Zaragoza travel guide

Zaragoza Tourism | Zaragoza Guide

You're Going to Love Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a jewel of a city. From the domes of the gorgeous cathedral to the sparkling Ebro River and the atmospheric castle, the city offers a dense array of attractions and once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Zaragoza

1. The City's Extraordinary Churches

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar has a 2,000 year history and is a joy to behold, with its 10 domes that evoke Byzantine churches, while the Cathedral of the Savior is also spectacular.

2. Islamic and Roman Ruins

Zaragoza was once a Roman, then a Moorish city. You can tour the Aljafería Palace and see the impressive remains of Roman Caesaraugusta.

3. Enticing Art Galleries

Zaragoza is also an art destination, thanks to attractions like the Goya exhibits at the Museo Goya and a superb gallery dedicated to modern painter Pablo Gargallo.

4. Food Markets and Superb Restaurants

If you love fresh produce and street food, Zaragoza's Central Market is a must-see, while candy makers like Fantoba specialize in catering to visitors' sweet tooth.

5. The Spectacle of Holy Week

Holy Week (Semana Santa) is Zaragoza's major annual event, culminating in the Good Friday show when 3,500 drummers take to the streets.

1. The City's Extraordinary Churches

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar has a 2,000 year history and is a joy to behold, with its 10 domes that evoke Byzantine churches, while the Cathedral of the Savior is also spectacular.

2. Islamic and Roman Ruins

Zaragoza was once a Roman, then a Moorish city. You can tour the Aljafería Palace and see the impressive remains of Roman Caesaraugusta.

3. Enticing Art Galleries

Zaragoza is also an art destination, thanks to attractions like the Goya exhibits at the Museo Goya and a superb gallery dedicated to modern painter Pablo Gargallo.

4. Food Markets and Superb Restaurants

If you love fresh produce and street food, Zaragoza's Central Market is a must-see, while candy makers like Fantoba specialize in catering to visitors' sweet tooth.

5. The Spectacle of Holy Week

Holy Week (Semana Santa) is Zaragoza's major annual event, culminating in the Good Friday show when 3,500 drummers take to the streets.

What to do in Zaragoza

1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar: Get Blown Away

According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared on a marble pillar at this point nearly 2,000 years ago. Since that time, incredibly ornate churches have been built on the spot, with today's beautiful Basílica being the largest. Visit and you'll get the chance to travel up into the north tower and admire the many steeples and domes of the city. Inside, you'll see incredible artworks depicting the lives of various saints. You'll also have time to look at the large central dome and its subordinate 10 smaller domes. Of course, the highlight is the marble pillar upon which Mary is said to have descended, and the lines of faithful waiting to kiss the pillar are perhaps the most interesting part of the whole experience.

2. Palacio de la Aljafería: Travel Back in Time

History buffs and admirers of architecture alike will enjoy their time at the Palacio de la Aljafería. This medieval Islamic palace bears witness to the region's rich past. Beautiful and intricate geometrical patterns fill the interior, while murals cover many of the walls. Stroll through and you'll get the chance to learn about Moorish Spain, the most advanced civilization in medieval Europe. This is generally regarded as one of the city's most family-friendly activities.

3. Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta: Uncover Zaragoza's Roman Past

At this museum, you can gain entry to the Roman Forum, the Port, Baths and an ancient Theater. Together, these attractions provide visitors with a look at how people lived over two thousand years ago. Of particular interest to many visitors are the displays showing how the city's ground level has changed over the years as people continue to build and tunnel throughout the area. If you have kids, this museum will be a great way to teach them about historical water and sewage transportation and treatment methods, which are more interesting than you may think.

4. Cathedral of the Savior: The Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza

One look at this church and you'll understand why it's part of the World Heritage Site that preserves the great architecture of Aragon. The Cathedral is unique because of its origins as a Mosque, and the region's fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture has been stamped into its walls. Lovers of architecture will appreciate the fusion of Romanesque, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance and Baroque elements in the building. History drips off the walls.

5. La Lonja de Zaragoza: Check out the Medieval Market

This free attraction is notable for its historic and aesthetic qualities. As you stroll towards the Basilica, be sure to stop in at La Lonja to catch a glimpse of a Medieval Market. Today, the building functions as an art gallery with modern and video exhibits, but the building itself stands as a testament to the styles and sensibilities of a world long gone.

1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar: Get Blown Away

According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared on a marble pillar at this point nearly 2,000 years ago. Since that time, incredibly ornate churches have been built on the spot, with today's beautiful Basílica being the largest. Visit and you'll get the chance to travel up into the north tower and admire the many steeples and domes of the city. Inside, you'll see incredible artworks depicting the lives of various saints. You'll also have time to look at the large central dome and its subordinate 10 smaller domes. Of course, the highlight is the marble pillar upon which Mary is said to have descended, and the lines of faithful waiting to kiss the pillar are perhaps the most interesting part of the whole experience.

2. Palacio de la Aljafería: Travel Back in Time

History buffs and admirers of architecture alike will enjoy their time at the Palacio de la Aljafería. This medieval Islamic palace bears witness to the region's rich past. Beautiful and intricate geometrical patterns fill the interior, while murals cover many of the walls. Stroll through and you'll get the chance to learn about Moorish Spain, the most advanced civilization in medieval Europe. This is generally regarded as one of the city's most family-friendly activities.

3. Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta: Uncover Zaragoza's Roman Past

At this museum, you can gain entry to the Roman Forum, the Port, Baths and an ancient Theater. Together, these attractions provide visitors with a look at how people lived over two thousand years ago. Of particular interest to many visitors are the displays showing how the city's ground level has changed over the years as people continue to build and tunnel throughout the area. If you have kids, this museum will be a great way to teach them about historical water and sewage transportation and treatment methods, which are more interesting than you may think.

4. Cathedral of the Savior: The Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza

One look at this church and you'll understand why it's part of the World Heritage Site that preserves the great architecture of Aragon. The Cathedral is unique because of its origins as a Mosque, and the region's fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture has been stamped into its walls. Lovers of architecture will appreciate the fusion of Romanesque, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance and Baroque elements in the building. History drips off the walls.

5. La Lonja de Zaragoza: Check out the Medieval Market

This free attraction is notable for its historic and aesthetic qualities. As you stroll towards the Basilica, be sure to stop in at La Lonja to catch a glimpse of a Medieval Market. Today, the building functions as an art gallery with modern and video exhibits, but the building itself stands as a testament to the styles and sensibilities of a world long gone.

1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar: Get Blown Away

According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared on a marble pillar at this point nearly 2,000 years ago. Since that time, incredibly ornate churches have been built on the spot, with today's beautiful Basílica being the largest. Visit and you'll get the chance to travel up into the north tower and admire the many steeples and domes of the city. Inside, you'll see incredible artworks depicting the lives of various saints. You'll also have time to look at the large central dome and its subordinate 10 smaller domes. Of course, the highlight is the marble pillar upon which Mary is said to have descended, and the lines of faithful waiting to kiss the pillar are perhaps the most interesting part of the whole experience.

2. Palacio de la Aljafería: Travel Back in Time

History buffs and admirers of architecture alike will enjoy their time at the Palacio de la Aljafería. This medieval Islamic palace bears witness to the region's rich past. Beautiful and intricate geometrical patterns fill the interior, while murals cover many of the walls. Stroll through and you'll get the chance to learn about Moorish Spain, the most advanced civilization in medieval Europe. This is generally regarded as one of the city's most family-friendly activities.

3. Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta: Uncover Zaragoza's Roman Past

At this museum, you can gain entry to the Roman Forum, the Port, Baths and an ancient Theater. Together, these attractions provide visitors with a look at how people lived over two thousand years ago. Of particular interest to many visitors are the displays showing how the city's ground level has changed over the years as people continue to build and tunnel throughout the area. If you have kids, this museum will be a great way to teach them about historical water and sewage transportation and treatment methods, which are more interesting than you may think.

4. Cathedral of the Savior: The Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza

One look at this church and you'll understand why it's part of the World Heritage Site that preserves the great architecture of Aragon. The Cathedral is unique because of its origins as a Mosque, and the region's fusion of Islamic and Christian architecture has been stamped into its walls. Lovers of architecture will appreciate the fusion of Romanesque, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance and Baroque elements in the building. History drips off the walls.

5. La Lonja de Zaragoza: Check out the Medieval Market

This free attraction is notable for its historic and aesthetic qualities. As you stroll towards the Basilica, be sure to stop in at La Lonja to catch a glimpse of a Medieval Market. Today, the building functions as an art gallery with modern and video exhibits, but the building itself stands as a testament to the styles and sensibilities of a world long gone.

Where to Eat in Zaragoza

Some of the best dining options include the burger joint Hamburguesería Cebrián, the seafood experts El Calamar Bravo, and high-class tapas purveyors Taberna La Piedra. Expect meals to range in price from EUR10-30.

When to visit Zaragoza

Zaragoza in August
Estimated hotel price
RM 345
1 night at 3-star hotel
Zaragoza in August
Estimated hotel price
RM 345
1 night at 3-star hotel

A visit to Zaragoza during Easter is a highlight thanks to the Holy Week celebrations, but spring and fall are generally good times to go, with warm weather and fewer fellow tourists.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Zaragoza

Plane

Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) has good connections to Madrid, London and Paris. When you get there, take the airport bus (45 minutes, EUR1.85) or catch a taxi for around EUR25.

Train

Zaragoza is around 1 hour 30 minutes away from Barcelona and Madrid by train, so it's easy to reach.

Car

From Barcelona, take the AP-2 expressway, while you'll need to take the E-90 if you are driving from Madrid.

Bus

ALSA run buses from most major Spanish cities to Zaragoza (with a journey time of just under 4 hours from Barcelona).

Plane

Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) has good connections to Madrid, London and Paris. When you get there, take the airport bus (45 minutes, EUR1.85) or catch a taxi for around EUR25.

Train

Zaragoza is around 1 hour 30 minutes away from Barcelona and Madrid by train, so it's easy to reach.

Car

From Barcelona, take the AP-2 expressway, while you'll need to take the E-90 if you are driving from Madrid.

Bus

ALSA run buses from most major Spanish cities to Zaragoza (with a journey time of just under 4 hours from Barcelona).

Airports near Zaragoza

Airlines serving Zaragoza

British Airways
Good (4,280 reviews)
Iberia
Good (1,533 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (2,465 reviews)
Finnair
Good (895 reviews)
JAL
Excellent (922 reviews)
Avianca
Good (1,305 reviews)
LATAM Airlines
Good (976 reviews)
Royal Air Maroc
Good (305 reviews)
Ryanair
Good (3,474 reviews)
Vueling
Good (800 reviews)
American Airlines
Good (5,667 reviews)
Wizz Air Malta
Good (199 reviews)
Volotea
Good (360 reviews)
Binter Canarias
Excellent (43 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Zaragoza

Casco Histórico - the Old Town is hemmed in by the Avenida de César Augusto and includes the gorgeous Basilica del Pilar.

Popular Neighborhoods in Zaragoza

Zona Centro - the center of modern Zaragoza is a bustling commercial area, particularly around Gran Via.

Delicias - west of the city center, Delicias hosts the main station and the Aljafería Palace.

Zona Centro - the center of modern Zaragoza is a bustling commercial area, particularly around Gran Via.
Delicias - west of the city center, Delicias hosts the main station and the Aljafería Palace.

Where to stay in popular areas of Zaragoza

Most booked hotels in Zaragoza

Hotel Diagonal Plaza
4 stars
Excellent (8.8, Excellent reviews)
RM 311+
Eurostars Rey Fernando
4 stars
Excellent (8.4, Excellent reviews)
RM 337+
Hotel Pilar Plaza
3 stars
Excellent (8.4, Excellent reviews)
RM 289+
Eurostars Zaragoza
4 stars
Excellent (8.1, Excellent reviews)
RM 338+
Exe Boston
4 stars
Excellent (8, Excellent reviews)
RM 370+
Hotel Paris Centro
2 stars
Good (6.3, Good reviews)
RM 207+

How to Get Around Zaragoza

Public Transportation

Bus transport is efficient and payment is via a rechargeable card (which costs EUR2 and must be charged in increments of EUR5). Zaragoza Cards also provide free admission to the main sights for EUR7.66 per day.

Taxi

Taxis in Zaragoza will cost around EUR3 for the meter drop, followed by EUR1.50 per mile after that.

Car

Car rental companies in Zaragoza include Sixt, Thrifty, and Enterprise, and rates will be about EUR10-15 per day.

Public Transportation

Bus transport is efficient and payment is via a rechargeable card (which costs EUR2 and must be charged in increments of EUR5). Zaragoza Cards also provide free admission to the main sights for EUR7.66 per day.

Taxi

Taxis in Zaragoza will cost around EUR3 for the meter drop, followed by EUR1.50 per mile after that.

Car

Car rental companies in Zaragoza include Sixt, Thrifty, and Enterprise, and rates will be about EUR10-15 per day.

The Cost of Living in Zaragoza

Shopping Streets

If you want major department stores and boutiques, head to Gran Via. The crafts market at Anticuarios de la Plaza de San Bruno is also a great place to find souvenirs.

Groceries and Other

Popular supermarkets include Mercadona and Simply Store, where 12 eggs will cost you around EUR2.10.

Cheap meal
RM 50.16
A pair of jeans
RM 325.87
Single public transport ticket
RM 6.79
Cappuccino
RM 6.13