoza.

1. Palacio de la Aljafería

Palacio de la Aljafería or the Aljafería Palace is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Zaragoza.

The palace was originally built in the 11th century during the Islamic occupation. At the time it was named Qasr Al-surur, or Palace of Joy. As time passed and the palace came into different uses, a prison tower and more fortified walls were built.

The palace is now home to the Aragon Parliament, but you can visit it every day of the week for €5. Due to the fact that it is a government building, you need to pre-book your tickets online which you can do here .

With your ticket you can simply explore the palace at your own pace, however, several times a day you can take a free tour in English or Spanish. Check the website as the times change depending on the season.

I highly recommend timing your visit with one of the tours so that you can learn more about the history of this incredible building. Once you finish the tour, you can go back into the palace and explore it at a slower pace and take as many photos as you would like.

2. Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

The Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar or the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, simply referred to as el Pilar, is one of the most exquisite things to see in Zaragoza.

It is believed that the location on which the basilica was built is where Mary appeared to St. James (Santiago in Spanish) with a pillar of jasper. She instructed him to build a church here in her honor. That very pillar of Jasper is now housed inside the church and people travel from around the world on pilgrimage to the site.

The jasper is housed in an ornate silver case which is almost entirely covered except for the 2nd, 12th, and 20th of every month when you can come to mass and see it. It is topped with a sculpture of Mary holding the baby Jesus.

It’s free to visit the inside of the church, but if you want to climb up to the top of the bell tower, Torre de San Francisco de Borja, then you pay €5 per person. The views from the top of the tower are some of the best in the city.

The tower has an elevator, so you don’t have to climb all the way to the top. You don’t need to pre-book your tickets, however, if you want to you can do so on their website . If you plan to visit several other religious sites like the Cathedral of Salvador, then getting the combination ticket will save you some money.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Pillar is one of the most breathtaking buildings in Zaragoza.

3. Catedral del Savador

The Cathedral of Salvador, also simply called La Seo, is one of the most fascinating things to do in Zaragoza if you want to learn more about the history of the city.

Your entry ticket includes an audio guide which you can put into several different languages. The guide gives so much detail about the history of the church, of the Mudejar architecture, about the dramas that took place in the city when things were trying to be built, and more.

The location of the Cathedral is actually where the original Roman Forum of the city used to be. You can still visit it beneath the cathedral with a nearby entrance to the Forum Museum (more on that in number 9!).

It was also home to a Mosque during the time of the Moors before eventually being heavily reconstructed (many times) over the centuries to become the cathedral it is today. You’ll see a combination of Mudejar , Romanesque, and Gothic styles both inside and out.

My personal favorite place to stare at is on the outside of the church to the left of the front facade (when looking straight at it). The tiles work on this side of the church is absolutely magical.

Strolling around the cathedral, it’s well worth stopping for a visit at the beautiful Arch of Dean.

4. Arco del Dean

The Arch of Dean is located just around the corner from the cathedral. The arch was built in the 13th century as a way to connect the church with the house of Dean.

It underwent some reconstruction in the 16th century. Take special note of the windows which are in a Mudejar style.

It’s a free and fun thing to see in Zaragoza and makes for a great photo op.

5. Goya Museum

Francisco Goya is one of Spain’s most celebrated artists. He was born in the Zaragoza region, not far from the city and in commemoration, they have built a museum where you can see some of his work as well as learn about his early life.

In addition to the works by Goya, the museum is also home to a collection of 1,000 pieces of art that span fine art from around Spain from the 18th-20th centuries.

Entry to the museum costs €8. It is free to all visitors on the first Wednesday of every month. Check the website for more information or to prebook your tickets.

The Goya Museum is a wonderland for art lovers.

6. Zaragoza Museum

To get a general overview of all of the history and different museums of Zaragoza, you can visit the Zaragoza Museum. If you only have time to visit one place and you want to get a sampling of all of the different things to do in Zaragoza, this is a good option.

Inside the museum, you’ll be able to see Roman history, including pieces of stone and pottery as well as well-intact mosaics found amongst the ruins of Roman homes around Zaragoza.

There is also a level of the museum home to some fine arts paintings, including a few paintings by Goya.

The Zaragoza Museum is completely free to visit, making it one of the best value-for-money things to do in Zaragoza.

The Zaragoza Museum.

7. Museo del Teatro de Caesaraugusta

Of all of the Roman ruins that are worth visiting in Zaragoza (of which all are worth it), this is perhaps the biggest and best.

When the Romans arrived at this settlement, they named the city after their emperor, Caesaragusta.

If you plan to visit more than one of the attractions, the best option is to purchase the Roman entry ticket which includes all four sites (#7-11 on this list). You have 48 hours to see all of them, but they can easily be seen in about 2-3 hours.

The Roman theater is very well preserved at this site. If you are short on time or don’t want to pay entry, you can peer into the theater without entering the museum. To the right of the museum entrance, there is a balcony area where you can look directly into the theater’s ruins.

This is the largest of the museums not only for the ruins, but for the amount of information and interactive displays that you can enjoy. Most things are available both in Spanish and in English here.

You can easily spend about 30 minutes learning about the ancient city of Caesaraugusta before heading outside to walk through the theater.

Entrance to the museum on its own is €4, the multi-museum pass is €7. Check the website for more information about free days or other ticket options for students and pensioners.

The inside of the theater in Zaragoza is a fascinating place.

8. Museo de las Termas Públicas

No Roman city is complete without public baths. The site of the ruins of the bath is very well preserved. It’s a small museum with the main bath at the center.

There are plaques around the room where you can learn about what each bath was as well as see a Roman toilet rebuilt. They didn’t get quite as much privacy in the baño as we enjoy today!

9. Museo del Foro

The Roman Forum, as mentioned above, was located in the Plaza del Pilar, right where much of the Cathedral of Salvador is located today.

What remains of the forum is several feet below present-day ground level.

Inside the museum, you can walk the streets of the forum, see recreations of the shops and vendors that would have sold their wares here, and sit and watch a video that tells you all about the history of the forum and the city of Caesaraugusta.

It’s second in size to the Theater Museum and offers quite a lot of information. If you watch the video and explore all of the different parts of the museum, you’ll spend about 30-45 minutes here.

Grab the €7 ticket to be able to go into all of the different Roman museums and ruin sites around Zaragoza.

10. Museo del Puerto Fluvial

During Roman times, Caesaraugusta was something of a hub for goods. Things would come from other Roman cities further afield in the empire and their first port of call would be to Caesaraugusta before things were sorted and redistributed to smaller cities in the region.

This museum is at the location of the port. Anything that came into the city via the Ebro River had to stop here and be accounted for.

Interestingly, the river actually used to come right up to where the ruins now sit. This made it easy to load and unload boats that were carrying goods. You can see as you leave the museum that the river is quite a bit further away these days.

11. La Lonja

A Lonja (sometimes spelled Llotja in Aragon), is a building that was used during the Middle Ages for trade. One of the grandest and most well-known is the Lonja in Valencia .

La Lonja in Zaragoza was built in the 16th century as a public place where merchants could sell their goods. Before the Lonja was built, trade was being conducted at the cathedral or at other churches around the city.

The building is now an exhibition hall run by the government where you can come to see different art or community exhibits. Sometimes they have exhibits with Goya or other famous artists, other times it is smaller scale but equally interesting.

It’s worth visiting just to explore the interior of the building, which maintains a lot of its medieval details. Entrance to the Lonja is completely free.

The view of the basilica from the puente de piedra.

12. Puente de Piedra

This is my favorite Zaragoza attraction and one of the best places to take photos of Zaragoza.

The Puente de Piedra is the oldest bridge remaining in Zaragoza. It was built in the 15th century, however, a flood in the 17th century destroyed several central parts of the bridge. Shortly after, it was restored. The final construction that we see today was completed in the 18th century during a final strengthening.

You’ll see two lions at each end of the bridge. Lions are a symbol of Zaragoza and were added to the bridge in 1991.

Walk to the center of the bridge, just beware that there is one-way traffic on the bridge, so don’t walk down the center (it looks like a pedestrian bridge, but it’s not).

Once at the center you can walk out to one of the viewpoint areas and look back over the city. The views of the Basilica of Our Lady of Pillar are exceptional. If you wait until late afternoon, the light back over the city makes for a perfect photograph.

The central market in Zaragoza.

13. Mercado Central de Zaragoza

If you are self-catering while you are visiting Zaragoza, then there’s no better place for produce and meat than the Central Market.

Even if you are planning to spend all of your mealtime in El Tubo, it’s still worth visiting the market. It is a stunning old market building and located near some more wonderful (free) Roman ruins. Just behind the market, you’ll find an old part of the Roman walls as well as a statue to the city’s namesake, Caesar Augustus.

Inside the market, you can see the inner workings of a traditional Spanish market. It’s particularly busy in the mornings when the fish and meat stalls are open.

Come in the evenings for happy hour (starting at 7 pm) where you can get large beers for under €2 and have a few tapas in the center of the market.

14. Homage to the First Football Pitch

Do you love fútbol? Or do you just love obscure tourist attractions when you travel?

Then you’ll love this little ode to the very first football pitch in Zaragoza.

Right in the middle of Avenida San Juan de la Peña and Calle Peña Oroel and Oliván Bayle, there is a safe place to stand and peak at this little corner flag and piece of turf.

The monument is an homage to the first football pitch in Zaragoza (and indeed, all of Aragon). It was the location of the first football game in Aragon. The field was called Arrabal and the game was played on May 28, 1922.

The beautiful tiles on the outside of La Seo in Zaragoza.

15. Pabellón Puente

Want to see a totally different side of Zaragoza? The Pabellón Puente is a bridge that was designed by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid.

It was built for the 2008 Expo which was located in Zaragoza. It is a futuristic covered bridge that is absolutely stunning and you can walk right across it.

This whole part of the city that you can explore once crossing the bridge was built for the expo. Many of the buildings have been turned into museums. The entire area is a huge greenspace where you can relax on a sunny afternoon or head for a walk or a jog.

16. Aquarium of Zaragoza

The Aquarium of Zaragoza is located in one of the buildings that was created for the 2008 expo.

If you are looking for things to do in Zaragoza with kids or you’re just a kid at heart, the aquarium is a fun place to come on a trip to Zaragoza.

The Zaragoza Aquarium is the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world. There are over 5,000 animals and over 350 species that call the aquarium home.

Be sure to stop and take a few moments to appreciate the central tank. It is 9 meters deep (30ft), 45 meters long (147ft), and 9 meters wide (30ft). It is the largest freshwater aquarium tank in Europe and is pretty incredible to see in person.

Entrance is €17 for adults, €11 for children between the ages of 5 and 11, and €5 for kids between 3 and 4. Book aquarium tickets here .

The inside of the thermal baths museum in Zaragoza.

17. Take a Walking Tour

If you want to learn even more about the history of this city from a knowledgeable guide, the best thing to do is to take a walking tour.

This historical tour is flexible and affordable (especially considering it’s a private tour!).

You can visit some of the different Zaragoza attractions that I mentioned above with the guide. Or you can request the guide to take you to a few more of the off-the-beaten-path things to do in Zaragoza.

Book a tour of the city here .

The exceptional Iberico Secreto from Doña Casta in El Tubo.

18. Eat Tapas in El Tubo

I saved the best for last. While I love to explore history all over the different cities in Spain, the thing I love most about this country is its varied cuisine.

El Tubo is a collection of streets in downtown Zaragoza that come alive by night. You cannot come to Zaragoza and not spend some time tapas bar hopping along the streets of El Tubo.

If you want to sample a few different places with a guide who can walk you through the history and culture of each dish and location, take a food tour . Food tours are great if you want to eat a lot of small bites in a short period of time or if you want to learn more about what you’re eating. Book a food tour here .

Best Tapas Bars in El Tubo

These are my top picks for where to spend your Euros and eat well.

• Bar El Champi : Cheap beers and the most delicious mushroom tapa. Order the “champi” (a shortened version of  champiñon which means mushroom in Spanish). You’ll get a stack of mushrooms that have been cooked whole and topped with garlic and herb oil. Served on top of a slice of bread, there is no delicate way to eat this. Grab a few napkins.
• Taberna Doña Casta : This place is serving up the best croquetas I have ever had in my entire life. Fried to order, they have a huge selection of different meat and cheese croquetas. They even have one with chicken and chocolate. Tables go quickly here, so you may have to wait a few minutes or prop at the bar.
• El Truco : This place is best known for its Iberico Secreto. This is a cut of the Iberico pork located behind the rib. Grilled to perfection and served with a slightly spicy sauce and potatoes. Good for a main meal or for a few people to share as a tapa.
• Taberna Carmelo : The tapa that you don’t want to miss here is the caramelo del Carmelo. Caramelo is a cut of slow-cooked pork that is covered in a luscious caramelized sauce and served with a slice of bread.

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Zaragoza

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions awaits your discovery in Zaragoza. You will find well-preserved archaeological sites, the first Marian church in Christendom, and fabulous art museums.

If ancient Roman history fascinates you, then head to the city's archaeological sites. You can follow the "Caesaraugusta Route" to find the forum, thermal baths, and theater of the 1st- to 2nd-century Roman town (named after Emperor Augustus) that once flourished here.

The city is most renowned for its Baroque architecture, in particular the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar. This splendid monument is one of the most important pilgrimage churches in Spain.

Equally fascinating are the 12th-century Moorish palace and the UNESCO-listed Mudéjar architecture of San Pablo, Santa Maria Magdalena, and San Juan de los Panetes churches.

Also on the list of must-see destinations are several museums. The city boasts collections devoted to tapestries, contemporary art, and the works of Francisco de Goya.

Learn about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Zaragoza.

See also: Where to Stay in Zaragoza

1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

2. museo del foro de caesaraugusta, 3. catedral de zaragoza, 4. palacio de la aljafería, 5. acuario fluvial (river aquarium of zaragoza), 6. educational museum of origami in zaragoza (emoz), 7. iglesia de san pablo de zaragoza, 8. la lonja de zaragoza, 9. instituto de aragonés de arte y cultura contemporáneo, 10. basílica santa engracia, 11. museo goya - colección ibercaja, 12. museo de zaragoza, 13. museo pablo gargallo, 14. museo de las termas públicas de caesaraugusta, 15. iglesia de santa maria magdalena, 16. iglesia de san juan de los panetes, 17. teatro romano de zaragoza, where to stay in zaragoza for sightseeing, day trips from zaragoza, fuendetodos and the goya museum, sos del rey catolico, monasterio de piedra, map of attractions & things to do in zaragoza.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the city's most iconic landmark. This gem of Baroque architecture dates to the 17th and 18th centuries and is classified as a National Monument.

Gracing the banks of the Ebro River, the basilica looks most impressive from across the river. The entrance is on the other side at the Plaza del Pilar, a spacious town square lined with elegant historical buildings.

Take time to admire the basilica's monumental exterior. Then enter the awe-inspiring interior, which holds a precious object of veneration.

Since the Middle Ages, pilgrims have journeyed here to honor an image of the Virgin Mary and the Sagrada Columna (Sacred Column), a pillar of jasper stone that is associated with a Marian apparition.

According to the legend, Saint James the Apostle came to Caesaraugusta where he had a vision of the Virgin Mary, instructing him to build a church here. Saint James built a small chapel dedicated to Saint Mary on this spot, making it the first Marian shrine in Christendom.

Several other churches were later built on the site; however, the present basilica is still devoted to the Virgen del Pilar (Our Lady of Pilar). A figure of the Virgin stands behind a mantelpiece. This icon is taken out and presented to the faithful every year on January 2nd, commemorating the date when the Virgin appeared.

The other sacred object, the Sagrada Columna (also known as " El Pilar ") is now adorned with fanciful silver plating. Other valuable religious artworks and lavish Baroque monuments are found throughout the basilica, including the alabaster high altarpiece and the frescoes by Goya.

Address: Plaza del Pilar, Zaragoza

The Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta ( Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta ) provides a glimpse into the life of Caesaraugusta, an ancient Roman colony (town) of the 1st and 2nd centuries that once occupied present-day Zaragoza.

Named after Emperor Augustus who founded the town, Caesaraugusta was known for its splendors. The city had a theater, public baths, and a marvelous forum at the center of town life.

The museum stands on the site of the archaeological excavations of the Caesaraugusta forum, underneath the Plaza de La Seo . On display are remains of the Roman Forum that dates back to the era of Emperor Tiberius.

You will see artifacts that represent elements of the ancient Roman market, walls of shops, pipes, and a sewer system, as well as government buildings and a temple. The exhibits are complemented by educational information and an interesting audio-visual presentation.

Address: 2 Plaza de la Seo, Zaragoza

The Catedral de Zaragoza is known as Catedral de San Salvador or Catedral de La Seo or simply La Seo . Dedicated to Saint Salvador, this enormous church features five naves. Its melange of architectural styles reveal the town's complex history.

The cathedral was built on the site of the ancient Roman temple of the Forum, which became a Visigoth church and then a large Muslim mosque during the Moorish era. In the 12th century, the building was converted into a church.

Romanesque elements of the original 12th-century structure are seen in the exquisitely sculpted arcades on the exterior of the apses. The old mosque's minaret is the present cathedral's tower. A Moorish influence is also evident in the chancel and in some of the archways.

The choir is Gothic in style, while the Capilla del Santo Cristo is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Adding to the architectural melange are the Neoclassical facade and Baroque details on the tower.

In addition to its treasures of religious art in the sanctuary, the cathedral has a noteworthy Tapestry Museum (Museo de Tapices). The collection contains over 60 precious Flemish tapestries of the 15th century.

The cathedral welcomes tourists for cultural visits. The price of admission includes entrance to both the cathedral and the Tapestry Museum.

Address: Plaza de la Seo, Zaragoza

In the heart of Zaragoza, the Aljafería Palace is an 11th-century Moorish fortress. Today, the Palacio de la Aljafería houses the headquarters of the Aragonese Parliament.

Take a moment to admire the impressive architecture and fortifications. You will marvel over the formidable defense walls that feature immense crenelated towers. All of the towers are round except for a single rectangular tower, the 9th-century Torre del Trovador (Troubadour's Tower).

Within the fortress walls are three distinct palaces: the Moorish Al-Muqtadir Palace with a splendid Islamic-style garden courtyard; the 14th-century Palace of Pedro IV featuring exquisite Mudéjar coffered ceilings and plasterwork ornamentation; and the 15th-century Palacio de Los Reyes Católicos ( Palace of the Catholic Monarchs ).

The palace is open to the public for visits, and guided tours are available.

Address: Calle de los Diputados, Zaragoza

Visit the world's largest freshwater aquarium and discover more than 300 species of fluvial (river) fauna. The animal species (fish, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians) on display are characteristic of five major rivers: the Nile, the Amazon, the Ebro, the Mekong, and the Murray-Darling.

At the center of the building, a symbolic glacier feeds the various "river" habitats that surround it, each with its own unique environment that replicates a river ecosystem.

The central tank holds nearly two and a half million liters of water, symbolizing the primal waters from which life first evolved. Among its major residents are Arapaima, the third-largest freshwater fish in the world; the ecologically important Pacú; and the endangered Malay shark.

The Nile exhibit's stars include freshwater pufferfish and the Nile crocodile, and Amazon species include iguana and the pygmy titi monkey.

Address: Avenida de José Atarés, Zaragoza

The Educational Museum of Origami in Zaragoza (Escuela Museo Origami Zaragoza) is the first of its kind in Europe. As the name suggests, the museum offers classes and workshops.

The museum's collection includes creations made by some of the world's most renowned origami artists, including Yoshihide Momotani, Akira Yoshizawa, and Vicent Floderer.

In addition to the permanent collections, the museum hosts contests and themed exhibits, which focus on various materials and artists.

Address: Plaza San Agustín, 2, Zaragoza

The Iglesia de San Pablo de Zaragoza is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its exceptional Aragon Mudéjar architecture.

The church was built in the 13th and 14th centuries to replace a small Romanesque chapel, then located on the outskirts of the town. With its single nave and vaulted ceilings, the interior has a sense of spaciousness. Chapels between the buttresses display exquisite works of art.

During the 15th and 18th centuries, the church was further enhanced and enlarged. A must-see piece of the Renaissance period is the main altarpiece devoted to Saint Paul, crafted from gilded wood by sculptor Damián Forment in 1515.

The most noteworthy feature of this monument is its magnificent octagonal Mudéjar tower featuring exceptional Moorish design details.

Address: 42 Calle San Pablo, Zaragoza

This splendid 16th-century building stands on the grand Plaza del Pilar, across from the basilica. La Lonja is the historic marketplace of Zaragoza, where merchants carried out their trading and other commercial transactions.

Designed by Juan de Sariñena, the edifice is the city's best example of Aragonese Renaissance architecture. The building, constructed in brick, features a rectangular plan and a decorative facade with rows of uniform arched windows and depictions of the kings of Aragón in medallions.

The interior features a series of stone columns, which were sculpted from the remains of the city's former Roman walls. Created by Juan de Segura, the columns turn into defined arches, appearing to turn into palm trees.

La Lonja de Zaragoza is open to the public when exhibitions are held here.

The Aragonese Institute of Art and Contemporary Culture (Pablo Serrano Museum) is dedicated to the work of renowned Aragonese artist Pablo Serrano. The museum's collection spans Pablo Serrano's work from his Figurative period to his Expressionist stage.

Exhibits display 140 drawings and sculptures, which reflect the evolution of the artist's creativity and innovation. The museum also displays works by the artist's wife, Juana Francés; contemporary graphic art works; and an assortment of paintings by Santiago Lagunas.

In addition, the museum hosts a variety of changing exhibits, which feature a range of artists, both past and contemporary. To get the most out of a visit, take a guided tour.

Address: 20 Paseo María Agustín, Zaragoza

This Renaissance church was once part of the Hieronymite Monastery of Santa Engracia, however the rest of the monastery no longer exists. The church features a remarkable Plateresque facade, which is considered a jewel of Aragonese Renaissance architecture.

The facade is almost like an altar with its elaborate reliefs, medallions, and sculptures of various characters and saints. Four niches at the sides represent the parents of the Western Church. The upper niches feature the Virgin of the Holy Mass and King Ferdinand, patron of the church.

The crypt houses Paleo-Christian (early Christian) tombs of the 4th century. One particularly interesting sarcophagus depicts a scene that represents the soul in Paradise.

The Basílica Santa Engracia celebrates Mass several times daily and is also open to the public for visits everyday from 9:30am until 1pm and from 5:30pm until 9pm. Admission is free of charge.

Address: 1 Calle Tomás Castellano, Zaragoza

The Goya Museum - Ibercaja Collection (also known as the Museo Camón Aznar) displays a fine arts collection that was assembled by José Camón Aznar, a local professor, philosopher, art critic, and art collector. As a patron of this museum, the Spanish savings bank Ibercaja bought the mansion that belonged to nobleman Jerónimo Cósida to house the collection.

The lovely aristocratic home, with three floors designed around a splendid patio, is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance civil architecture in Zaragoza. The permanent collection focuses on paintings of the 15th and 18th centuries, which are displayed on the first floor.

The museum's permanent collection includes a small but noteworthy assortment of works by Francisco de Goya, including 14 paintings, one drawing, and an engraving series. The works represent various timeframes of Goya's career and diverse themes from religious to whimsical.

Also on display are artworks by Blasco de Grañén, Pedro Berruguete, Pedro de Campaña, Juan Antonio de Escalante, Gregorio Fernández, and José Moreno, as well as other prominent Spanish, Italian, Dutch, and Flemish artists of the 16th and 17th centuries.

A few of the standout pieces of the collection are the Retrato de la Reina María Luisa de Parma painting by Goya, San Francisco de Asís en Oración by Juan Antonio de Escalante, and Retrato de Ena Wertheimer by Cecilio Pla y Gallardo.

Address: 23 Calle Espoz y Mina, Zaragoza

Explore the art, culture, and history of the Zaragoza province at the Museo de Zaragoza. The museum's large and diverse collection is housed in the pavilion of the 1908 Universal Expo.

The collection includes five different departments: Archaeology, Fine Arts, Ethnography, Ceramics, and Asian Art (of the Far East). The Fine Arts section presents works from the 12th century to the 20th century. The Archaeology department covers prehistory, the ancient Roman era, and the Moorish period (with antiquities from Aljafería Palace).

Not to be missed is the collection of works by Francisco de Goya , considered one of the best in Spain. The assortment shows the range of Goya's paintings and includes many masterpieces, in particular his portraits of Carlos IV, María Luisa de Parma, and the Infante Luis María de Borbón.

Address: 6 Plaza de los Sitios, Zaragoza

Discover the work of Pablo Gargallo, the brilliant contemporary sculptor who hailed from the Aragon region. The museum displays the artist's early works of sculpture in marble and plaster, as well as later works crafted from iron and other metals.

You will gain an appreciation of the artist's creative genius and artistic vision through the displays of sculptures, drawings, engravings, cartoons, and biographical information.

Highlights of the collection include The Great Prophet , the portrait of Kiki de Montparnasse, and the statues of equestrians called the Olympic Salute .

Address: 3 Plaza de San Felipe, Zaragoza

The thermal baths (dating to the 1st century CE) of Caesaraugusta were an important center of social life for the ancient Romans. More than just a place to visit for bathing, the public baths brought people together to play sports, read, and listen to music or poetry.

Typical of public baths found in the ancient Roman empire, the facilities included hot-water and cold-water baths. Bathers could alternate between the two baths, but most started with hot and then finished with cold.

Men and women were separated in different areas of the baths, or used them at different times. The city of Caesaraugusta was well supplied with fresh water and managed the maintenance of the baths.

Today, you can explore the history of Caesaraugusta's baths and see some of the remains at the Museo de las Termas Públicas de Caesaraugusta (Museum of the Public Baths of Caesaraugusta). The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Address: 3 - 7 Calle San Juan y San Pedro, Zaragoza

The Iglesia de Santa Maria Magdalena stands on the site of an old Moorish mosque. The original 12th-century Romanesque church (that replaced the mosque) was renovated in the 14th century and updated in the 17th century with Baroque details.

The most distinctive feature of the Saint Mary Magdalen Church is the tower, characteristic of Aragonese Mudéjar architecture; the ornamental geometric patterns mimic an Almohad-style minaret. Motifs of decorative glazed ceramics add to the Moorish look.

The interior features an unusual apse with overlapped arches and pointed windows, also typical of Mudéjar style. The main altarpiece is adorned with 18th-century sculptures and images by Jose Ramirez de Arellano.

The church is open to the public for visits (with an admission fee), and guided tours are available.

Address: Plaza de la Magdalena, Zaragoza

Another lovely Mudéjar church, the Iglesia de San Juan de los Panetes is found between the ancient Roman walls and the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar.

The church was completed in 1725, replacing the Romanesque church of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. The austere Baroque facade features an image of San Juan Bautista and pilasters on the sides.

Like Santa Maria Magdalena, the most notable feature of this church is the Mudéjar tower. Its octagonal brick tower with arched windows recalls classic Moorish architecture. The interior offers an inspiring sense of spaciousness with its barrel vaulting and cupola on the crossing.

The church is open to the public for visits (free admission) every day. Mass is celebrated here on Sundays at 11am.

Address: 3 Calle Salduba, Zaragoza

Theater performances played an important role in ancient Roman society of the 1st century CE. This archaeological site reveals the grandeur of the Caesaraugusta theater and gives you a sense of the lifestyle of antiquity.

The ancient Roman theater was excavated in 1972 and is now enclosed in a special exhibition space. The Teatro Romano de Zaragoza is open to the public (for an admission fee) Tuesday through Sunday.

In addition to the archaeological site, there is a small museum. Exhibits at the museum include models that reconstruct the ancient theater, artifacts (decorative elements) excavated at the site, and replicas of props used by ancient Roman actors.

Address: 12 Calle San Jorge, Zaragoza

Most of Zaragoza's top tourist attractions and things to do are near the Plaza la Seo and Plaza del Pilar, along the banks of the Ebro River, where the city's magnificent churches, historic monuments, and many museums are found. The streets of this area are also brimming with restaurants and cafés. Here are some highly rated hotels in this convenient and central location:

Luxury Hotels:

• The stylish Palafox Hotel offers plush contemporary-style guest rooms in a bustling neighborhood, just a 10-minute walk from the cathedral. This 5-star luxury hotel features a rooftop deck with a swimming pool and stunning views of the city. Other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, fitness center, and fine-dining restaurant.
• Near the Pablo Serrano Museum and about a 10-minute walk from the Plaza de la Seo, the elegant NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza provides upscale accommodations in stylish minimalistic guest rooms or suites. This 4-star hotel has a 24-hour front desk, concierge, a paid parking lot, and fitness center. The hotel's gourmet restaurant serves traditional Spanish cuisine prepared from the finest seasonal ingredients.
• In a modern high-rise building about a 15-minute walk from the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the 4-star INNSiDE Zaragoza by Meliá has spacious guest rooms, as well as suites. The hotel features stylish modern decor and a rooftop deck with a swimming pool. Other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, fitness center, café, and restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In a relatively quiet neighborhood about a five-minute walk to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the 4-star Catalonia El Pilar hotel occupies an early 20th-century Modernist building with a sleek interior design. Suites and family rooms are available. Amenities include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, café, and restaurant.
• In the heart of the historic center, the charming family-run Hotel Sauce offers excellent value. Guest rooms feature cheerful decor, air-conditioning, and private balconies. Amenities include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, café, and paid parking.
• Only 250 meters away from the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the 4-star NH Ciudad de Zaragoza has guest rooms, family rooms, and suites that feature large windows to allow in plenty of natural light. Some rooms have views of the cathedral and the river. Amenities include laundry facilities, a fitness center, and a restaurant. A famous tapas place (El Tubo) and other restaurants are located nearby.

Budget Hotels:

• Centrally located less than 10 minutes on foot from the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the 3-star Hotel Avenida offers basic guest rooms decorated in a simple modern style. The hotel has a concierge and a 24-hour front desk. A breakfast buffet is available.
• The 2-star B&B Hotel Zaragoza Centro is a short stroll across the river from the main historic attractions. Guest rooms are minimalistic and modern in style. There is a restaurant on-site, as well as paid parking, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry service.
• Presiding over the lively Plaza España, the Hotel Boutique Maza is centrally located, just steps away from the historic center. This 2-star hotel offers comfortable guest rooms, some of which have views over the plaza. Amenities include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and an airport shuttle service.

The famous Spanish painter Francisco de Goya was born in this quaint little country town, 47 kilometers outside of Zaragoza.

The tourist highlights of the town are the Casa Natal de Goya , the 18th-century farmhouse where the artist was born, and the Museo del Grabado which displays many noteworthy etchings by Goya, including Los Desastres de la Guerra , Los Caprichos , Los Disparates, and La Tauromaquia .

Steeped in 2,000 years of history, Huesca still has vestiges of the old medieval walls. Within the ancient enclosures is a labyrinth of narrow pedestrian streets and monumental buildings that seem to preside over the town.

The cathedral was built in the 13th century on the site of the Misleida Mosque; its position high on the summit of the town offered protection against invaders during the Reconquest period.

Be sure to admire the cathedral's magnificent facade, featuring statues of the apostles above the doorway. Another must-see attraction is the Monasterio de San Pedro el Viejo , founded as a Benedictine monastery in the 11th century.

The monastery boasts one of Spain's oldest sacred monuments, which has foundations as a Roman temple and later as a Visigothic church. The 12th-century church has a beautiful Romanesque cloister featuring colonnades with decorative capitals.

Near Huesca are two natural parks. The Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and has a charming Parador hotel at the foot of the mountain. Cañones de Guara Natural Park is popular with outdoor sports enthusiasts, especially for hiking and canyoning.

The gastronomy of Huesca is known for its excellent sausages and roast meats, as well as the local specialty of Ajoarriero de Huesca (cod in oil and garlic).

Huesca is 74 kilometers (about a 50-minute drive) from Zaragoza.

Sos del Rey Católico is a little walled town that has retained its charming medieval character. King Ferdinand of Aragon, "el Rey Católico," was born here in 1452 in the Palacio de Sada, which dates to the 12th century.

Gracing the main town square, the Plaza Mayor , are the Renaissance Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) and La Lonja (the Exchange).

Nearby is the 11th- to 12th-century Iglesia de San Esteban . This parish church is a wonderful example of Romanesque architecture with a decorative sculptured doorway. The sanctuary boasts excellently preserved 14th-century wall paintings.

The town of Sos del Rey Católico is 120 kilometers (about a one-hour and 40-minute drive) from Zaragoza.

The Monasterio de Piedra is nestled in a densely wooded landscape where waterfalls, lakes, and freshwater streams are found in abundance. This is one of the most remote natural areas of the Aragon region (110 kilometers from Zaragoza).

The monastery was founded in 1194, when King Alonso II and his wife Doña Sancha handed over an old Moorish castle to the Poblet monks, with instructions to build a monastery and spread the Christian faith.

Because of its serene setting and pristine environment, the site is an important center of fishing and reforestation. In 1940, the site was declared a National Scenic Spot .

The Monasterio de Piedra is open to the public throughout the year. You may visit the Monastery and the Historical Garden Park.

There's also the option of an overnight stay at the Hotel Monasterio de Piedra & Spa . Housed within part of the Monastery, this hotel has a spa, restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, sundeck, and fitness center. Staying at the hotel allows you to enjoy the Historical Garden Park. You may take advantage of picnic tables and bicycle tours.

The lush area around the monastery features well-groomed paths through the forest, where you can go for a walk to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

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Exploring Barcelona : Just over three hours by car from Zaragoza is the seaside city of Barcelona , which holds endless wonders, from the rich history of the Gothic Quarter to the scenic Parc de Montjüic . Other top tourist attractions include architectural masterpieces created by Antoni Gaudí, including the UNESCO-listed Basílica de la Sagrada Família and the whimsical Park Güell.

Exploring Bilbao : Tourists interested in modern architecture and art will enjoy the city of Bilbao, home of the Guggenheim Museum, one of the top tourist attractions in northern Spain . This previously overlooked town became a top tourist destination in Spain thanks to this stunning building, and here you can also find beautiful churches, as well as a variety of other museums, including archaeology, fine arts, history, and a maritime museum.

Exploring Oviedo : Near the northern coast of Spain, Oviedo is best known for its churches, including the Catedral de Oviedo, the Iglesia de Santa Maria del Naranco, and the Iglesia de San Julián de los Prados. The area is also famous for its regional cuisine.

More on Spain

Must-see attractions in Zaragoza

Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

This great baroque cavern of Catholicism stands on the site where, the faithful believe, the Virgin Mary appeared to Santiago (St James the Apostle) atop…

The Aljafería is Spain's finest Islamic-era edifice outside Andalucía. Built as a fortified palace for Zaragoza's Islamic rulers in the 11th century, it…

Museo del Teatro de Caesaraugusta

The finest in Zaragoza's quartet of Roman museums was discovered during excavation of a building site in 1972. Great efforts, including an entertaining 15…

Apart from Madrid’s Museo del Prado, this exceedingly well-laid-out museum contains arguably the best exposé of the work of one of Spain’s greatest…

Dominating the eastern end of Plaza del Pilar, La Seo is Zaragoza's finest work of Christian architecture, built between the 12th and 17th centuries and…

Museo de Zaragoza

Exceptional Roman mosaics and 19 paintings by Goya are the highlights of the city museum, devoted to archaeology and fine arts. There's plenty more 18th…

Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta

The rhomboid building on Plaza de la Seo is the entrance to the excavated remains of the substructures of Roman Caesaraugusta's forum, below ground level…

Museo Origami

Zaragoza's museum devoted to the art of folding paper has six galleries of exhibits of a staggeringly high standard. Even if you're not very familiar with…

Alma Mater Museum

Slick multimedia exhibits set an arty tone as you follow a skilfully laid-out trajectory through the older elements of the building (a former royal and…

Museo del Puerto Fluvial

This small museum displays Roman river-port installations, exposed beneath glass walkways and comprising remains of a vestibule at the northeast corner of…

Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar Tower

Pay your €3 and a lift will whisk you most of the way up the northwest tower of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, leaving you to climb 109 steps…

Patio de la Infanta

This exhibition space houses the Ibercaja bank's art collection, and puts on many temporary exhibitions. But the real star is the lovely 16th-century…

Acuario de Zaragoza

Built for the 2008 Expo, Zaragoza’s aquarium focuses on five of the world’s great rivers from the Amazon to – closer to home – the Ebro (the facility sits…

Museo de Tapices

La Seo's tapestry museum (included in the cathedral's admission price) is no afterthought. It is considered to be the best collection of its kind in the…

Museo de las Termas Públicas

The smallest of Zaragoza's Roman museums displays the subterranean remains of the city's one-time bathhouse. The ruined pool is not particularly…

Iglesia de San Pablo

This pretty church has a delicate 14th-century Mudéjar tower and an early-16th-century retablo (altarpiece) by Damián Forment. Guided visits (adult/child …

Centro de Historias

The old convent of San Agustín (only the neoclassical facade remains) is an interesting hybrid building given over primarily to temporary exhibitions of…

Museo de Pablo Gargallo

Within the wonderfully restored 17th-century Palacio Argillo is a representative display of sculptures by Pablo Gargallo (1881–1934), a friend of Picasso…

Now an exhibition hall, this finely proportioned, pale-brick, Renaissance-style building, just east of the basilica, was constructed in the 16th century…

More destinations you need to see

Zaragoza Spain

 zaragoza spain.

Zaragoza is a captivating city located in the northeastern region of Spain.

Situated along the banks of the Ebro River, Zaragoza is the capital of the province of Aragon and holds a rich history that spans over two millennia.

The strategic location of Zaragoza has made it a significant cultural and economic hub throughout history.

Founded by the Romans in 24 BC as Caesaraugusta, the city boasts an impressive Roman heritage, evident in its many archaeological sites and ruins.

Over the centuries, Zaragoza witnessed the influence of various civilizations, including the Moors and Christians, each leaving their mark on the city's architecture and culture.

Top Tours & Activities in Zaragoza

• Zaragoza midday market and tapas tour
• Wine tasting with tapas in Zaragoza
• Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour

A Quick Look at Zaragoza´s Main Attractions

First up, let's talk about the impressive Cathedral de Salvador de Zaragoza, also known as La Seo. It's stunning architecture and beautiful artwork will leave you in awe!

If you're into history, head over to the Roman Theatre, which dates back to the first century.

Next, we have the Aljaferia Palace – a historic gem that will transport you back in time to the era of kings and queens. Explore its grand halls and picturesque gardens!

Make sure to visit the iconic Plaza Pilar, a bustling square where you can soak in the lively atmosphere and admire the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar.

Feeling hungry? Head over to Zaragoza Central Market, where you'll find a mouthwatering array of fresh produce and local delicacies to satisfy your taste buds.

For a dose of culture, don't miss the Zaragoza Museum, showcasing the city's rich history and art. It's a great place to learn more about the region.

If you're travelling with kids or simply love marine life, the Zaragoza Aquarium is a fantastic choice. Dive into an underwater world and get up close to fascinating sea creatures!

Zaragoza is known for its delicious tapas. Pop into any local bar and order a variety of small dishes to share with friends and family.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Puente de Piedra, the iconic stone bridge that offers breathtaking views of the Ebro River and the city's skyline.

Art enthusiasts will love La Longa Exhibition Hall, which hosts rotating art exhibitions featuring talented local and international artists.

And finally, the Caesaraugusta Museum will take you back to Roman times with its fascinating archaeological finds and exhibits.

Entrance to many of the cities museums is FREE on the first Sunday of each month and local public holidays such as 29 th January, 23 rd April, 18 th May and 12 th

Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar

The Basilica of Our Lady of Pillar in Zaragoza is an iconic religious monument and a significant symbol of the city.

Built in the Baroque style, this stunning cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is believed to be the first church in history dedicated to her.

The basilica's architecture is truly awe-inspiring, featuring elaborate domes, intricate sculptures, and magnificent chapels.

According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to St. James the Apostle atop a pillar at this site, hence the name "Our Lady of Pillar." The basilica holds great religious importance for Catholics and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

Here, you can explore the grand interior with its beautiful altars and impressive artwork. The main altar is adorned with the image of Our Lady of Pillar, which is celebrated during the annual Fiestas del Pilar, a popular festival in Zaragoza.

Opening Hours: From Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 1.30 pm and from 4 pm to 7.30 pm. On Sundays and public holidays, it opens from 10 am to 2 pm.

Location: Plaza de la Seo.

https://catedraldezaragoza.es/cultural-visit/

Aljaferia Palace

The Aljaferia Palace is a captivating historical landmark that beautifully blends Islamic and Christian architectural styles.

Originally built as a fortress during the 11th century, it later became a splendid palace under Christian rule.

You can explore its labyrinthine halls and elegant courtyards, surrounded by intricate stucco work, horseshoe arches, and ornate ceilings.

Take a seat in the stunning gardens that provide a peaceful escape from the busy outside world of the city.

The palace is open to the public, you can enjoy self-guided tours or guided tours to learn more about its fascinating history.

Opening Hours:  From Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Location: Calle de los Diputados.

Website   reservasonline.aljaferia.com

Plaza Pilar

The Plaza Pilar is a vibrant and picturesque square located in the heart of the city.

Named after the city's patron saint, the plaza is dominated by the impressive Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, which stands majestically on one side of the square.

The square is a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists, offering stunning views of the Ebro River and the iconic stone bridge, Puente de Piedra.

The Plaza Pilar is a hub of activity, especially during festivals and events, making it an ideal spot to experience the lively atmosphere of Zaragoza.

You can take a leisurely stroll, relax on the benches, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

Location:  Plaza Nuestra Senora del Pilar.

Zaragoza Central Market  (Mercado Central de Zaragoza)

The Mercado Central is a bustling food market that offers a true taste of the city's culinary delights.

Located in the heart of the city at Plaza de Lanuza, this iconic market is a favourite among visitors to Zaragoza.

As you step inside, you are greeted by an array of colourful stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and other local produce.

The market is a feast for the senses, with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the lively chatter of vendors creating an inviting atmosphere.

It's the perfect place to sample some of the most popular local delicacies or pick up some ingredients for a picnic or a delicious meal.

One of the great things about the Central Market is there are a number of tapas bars and small restaurants where you can try out some delicious tapas.

Opening Hours: The Mercado Central is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8 am to 2 pm.

Website: mercadocentralzaragoza.com

Join the midday market and tapas tour that covers a shopping and food experience in one go. This casual 3-hour tour, takes you to some of the best foodie spots in the Old Town of Zaragoza, including a Central food market, speciality gourmet shops and three local tapas bars.

The Old Stone Bridge ( Puente de Piedra )

This historic bridge dates back to the 15th century and holds great significance in Zaragoza's architectural heritage.

The Puente de Piedra offers stunning views of the city and the Ebro River, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to stroll, take photographs, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

The bridge's stone arches and intricate details add to its charm and make it a favourite subject for artists and photographers. So if there is one place in Zaragoza you're looking to take some special holiday snaps for your social accounts, this is it.

As a pedestrian-friendly bridge, it is a wonderful place to take a leisurely walk and appreciate the beauty of Zaragoza's riverfront. At night, the bridge is illuminated, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere that adds to its allure.

La Longa Exhibition Hall -  Sala de Exposiciones La Lonja

La Longa is a contemporary art space in Zaragoza, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions and exhibitions.

The gallery features rotating exhibitions of local and international artists, displaying various forms of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia creations.

It serves as a platform for emerging artists and a source of inspiration for art enthusiasts.

Opening Times:  From Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm.

Location: Calle San Blas, 4

Website:  zaragoza.es

Zaragoza Aquarium

Zaragoza Aquarium is a modern aquarium that showcases a diverse range of marine life from around the world, making it well worth visiting, especially if you are travelling with kids.

As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an impressive collection of fish, sharks, rays, and other mesmerising sea creatures.

The aquarium is designed with immersive exhibits that allow you to get up close and personal with the marine inhabitants, offering a glimpse into their underwater habitats.

One of the highlights of Zaragoza Aquarium is the Oceanarium, a vast tank where you can observe large marine species swimming gracefully.

The interactive touch pools also provide a unique opportunity to touch and learn about some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures.

The aquarium is open daily, and the opening hours vary depending on the season. It's best to check the official Zaragoza Aquarium website   for the updated opening times.

Location: Avenida Jose Atares, 1

Zaragoza Museum

The Zaragoza Museum , also known as Museo de Zaragoza, is a cultural gem that invites you to delve into the interesting history and art of the region.

The museum showcases an extensive collection of archaeological artefacts, fine arts, and decorative pieces, providing a captivating insight into the city's past. And the best thing is that entry is FREE to all.

Inside the museum, you'll find exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the modern era, allowing you to explore the diverse cultural heritage of Zaragoza.

From ancient Roman relics to medieval sculptures and contemporary artworks, the museum offers something for everyone.

Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 2 pm then 5 pm to 8 pm. Sundays from 10 am To 2 pm. Closed the 1st, 2nd and 6th of January 24th, 25th, 26th and 31 st of December.

Entrance: FREE

Location: Plaza de Los Sitios 6.

The Caesaraugusta Museum

The Caesaraugusta Museum is a fascinating archaeological museum that offers a journey back in time to the Roman period, showcasing the rich history and heritage of the ancient city of Caesaraugusta, which later became modern-day Zaragoza.

The museum's collection includes a remarkable array of Roman artefacts, such as mosaics, sculptures, pottery, and everyday objects, providing insights into the daily life and culture of the Roman inhabitants.

Here, you can explore the remains of the ancient Roman forum, baths, and other archaeological sites that have been carefully preserved and integrated into the museum.

Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm.  On Sundays and holidays, it is open from 10 am to 2 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Location: Plaza de la Seo, 2.

Website:  zaragoza.es/

Museum of Francisco de Goya

The Museum of Francisco de Goya in Zaragoza is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Spanish painter, Francisco de Goya.

Located at Calle Espoz y Mina, 23, it offers a unique opportunity to explore Goya's art and legacy.

The museum showcases a significant collection of his paintings, drawings, and prints, providing visitors with insights into the artist's profound impact on the art world.

Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. On Sundays and holidays, it opens from 10 am to 2 pm.

Website:  museogoya

The Ebro River in Zaragoza flows through the heart of the city, splitting it into two areas.  It offers beautiful views and opportunities for leisurely strolls along its banks.

With its picturesque bridges and scenic landscapes, the banks of the Ebro River is a must-visit spot for a gentle stroll and taking photographs.

Zaragoza Gastronomy

For foodies, Zaragoza boats a delightful gastronomy that reflects the rich culinary traditions of the region.

One of the most famous local dishes is "Ternasco," a succulent roast lamb that melts in your mouth and is often seasoned with aromatic herbs.

Another must-try is "Migas," a traditional dish made from fried breadcrumbs, spicey chorizo sausage, garlic and bacon.

For seafood lovers,  try the tasty, "Bacalao a la Baturra" which is a popular choice, featuring cod cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and onions.

"Chilindron" is another regional speciality, a hearty stew made with tender lamb or chicken, and flavoured with bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and paprika.

For authentic local cuisine head to head to El Tubo, a vibrant street lined with tapas bars serving up an array of mouthwatering small dishes. It's a lively area to enjoy the local atmosphere while hopping from one bar to another, try out some of the local favourites such as "Tortilla de Patatas" (potato omelette) and "Gambas al Ajillo" (garlic prawns), Jamon Iberico de Bellota (fine cured ham), Rabo de Toro (beef tail), and the Chistorra con Padron (spicey sausage with green peppers).

For a fine dining experience try the Michelin-starred Cancook located at Calle Leon XIII, 2 – 4. This award-winning restaurant is known for its creative fusion of traditional Aragonese flavours with contemporary culinary techniques.

Website: cancookrestaurant.com

Another highly recommended eatery in Zaragoza is Casa Pedro located at Calle Cadena 6. Here you can enjoy the very best of the region's cuisine with dishes that include grilled beef tenderloin with mushrooms and glazed onions,  and cannelloni with black trumpet boletus sauce.

website: casapedrogastrobar.com

The Best Spots For Evening Entertainment

When it comes to experiencing authentic local food and a great night out in Zaragoza, you're in for a treat!

The city offers a vibrant culinary scene. To indulge in traditional Aragonese cuisine, head to the picturesque Plaza Pilar where charming restaurants and cafes serve up mouthwatering dishes like migas, chilindron, and ternasco. The Mercado Central is a food lover's paradise with its fresh produce and local delicacies, perfect for sampling the flavours of the region.

After tasting some of the delightful local food, head over to the Plaza del Pilar which often hosts lively street performances, music concerts, and cultural events.

For a taste of Zaragoza's nightlife, Calle de los Estebanes and Calle de las Armas are popular hotspots with trendy bars and clubs where you can dance the night away to a mix of music.

For a more refined evening, the Teatro Principal and Teatro de las Esquinas offer theatre productions, concerts, and shows.

Zaragoza Transport Links

Zaragoza enjoys excellent transport connections from major cities across Spain, making it easily accessible by road, train, and air.

The city is well-connected via several main motorways and roads. The most important one is the AP-2, which connects Zaragoza with Barcelona in the east. The AP-68 links the city with Bilbao in the north, passing through Logrono.

From Madrid, the A-2 highway is the main route that offers a comfortable journey through the heart of Spain's countryside.

Additionally, the N-232 road connects Zaragoza with the northeastern regions of Teruel and Catalonia.

The AVE high-speed train service connects the city with Madrid, Barcelona, and other major cities, offering a fast and efficient way to reach Zaragoza.

Zaragoza also has its own international airport , Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ), with flights to several European destinations.

The airport is located about 10 kilometres west of the city centre and has convenient transportation options to reach the city.

There is a frequent bus service that runs from the airport to the city centre, look for lines 501 and 604. The journey takes just around 20 to 30 minutes and costs just 1.70€ each way.

Recommended Places To Stay In Zaragoza

For a touch of luxury, Boston Hotel Zaragoza stands out. This four-star hotel, with its avant-garde design, provides modern amenities, a rooftop terrace, and a central location near the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar.

For a boutique experience, Hotel Sauce is a charming choice in the historic heart of Zaragoza. Set in a 19th-century building, this three-star hotel offers individually decorated rooms, a cosy lounge, and a warm atmosphere, creating an intimate stay for guests.

For a mid-range option, Hotel Palafox provides a blend of comfort and style. This four-star hotel, located in the city centre, features a contemporary design, spacious rooms, and a rooftop pool, ensuring a pleasant retreat for visitors.

Budget-conscious travellers can find value at Hostal Central Zaragoza . This two-star guesthouse, situated near the Plaza del Pilar, offers simple yet comfortable accommodations, making it an affordable choice without sacrificing proximity to the city's landmarks.

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 1.3 When to visit
• 2.1.1 Nearby airports
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 By foot
• 3.2.1 Tourist bus
• 3.3 By taxi
• 3.4 By bicycle
• 4.1 Churches
• 4.2 Moorish remains
• 4.3 Museums
• 4.6 Zaragoza Card
• 5.1 Swimming pools for hot days
• 6.1 Shopping streets
• 6.2 Department stores and shopping centres
• 6.3 Markets
• 7.1 What to order
• 7.2.1 Old Town
• 7.2.2 Puerta del Carmen
• 7.3.1 Tapas
• 7.3.2 Other restaurants
• 7.4 Splurge
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Consulates

Zaragoza is the capital and largest city of Aragon in Spain , and one of Spain's five largest cities, but it is one of the least known outside of Spain. Founded on the river Ebro during the Roman Empire as Cesaraugusta , Zaragoza now holds a large cultural and architectural heritage attesting to 2,000 years of affluence and importance. The city is best known for its Basilica del Pilar , built to venerate the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Saint James in very early Christian times, which became a major marker of cultural identity for Christian Spain. The city was again put on the global map by the 2008 Expo, which left it with a whole new modern part developed further for various purposes after the exhibition closed.

Zaragoza sits between Madrid and Barcelona on a high-speed railway line. It enjoys relative affluence, yet it is still often overlooked by tourists so prices, such as for accommodation, remain much lower than in either of Spain's most famous cities. It's a great stop along your way, or even a destination in its own right.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

The city on the Ebro river was founded at the turn of the millennium by the Roman Emperor Augustus, and named after him as Caesaraugusta . 2,000 years later, the architectural remains of large public buildings indicate Caesar Augustus’ influence over the city. Today you can still admire the city’s Forum, Thermal Baths, the River Port or the Great Theatre, archeological remains which reflect the splendour of the city as it was during the Roman Empire . It was on the banks of the river Ebro that Saint James (called Santiago in Spanish) reportedly saw the apparition of Virgin Mary on the pillar, which is seen as the pivotal moment in the foundation of the Spanish Christian heritage.

After the fall of the empire, the city and the rest of today's Spain, was conquered by the Goths and then by the Moors. Zaragoza, was the northernmost stronghold of the Moorish caliphate, and then emerged as a capital of its own kingdom, or Taifa . The founding of the Taifa in the 11th century was marked by the construction of the Aljafeira Palace, which remains one of few relatively intact monuments from that era. Despite being often on the front line, Zaragoza continued to develop as a major art and science centre.

As Zaragoza was regained by the Christian kings of Aragon, the development continued and the relative tolerance which Christians enjoyed under the Muslim rule was extended to the Moors initially. The Moorish artistic and architectural tradition was incorporated into the local architectural style called Mudéjar , of which many examples survive in Zaragoza. Under Christian rule, Zaragoza's two cathedrals, the original La seo and the Basilica del Pilar , were constructed to venerate the Virgin Mary apparition. The city's importance and affluence in the subsequent ages is reflected in its rich architectural heritage and many improvements given to its most important buildings, which gives them a number of layers of appeal.

Zaragoza has retained relative affluence by becoming a major industrial hub, with factories spread over several industrial parks around the city, and a big logistics hub (named PLAZA , or Plataforma Logística de Zaragoza ), taking advantage of its strategic location on the railway line between Madrid and Barcelona and its airport, focusing on freight. The Expo 2008 universal exhibition held in the city resulted in massive development of its western outskirts into exhibition grounds, which have been repurposed for business, civic services and public recreation grounds.

Climate [ edit ]

Zaragoza has a Continental Mediterranean climate, very dry, with cold winters and hot summers. With an average of 318 mm per year, rainfall is a rarity mostly occurring in spring. There is drought in summer with only a few storms in the late afternoon. In July and August temperatures are typically above 30°C (86°F), reaching up to 40°C (104°F) a few days per year. On those days you will quickly pick the idea of siesta: hiding away after lunch, during the hottest part of the day, to enjoy later the evenings and nights at a delightful 18-22°C.

In winter the temperatures are low, usually between 0 and 10°C (32-50°F), with some frosts during the night. Snow only shows up once every couple of years but fog is not uncommon (about 20 days from November to January). However, the only bad part is the Cierzo, a cold and dry wind blowing from the NW that is quite common on clear days, and can make your stay really unpleasant. Beware also of sunny days in spring and autumn, if the Cierzo blows, you will regret not having warm clothes with you.

When to visit [ edit ]

The best time to visit Zaragoza is during spring (April to mid-June) and autumn (Sept-Oct). In late June and July the days can be quite hot but in the evenings the city is bustling with people going out for dinner or having a beer with friends in a terrace. In August the city is almost deserted, with most people being on holidays at the mountains or the coast, and more that half the bars, restaurants and small business closed.

The major city festival is El Pilar that takes place every year the week of the 12th of October, with lots of concerts, performances and street animations. It is also the best time to see a bullfight in Zaragoza.

The Easter week, although not in the same league that the Andalucia or Calanda counterparts, is very scenic, with several processions going over the city centre every day with their dramatic sculptures, black-dressed praying women and hundreds of hooded people playing drums. It is a Spain's Festival of International Tourist Interest since 2014.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Transfer to/from the airport: The cheapest option is the airport bus 501 [dead link] stopping at Los Enlaces, Delicias train station, Avenida de Navarra, and Paseo de María Agustín 7, in the city centre (45 minutes ride). The bus costs €1.85 and runs every 30 minutes M-Sa and every hour on Sundays and holidays. Alternatively a taxi will cost around €25-30 and take around 20 minutes to the city centre.

Nearby airports [ edit ]

As Zaragoza Airport has limited flight connections, it can be more convenient to fly to Madrid or Barcelona airports, from where you can reach Zaragoza in less than 3 hours.

From Madrid Barajas Airport : go to Atocha RENFE train station either by taxi (30 minutes, around €25) or by metro (45 min, €2) and then take the high speed train AVE to Zaragoza (1hr 30min, around €50). A cheaper but not so comfortable alternative is taking an ALSA coach that runs between Barajas terminal T4 and Zaragoza every 2–3 hours (3hr 45min trip, single/return: €15/€26). If you are in terminals T1 T2 or T3, take the free airport bus shuttle to terminal T4. The bus to Zaragoza stops in the same place as the airport shuttle. The ALSA ticket counter can be found inside the terminal and a vending machine with ALSA tickets is close to the bus bays.

From Barcelona Airport : The easiest way is to take the half-hourly RENFE R2Nord suburban train to Barcelona Sants (20 min, €2.20), and then take the high speed train AVE to Zaragoza (1hr 45min, around €60). If you already have your AVE ticket, you can get the suburban train ticket for free in the automatic vending machines, by typing the code for “cercanías” that appears in your AVE ticket.

By train [ edit ]

Zaragoza is served by the high speed train AVE that reaches Madrid in approximately 1hr 30 min, and Barcelona in about 1hr 45min. There are up to 19 trains a day in each direction for Madrid and 12 for Barcelona. Regular rates start at about €50 to Madrid and €60 to Barcelona, but you can get up to a 60% discount if you book through the web 15 days in advance.

The train tracks have been opened to private companies, so you can buy a ticket from or to Madrid for as low as €9. The possible options are Ouigo or Omio .

A cheaper way to get to Zaragoza from Barcelona is using the Regional Express - a slow train going on an ancient track, stopping at every small village and some post-industrial ghost towns, and really astonishing landscapes. The ride takes 5 hours, costs €22.

Other neighbouring cities like Huesca , Teruel , Pamplona , Logroño , Bilbao or Valencia are connected by a few daily conventional trains.

For more information on train schedules and prices, visit the website of RENFE . Note, there isn't a single cafe/bar with wifi in the station.

By bus [ edit ]

You can reach Zaragoza either from Madrid or Barcelona in 3hr 45min. The coach company is ALSA and the single/return ticket costs around €15/€26. Zaragoza is also well communicated with other main capital cities, such as Valencia and Bilbao. There is possibility of getting to Zaragoza from France by bus. The main lines travel from Lourdes , Tarbes , Pau and Oloron .

For bus schedules from Barcelona, also try Barcelona Nord .

By car [ edit ]

Zaragoza is very well connected by free speedways with Huesca (1 hr), Teruel (2 hr), Madrid (3 hr), and by toll highways with Barcelona (3 hr, €30), Pamplona and Bilbao . Traffic around the city is relatively light except on some weekends and holidays.

Free parking in the city centre is very scarce. Most streets have metered parking limited to 1 or 2 hours. Underground paying parkings are scattered in the entire city and usually have free places.

Distances to Zaragoza: Madrid 312 km, Barcelona 307 km, Bilbao 305 km, Lleida/Lerida 150 km

Get around [ edit ]

By foot [ edit ]

If you stay in or near the old town, most of the main attractions are within easy walking distance.

By bus or tram [ edit ]

A transport card costs €7 at any tobacco kiosk (including an initial fee of €2, and credit of €5). With the card you will pay €0.74 for a journey and can change lines within an hour without being charged again. Single tickets bought from the driver are €1.35 (cash only).

Most bus routes have audio announcements and "next stop" displays inside the vehicle.

There is one tram line ("Tranvía") which runs from the north to the south west, through the city centre. The tram uses the same fare system as the buses - touch your card on a reader when boarding. More tram lines are projected to open soon.

Tourist bus [ edit ]

Sightseeing bus is another option. It costs €7 (free if you have the Zaragoza card) and the ticket can be used the entire day.

By taxi [ edit ]

The taxi drivers are plentiful and mostly honest.

By bicycle [ edit ]

There is a shared bicycle system called Bizi . It has a fairly good website in English which allows you to get a temporary subscription online beforehand. This subscription is valid for three days and costs €5.28. As with most shared bicycle system, the first 30 minutes are free after which you'll pay €0.52 per additional 30 minutes. This is up until 2 hours, after which you'll have to pay a penalty of €3.16 per hour. The deposit is €200.

After getting a temporary subscription online, you receive a subscription number which, together with your pin code of choice, enables you to take a bike immediately upon arrival in Zaragoza. Bike availability is usually good, and there are plenty of stations in the city centre, as well as near the Delicias train station and the expo area.

However, in 2015, the screens of many bicycle stations were not properly working (broken, unreadable text, flickering). Since this makes it impossible to enter the subscription number and pin code and therefore also impossible to borrow a bike (though it probably still works for annual subscribers who have a contactless card), the system becomes somewhat unreliable.

See [ edit ]

Plaza del Pilar is the main square, just south of the River Ebro. On the square are the two cathedrals and the "Fuente de la Hispanidad", a fountain and sculpture representing Columbus' discovery of the New World. The tourist office is here as well.

Churches [ edit ]

Moorish remains [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ].

• 41.65524 -0.87465 9 Port .  
• 41.65522 -0.87639 10 Forum .  
• 41.65335 -0.87703 11 Baths .  
• 41.65088 -0.87073 15 Educational Museum of Origami in Zaragoza ( EMOZ ), Centro de Historias , ☏ +34 876 03 45 69 . A gallery devoted to the craft of origami within the Centro de Historias. €3 or free with Tourist Card . ( updated Oct 2017 )

Expo [ edit ]

• 41.6689 -0.90202 16 Expo 2008 . In 2008 Zaragoza hosted an international expo for which a new area was opened with many new buildings designed by famous architects such as Zaha Hadid. It is now possible to stroll around this area. The only facility open to tourists is the aquarium.  

Parks [ edit ]

Zaragoza card [ edit ].

You can buy a Zaragoza Card , a prepaid product for tourists visiting Zaragoza that combine many of the services tourists are likely to use in a prepaid package. You can buy cards valid over 24hr (€20) or 48hr (€23) online or at the tourist office. The card includes:

• Free entry to major museums and monuments.
• 24 hour unlimited use of the Tourist Bus.
• Prepaid public transportation (5 trips with the 24-hr card, 7 trips with the 48-hr card).
• Including guided tours and the services of the “roaming” tourist guides.
• One free drink and tapa in selected bars.

Do [ edit ]

• The Parque Grande is excellent for a walk or a chill. Huge in size, you forget the city, and the many fountains adds to distraction.

Swimming pools for hot days [ edit ]

Summer days can be very hot in Zaragoza. If you prefer relaxing by the swimming pool over a sightseeing program, here are a few suggestions. Public swimming pools in Zaragoza are generally clean and well maintained. The entrance fee is some €3 for an adult. Open-air pools are open until 9 or 22:00 in the evening.

• 41.673 -0.883 1 Centro Deportivo Municipal Actur , C/ Pablo Ruiz Picasso s/n ( near Avenida de los Pirineos ). Several swimming pools, large lawn area. Few trees, hard to find a place in the shadow.  
• 41.637 -0.895 2 Centro Deportivo Municipal Salduba , Paseo de Mairano Renovales s/n ( Part of Parque Primo de Rivera between Calle de Manuel Lasala and Paseo de San Sebastián ). 50-m pool, the right place for serious swimming.  
• 41.639 -0.904 3 Palacio Municipal de Deportes , Calle de Luis Bermejo . Small pool, plenty of trees for shadow.  

Buy [ edit ]

Shopping streets [ edit ].

Zaragoza has much to offer in the way of shopping, with most central streets being lined with shopping opportunities. Shopping area stretches from Residencial Paraiso in Sagasta to the Plaza de España . The most exclusive shops are on Francisco de Vitoria, San Ignacio de Loyola, Cadiz, Isaac Peral and the streets crossing them. Craft and souvenir shops are located in the Jaime I and Alfonso I streets, starting in the Pilar Place, and at Anticuarios de la Plaza de San Bruno , where Sunday mornings a small flea market takes place.

Department stores and shopping centres [ edit ]

• 41.65082 -0.88151 1 El Corte Inglés . The iconic Spanish department store chain has its outlet in Zaragoza on Paseo de la Independencia close to Plaza de España  
• 41.64 -0.9091 2 Aragonia . A modern multi-functional centre in the southern district of Romareda.  
• 41.66 -0.92 3 Centro Comercial Augusta , Avenida De Navarra 180 ( next to Delicias train station ). Shops, restaurants, cinema and free Wi-Fi access in a centre behind the Delicias station.  

Markets [ edit ]

• 41.65604 -0.88305 5 Mercado Central ( Lanuza Market ). On a site which has been a market place since the Middle Ages. It is the perfect place to buy Zaragozan products as well as observe the atmosphere of a traditional Spanish market. Go there if you are looking for food and fresh produce  
• 41.662545 -0.911239 7 Rastro de Zaragoza ( Parking Sur Expo ). Largest open-air market  

Eat [ edit ]

What to order [ edit ].

Some of the best known regional specialities are:

• Bacalao al Ajoarriero , cod-fish with garlic and eggs,
• Huevos al Salmorejo , eggs with cold tomato cream,
• Longanizas y Chorizos , highly appreciated kinds of sausages,
• Ternasco Asado , roasted young lamb,
• Pollo al Chilindrón , chicken in a sauce of cured ham, tomatoes, onions and paprika,
• Cordero a la Pastora , lamb Shepherd's style,
• Lomo de Cerdo a la Zaragozana , cutlet,
• Migas a la Aragonesa , a dish made of crumbs scrambled with an egg and chorizo,
• Huevos rotos con foie , scrambled eggs with foie gras, often served with roasted potatoes and slices of smoked ham ( jamon )
• Borrajas is a vegetable which can only be found in Aragon. It is usually eaten with olive oil,
• Melocotón con vino , peaches in wine, is a good option for dessert, though sometimes it is hard to find a restaurant serving this.

Budget [ edit ]

• 41.66846 -0.88733 1 Cebrian , Calle Jorge Guillen 2-4-6, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain , ☏ +34 976 52 99 14 , [email protected] . ( updated Apr 2023 )
• 41.65381 -0.88081 2 La Miguería , Zaragoza, Plaza Sas, 6, 50003, Spain , ☏ +34 976 20 07 36 . ( updated Apr 2023 )

Old Town [ edit ]

• 41.65349 -0.88015 3 Taberna de Doña Casta , Calle Estébanes, 6 . Known for croquetas ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.654532 -0.880233 4 Café Restaurante Casa de Martino , C. de Jussepe Martínez, 4 . Down home cooking ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.655965 -0.880802 5 Bocatart , C. de la Manifestación, 19 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.65298 -0.880495 6 El limpia , C. del Cuatro de Agosto, 17 . Tapas ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.653056 -0.879406 7 El Cuartelillo , C. de José Pellicer Ossau, 2 . Tapas ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.653276 -0.878696 8 La Republicana , C. de Casto Méndez Núñez, 38 . Tapas ( updated Aug 2022 )

Puerta del Carmen [ edit ]

• 41.649821 -0.888119 9 Lecker & Lecker , P.º de María Agustín, 1 . Tapas ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.649001 -0.890862 10 Bardetodos , C. del Dr. Horno Alcorta, 27 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.648141 -0.890784 11 La Tabernita , C. de Antonio Cánovas, 2 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

Tapas [ edit ].

Zaragoza is well known because of its many tapas bars. A "Tabla" is a wooden plate in which different tapas like cheese and sausages are served, often with a bottle of wine in the price.

• 41.652437 -0.88087 12 Puerta Cinegia Gastronómica Mercado , Cinegia Gatronómica Mercado, C. del Coso, nº 35 . A very good place to get tapas. In this area are narrow streets overflowing with small bars and restaurants. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.653022 -0.879545 13 El Tubo de Zaragoza , Pl. de España . Also a very good place to get tapas near the Puerta Cinegia. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.65422 -0.87668 14 Gran Taberna Tragantua , Plaza Santa Marta , ☏ +34 976 299 174 . A little bit more expensive but the food is of high quality. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.65419 -0.87699 15 Los Victorinos , C/José de la Hera, 6 ( alley off Calle Don Jaime I ). One of the best tapas bars in town (although surely not the cheapest!) Try the Boletus Edulis tapa. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.65349 -0.88362 16 Palomeque , C/. Palomeque , ☏ +34 976 214082 . A classier, unusual take on a tapas bar, but not overpriced compared to some of the other "high-end tapas".It is advisable to call ahead, as this is a very popular restaurant. €10-20 per person (Jan 2013) . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Other restaurants [ edit ]

• 41.64332 -0.89443 17 Taberna La Piedra , Cortes de Aragon, 64 . Delicious if a bit pricey. The Piedras and Solomillos are highly recommended. Great for beef lovers or lovers of very traditional Spanish food. €50 per person (Jan 2013) . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 41.652777 -0.880118 18 Casa Lac , Calle de los mártires 12 . M-Sa 13:00-16:00, 20:00-00:00; Su 12:30-17:00 . An excellent choice for higher-end tapas. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Sweet [ edit ]

• 41.654127 -0.877779 19 Heladería Tortosa , Calle Don Jaime I, 35 ( the street in front of the Seo Cathedral, away from the river ), ☏ +34 976 292 600 , [email protected] . 11:00-00:30 . One of the oldest ice cream shops in Zaragoza, established in 1934. Offer high quality Italian-style ice cream, and horchata de chufa. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 41.65246 -0.87958 20 Helados Italianos Aldo , Calle Don Jaime I . Very good ice cream shop. ( updated Aug 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

There is a number of good wines produced in Aragon .

Tareas of Calle de Espoz y Mina and Calle Mayor, which are a stone's throw from Plaza del Pilar, have plenty of varied bars from which to choose.

• 41.65425 -0.87894 1 Cafe Praga , Plaza de la Santa Cruz 13, El Tubo , ☏ +34 976 20 02 51 . Great local favorite that has live music playing in the main bar, or you can retreat to the upstairs terrace and enjoy a tasty beverage overlooking the plaza.  
• 41.65573 -0.88169 2 La Cucaracha , Calle del Temple 25, El Tubolla . Laidback and casual student hang out that doesn't really get going until the early hours of the morning.  
• 41.65328 -0.881 3 Rock and Blues Cafe , Cuatro de Agosto 5-7, El Tubo . Unleash your inner rock god at this long standing favorite, where live music plays throughout the week.  
• 41.65645 -0.88126 4 La Campana de los Perdidos , Prudencio, 7 . 21:00-03:00 . Enjoy a beer while listening live music, theatre, poetry from Wednesday to Sunday  

Sleep [ edit ]

Accommodation is a reason to visit Zaragoza in itself - if you plan to visit both Madrid and Barcelona taking advantage of the fast train connection, you can choose to stay here, halfway between them. Not only will you pay less for the combined train tickets to Zaragoza from either city than from the entire Madrid-Barcelona AVE ride, but you will also benefit from the much lower rates hotels charge in Zaragoza. And all the attractions of Zaragoza are an added bonus on top of it!

• 41.65764 -0.88575 1 Be Hostels Zaragoza , C/ Predicadores 70 , [email protected] . Refurbished in 2008, this hostel is styled in an old medieval building that retains its charms of previous years. Free internet and kitchen available for travelers, with dorms rooms from €16.60 per night.  

• 41.66042 -0.86279 2 B&B Hotel Zaragoza Plaza Mozart , Av. la Jota, 2 , ☏ +34 876 63 67 96 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . €38 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.63489 -0.99101 3 Sercotel Plaza Feria . The Sercotel Plaza Feria is set in an industrial and commercial area on the outskirts of the city and thus recommendable to those travelling by car, who can shave off a few dozen euros off the price of the night in a proper modern hotel by choosing to stay in a remote location. €38 . ( updated Aug 2016 )

• 41.64913 -0.92048 4 B&B Hotel Zaragoza Los Enlaces Estación , Pilar Miro, 1 ( Bus 501 to Aeropuerto from the Delicias station, alight at Via Hispanidad (303), walk 450 m down the road ). Convenient if you plan to use Zaragoza as a stopover on your Madrid-Barcelona train ride, as it is only 5 minutes by bus from the Delicias station (or half an hour by foot, if you feel like walking 2 km. Great value for an AC property, even if a bit older and quite away from the city centre (30 mins by bus). €42 .  
• 41.65521 -0.88422 5 Hotel Avenida , Avenida Cesar Augusto 55 , ☏ +34 976 43 93 00 , [email protected] . Clean hotel near the central market. €60 .  
• 41.6566 -0.91507 6 Eurostars Plaza Delicias . The hotel is actually a certain distance from the Delicias train station (note that there is another Eurostars hotel actually AT the very station), and the walk is not very pleasant, but the hotel is reasonably modern if certainly not luxurious. €49 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.6516 -0.9822 7 Eurostars Rey Fernando . On the outskirts of the Platforma Logistica commercial / industrial park, the hotel overlooks a park but one needs a car to comfortably get between the hotel and the city of Zaragoza proper. €43 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.65958 -0.91222 8 Eurostars Zaragoza . Confusingly named, it is distinct from the other Eurostars hotels in Zaragoza and is at the Delicias train station although the name would not suggest so. Do not confuse it with the other hotels when booking, especially the remote and run-down Eurostars Boston . The hotel is modern and very practical for those arriving by train, but one needs to note that some rooms only have windows towards the Delicias station hall and no outside view. €50 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.65507 -0.88747 9 Hesperia Zaragoza . €49 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.65141 -0.87453 10 Ibis Styles Zaragoza Ramiro I . As with the other Ibis Styles, breakfast is normally included in the room price, but watch out for some special prices that eschew breakfast. €55 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.65861 -0.87427 11 B&B Hotel Zaragoza Centro , Calle de Sobrarbe 2 . A standard if a bit dated Ibis hotel, whose highlight is the location right in front of the Puente de Piedra , which means not only closeness to the historic centre across the river, but also fairytale views of the bridge and Pilar basilica from some of the rooms. €48 .  
• 41.65438 -0.87774 12 Hotel Sauce , C/ Espoz y Mina, 33 ( In the commercial centre, near the Plaza del Pilar ), ☏ +34 976 205050 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . €49 .  
• 41.65759 -0.88208 13 NH Ciudad de Zaragoza . €59 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.66117 -0.90697 14 Tryp Zaragoza . €65 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.65162 -0.88591 15 Melia Zaragoza , Avenida Cesar Augusto 13 . One of the most luxurious hotels in the city, this 5-star hotel is close to the Carmen Door. €83 .  
• 41.649 -0.8815 16 NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza . €79 . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 41.65064 -0.88547 17 Hotel Palafox , Marqués de Casa Jiménez, s/n. , ☏ +34 976 237 700 . Inviting decor of beige stone/marble, dark wood and soft lighting. All the rooms with wireless internet, minibar, room service etc. The attention to detail is noticeable, from the construction of the building to the decor and service it provides its guests. It was designed by Pascua Ortega and constructed from materials native to the region using traditional methods. €85 .  

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

• Madrid and Barcelona are easily reached by car, high speed train or bus.
• The Alsa bus to Madrid stops in Alcalá de Henares , a charming old university town, handy for Madrid airport.
• Monasterio de Piedra - charming monastery built in 1194 dc surrounded by an amazing park full of waterfalls. 90 minutes by car. Excellent guided tours, a two-hour attraction.
• Fuendetodos - Birthplace of the great painter Francisco de Goya. 80 minutes by car.
• Moncayo - A fascinating mountain view. 80 minutes by car.
• Monasterio de Rueda - Romanic monastery which belonged to the cirtencens order.
• Monasterio de Veruela - Romantic monastery which belonged to the cirtencens order.
• Formigal - As the Pyrenees are just 2 hours away from Zaragoza, head to the ski slopes there.
• Teruel and Huesca are easily reached by car, train or bus.

The following places are located in the Huesca province , not more than 2 hours by car and in the middle of the Pyrenees. Charming places in the middle of the nature.

• Loarre Castle - One of the best Romanesque castles in Europe, the site for Ridley Scott's 2005 film, Kingdom of Heaven .
• Ordesa National Park is particularly spectacular in autumn and decorated with waterfalls.
• Alquezar - A small village situated in the Sierra de Guara National Park.
• Villanueva de Sigena - The Monastery of Santa María de Sigena is located next to the town. Birthplace of Michael Servetus, the discoverer of pulmonary circulation with a museum dedicated to his work.

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A 2 Day Zaragoza Itinerary For This Cultural Spanish City!

Categories Europe , Itinerary , Spain

Zaragoza is in the Northern part of Spain in the Aragon region and the 5th biggest city in Spain. It is home to an array of museums with museums dedicated to art and Roman History in particular. It holds a lot of important religious sites, a large number of beautiful Renaissance buildings and in addition to this the food and wine scene is incredible and its people are extremely hospitable.

I would highly recommend Zaragoza as the best Spanish City to visit if you want to see an authentic side of Spain. It’s a perfect city to visit if you enjoy museums and architecture, good food and wine and want a relaxed trip and here’s how you can plan all of that into your Zaragoza itinerary. 

Zaragoza Itinerary

• More of my Zaragoza Posts:
• 50 Things to do and see in Zaragoza!
• A Full Guide to Zaragoza!

Day 1 in Zaragoza:

Morning to Mid Afternoon

Plaza del Pilar

Start your 2 days in Zaragoza and your Zaragoza itinerary by heading to the Plaza del Pilar , this is one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe, check out the waterfall at one end which represents Latin America, see the world statue, look out for the statue’s dedicated to Goya and take in the Basilica del Pilar- an incredible Baroque style temple and the biggest temple of Christianity in the world from the outside.

Basilica del Pilar is the best thing to see in Zaragoza because it is so impressive and shows why Zaragoza is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain!

Basilica de Pilar

After this on your Zaragoza itinerary, head into the Basilica de Pilar , it’s free to enter and is open from 6:45am each day. As you can imagine it is huge inside! It holds paintings from Goya, a famous painter from the Aragon region and there are regular services that you can observe.

When you leave the Basilica there is a little gift shop on both sides, the shop to the right sells coloured ribbons for €1.00 which are brought and given to others as gifts for protection.

Once you have finished, head to the Tourist office in the Plaza which opens at 10:00 am. The staff here are very friendly and are here to help you see their beautiful city of Zaragoza.

After you have spoken to the tourist office and had any questions answered that you needed advice or help on, go back to the Basilica del Pilar and take the lift to the top of one of the Towers  after 10:00 am when it opens to see the best view of Zaragoza. The view from the Tower is incredible, the lift takes you 60meters up where you can see over the top of the Basilica, the river and both sides of the city!

There’s even the chance to climb another 20meters to 80 meters up which is pretty good considering the tower itself is 92meters!

Museums in Zaragoza

Back on the lower ground, this is when I suggest you start making your way to the museums in Zaragoza on this Zaragoza itinerary.

Catedral del Salvador (La Seo) is a good place to start as it’s at the end of the Plaza. This is another incredible church and is made up of a range of styles- Romanesque, Mudejar, Renaissance, Gothic & Baroque with a beautiful mosaic design on one of its sides. There is a brochure available in English so you can understand more about it.

Also inside is a Tapestry Museum home to a collection of impressive, huge, Flemish tapestries from the 15th to 18th Century, there is an English audio guide available too.

Next to the Cathedral is Museo del Foro , this is one of the Roman Museums within the city. From the outside you cannot tell what it’s home to but once you go down the stairs you’ll find Roman ruins that are from the era in which the city had the name Caesaraugusta.

There are regular screenings to provide more information about the museum and the findings which are played in English and in Spanish.

Next up head to the Museo Goya , which is just a few streets away and a very popular museum in Zaragoza. It is housed in a Renaissance-style building which is typical of an old home. Here you can learn more about the life of Goya and see a large collection of his paintings.

Goya is one of the most important painters in the world and it is said that he is the father of the modern movement, locals are very proud that he is from the Aragon Region of which Zaragoza sits in Spain. The war influenced a lot of his paintings and he criticised the society of his time which shows in a lot of his prints.

On the lower ground floor, there is an audio-visual projection about his life and paintings which is interesting, it’s of high quality and plays the film in English at 11:15, 12:15, 13:15, 17:15, 18:15 and 19:15, between these times are French and Spanish viewings.  A lot of the signs are in English and there are interactive iPad’s in Spanish, English and French. It has free admission on the second Sunday of every month.

• Related Posts:
•   A Full Guide to Zaragoza!

Zaragoza ChocoPass

Whilst you’re walking between the museums of Zaragoza and exploring the historical centre now is the time to start exploring the city in a sweeter way and start your ChocoPass  where you can collect Chocolate over the course of the next 2 days in Zaragoza (if you want to get this, and I recommend you do, get it from the Tourist Office when you pass by)!

Zaragoza has a monastery nearby (Monastery de Piedra) and it is said that the monks in this monastery were the first people to try cocoa beans to make chocolate in Europe. Therefore there are lots of Chocolate shops in the city selling a range of different chocolates and the Chocopass enables you to visit 5 out of 21 establishments in the city (plus a 6th pass for Monastery de Piedra) signed up to the pass and collect chocolate from them when you present your pass.

The paperwork with the pass details the shops that it’s valid at and what you’ll get from the shops however I would recommend going to Fantoba Hermanos s.l and Capricho Taller De Chocolate for 2 of the passes as the chocolate provided is sealed so you can take it away rather than having to eat it there and then and both have very nice owners and are interesting from the inside and outside.

It’s true that the Spanish do not eat until mid-afternoon and Zaragoza being the very authentic Spanish City that it is does not have many restaurants or cafe’s open until later in the afternoon so keep this in mind when planning your Zaragoza itinerary!

Casa Lac Restaurant Zaragoza

I would recommend heading to Casa Lac in the El Tubo area for a great Spanish lunch from about 14:30 onwards. This is a very typical Spanish restaurant with 2 dining possibilities, downstairs is a fairly relaxed bar and restaurant area where you can choose from a range of tapas dishes and upstairs is more of a fine dining experience for a set price (see photos below to get an idea of what is served for this option!).

Either way, the food is incredible from here and the staff are very friendly and helpful too. They even have a website which can be translated to English, take a look  here .

Late Afternoon

Paseo de la Independencia

Zaragoza is not just home to the historical centre and I think it’s important to see the more commercialised side of the city too. Although there is a tram which runs across the city, Zaragoza is very walkable so it’s easy to get from the historical centre into the more commercialised section.

From Casa Lac and the El Tubo area head to and up Paseo de la Independencia  and straight away you will see that the streets widen and the shops hold many international brands however this doesn’t mean that the architecture isn’t just as incredible!

Museo de Zaragoza

I would suggest heading to Museo de Zaragoza after 17:00 when it reopens on your Zaragoza itinerary (note that it closes at 14:00 on Sunday and does not re-open) which is in an area called Los Sitios. The museum is free and divided into 2 sections, Archaeology and Fine Art and once again you can see an example of Goya’s art and the building itself is very impressive with a beautiful courtyard.

If you’d like to do a tour around Zaragoza including a Tapas Tour with a local, have a look at availability for one of these tours:

Early Evening

Head back to your hotel to freshen up and have a siesta if you wish, it is the Spanish way of course because remember that dinner will not start until late either!

I really recommend Hotel Alfonso in Zaragoza , it’s a beautiful hotel in the best location and it has a rooftop pool which is perfect for those hot Spanish Afternoons! For more hotels in Zaragoza, Booking.com has plenty available.

Restaurants in Zaragoza

This evening I would suggest heading out for Tapas as the Tapas scene in Zaragoza is really great. 4 Places that are close together and are really good are:  Izakaya ,  Casa Domino ,  El Angel Del Pincho  &  La Republicana .

If you are Vegetarian or Vegan, you can still get really good food in Zaragoza, for my recommendations have a look at:  6 Great Vegetarian and Vegan Places to Eat in Zaragoza, Spain!

For more ideas on hotels to stay in Zaragoza and where to eat in Zaragoza including Tapas and 3 Course Spanish meals, have a look at:  A Full Guide to Zaragoza, Spain .

I would recommend staying for drinks in the El Tubo area because this is where quite a few of the bars in Zaragoza are. One of the things I liked most about Zaragoza is that the locals and tourists merge, there are no tourist bars or restaurants in Zaragoza so you can get a really good feel of local life wherever you go.

The El Tubo area is interesting too as in the 90’s it was a no-go area and has only been cleared up fairly recently using an initiative started by the shop and bar owners in the area.

To SEE my second trip to Zaragoza, have a look at my YouTube video here !

Day 2 in Zaragoza:

Zaragoza hop-on hop-off bus.

For day 2 of your Zaragoza itinerary. Be at the bus stop opposite Catedral del Salvador for 10:30am which is when the Zaragoza  hop-on hop-off bus will arrive. Your ticket for this can be purchased in the Tourist Office.

Buses like this appear very touristy and are not very ‘local and authentic’, everything that I have said Zaragoza is, however this bus tour around Zaragoza is the best way to see Zaragoza today because the destinations it visits are not particularly walkable from the historic centre and there is an audio guide in various languages to provide more information about the city.

Parque Jose Antonio Labordeta

After being on board for about 15-20 minutes get off at Parque Jose Antonio Labordeta which is the 5th official stop. This is a lovely park to walk around, it’s very quiet and relaxed. It is also home to the highest vantage point in the city which you can walk up (it’s not very steep or that high though so it’s not strenuous) and see a pretty good view over the park and city in the distance.

Get back on the next bus that passes by and enjoy the ride, after about 30-40 minutes of driving the bus will take you past the Zona Expo and Park del Agua , this area was built as part of the 2008 International Exhibition of Water and Sustainable Development.

Zaragoza is very proud to have been home to this exhibition which lasted 3 months and now uses the area in a number of ways including a water park and research centre. You can get off and explore but it does feel like a bit of an empty shell still at the moment and it’s possible to see a lot of it from the bus.

Palacio de la Aljaferia

When you get to Palacio de la Aljaferia which is the 16th stop near the end of the tour then get off the bus and visit the Palace which is one of the popular places to visit in Zaragoza. There is an entrance fee but if you go on Sunday’s the entrance is free!

Although Aljaferia looks more like a fort from the outside it is very much a palace from the inside. The origin of the palace is Muslim with the original tower dating back to the 9th century and the palace constructed in the 11th century, this place as you can imagine holds a lot of history, later in the 18th century it was also used as a military base.

There is a courtyard with Orange Trees and beautiful architecture, make sure you go inside to explore the rooms and keep looking up as the ceilings are very impressive.

From here on your Zaragoza itinerary, you can walk back into the historical centre which will take 15-20 minutes or get back on the hop on, hop off bus as it will be heading back to the centre.

This afternoon I recommend seeing another area slightly outside of the historic centre so head towards the Central Market to check this out but then head up Calle del Las Armas  into the El Gancho area and to Las Armas restaurant which is just a few streets up.

Here you can sit inside or outside in the plaza area. They have a range of tapas dishes and main dishes as well as plenty of drink options and although the menu is not in English it is easy to navigate and the staff are really nice so they can help you out too.

El Gancho Street Art

The El Gancho area has a lot of street art and this is what I suggest you see after Lunch. Every September Zaragoza hosts an Urban art festival called Festival Asalto. Artists from all over the world take part and they have 1 week to complete their piece on a designated area of the city.

Their website is a great way to see what the week looks like and in El Gancho you can see a lot of their work so take a walk further up Calle del Las Armas and head off on some of the side streets. This area is good to see too as it’s a little bit dirtier than the historical centre, the government are clearing it up and it’s by no means bad but I always think it’s good to see contrasting areas of a city like this.

Update: I went back to Zaragoza in 2018 and was able to see the Festival Asalto in action, to read more about it and to find out where to see the new set of street art, have a look at:  A Guide to Festival Asalto – An Urban Street Art Festival in Zaragoza, Spain.

Zaragoza’s food and dining scene is really good with a number of famous gastronomic restaurants. This evening I have 2 recommendations and it depends on what kind of food you’ll want to try and in what environment.

First off there is Puerta Cinema Gastronomical, this is a purpose-built inside food market with a range of built-in stalls around the edge of the room, the stalls that feature here generally have a main restaurant in the city but the beauty of this place is you can walk around and view all of the options before picking a few different dishes and sitting in the centre of the room.

There is a fixed bar and staff serving drinks and clearing plates. It’s a popular place for locals to go and is perfect if you can’t quite decide what you want for dinner. Their website is here .

My second recommendation is to go to La Despensa Montal in Plaza de San Felipe, this is a very nice restaurant with outside seating in the plaza and also seating inside. Depending on the night of the week you are in Zaragoza you may need to make a reservation, especially on a Saturday, and the tourist office could help you with this. Montal is very popular with locals and is pretty upmarket so it’s perfect if you feel like dressing up and going out for a nice sit-down dinner.

It’s a bit deceiving from the outside as initially, it looks like a Deli shop however the restaurant is in the back. The staff here are also great and sitting out in the Plaza on a summer’s evening will be the perfect end to your stay in Zaragoza and your Zaragoza itinerary! Their website is  here .

Overall I loved my trip to Zaragoza! It was great to see a real Spanish city that hasn’t been tainted by tourists and although I hope the city does become more popular I also hope it doesn’t lose this charm and following this Zaragoza itinerary will give you the perfect trip there!

For accommodation in Zaragoza for all budgets have a look on Booking.com .

• For more posts on Zaragoza see:
• A Full Guide to Zaragoza, Spain
• 50 Things to do and see in Zaragoza, Spain
• A Guide to Festival Asalto – An Urban Street Art Festival in Zaragoza, Spain
• 6 Great Vegetarian & Vegan Places to Eat in Zaragoza

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Thursday 3rd of January 2019

Really nice post! I live in Zaragoza and I recomend you visit a narrow street near "El Pilar" named "calle Pedro Atares". It is a very short street where you can find a really nice grafitti from the first festival of Asalto. There is a big, big fish hanging from a house. It is quite impressive to see it and overall take pictures! If you came back soon to Zaragoza, do not forget to visit me in my baby shop (Teoyleo), next to the graffiti of the giant fish :-)

TheWanderingQuinn

Sunday 6th of January 2019

Thank you so much for reading and commenting Eva. You live in a wonderful city. Thank you so much for letting me know. I’m sure I will visit again at some point so I’ll keep that street in mind, and your shop :)

Friday 7th of December 2018

Nice post! I lived in Zaragoza during 4 years and it was a great experience.

Saturday 8th of December 2018

Thank you! Oh wow I bet it was! It seems like such a liveable City!

Tuesday 26th of June 2018

Thanks very much for the tips and nice write-up!

You’re welcome. Glad you found it helpful!

Friday 13th of April 2018

I'm having a great time reading your posts! The contrast between modern and classic Spanish architecture really gives the city a surreal atmosphere, wow.

Also, I spent waaay more time that I should've gazing at those food pics....

Good to hear!

Mathieu Pic

Thursday 11th of January 2018

Great article! Zaragoza is in my part of my Spanish trip for now thanks to you :)

That’s so great to hear! Thank you for letting me know, you’ll really enjoy it!

10 Things to Do in Zaragoza, Spain [Plus a Sample Weekend Trip DIY Itinerary]

Are you looking for cool things to do in Zaragoza, Spain?

Zaragoza, Spain is located between Madrid, Barcelona , Bilbao, Valencia , and Toulouse. It is one of Spain’s biggest cities. With its rich history, Zaragoza is known for its folklore, local gastronomy, and landmarks like the Basilica del Pilar, La Seo Cathedral, and the Aljaferia Palace. We really can’t get enough of this wonderful city, it has a lot to offer for tourists who are craving a relaxing and adventurous trip. 

Explore Zaragoza’s Roman ruins, art museums, and Baroque cathedral while learning its culture and history at the same time. In this article, we listed things that you can do while you’re having a blast in Zaragoza, Spain. 

Table of Contents

10 Things To Do in Zaragoza, Spain

1. basilica de nuestra senora del pilar.

This cathedral is undoubtedly huge. You need to spend a lot of time exploring the whole cathedral. Be amazed by the murals, architecture, and majestic interiors. This stunning cathedral is beautiful inside and outside. Never miss one of the most gorgeous Cathedrals in Spain. 

2. Palacio de la Aljaferia

Considered one of the oldest castles in Spain, Palacio de la Aljaferia was built in the 11th century by a Muslim ruler. In the 12th century, it became the Palace of the Kings of Aragon. With its picturesque architecture, the castle was expertly restored. Today, it is home to Aragon’s regional Parliament. All tours are available every day. 

3. La Seo  del Salvador

When we say Gothic, this cathedral would be the best representation of what Gothic is. La Seo del Salvador is also a huge cathedral, because of its size, you will be amazed when you get inside to find other smaller chapels. You will also see stunning stone works and carvings that make this cathedral more beautiful. 

4. Museo de Los Faroles y Rosario de Cristal

This museum is a must-visit when you’re in Zaragoza. You don’t need to be religious at all to admire this place. For as long as you love art, you’d enjoy seeing colored glasses, and religious relics. These beautiful works of art are enough reason to visit Museo de Los Faroles y Rosario de Cristal.

5. Museo Pablo Gargallo

If you’re a fan of sculptures then you should include this place on your bucket list. Pablo Gargallo is known as the master of Bronze casting. By visiting this place, you will see his collections of sculptures that are truly magnificent. \

6. Monasterio de Piedra

Monasterio de Piedra is the perfect park for a relaxing walk. Have peace of mind while looking at the stunning waterfalls. Not only that, but you’ll also find a historic monastery on your trip to this park. This place is truly a hidden gem. Located 105km from Zaragoza, your trip will be all worth it.

7. Plaza del Pilar

A good place to visit in your spare time. There are a lot of things to do since it has restaurants, cafes, shops, and boutiques. During the evening, the view is stunning as you look at beautiful street lights and the night market is a must-see.

8. Torre del Pilar

Enjoy a trip by lift to see stunning views of the city and the river at the top. If you’re not afraid of heights, then this place is recommended. Another good thing is, it’s not too expensive so you don’t have to worry about the price. 

9. Puente de Piedra (Zaragoza)

Puente de Piedra is an old Roman bridge. If you love taking pictures, then you shouldn’t miss this one. With its awesome view of the river, it also has a unique design that is very picturesque. It is advisable to visit in the early morning or evening.

10. Patio de la Infanta

Visiting this place would be worth it as you will learn a lot about history and you’d be able to see plenty of arts and exhibitions. This beautiful Renaissance patio is small but a must-visit. 

11. Find accommodation in Zaragoza, Spain

Sample Weekend Itinerary to Zaragoza, Spain 

Three days is worth enough to see and explore the stunning place of Zaragoza, Spain. Whether with your friends, family, or even if you’re a solo traveler, this city will surely give you a nice experience even just for a short time.

La Seo del Salvador – This Gothic cathedral will leave you in awe on the first day of your trip to Zaragoza. With its marvelous design and magnificent architecture, this cathedral will surely give you a glimpse of Zaragoza, Spain.

Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar – Your Zaragoza getaway won’t be complete if you will not visit this enormous and popular cathedral. Be prepared to see the beautiful murals, and architecture that this cathedral has to offer. 

Puente de Piedra (Zaragoza) – An old roman bridge located in Zaragoza, Spain. It is recommended to visit this site in the early morning or evening as it offers a stunning view of the river and the bridge which perfectly fits the relaxing vibe of the night.

Torre del Pilar (Zaragoza) – Before you end your trip and before you go back home, we recommend you to visit Torre del Pilar. It offers a magnificent view of the city of Zaragoza and the river. You will have to ride an elevator as you go up the tower, but the ride will be all worth it. If you’re afraid of heights, then you can visit Plaza del Pilar instead. You can buy souvenirs and relax at a cafe or a restaurant while having a good time in this cheerful and busy place of Zaragoza.

Where to Stay in Zaragoza, Spain

(Prices are subject to change depending on the dates that you preferred. These prices are available on Oct.25-26, 2019. Visit the official website to check more accommodation and prices)

Where to Stay in Zaragoza, Spain if you’re a Backpacker

Hostal Plaza  

Centrally located, just 50 m from Zaragoza’s impressive Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar, Hostal Plaza offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Featuring tiled floors, all rooms are heated and come with a desk and wardrobe. Each has a private bathroom with a shower. The family-run guest house has vending machines and a shared TV lounge. There is a tour desk and luggage storage is offered. 

Price: Starts at $34 per night for Single Room including taxes and charges, free cancellation, and no prepayment needed, you can pay at the property. 

Hotel Hispania

Hotel Hispania is in central Zaragoza, next to the city’s Roman Walls and just 3 minute walk from El Pilar Basilica. Its air-conditioned rooms offer free Wi-Fi and most have a balcony. All rooms at the Hispania feature parquet floors and light wood furniture. Each one is equipped with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. There is also a free internet terminal that guests can use. 

Price: Starts at $43 per night for Da double or Twin Room including taxes and charges, add $4 for breakfast (optional) , and it’s non-refundable.

Hotel Rio Arga

Hotel Río Arga is on one of central Zaragoza’s main shopping streets, just 3 minutes’ walk from the Pilar Basílica. It offers a 24-hour reception and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. The soundproofed rooms at the Río Arga feature flat-screen satellite TV and a private balcony. The private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks in the lobby.  There is a tourist information office next to the Pilar Basílica.

Price: Starts at $47 per night for Single Room including taxes and charges, add $5 for breakfast (optional) , and it’s free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Zaragoza, Spain if you’re on a Budget

Hotel and Spa Real Ciudad de Zaragoza

Located beside the A23 Motorway, Hotel & Spa Real Ciudad De Zaragoza is 7 km from central Zaragoza. It features a spa and gym. Air-conditioned rooms feature a safe, minibar, and satellite TV. There is a desk and the private bathroom comes with a hairdryer and free toiletries. The on-site spa, available at an extra cost, offers various beauty treatments and includes a sauna and Turkish bath. It also has a hot tub. Guests can also relax in the hotel’s small garden area. A buffet breakfast is available and the hotel has an à la carte restaurant and a bar.

Price: Starts at $64 per night for Single Room including taxes and charges, add $9 for breakfast , and it’s non-refundable.

Hotel Boutique Maza

Hotel Boutique Maza is situated in the very center of Zaragoza, only a stone´s throw away from the historic old town, museums, and famous baroque Basilica.  Rooms feature air conditioning, heating, a desk, and a flat-screen TV. The private bathroom comes with free toiletries, a shower, and a hairdryer. Every morning the hotel serves a buffet breakfast. Guests have access to a shared lounge area. 

Price: Starts at $65 per night for Single Room including taxes and charges, and it’s non-refundable.

El Balcon de Aguadores

Located within a short distance of the Roman Forum and Market Theater, El Balcon de Aguadores offers free WiFi, air conditioning, and household amenities such as a fridge and kettle. With city views, this accommodation features a balcony. This apartment features 1 bedroom, a kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and 1 bathroom. Guests wishing to travel light can make use of towels and bed linen for an extra charge. The nearest airport is Zaragoza Airport, 16 km from El Balcon de Aguadores.

Price: Starts at $77 per night for an Apartment , add $22 for taxes and charges, and it’s free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Zaragoza, Spain if you want Luxury

Catalonia El Pilar

Catalonia El Pilar is located in Zaragoza’s old town, a 2-minute walk from the central market and the Basilica del Pilar. It offers a modern gym and rooms with free Wi-Fi and satellite TV. All rooms at Hotel Catalonia El Pilar have air conditioning and heating. They feature a private bathroom with a hairdryer, as well as a work desk and free safety deposit box. The hotel has a restaurant that serves a buffet breakfast and traditional Aragonese food for dinner.  La Seo Cathedral is 5 minutes walk away, and it is a 15-minute walk to Zaragoza bullring. The medieval Moorish palace of the Aljafería is 20 minutes away. 

Price: Starts at $85 per night for a Double or Twin Room including taxes and charges, add $16 for breakfast , it’s free cancellation, anno prepayment needed, you can pay at the property. 

Hotel Reina Petronila

This luxury hotel is next to the Aragonia shopping and leisure center. Hotel Reina Petronila offers free Wi-Fi access and an adults-only spa with an indoor pool and fitness area. The Reina Petronila offers excellent services in a superb location. The University of Zaragoza and Romareda Football Stadium are within walking distance. There is also a concert hall nearby. Every room at the Reina Petronila comes with a large flat-screen TV. Some rooms also offer a seating area. The modern bathrooms include a bathtub, free toiletries, and a bathrobe. Suites feature a Magic Mirror in the bathroom. 

Price: Starts at $97 per night for a Double or Twin Room including taxes and charges, add $23 for breakfast , and it’s non-refundable.

Hotel Palafox 

Located just 5 minutes walk from Zaragoza’s Old Town, Hotel Palafox offers a seasonal rooftop pool with great city views. It offers free Wi-Fi throughout, and its elegant, air-conditioned rooms come with satellite TV. The rooms feature carpeted floors and classic-style décor. Each room has a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Some include a bathrobe and slippers. Leisure facilities at the Palafox include a sauna and a fitness center. Staff at the 24-hour reception can provide information about what to see and do in Zaragoza. The hotel’s restaurant serves traditional Aragonese food and has a varied wine cellar. There is also a café where you can get a snack or a drink.

Price: Starts at $100 per night for Da double or Twin Room including taxes and charges, add $23 for breakfast , and it’s non-refundable.

Extra Tip: Check out Plumguide for the best holiday homes and vacation rentals in Spain .

List of Restaurants that you can try while in Zaragoza, Spain

Bar Hermanos Teresa

Serves Mediterranean, Spanish and European cuisine. You shouldn’t miss Bar Hermanos Teresa’s Tapas. 

Operating hours: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM / 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM (Mon – Sat)

Address: Calle General Ricardos 11-13, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain

Serves Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. Good food at a reasonable price. 

Operating hours: 

• 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM (Tue – Sun)
• 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Tue – Sat)

Address: Calle Luis del Valle 2, 50005 Zaragoza, Spain

Taberna El Sardi

Serves Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. If you want a portion of authentic Spanish food, then this restaurant is the place for you. 

Operating hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM / 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM (Tue – Sat)

Address: Calle Dato, Eduardo 23, 50005 Zaragoza, Spain

La Bodega de Chema

A steakhouse that serves Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. For a meat lover, the steakhouse is a paradise. 

• 1:30 PM – 3:45 PM (Sun – Sat)
• 8:45 PM – 10:45 PM (Wed – Sat)

Address: Calle Latassa, Felix 34, 50006 Zaragoza, Spain

Distrito Mexico

Serves Mexican food. If you’re into Mexican cuisine and want to try it while you’re in Spain, then this restaurant is for you.

• 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Sun)
• 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Tue-Wed)
• 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Thu)
• 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM / 8:00 PM – 2:30 AM (Fri – Sat)

Address: Calle Jose Pellicer Ossau, 1, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain

How to go to Zaragoza, Spain from the UK?

Via Ryanair: (one way)

*From London Stansted to Zaragoza Airport

Via Easyjet: (one way)

(There is no direct flight available from London to Zaragoza via Easyjet. Valencia airport is the nearest airport to Zaragoza and is the only existing flight available in Easyjet.)

*From London Luton to Valencia Airport 

* Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.

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Zaragoza is an inviting city that has managed to absorb its rapid growth with a rare grace. Its centre reflects an air of prosperity in its wide, modern boulevards, and stylish shops and bars. Highlights include the spectacular Moorish Aljafería, an impressive collection of Roman ruins and an awesome basilica, devoted to one of Spain’s most famous incarnations of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora del Pilar.

The city’s fiestas in honour of the revered saint – which take place throughout the second week of October – are well worth planning a trip around, so long as you can find accommodation. In addition to the religious processions (which focus on the 12th), the local council lays on a brilliant programme of cultural events, featuring top rock, jazz and folk bands, floats, bullfights and traditional jota dancing.

The Plaza del Pilar is the obvious point to start exploring Zaragoza. The square, paved in a brilliant, pale stone, was remodelled in 1991, creating a vast, airy expanse from La Seo, past the great Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, and over to Avda. César Augusto. The plaza spans the city’s entire history: Roman ruins at both ends; between the churches, a Renaissance exchange house, the Lonja; and at the centre, some modern statuary and the Fuente de la Hispanidad, a giant waterfall shaped like a section of Central America and the Caribbean to commemorate 1492.

Book tickets and tours for Zaragoza

The Aljafería

Moorish Spain was never very unified, and from the tenth to the eleventh century Zaragoza was the centre of an independent dynasty, the Beni Kasim. Their palace, the Aljafería, was built in the heyday of their rule in the mid-eleventh century, and as such predates the Alhambra in Granada and Seville’s Alcázar. Much, however, was added later, under twelfth- to fifteenth-century Christian rule, when the palace was adapted and used by the reconquista kings of Aragón. Since 1987, the Aragonese parliament has met here.

The foremost relics from the original design are a tiny and beautiful mosque, adjacent to the entrance, and farther on an intricately decorated court, the Patio de Santa Isabella. From here, the Grand Staircase (added in 1492) leads to a succession of mainly fourteenth-century rooms, remarkable for their carved artesonado ceilings; the most beautiful is in the Throne Room.

Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

Majestically fronting the Río Ebro, the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is one of Spain’s greatest and most revered religious buildings. It takes its name from a pillar – the centrepiece of the church – on which the Virgin Mary is said to have descended from heaven in an apparition before St James the Apostle. The structure around this shrine is truly monumental, with great corner towers and a central dome flanked by ten brightly tiled cupolas; it was designed in the late seventeenth century by Francisco Herrera el Mozo and built by Ventura Rodríguez in the 1750s and 60s.

The pillar, topped by a diminutive image of the Virgin, is constantly surrounded by pilgrims, who line up to touch an exposed (and thoroughly worn) section, encased in a marble surround. Elsewhere, the main artistic treasure of the cathedral is a magnificent alabaster reredos on the high altar, a masterpiece sculpted by Damián Forment in the first decades of the sixteenth century.

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How to spend a weekend in Zaragoza in Spain's wild north east

​Full of elaborate architecture and thrumming with vibrant tapas bars, the Aragonese capital is a rich, storied base for exploring the stirring landscapes of Spain's wild north east.

No Spanish place name holds as much mysterious promise as Zaragoza. It sounds like a magic word, the last phonetic flourish of a witch’s spell. Appropriate, given the city almost feels conjured from the wind-whipped moors around halfway between Madrid and Barcelona.

Standing on the River Ebro, this provincial capital has witnessed centuries of turbulence as the capital of the former kingdom of Aragón — a domain variously occupied over the millennia by Romans, Islamic caliphates, Catholic monarchs and the forces of General Franco.

All left their mark on the present architecture, but there are few buildings more evocative than the baroque spires around the mighty basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, which marks the spot where the Virgin Mary supposedly appeared to St James in AD 40.

Step inside and you’ll fi nd its inner domes coloured by the art of Francisco de Goya, the artist born close enough to the city in 1746 to qualify as a local hero. The master painter’s ubiquitous work remains a totem of Zaragoza’s abiding creative spirit, and its people — nicknamed ‘maños’ — have inherited some of Spain’s richest traditions, from chocolate-making to lively folk dances.

But perhaps the greatest magic is in the Old Town: a painted labyrinth of taverns, courtyards and tapas bars that thrum at night like blood through veins.

Day one: tiles & tapas  

Catholic pilgrims come to worship two related relics at Nuestra Señora del Pilar : a small wood icon of the Virgin Mary, and the ornate jasper column on which it rests. Believer or not, the gorgeously tiled and gilded cathedral-basilica makes a excellent starting point on a visit to the city.

Across the Plaza del Pilar is Zaragoza’s other cathedral, La Seo , a marvel of hybrid styles (Romanesque, gothic, neo-classical) incorporating the remains of an 11th-century mosque and ancient Roman forum. Reach deeper into the city’s past at the ruins of the 1st-century thermal baths and the amphitheatre of Caesaraugusta, the Roman settlement that gave Zaragoza its name.

For generations, the city’s surrounding farmlands have long sustained its citizens, with produce ranging from cereals to tronchon (sheep’s cheese). The signature dish, however, is ternasco, or roasted lamb, best eaten leisurely at El Real .

The restaurant has tables on a patio overlooking the Pilar and under the grand arches of the Pasaje del Ciclón arcade. The shops here mix the usual chains with more specialised local ateliers — if you’re shopping for something Aragónese, regional ceramics hubs like Muel have been turning out vivid, purple-and green clayware since the Middle Ages, while modern iterations of the same pottery are sold at the likes of Artesanía Aligia .

El Tubo (‘the tube’) is a dense lattice of backstreets that crams vintage taverns and modern bars between gothic courtyards, Renaissance-era houses and sections of the Roman city wall. Consider starting an evening with a glass of Cariñena wine at the Bodegas Almau or one of the 24 gins on offer at Libertad 6.8 .

Tiny corner bar El Champi is renowned for its single tapa — garlicky mushrooms on bread — while Lamaribel Escabechado specialises in age-old pickling techniques to make rich, dense meat stews. Also in this zone is El Plata , hosting comedy, acrobatics and quasi-burlesque performances in a 1920s cabaret hall.

Day two: rivers & rhythms  

Head for the Aljafería, the 11th century fortress built by the Muslim Banu Had dynasty, which later became the seat of the Kings of Aragón after the city was reconquered by Christians. Today, it stands restored as an imposing paragon of Hispano-Islamic art and architecture, decorated with impossibly intricate plasterwork, porticoes and original pictorial fragments.

It’s still in use today: the regional government holds parliamentary sessions in a modern annexe that seems prosaic alongside the structural poetry of the Golden Hall; the horseshoe shaped Muslim oratory; the Throne Room and the so-called Troubadour Tower, all of which are well worth a morning’s exploring.  

Afternoon  

The palace grounds lead you through to the right bank of the Ebro. Stick around for lunch outdoors at the riverside beach Playa Los Angeles Terraza, then spend the afternoon strolling the waterfront, which was renewed as part of the city’s Expo 2008 preparations.

Some 12 miles of paths now line both sides, passing through woodlands at Macanaz and Cantalobos. The Balcón de San Lázaro, on the left bank, has the most dramatic views over the central skyline. Its domes, spires and bridges look even better from below: book a twilight kayak tour with Ebronautas and glide under Puente de la Piedra’s stone crossing — just as its lampposts cast their evening glow into the water.

The maños’s love of music is most evident in the jota, a costumed fertility dance of heel-toe steps and jaunty leaps accompanied by guitar and lute. It was introduced to the region by exiled poet Aben Jot and public performances are common, especially during October’s Pilar Fiestas. A related folksong tradition feeds into the live music scene, and you’ll hear it in many bands who play in venues across La Magdalena district (try El Garito de Gareta or Bar Entalto ).

If your ears are more attuned to riffs then check out the Rock & Blues Cafe ’s live sets, while Ragtime is a pub so devoted to jazz that you can almost see the blue notes floating out of the door.

Four more Aragon adventures to try

The dreamy, desolate lands of Aragon often found their way into Goya's canvase. It's not all sweeping plains though - the city's geologically varied surrounds offer all kinds of terrain for a day trip

The Ebro flows from Zaragoza into Galachos de la Alfranca , a protected reserve around 10 miles from the city. A dedicated trail traces the reserve’s forests, meadows and marshes, passing a 19th-century convent and the habitats of otters, wild boars and herons. Deeper into rural Aragón is Gallocanta Lake, a rain-fed saline lagoon that supports a festival of birdlife — migrating cranes are the big stars of autumn. Reach La Alfranca on the hourly 201B bus to Patriz, which leaves from the Avenida de los Pirineos in the city centre.

it's a challenging climb to the summit of Pico de San Miguel, the   highest peak in the Iberian System at 7,595 feet. A medium-tough trail in summer and a snowy ascent for mountaineers in winter, the optimal route (and the only one for casual hikers) is around six miles long and starts at the Santuario del Moncayo monastery, where there’s a public car park.

Hire a car and head out on the A-2 for a slow day’s driving, taking in the dramatic, arid scrubland where abandoned farms and bullet-pocked trenches from the Spanish Civil War hint at the landscape’s former human activity. There’s plenty to stop off and see, however, including the mosaics of Carthusian monastery Nuestra Señora de las Fuentes, as well as the otherworldly rock formations of Los Tozales near Sariñena, and the giant sundial in Grañén. Check out Slow Driving Aragon’s Desert and Carthusian Route for a detailed itinerary.

As well as being the spiritual home of chocolate in Spain, the medieval Monasterio de Piedra is surrounded by a forest reserve of ash, elm, maple and walnut trees. It’s prime walking territory, all cooled by streams and cascades that drop down to the Piedra River.

Three chocolate shops to try in Zaragoza

1. monasterio de piedra  .

Chocolate was apparently introduced to Europe through this 13th-century monastery just outside Zaragoza; conquistador Hernán Cortés is said to have shipped the first jars of the stuff from the New World to the resident abbot. Today, the brother’s early recipes are unpacked and replicated at a chocolate museum in the former refectory kitchen.

2. Fantoba Hermanos

The Zaragoza Chocopass allows visitors to try house specialities from any five of the 20 participating bakeries and sweetshops. The most essential is this antique pasteleria, founded in 1856 and especially beloved for its Fruits of Aragón — a local delicacy of chocolate-covered apricots, figs, pears and plums. The Chocopass costs €9 (£7.90) and is available from the tourism website.

3. Chocolates Capricho

Another favourite on the Chocopass route, this haute sweet shop is run by pastry chef Luis Paracuellos, a master of turrón (nougat) and various forms of chocolate creams and pralines. The store itself is impressive: an elegant patisserie-style counter with a busy, sweet-smelling workshop at the back.  

Five unmissable art experiences in Zaragoza

1. goya museum.

You’ll see Goya’s work all over town, but this repurposed Renaissance mansion holds the greatest collection of his work from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, including many paintings and a gallery of his engravings, with their miniature sketches of wartime atrocities and human absurdities.

2. Pablo Gargallo Museum

Classically trained but experimentally minded, Gargallo used empty space as much as shaped materials like iron, paper, bronze and marble to create minimalist sculptures. Admire his influential, early 20th-century work at this Renaissance mansion.

3. IAACC Pablo Serrano  

A second sculptor named Pablo is perhaps the least-known of Zaragoza’s ‘Three Geniuses’ (along with Goya and Gargallo). His eye-poppingly abstract informalist pieces from the 1950s are displayed here alongside work by the likes of Picasso and Le Corbusier in a strikingly redesigned hospice building.

4. Educational Museum of Origami Zaragoza

Zaragoza has been a centre of excellence for origami since the Second World War, with this museum and workshop opening in 2013. Master paper-folders including Akira Yoshizawa are all represented by their origami renderings of everything from dinosaurs to demons.

5. Asalto Street Art Trials  

The annual Asalto festival sees the Boa Mistura collective and other graffiti artists cover disused spaces with murals and installations, many of which are now permanent. Follow one of the website’s interactive maps.  

How to do it

Ryanair   operates direct flights from Stansted to Zaragoza’s own regional airport, as well as Pamplona, which is less than a two-hour drive away. Other airlines, including British Airways , offer frequent services to Madrid and Barcelona, both of which have rapid rail links to Zaragoza through Spain’s Renfe train network, taking around 90 minutes.

Published in the December 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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Zaragoza city guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Spain’s hallowed heartland

With two cavernous cathedrals, artworks by native son goya, and one of spain’s largest semana santa celebrations, spain’s fifth city demands closer scrutiny, says paul stafford, article bookmarked.

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T o whisper the name Zaragoza is to conjure spirits. That’s certainly what this storied city’s streets seem capable of, amid sturdy Baroque church spires, splashes of Islamic tile and brick, and Roman ruins.

The city’s name passed through those three eras to become what it is today. Caesaraugusta to the Romans became Saraqusṭa to the Moors and finally Zaragoza under Spanish rule.

Zaragoza’s importance to all who controlled it is clear in the landmarks each kingdom left behind. And yet very few visitors from beyond Spain make it here, despite it being the capital of the northeastern region of Aragon and the country’s fifth largest city.

This makes it far easier to copy what the locals do, particularly when seeking out a great place to eat, such as one of the cramped taverns serving tapas in El Tubo, part of Casco Viejo’s labyrinth.

Here’s how to make the most of a trip to this underrated Spanish city.

Get lost in the labyrinthine Casco Viejo

To get your bearings, get lost first. Casco Viejo (Old Town), bound by the Ebro River on its northern edge, is a jumble of historic streets connecting a dense concentration of churches, crowded tapas bars, Roman ruins and Mudejar architecture. This easily walkable area reveals murmurs of the city's many former selves at every turn, making it a joy to explore.

Start in Plaza de los Sitios, perhaps nipping into Zaragoza Museum (free, closed Mondays) first, for an overview of the city’s history. Everything else you see afterwards will have a greater context. There are also paintings by the Zaragoza’s adopted hero, Francisco Goya, whose honorific Goya Museum (€6/£5.30, closed Mondays) lies at Casco Viejo’s core. If you’re keeping to cobbled streets with very few vehicles, there’s no wrong turn in this part of the city.

Read more on Spain travel :

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Follow the pilgrims

After the once-mighty Kingdom of Aragon threw off the yoke of Moorish rule in the 12th-century Reconquista, Zaragoza was selected as its capital. Predictably, following wars between religions, the Catholic Kings doubled down on their fervour. In Zaragoza, this became literal when two cathedrals, first La Seo and then, in the 17th century, El Pilar, were built.

Officially called Catedral-Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar , El Pilar (€9/£7.90, includes access to La Seo, daily) is the more important of the two, drawing Catholic pilgrims from far and wide to pay their respects to the cathedral’s tiny wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, who is said to have scaled down a pillar from heaven to appear before St James (aka Santiago). El Pilar, with thick towers in the four corners and 11 cupolas, reflects double in the glassy waters of the Ebro River. Frescos inside the cupolas were painted by Goya.

Ironically, Zaragoza’s finest architecture is in the Mudéjar style; mostly built by Muslim workers in the early centuries of Christian rule. This is particularly true of the older Catedral del Salvador (La Seo, €9/£7.90, includes access to El Pilar, daily) whose northeastern wall is a brick-and-tile tapestry of such intricacy that it’s a surprise there’s any structural integrity remaining. Throughout Casco Viejo, you’ll spot the arabesque flourishes on walls and towers which inspired Unesco to step forth and inscribe these buildings in 2001.

Celebrations and ancient Rome

The two cathedrals are connected by a huge square, Plaza del Pilar, which is dotted with modern water features and holds tens of thousands of spectators when the main processions of Semana Santa (Holy Week) file through, their drums reverberating off the walls of El Pilar like peals of thunder.

But beneath all of this is Zaragoza’s version 1.0. Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta (€4/£3.50 or €7/£6.15 for entry to all Roman ruins in Zaragoza, closed Mondays), a modern structure of marbled panels and glass, acts as a portal to the subterranean collection of precise Roman streets, drainage channels and a Roman forum.

A few hundred metres to the south, Museo del Teatro de Caesaraugusta (€4/£3.50 or €7/£6.15 for entry to all Roman ruins in Zaragoza, closed Mondays) is a first-century Roman theatre. These ruins can be seen from the street through the railings, but the informative museum also allows you to wander around the theatre.

Where to stay

Nh ciudad de zaragoza.

While the city is not swimming in accommodation options, the majority of Zaragoza’s hotels cluster in the Casco Viejo. If El Pilar and the Ebro River are the key defining loci of Zaragoza’s character, then no hotel is quite so well placed as NH Ciudad, whose best rooms look out over both. The decor, particularly at reception, has mild Art Deco aspirations.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

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Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, az the botanic hostel.

Hostels in Zaragoza are a rare breed. Your best bet is The Botanic in the up-and-coming El Gancho neighbourhood, with its six or 12-bed dorms. There’s also a female-only dorm here, as well as a couple of good-value double rooms.

Silken Reino de Aragon

The Silken Reino sits on the city’s eastern edge, providing handy access to trendy La Magdalena’s nightlife scene. The crisp, modern exterior continues apace within, rendered in marble and wood. It’s not big on flair, but comfort is all but assured.

Read more of our Spain hotel reviews

Where to eat

To pack in some breakfast carbs ahead of an active day, grab some sugar-coated churros (essentially deep-fried doughnuts) and a cup of gloopy dipping chocolate at Churreria La Fama.

Lunchtime refuelling at a Casco Viejo tapas bar will put you in the company of thousands of locals, where typically Aragonese dishes, such as succulent ternasco (milk-fed lamb), are served. To try it as a tapa , check out La Ternasca where the dish is prepared traditionally or in half a dozen fusion cuisine styles. To try ternasco as part of a set menu del dia , Los Xarmientos works culinary wonders.

El Tubo is the most befuddling part of Casco Viejo’s labyrinth. But to get lost here could potentially be a delicious accident. Cramped taverns have sated appetites here for centuries, and many specialise in a handful of delicacies. Taberna Dona Casta churns out the fried, fat pellets known as croquetas , crammed with mushrooms and goats’ cheese, or pickled quail.

Across the street, Bar El Champi serves only one dish: a skewer of mushrooms, with or without a prawn on top, pinned to a hunk of fresh baguette and drizzled in a green garlic sauce. Mushrooms will never taste as good again.

Where to drink

La Piparra is a cosy nook where a slab of chocolate cake accompanies strong arabica coffee. Located five minutes’ walk from Plaza del Pilar, this café has a sustainable, fair trade ethos and also operates as a fantastic vegan restaurant.

La Rioja lies 100km northeast of Zaragoza and plenty of exceptional wine makes its way downriver to the city’s wine bars. At Bodegas Almau , bottles line the walls and even the eaves, like the shelves of a medieval apothecary.

Like the rest of Spain, nothing really gets going until 8pm in Zaragoza. But from 6pm daily at Hoppy, craft beer fans are tasting their way around Europe via the variety of pale ales and IPAs from Aragon and beyond. There are 15 taps on rotation.

It may sound like the dingy hideout of a really rubbish vampire, but El Refugio del Crapula is a thrumming rock bar where musicians post up, often outside, with their drums, guitars and amps, bringing live music to the streets. The bar is on a busy street in the La Magdalena neighbourhood, where there’s no shortage of tapas bars.

Where to shop

If you’re planning a picnic in one of the riverside parks in Zaragoza, Mercado Central is the go-to place for fresh produce, where stalls bulge with olives, chorizo, fruit and vegetables.

Goods, handmade in Aragon, are often found in shops known as artesanias . A couple worth checking out are the leather handbags, wallets and belts at Artesania Berdejo , traditional ceramics with some really unique designs at Artesania Aliaga , and traditional Aragonese dresses and textiles at Artesanias Susana .

Chocolate was believed to have first made landfall in Europe at Monasterio de Piedra, courtesy of Hernan Cortes, who was busy bludgeoning his way through modern-day Mexico in the 16th century. Zaragoza being the monastery’s closest city, there’s a time-tested pride to the city’s chocolateries and pastry shops. Fantoba Hermanos is one such establishment, best known for its candied frutas de Aragon (Fruits of Aragon), which consist of large chunks of sugared plum, pear and apricot encased in rich chocolate.

If you’re really chocolate curious , Zaragoza even has a Wonka-esque Chocopass (€9/£7.90, on sale at tourist info booths and online). This allows you to try speciality chocolates and pastries at five out of the 15 participating purveyors of sugary treats.

Architectural highlight

Moorish architecture in northern Spain reaches its apogee at Aljaferia Palace (€5/£4.40, guided visits only), whose fierce bulwarks wouldn’t look out of place on the Silk Road. Aljaferia Palace remains the seat of Aragon’s regional parliament, serving a similar function of governance that it enjoyed under the Moors when constructed in the 11th century.

Nuts and bolts

What currency do i need, what language is spoken, should i tip.

Around 5 to 10 per cent is customary, although it may be automatically added to the bill if you’re dining a la carte.

What’s the time difference?

Spain is one hour ahead of the UK and clocks change backwards and forwards on the same dates.

How should I get around?

By foot. The city is easy to explore under your own steam.

What’s the best view?

Stood halfway across Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge) at sunset looking west, towards El Pilar and the Ebro River.

Insider tip?

If you learn one word in Zaragoza that is useful here but useless everywhere else, let it be juepincho (hweh-pin-choe). It pertains only to Thursday nights, when locals descend en masse upon the streets of La Magdalena neighbourhood to enjoy the drink-and-a-tapa special offers (customarily €2/£1.75 all-in) at 80 tapas bars in the area. Things really get going around 8pm, although the deals often begin from 6pm. It’s a great-value way to try out as many bars as you can in one evening.

Getting there

Trying to fly less.

Hop on a Eurostar train from London to Paris, then switch stations in Paris from Gare du Nord to Gare de Lyon, where a TGV train to Barcelona departs at least once daily. As Zaragoza sits midway on the main train line between Barcelona and Madrid, there are dozens of fast trains taking a couple of hours each way.

Fine with flying?

Ryanair flies direct from London Stansted to Zaragoza.

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6 Compelling Reasons to Visit Zaragoza, Spain

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Spain is a hard place when planning a trip. After all, how do you decide which places make the cut? There are just so many cities and towns vying for your attention, than an awesome but less well-known place like Zaragoza doesn’t even get a look. But I truly believe that visiting Zaragoza is an excellent idea if you want to create a deeper, richer itinerary for yourself. Because this city in Spain’s north has so much going for it.

The city of Zaragoza is in the Aragon region in northeast Spain , a gentler part of the country that too many people dismiss or bypass. But Aragon is actually quite intriguing and full of history, and like Zaragoza, is definitely worth visiting. Even better, the city is an almost perfect midway stop between Barcelona and Madrid, making it a surprisingly convenient place to go.

I honestly added it to my most recent Spain trip out of curiosity and convenience, and couldn’t be more glad that I did. So if you want to learn about things to do in Zaragoza and why you should go there, here’s what I think you should know.

Table of Contents

Experience Zaragoza Basilica

It’s no real secret that there’s one attraction in Zaragoza you just can’t miss – the Zaragoza Basilica. This immense religious landmark makes Zaragoza worth visiting all on its own and is what Zaragoza is most famous for. Found on Plaza del Pilar, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar makes an immediate and forceful first impression.

Beyond its scale, it’s hard not to notice the colourful tiles on its many small domes and the four tall towers that mark each corner. To appreciate the exterior of this incredible church, you’re going to want to see it from the square in front but also out by the river.

But there’s also just as much to see if you go inside, because it feels even larger there. Just as this basilica has an unconventionally square shape, the layout inside is unusual as well. When I visited, a service was taking place at what I assume was the main altar, only it was near the middle of the church rather than at the end. As someone who has been inside a lot of churches, there was definitely a special feel here, making it a  

Avoid the Crowds

Usually when you visit a big city in Spain it can be hard to escape the crowds. And yet, Zaragoza is a big city but I never felt like I saw many other tourists there. While I went in the shoulder season , I’d wager that the city sees a fraction of the tourist numbers you get in Spain’s other big cities. And Zaragoza is one of the 10 largest cities in Spain, larger than common destinations like Granada and San Sebastian .

So why do fewer people come here then? Well, it’s not on the coast or in Andalusia, so that immediately lowers the chances of people travelling here. When people go to places inland in Spain they tend to gravitate around Madrid and there’s a fair gap between Zaragoza and Madrid. Plus, the Aragon region simply isn’t all that popular with tourists, even if it should be.

The point is that Zaragoza is a perfect choice if you want a relaxed city break in Spain. No crowds and all of the fun, food, and sightseeing you could need.

Admire the Old Town Architecture

Honestly, one of the surprising things I found about Zaragoza was the variety in how the city looks as you move about it. While some parts of it in the modern centre are indistinguishable from any other Spanish city, the Old Town area is home to some pretty interesting architecture. I enjoyed exploring this area by myself, but taking a guided tour would certainly be a more thorough approach.

Calle de Alfonso I is a pedestrian street leading from the Zaragoza Basilica that is sure to charm anyone who walks down it. The wrought iron and ornate balconies along it reminded me of other cities in northern Spain that I’ve adored. But there’s also a hint of elegance as well which carries over once you reach the Plaza de España.

But what really surprised me the first time I saw it was the city’s hints of Mudejar architecture. The region of Aragon is known for its Mudejar architecture that incorporated both Hispanic and Islamic influences. Zaragoza many not have as much of this style as say Teruel , but it still has enough to make an impression.

It’s definitely best seen down one side of the Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza, shown above. The intricacy in the details is just incredible, especially since it’s an external wall.

Related:   The Essential Sightseeing Guide to Teruel, Spain

Views Along the Scenic Riverfront

It may seem like a minor and oddly specific reason, but one of the best things to do in Zaragoza is to head to the city’s beautiful riverfront. The Ebro River flows past the historic centre of the city with leafy trees lining its banks. But what makes this area so picturesque is the landmarks you find on and by the river.

The most important spot to know is the Puente de Piedra bridge. This bridge from the 17th century makes for the ideal viewpoint to look along the river, and most importantly see a classic view of the Zaragoza Basilica. However, it is also possible to kayak on the river and see the city from that vantage point.

Regardless, I was really taken by the riverfront scenery with the trees decked out in autumn colours. I imagine though it looks remarkably different from one season to the next.

Plenty of History to Uncover

As the capital of Aragon, you better believe that Zaragoza has a long and eventful history for you to explore. Around the city you’ll find landmarks from different eras, allowing you to appreciate the changes Zaragoza has gone through over the years.

To jump right back to its earliest period, head to the covered ruins of the Roman Theatre. This Zaragoza tourist attraction is one of the last relics from the Roman settlement of Caesaraugusta, founded in the 1st century BC. But it’s not the only Roman landmark left, as you’ll also find remains of the city’s ancient Roman walls scattered about, including opposite the Central Market.

Skipping ahead to the Middle Ages, one of the best-preserved historical landmarks of Zaragoza is the Aljafería Palace. This medieval fortress was built in the 11th century during the Arab rule of Spain. It later served as the royal residence for the Kings of Aragon, a medieval fortress, and now hosts the Regional Parliament. But it is still possible to visit and admire intricate details in its design.

The Zaragoza Museum Exhibits

If you’re interested in art or history then the Zaragoza Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s place in Spanish culture. Set inside a gorgeous 20th century building, the museum features displays regional art, alongside archaeological and historical artefacts.

Perhaps the most famous name attached to this museum is artist Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes. Goya was born near the city and lived there for some time. There is actually a museum dedicated to Goya in Zaragoza, if you’re really interested in his work. However,  the Zaragoza Museum has several paintings and prints by Goya, including prints from his La Tauromaquia series. For a broad look at Aragon’s fine arts and archaeology, this is the place to go.

Tips For Visiting Zaragoza

Hopefully you can now see why Zaragoza is worth visiting for those looking to see more of Spain. And that’s without mentioning other places to visit in Zaragoza like the Central Market or the Plaza de Toros bull ring. If you’re now thinking of planning a visit to this great city, below are few things that will help.

First, taking the train is the best way to get there, with easy connections from both Madrid and Barcelona. Zaragoza-Delicias is the main train station in Zaragoza but it’s not very central. Instead, try to use Zaragoza-Goya station as it’s far more convenient for getting to the city’s Old Town. Just avoid Zaragoza Miraflores station, because it’s unmanned and practically deserted.

Another thing to know is that there’s a decent range of guesthouses and hotels in Zaragoza to choose from. However, if you’ want more options that are affordable, I recommend checking Airbnb. I had a great experience with mine, even though it was a bit out of the historical centre.

Have you ever had the chance to travel to Zaragoza in Spain before? If you’ve been, which aspect of the city most appealed to you? If not, what other advice do you want from this Zaragoza travel blog post? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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Dear David,

You would never imagine how glad you made me when I saw that you decided to write in the lingua franca such a nice report of my hometown. I should’nt have sold Zaragoza better than you and I’m in love with my city. I really appreciate your effort in writing these lines to encourage other foreign people to visit my beloved Zaragoza. As you say, it is a city worth visiting but not many tourists decide to come here to enjoy its wonders. Thanks, thanks a million for writing such nice words about Zaragoza. I hope you come back soon to visit us and taste some gorgeous “tapas” in our bars in the city centre, apart from visiting other wonders like the Monasterio de Veruela that is only 85 Kms away from here. Do not hesitate in contact if you need any help. Thanks again.

Ana, I’m so pleased to hear that you enjoyed my write up of Zaragoza. It is a beautiful city and I do hope to get the chance to come back one day. I will try to remember the Monasterio de Veruela for next time, thank you.

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Europe's Most Spectacular New Hotel Is Set in a Former WWII Railway Station

High in the mountains between Spain and France, a long-neglected train station has become an opulent hotel.

Simon Willis is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. For the magazine he has crisscrossed Europe, Asia and Latin America. Particularly drawn to remote places, he has filed features from Patagonia, Laos and the Southern Ocean among other destinations.

Denisse Ariana Pérez

A few years ago , I was flicking through a magazine when I saw a photo essay about abandoned train stations. They were images of sublime squalor. The grand Greco-Roman columns of Michigan Central Station in Detroit were covered with graffiti. The Art Deco posters on the walls of the St.-Martin Métro in Paris were gradually peeling away. But the most haunting place in the collection was Estación Canfranc, high in the Spanish Pyrenees.

From the outside, this 790-foot-long Beaux-Arts palace looked like it had been transplanted from a fashionable Parisian boulevard. When it was completed in 1925, Canfranc was the second-largest rail station in Europe, after the one in Leipzig, Germany. Inside, the structure had cathedral-like proportions, as though it had been erected not merely to facilitate train travel but to worship it. Huge arched windows let in shafts of beneficent light. The ticket counter could almost pass for an altar. But by the time the photo essay was published, the congregation was long gone. The building closed in 1970 and had been empty ever since. Its vaulted ceiling was slowly moldering, and the floor was covered in dust and debris.

Related: This Little-known Wine Region Is a Hidden Gem of Spain — and It Has a Gorgeous New Luxury Hotel

Now the travelers are back. One recent afternoon I arrived in Canfranc to check in to the station, which has been transformed into one of Europe’s most spectacular new hotels. Its scale and grandeur are incongruous, given that Canfranc is a remote mountain hamlet near the border of Spain and France. The town, which sits in a narrow valley enclosed by steep, forested slopes, has a population of only 600. 

After the station closed, Canfranc lured only a trickle of adventure lovers, drawn by glorious summer hiking and two tiny ski resorts farther up the valley. But today, the hotel is a destination in itself. The renovation is the work of the Barceló Hotel Group, who took over the derelict building in 2021. The Spanish firm has given the place a train-centric revamp that balances old-world glamour with contemporary style. As I checked in, I stood gaping at the old ticket hall, which now serves as the hotel lobby. Its polished wooden beams shone with a deep luster, and the ornate plasterwork on the walls was as clean and white as confectioner’s sugar.

When it was completed in 1925, Canfranc was the second-largest rail station in Europe, after the one in Leipzig, Germany. Inside, the structure had cathedral-like proportions, as though it had been erected not merely to facilitate train travel but to worship it.

In the station’s locomotive heyday, its north and south wings were occupied, respectively, by French and Spanish customs officials. Now the southern wing houses a bar and restaurant tricked out in Art Deco shades of green and gold; the bar is illuminated by pendant lamps that resemble train wheels. In the rooms, antique station windows have been refurbished as quirky wall art.

Yet the hotel’s brand of nostalgic luxury is only one reason to visit; the other is its history. The village of Canfranc may be tiny and remote, but its border location has given it an outsize strategic importance for centuries. The evidence is everywhere. After I arrived at the hotel I headed outside and looked north up the valley. Perched on a ridge high above me was a 16th-century fortress that the Spanish rebuilt after Napoleon’s invasion in 1808; they wanted to defend against another possible incursion through this mountain pass. At the other end I could see concrete bunkers, erected for the same reason by the Franco regime in 1944. As well as being a luxurious stop on the route between Paris and Madrid, the station has played a prominent role in the valley’s history of intrigue and espionage. 

Later that afternoon, I met with Ana Badino and Marcelo Boveri, an Argentine couple who moved from Madrid to the Canfranc region in 2020 to enjoy a quieter life in the mountains. Since then, they have immersed themselves in the station’s extraordinary history and now run tours around the valley.

Until the 20th century, this corner of northern Spain was seen as poor and backward. The main economic activity was smuggling: alcohol and cigarettes went from Spain to France, and clothes, clocks, tea, and embroidery went the other way. But the locals wanted more opportunity than contraband provided, and the government wanted to take this roguish part of the country and turn it into a legitimate, modern commercial hub. So in 1912, the government commissioned the station as a statement of ambition and advancement. Fernando Ramírez de Dampierre, a Madrid-born engineer, was hired to design it. Both the president of France and the king of Spain were present at the inauguration ceremony in 1928.

For a few years, life in Canfranc was full of commercial activity. Daily trains from Portugal delivered port wine, cocoa, and coffee imported from Brazil. Industrial goods like coal and aluminum arrived from France. Badino and Boveri pointed out the rusted, obsolete cranes behind the station; they once loaded and unloaded this cargo. 

But when war broke out in 1939, everything changed. As Bodina and Boveri explained, the head of the station’s French customs department was a man named Albert Le Lay. He was more than a mere border official. He was a vital member of the French resistance who used his position at the station to help Jews and allied fighters fleeing persecution and capture in Germany and Vichy France. Now remembered as an Oskar Schindler–like figure, Le Lay provided these fugitives with forged papers to help them cross into Spain and on to Portugal. From there they traveled to safety. The identities of Le Lay’s beneficiaries are hard to trace, but according to some historians, those who passed through Canfranc included Max Ernst and Peggy Guggenheim.

Bodina and Boveri led me a little farther down the valley, which is still crisscrossed by old railway lines. Eventually we came to a row of derelict warehouses, their heavy wooden doors bent and buckled from decades of neglect, their roofs full of holes where high winds had ripped the tiles away. Through the gaps we peered into the dark interiors. In one of the buildings, in 2000, a cache of Nazi paperwork was found that listed items the Germans had moved through Canfranc after the Gestapo occupied the station in 1942. They included looted gold bars and opium.

His job as a customs official gave Le Lay the cover he needed to continue his resistance work. He would receive information from agents masquerading as passengers as they arrived at the station. From there, messages were transported by a network of spies down the train line to Zaragoza, the nearest city. Canfranc, then, was a crucial node in a pan-European network of spies that helped disrupt the German war machine.

Like many travelers to Canfranc today, I arrived via the airport in Zaragoza, the regional capital. Zaragoza is an underrated destination compared with Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Following the Umayyad invasion from North Africa in the eighth century, it became a major city in the north of Muslim Spain. At its center is a Moorish fortress, the Aljafería Palace, which is built in a magnificent architectural fusion of European and Islamic styles known as Mudejar. On the bank of the Erbo River, which courses through Zaragoza, stands a monumental Baroque basilica whose central dome is surrounded by four towers. But for me, the biggest lure was the opportunity to admire the art of the area’s most famous son, Francisco Goya.

After spending the night at the NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza, I walked over to the Goya Museum. It’s a small institution that packs a big punch. The star attractions are Goya’s etchings, displayed in a large, crepuscular room that protects these delicate artworks from light damage.

Goya’s etchings rank among his strangest and most personal pieces. “Los Caprichos,” a series of 80 prints, is a pitch-black satire on religious hypocrisy, corruption, and superstition. These images feature grotesque goblins dressed as clergymen; a donkey in an aristocrat’s silk coat studying his family tree; a woman pulling teeth from the mouth of a hanged man to be used as lucky charms. In another series, “The Disasters of War,” the devilish comedy of “Los Caprichos ” is replaced by documentary horror. The etchings captured the violence of conflicts like the Peninsular War, which ravaged Spain between 1808 and 1814.

From Zaragoza I drove two hours across the tinder-dry plains of northern Spain to Jaca, a compact city with a Romanesque cathedral. It dates from the 11th century, when the king of Aragon decided to turn his territory into a stopping point for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela, 500 miles to the west. Pilgrimage was good business: you had to be wealthy to take several months off work and pay your way across Europe. Jaca did well from the foot traffic. In the Middle Ages, the road outside the cathedral passed 16 shoe shops.

Related: How To Plan the Perfect Trip To Madrid

After a meal of venison carpaccio at a small restaurant, La Cocina, I drove into the mountains to Canfranc. Having been cooped up in the car, I wanted to explore the landscape, so the following morning I met up with Fernando Garrido, a wiry mountain guide with silver hair and a deep tan. Garrido, a partner in a Jaca-based company, Aragon Aventura, is a serious mountaineer. For 30 years he has held the world record for spending the most time at high altitude: he stayed, alone, for two months straight on the summit of Mount Aconcagua, in Argentina, at an altitude of more than 22,000 feet. 

Thankfully, our plan was more down to earth. It was a blue and shimmering Sunday, and we decided to head to Ordesa & Mount Perdido National Park, a 90-minute drive southeast of Canfranc. We hiked into a deep canyon, following the course of a river that had been reduced to a slow trickle by a two-month drought. The canyon’s sheer limestone walls rose almost 3,000 feet, and birds of prey circled on the thermals. 

Yet the hotel’s brand of nostalgic luxury is only one reason to visit; the other is its history. The village of Canfranc may be tiny and remote, but its border location has given it an outsize strategic importance for centuries. The evidence is everywhere.

As we walked, Garrido pointed out the fajas, the narrow paths that run along the cliff edges. Looking at the thin lines they traced across the rock, I couldn’t help thinking about those wartime refugees I had heard about in Canfranc. During the German occupation, the route became more perilous, and despite Le Lay’s help, many were arrested at the station. In hopes of avoiding the authorities, thousands walked across the Pyrenees on foot, clinging to these narrow, cliff-edge paths as they searched for safety.

That night, I sat down to dinner at Canfranc Estación’s Restaurant Internacional, which is run by Eduardo Salanova and Ana Acín. Chef Salanova’s food is a fusion of local ingredients and avant-garde presentation. That evening’s 15-course tasting menu included foie gras with strawberries, local caviar, a terrine poached in mulled wine, and sous-vide eggs. (Another restaurant, Canfranc Express, opened after my visit in a restored train car outside the hotel, and has since been awarded a Michelin star.)

As I ate, a fog descended over the valley and a gentle rain began to fall. Through the window I could see the silhouettes of Canfranc’s old cargo warehouses and, beyond them, the wooded hillsides. Sitting there in the warm glow, I thought back to the stories my Argentine guides had told me — about the secret agents running messages through this building, about the villagers sewing notes into the linings of their clothes to protect them from the Gestapo. The setting was worthy of a wartime spy thriller, and as I sat in the opulent dining room I imagined myself waiting not for my dessert to arrive but for a tap on the shoulder from a clandestine contact bearing important papers and, along with them, a chance of freedom. 

Where to Stay

Canfranc estación, a royal hideaway hotel.

This spectacular mountain hotel is worth a trip in itself. Tours of the property and the surrounding valley can be arranged through the concierge.

NH Collection Gran Hotel De Zaragoza

Previous guests at this imposing hotel in the center of town include Walt Disney and Ernest Hemingway. Stop by the excellent restaurant, La Ontina, for seasonal dishes like braised white asparagus.

Where to Eat

Jaca la cocina.

A small but stylish restaurant in Jaca that serves regional dishes like venison carpaccio and olla jacetana, a stew of beans and pork.

Aragon Aventura

Fernando Garrido, my hiking guide, co-owns this Jaca-based adventure company . He offers walking excursions as well as a range of other mountain activities, including canyoning and snowshoeing.

Goya Museum

This small museum in Zaragoza has the world’s finest collection of Goya’s etchings.

Pirineo Esencial

Knowledgeable guides Ana Badino and Marcelo Boveri offer tours of Canfranc and the surrounding valley .

A version of this story first appeared in the May 2024 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Full Speed Ahead."

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Spain’s Leader Says He’s Considering Resigning as Wife Faces Investigation

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez put his public duties on hold. He said an inquiry into alleged influence peddling by his wife was politically motivated.

By Rachel Chaundler and Jason Horowitz

Rachel Chaundler reported from Zaragoza, Spain, and Jason Horowitz from Rome.

Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, said late Wednesday that he was considering resigning after a judge opened an investigation into whether Mr. Sánchez’s wife had abused her position to help friends win public contracts.

The development stunned Spain and threw the political future of perhaps Europe’s most prominent progressive leader into doubt only months after he defied widespread expectations by putting together a fractious coalition and securing a second term in power.

“I need to stop and think,” Mr. Sánchez wrote in a long letter published on his X social media account on Wednesday evening. He canceled all political engagements until Monday to decide, he said, whether he “should continue to lead the government or renounce this honor.”

Recently, Mr. Sánchez had seemed to overcome another significant obstacle by assuring that the Catalan independent movement would support his coalition, making his second term in government seem sturdy.

But all that changed on Wednesday morning, when a judge responded to a formal complaint by a far-right group, Manos Limpias, and ordered an investigation into evidence against the prime minister’s wife, Begoña Gomez, for alleged influence peddling. Further details were not immediately available.

In the long letter published on X, Mr. Sánchez argued that the accusations were motivated by his political opponents, the People’s Party, or PP, and Vox.

In a post on X, the PP party responded, “His problem is not political, it’s judicial and is responsible for an episode that stains the international image of our country.”

“This is an operation of harassment and demolition by land, sea and air, to try to make me weaken politically and personally by attacking my wife,” Mr. Sánchez said.

He added that he would hold a news conference on Monday to inform the country of his decision.

Jason Horowitz is the Rome bureau chief for The Times, covering Italy, the Vatican, Greece and other parts of Southern Europe. More about Jason Horowitz

Travel Safe

For one week life in Seville revolves around this fiesta. The music, food, dancing and general joy create a very special atmosphere.

The April Fair is one of the most international and popular of Seville ’s fiestas. It was created in 1847 as a cattle fair, and over time the festive atmosphere that had grown up around the occasion took over the business aspect, and it became a permanent fixture in Seville’s social calendar. For a week more than a thousand “casetas” or tents installed in the fairground area become the second home of the city’s inhabitants, a place where people come together to have fun and share experiences until the early hours of the morning.

The fiesta officially begins at midnight on Monday with the “lighting test” , the illumination of the thousands of multi-coloured light bulbs in the fairground and adorning the main gateway, which is almost 50 metres high and has a different motif every year. Once inside the gate you come to the “casetas” , and it is here where you really experience the fair. These tents belong to groups of friends and associates, and are a family space where acquaintances, relations and guests are welcomed in and plied with delicious food and wine; there is singing, good conversation and of course, "sevillanas" , the local version of flamenco dancing. The lively and festive atmosphere spills over into the area outside the tents: people usually dance in the street, and the friendly personality of the Sevillian people will entice passers-by into the celebration. You should bear in mind that most of the stalls are privately owned and can be entered only by invitation from the members or their friends. There are however public tents which are open to all. The information office at the entrance to the fair will tell you which they are. Throughout the fair, people wear typical Andalusian dress : the men wear the typical outfit of the farmworker, and the women wear flamenco or gypsy dresses. By day the fair is filled with horsewomen, riders and richly festooned carriages. This is what is known as the horse and carriage parade, in which you can take part by renting a buggy with a driver from the regular service. Next to the fairground is the Calle del Infierno (Hell’s Street), a lively recreational area with a host of attractions for children and adults, and stands selling cold drinks and snacks. Another vital component is the bullfight : every afternoon people crowd into the Plaza de la Maestranza bullring to see the day’s bullfight (tickets and passes can be bought in advance by telephone or on the Maestranza bullring’s own website). And after a week of merrymaking there is a spectacular fireworks display at midnight on Sunday to send off the April Fair for another year.

Sevilla, Seville  (Andalusia)

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