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.
When I like 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.
Tips for getting 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 I like 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
1. Uncover Roman Roots at the Caesaraugusta Forum Museum
The actual city of Zaragoza was believed to be established around 14 BC. This museum has been restored and preserved to allow guests the opportunity to witness what life was like during this Roman occupation. The unique location of this museum is one of the great draws – all the preserved historical sites are underground. You can also see the advancements that the Roman Republic is known for, such as the water supply pipes and the sewer channels. On top of these technological marvels, you’ll also see structures from a market and store walls. In the basement of the museum, you’ll find structures of the ancient forum that once stood in its place.
Plaza la Seo, 2, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-72-12-21
2. Step Into Moorish Majesty at the Palacio de la Aljaferia
Built in the 11th century, Palacio de la Aljaferia is an Islamic palace listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing. Its Moorish architecture can be seen throughout the palace and grounds. It once was home to the emperors of the Islamic kingdoms when Spain was broken into independent states. Once Catholic Spain rose, the Catholic kings of Spain used this place as home. Today, guests can visit the museum and marvel at the architecture and detailed ceiling artwork and frescoes. Staff can be accommodating when looking through the palace, but an audio tour for your visit should be a must.
Calle de los Diputados, s/n, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-28-96-83
3. Marvel at Baroque Grandeur in the Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar
The Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar was built sometimes between the 17th and 18th centuries. This classic Baroque architecture is a real gem to behold when visiting Zaragoza. The origin of the church is to venerate the Virgin Mother Mary. Many saints have paid tribute before the statue of her here, such as Saint Teresa of Avila. This site was consecrated in the first or second century and since has been the location of many churches. Today’s basilica houses nine chapels, all with their own dome to top it. Guests can also view the sixteenth-century organ that has been used in the church for centuries.
Plaza del Pilar, s/n, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain
4. Explore Bold Contemporary Works at IAACC Pablo Serrano
When you’re ready to hit the modern and contemporary art scene in Zaragoza, you’ll want to head over the Aragonese Institute of Contemporary Art and Culture (IAACC) Pablo Serrano. Open since 1994, this museum was initially established by the late artist Pablo Serrano before becoming a property of the Aragon Government. Though visitors can look at the impressive collection of Serrano’s works, other famous artists, like Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Henry Moore, have work here as well. Within the museum, guests will find dedicated workshops for artists, a library for research, and areas for visiting exhibits.
Paseo Maria Agustin, 20, 50004 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-28-06-60
5. Travel Back to Roman Times at the Caesaraugusta Theatre Museum
The Caesaragusta Theatre Museum is one of Zaragoza’s most precious Roman ruins. This theater was accidentally discovered during modern construction, as is often the case in these ancient cities. Originally built in the first century, the theater was originally a place of leisure and political meetings. It is believed that at one point, its exterior was similar to Rome’s more famous cousin, the Colosseum. Guests can visit the basement’s audiovisual history of the museum before trotting the same walk that the ancient Romans once used. Once inside the theater, guests can take in the reconstruction documentary on the ten roll-down screens that come out for use at night.
Calle San Jorge, 12, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-72-60-75
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
6. Trace Local History Through Art at the Zaragoza Museum
Entering the Museuo de Zaragoza (Zaragoza Museum), guests are greeted by three magnificent statues above the arched doorway. This will be the first of many gorgeous sites throughout the tour. This national museum houses nearly every museum-worthy category from the Paleolithic archaeological finds to modern art. Though primarily focused on the history and artwork of Spain, many visiting exhibits bring international cultures to light. Whether you’re interested in seeing Roman furniture set up as it was in a villa or checking out Goya’s famous works, Museo de Zaragoza is a must-see.
Plaza los Sitios, 6, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-22-21-81
7. Admire Sculptural Mastery at the Museo Pablo Gargallo
For those who are fans of Pablo Gargallo (and those who have not yet stumbled onto his great works), Museo Pablo Gargallo gives guests an insight into the mind and works of this great sculptor. A good friend of Picasso, Gargallo is one of the great Aragonese artists. Not only will guests see original artwork, sculptures, cartoons, and biographical pieces from Gargallo, they can also marvel at the seventeenth-century architecture of the building. This museum is in the Argillo Palace that once belonged to Francisco Sanz de Cortes. Upon entering the courtyard, you’ll see the Olympic Greeting, two equestrian statues Gargallo made for the Olympic Stadium in Barcelona.
Plaza San Felipe, 3, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-72-49-22
8. Celebrate a Legend at the Goya Museum
The Goya Museum in Zaragoza looks at the namesake's famous works. However, guests who visit the Goya Museum will discover much more than Goya paintings and prints. The museum is broken down by two primary categories: 15 Essential Works and 48 Prominent Works. The 15 Essential Works include a self-portrait by Goya, the museum palace, Saint Francis of Assisi in Prayer by Juan Antona de Friaz y Escalante, and Christ Carrying the Cross by Juan Zarinena, among others. The 48 Prominent Works are no less important than the 15 Essential Works and must be admired during your visit as well.
Calle Espoz y Mina, 23, 50003 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-39-73-87
9. Experience Gothic and Mudejar Splendor at Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza
One of the UNESCO Cultural World Heritage sites, Catedral del Salvador o La Seo is one of the most prominent churches in Zaragoza. Visitors will be astonished to discover that this was the first Christian cathedral built in Zaragoza. It is dedicated to San Salvador and over time was the place of other religious houses, like an Islamic mosque and a Roman temple. Today, guests can visit the gothic-style church to witness the grandeur of cathedrals built during the period. Guests should be sure to see the Altarpiece inside the cathedral, which is a classic Gothic characteristic.
Plaza de la Seo, 4, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-29-12-31
10. Step Into Ancient Baths at the Museo de las Termas Publicas de Caesaraugusta
Another fantastic Roman find in Zaragoza was the Roman baths, which are now part of the Museo de las Termas Publicas de Caesaraugusta (Caesaraugusta Public Baths Museum). One of the most exciting aspects of the baths is the reconstructed and diagramed latrines. It was a small room with a bench full of holes for Romans to do their business. A small channel of water ran at the feet of the people sitting to use for hygienic purposes. Sometime during the first century, the latrines were replaced with an open-air pool. The museum focuses on providing an authentic look at how important the baths were to the Roman people for more than just hygiene.
Calle San Juan y San Pedro, 7, 50001 Zaragoza, Spain, Phone: 34-976-72-14-23
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 I Like 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.
My favorite 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.
My favorite 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.
Plan Your Trip