Want a city break filled with history, tapas, and fewer crowds than Madrid or Barcelona? Head to Zaragoza! Nestled on the banks of the Ebro River, Zaragoza boasts Roman ruins, stunning cathedrals, lively plazas, and world-class cuisine. It’s the perfect stop between Madrid and Barcelona for culture, cuisine, and charm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Zaragoza is during the spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when temperatures are pleasant and local festivals are in full swing. Summers can be hot, while winter is mild and quieter, ideal for exploring museums and historic sites.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by train: Zaragoza-Delicias Station is a major stop on Spain’s AVE high-speed rail line, with direct service from Madrid (1.5 hrs), Barcelona (1.5 hrs), and Valencia (2.5 hrs).
- By Plane: Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) is 20 minutes from the city center with flights from major Spanish and European cities.
- By Car: Zaragoza is well connected by highways (A-2 and AP-68) and is around 3–4 hours from both Madrid and Barcelona.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Reina Petronila – Modern luxury near the university district with spa and skyline views.
- Hotel Catalonia El Pilar – Central location in a historic building, steps from Plaza del Pilar.
- NH Ciudad de Zaragoza – Mid-range hotel with river views, ideal for walking to top attractions.
Top Attractions
First: Uncover Roman Roots at the Caesaraugusta Forum Museum
Second: Step Into Moorish Majesty at the Palacio de la Aljaferia
Third: Marvel at Baroque Grandeur in the Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar
Fourth: Explore Bold Contemporary Works at IAACC Pablo Serrano
Fifth: Travel Back to Roman Times at the Caesaraugusta Theatre Museum
Sixth: Trace Local History Through Art at the Zaragoza Museum
Seventh: Admire Sculptural Mastery at the Museo Pablo Gargallo
Eight: Celebrate a Legend at the Goya Museum
Ninth: Experience Gothic and Mudejar Splendor at Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza
Tenth: Step Into Ancient Baths at the Museo de las Termas Publicas de Caesaraugusta
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Puente de Piedra – Walk this iconic stone bridge for the best views of the city and the basilica.
- Roman Theater Museum – Discover the city’s Roman roots with impressive ruins and interactive exhibits.
Where to Eat
- El Tubo District – This lively tapas quarter is packed with bars serving everything from croquettes to grilled octopus.
- Casa Lac – One of the oldest restaurants in Spain, offering elegant Aragonese cuisine since 1825.
- Montal – A gourmet market and restaurant with fine dining tucked inside a historic palace.
If you are interested in local events:
- Fiestas del Pilar (October) – Zaragoza’s biggest festival honoring its patron saint with parades, concerts, floral offerings, and fireworks.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) (March/April) – Traditional processions and cultural displays across the city.
- Zaragoza Tapas Festival (November) – Sample creative tapas from dozens of local chefs and restaurants.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Zaragoza, Spain:
- Monasterio de Piedra (30 min by car) – Lush park and waterfall-filled canyon near a historic monastery.
- Belchite (30 min) – Visit haunting ruins of a village destroyed in the Spanish Civil War and left untouched.
- Fuendetodos (30 min) – Birthplace of painter Francisco Goya, featuring a museum and printmaking center.
- Alagón (25 min) – Quaint town known for wine, churches, and quiet cobbled streets along the river.
- La Cartuja de Aula Dei (20–25 min) – A lesser-known Carthusian monastery with frescoes by Goya.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
What is the history of Zaragoza?
- Once occupied by the Romans and later by the Islamic people, Zaragoza has a rich and extended history.
- The city's historic sites, museums, and architecture all showcase this rich history and cultural influences.
-
What are some must-see attractions in Zaragoza?
- While in Zaragoza, be sure to check out the famous Roman Catholic cathedrals before heading out for some tasty tapas at one of the popular tapas bars.
-
What is the dining culture like in Zaragoza?
- Spaniards tend to eat dinner much later than Westerners, so be sure to have a late lunch to tide you over before hitting a hot eatery overlooking the historic city.
Plan Your Trip
