Zaragoza is a vibrant city located in northeastern Spain that offers visitors a wide range of sights, attractions, culture and entertainment. As the capital of the Aragon region, Zaragoza has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, food or nature, Zaragoza has something for every type of traveler.
| No. | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar | A Baroque church with a famous statue of Mary, ornate interior, and a museum. |
| 2 | AljaferÃa Palace | An 11th-century Islamic palace with a blend of architectural styles and beautiful gardens. |
| 3 | Plaza del Pilar | A lively square outside the Basilica with notable buildings and a variety of events. |
| 4 | El Tubo | A district with a labyrinth of streets, traditional tapas bars, and regional specialties. |
| 5 | Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar | A Roman Catholic church with Baroque architecture and a museum. |
| 6 | Museo Goya | A museum dedicated to Francisco Goya’s artwork, set in a Renaissance palace. |
| 7 | Torre del Agua | A historic water tower offering panoramic city views. |
| 8 | Caesar Augusta | Ruins of an ancient Roman theater and baths, with guided tours available. |
| 9 | Mercado Central | A vibrant market with local produce, seafood, and eateries. |
| 10 | Balneario Alhama de Aragón | A luxurious spa with thermal baths in a nearby village. |
| 11 | Goya Museum | Houses a large collection of Goya’s paintings and prints. |
| 12 | Caesaraugusta | Ancient Roman ruins underneath Zaragoza with various excavations. |
| 13 | Day Trip to Nearby Villages | Visiting picturesque villages outside Zaragoza like Calatayud and Daroca. |
| 14 | Principal Theater | A historic theater offering a variety of performances. |
| 15 | Parque José Antonio Labordeta | A large park with trails, sports fields, and a lake. |
| 16 | Dining in El Tubo | Enjoying tapas and drinks in El Tubo’s taverns and eateries. |
| 17 | Pablo Gargallo Museum | Showcases avant-garde sculptures and works by Pablo Gargallo. |
As you plan your 2024 trip to Zaragoza, be sure to include these 15 must-see attractions and activities:
Admire the Architecture of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
Name and Location: Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This iconic basilica honors the Virgin Mary and dates to the 17th century. One of Spain’s most important pilgrimage sites with ornate Baroque architecture.
What to Expect: Seeing the exterior domes and twin bell towers that dominate the skyline. Viewing paintings, sculptures and frescoes inside honoring the Virgin.
Visitor Information: Located right on Plaza del Pilar. Free to enter and explore. Masses celebrated regularly. Dress respectfully.
One of Zaragoza’s most iconic landmarks is the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a magnificent Baroque church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Constructed between 1681 and 1872, the basilica features elaborate domes, soaring twin towers and ornate interior decorations. Don’t miss seeing the famous 12th century Santa Pilar statue depicting Mary standing atop a marble pillar. The museum inside the basilica holds an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts.
Stroll Through the AljaferÃa Palace
Name and Location: AljaferÃa Palace, Calle de los Diputados, Zaragoza
History and Significance: This fortified 10th century Moorish palace and landmark of Zaragoza features a blend of Islamic and Gothic architecture in the intricately decorated halls.
What to Expect: Taking a guided tour of the palace’s elaborate rooms with detailed Islamic architectural motifs and decor. Wandering the tranquil courtyard gardens.
Visitor Information: Just outside the city center. Open daily. Admission fee includes audioguide tour. Advance purchase recommended.
The AljaferÃa Palace is a fortified Islamic palace that was built in the 11th century as the residence for Zaragoza’s Moorish rulers. After the Reconquista, the palace underwent renovations and expansions, resulting in a blend of Islamic, Mudejar and Gothic architectural styles. Wander through the ornate courtyards with carved stucco walls, the grand reception hall with an intricately carved wooden ceiling and the beautiful Patio de Santa Isabel with its pond, fountains and lush gardens.
See the Sights in the Plaza del Pilar
Name and Location: Plaza del Pilar, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: The expansive Plaza del Pilar is dominated by the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and is the vibrant heart of the city for events.
What to Expect: Strolling past the beautiful fountain and seeing the basilica’s imposing domes. Street performers and a lively atmosphere day and night.
Visitor Information: Located right in the city center. Always buzzing with activity. Surrounded by cafes perfect for people watching.
The Plaza del Pilar, situated right outside the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, is Zaragoza’s lively main square. In addition to the basilica, the square is home to the beautiful La Seo Cathedral, the Centro de Exposiciones y Congresos hall designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid and the painted Lonja old courthouse. The plaza often hosts markets, concerts, processions and other city events. Pull up a chair at an outdoor café and do some people watching in this bustling square.
Wander Through the Streets of El Tubo
Name and Location: El Tubo, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This district is the center of Zaragoza’s bustling tapas bar scene. An energetic area perfect for hopping between tapas and drinks.
What to Expect: Sampling small plates like grilled shrimp, stuffed peppers, tortilla española. Checking out crowded tapas bars. Mingle with locals.
Visitor Information: In the city center around Plaza de Santa Marta. Bars open evenings. Go earlier or on weekdays to beat crowds.
For an authentic taste of Zaragoza, head to the neighborhood of El Tubo. This district contains a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with traditional tapas bars and restaurants. Hop between the various eateries and sample regional specialties like migas (fried breadcrumbs), borrajas (sautéed Swiss chard) and savory jamón serrano (cured ham). Soak up the lively local atmosphere as you feast on delicious tapas and sip on glasses of tinto de verano (red wine with lemonade).
Tour the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
Name and Location: Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This impressive cathedral on Plaza del Pilar dates to the 17th century and is an important Catholic pilgrimage site.
What to Expect: Viewing the ornate dome, columns and artwork inside. Seeing the small chapel venerating Our Lady of the Pillar.
Visitor Information: Located right on Plaza del Pilar. Free to enter and explore. Masses celebrated regularly. Dress respectfully.
This Roman Catholic church is one of the main attractions in Zaragoza. Constructed between 1681 and 1872, the basilica features ornate Baroque architecture with elaborate domes and twin towers. Don’t miss seeing the venerated statue of Virgin Mary standing on a pillar, which is encased in a tiny chapel. The basilica’s museum displays an impressive collection of religious artifacts and paintings. Attending mass in this historic church allows you to experience its splendor.
Explore Goya’s Artwork at the Museo Goya
Name and Location: Museo Goya, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: Housed in a historic restored palace, this excellent museum showcases works by famous local artist Francisco de Goya and artists he influenced.
What to Expect: Viewing Goya’s imposing “Tapestry Cartoons”, chilling “Disasters of War” etchings, satirical paintings, drawings. Audio guides available.
Visitor Information: On Plaza Los Sitios near the Ebro River. Open Tues-Sun. Nominal admission fee. Allow 1-2 hours to tour.
Dedicated to the famous Spanish artist Francisco Goya, this museum holds an outstanding collection of the painter’s works. You’ll see his evocative paintings depicting the horror of war along with his more lighthearted prints satirizing society. Audio guides are available to provide context on Goya’s life and the significance of his art. The museum is set within a 15th century Renaissance palace that also deserves exploration.
Take in the Views from the Torre del Agua
Name and Location: Torre del Agua, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This preserved 15th-century defense tower features four small museums and an observation deck with panoramic views over Zaragoza.
What to Expect: Taking an elevator up to the observation deck for stunning 360° vistas. Seeing exhibits about medieval history and engineering.
Visitor Information: Located in Paseo Echegaray y Caballero. Open Tue-Sun; admission fee. Get tickets at Santa Isabel tourist office 200m away.
For panoramic views over Zaragoza, head up to the Torre del Agua, a historic water tower built in the early 20th century. Climb the 200 steps to reach an observation deck 92 meters above the city. Gaze out over Zaragoza’s skyline, the winding Ebro River and on clear days, you can see all the way to the Pyrenees Mountains. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to take in the views from this city landmark before it closes at 9pm.
Explore the Ancient Ruins of Caesar Augusta
Name and Location: Ruins of Caesar Augusta, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: These fascinating ruins from the ancient Roman forum, walls, and theater dating to 14-16 BC provide insight into Zaragoza’s early history.
What to Expect: Descending below the modern city to explore the archaeological remains. Seeing the foundations of temples, streets, and marketplace. Audio tours.
Visitor Information: Under Plaza de las Catedrales in city center. Tours Tues-Sat mornings, admission fee. Advanced reservation required.
The Caesaraugusta Theatre-Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Zaragoza’s ancient Roman origins. Located underneath the city’s current streets and buildings are well-preserved ruins including a theater, thermal baths and pottery workshops. Walking through the underground excavations brings history to life. Artifacts discovered at the site are also on display. Guided tours in various languages are available.
Browse the Markets at Mercado Central
Name and Location: Mercado Central, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: Zaragoza’s enormous covered food market offers a huge variety of fresh produce, meat and fish along with tapas bars and cafes.
What to Expect: Exploring the vibrant stalls overflowing with everything from hams to olives to cheese. Trying local tapas and drinks at counters.
Visitor Information: In the city center, biggest market is Mercado Central de Zaragoza. Open weekday mornings. Arrive early for best experience and offerings.
To see local culture in action, browse through the stalls at Mercado Central, Zaragoza’s main indoor market. Vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, Spanish hams and local cheeses fill the market’s two floors. You can also grab a quick bite from one of the little eateries and food counters tucked between the produce stalls. It’s especially fun to visit on Saturdays when the outdoor farmers market sets up right next the main building.
Relax at the Thermal Baths at Balneario Alhama de Aragón
Name and Location: Balneario Alhama de Aragón, Alhama de Aragón, Spain
History and Significance: This scenic spa town south of Zaragoza has several facilities tapping into its therapeutic thermal waters perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
What to Expect: Soaking in warm indoor and outdoor pools, booking massages and treatments. Peaceful pampering with scenic nature surroundings.
Visitor Information: Located about 1 hour south of Zaragoza. Advance reservations required. Fees for treatments. Various package options available.
About an hour outside Zaragoza lies the village of Alhama de Aragón, well known for its therapeutic hot springs. Balneario Alhama de Aragón is a luxurious spa facility with various mineral rich indoor and outdoor thermal pools kept at different temperatures. Relax in the warm waters, book a massage or take in the beautiful mountain scenery. The baths offer treatments for many conditions including musculoskeletal issues. It’s an indulgent break from city sightseeing.
Tour the Goya Museum
Name and Location: Goya Museum, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: Occupying a beautifully restored palace, this museum holds an excellent collection of works by Zaragoza native Francisco de Goya.
What to Expect: Seeing Goya’s “Tapestry Cartoons”, disturbing “Disasters of War” prints, royal portraits, drawings. Audio guides available in English.
Visitor Information: On Plaza Los Sitios near the Ebro River. Open Tues-Sun, admission fee. Allow 1-2 hours to see the exhibits.
Dedicated to Francisco de Goya, this Zaragoza museum houses the world’s largest collection of the artist’s paintings and prints. See his most celebrated works like The Naked Maja and The Third of May 1808, which depict the terror of war. The museum provides insight into Goya’s life through a chronological display of his enigmatic and sometimes disturbing art. Located in an elegant 16th-century palace, the Goya Museum is a must-see for art lovers visiting Zaragoza.
Explore the Ancient Ruins at Caesaraugusta
Name and Location: Ancient ruins of Caesaraugusta, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: These fascinating ruins dating back to 14-16 BC provide insight into Zaragoza’s origins as the Roman town of Caesaraugusta.
What to Expect: Descending below the modern city to explore unearthed structures like temple foundations, streets, theatre. Guided tours and audio guides available.
Visitor Information: Located underneath Plaza de las Catedrales in the city center. Tours Tuesday-Saturday mornings, admission fee. Advance reservation required.
Travel back in time by exploring the well-preserved Roman ruins underneath modern Zaragoza at Caesaraugusta. This archaeological site uncovers vestiges of the ancient city, including a theatre, public baths, pottery workshops and more. Walking through the excavations offers an immersive glimpse into daily life during the Roman Empire. Artifacts and multimedia exhibits provide additional historical context. Guided tours available in various languages.
Take a Day Trip to a Nearby Village
Name and Location: Day trips from Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: Nearby villages like Daroca and Calatayud offer a taste of medieval Spain with castles, charming streets and historic sights worth exploring on a day trip from Zaragoza.
What to Expect: Driving or taking organized day tours to relax in slower-paced villages, see sights like castles and monasteries, and try regional cuisine.
Visitor Information: Rental car or guided tours provide most convenience for day trips. Advance reservations for tours recommended. Check opening hours of sights.
Get out of the city for a day by taking a quick day trip to one of the picturesque villages located just outside Zaragoza. Options include Calatayud with its historic buildings and castles, Daroca’s medieval walled town, Teruel’s Mudejar architecture, sleepy Sos del Rey Catolico or AlbarracÃn’s ancient cliffside dwellings. Wandering around these rural villages offers a pleasant change of pace from bustling Zaragoza. Don’t miss sampling the delicious local cuisine too!
See a Show at Principal Theater
Name and Location: Teatro Principal, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This theater in the city center has been hosting performances since the 1850s. An excellent place to see live music, theater productions and more.
What to Expect: Taking in a show or performance in the historic 1,500 seat venue. Productions range from comedy and dance to orchestral concerts.
Visitor Information: Located on Plaza ParaÃso. Check website for upcoming shows and purchase tickets in advance online. Guided theater tours available.
Dating from the 1850s, the grand Principal Theater is considered one of Spain’s most beautiful theaters and a top place to take in a show. This Neo-Baroque building hosts performances like symphony concerts, opera, ballet, musicals and more. Even if you don’t watch a production, it’s worth peeking inside the lavish theater with its domed ceiling covered in beautiful paintings. Taking in a show or performance here makes for a memorable night out.
Picnic at Parque José Antonio Labordeta
Name and Location: Parque José Antonio Labordeta, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This expansive park along the Ebro River is a popular spot for recreation with walking trails, sports facilities, play areas and spaces to relax.
What to Expect: Strolling or biking the riverside trails. Picnicking on the grassy areas. Using the outdoor exercise equipment. Peaceful natural area in the city.
Visitor Information: Located north of the city center. Open daily year-round. Free entry. Outdoor cafes and mercados nearby.
Pack a picnic basket and spend a relaxing afternoon in Parque José Antonio Labordeta, the city’s largest park. This 200 acre green space contains trails, sports fields, a large lake and even a free public library. Layout your picnic spread under the shade of a tree and let the kids loose at one of the fun playgrounds. Joggers, cyclists and families flock to the park on sunny days. Concerts and shows are also hosted here during the summer.
Dine on Tapas and Drinks in El Tubo
Name and Location: El Tubo tapas district, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: El Tubo features an energetic concentration of tapas bars perfect for hopping between bites like grilled shrimp, stuffed peppers, tortilla and regional wines.
What to Expect: Bar-hopping the lively local tapas scene. Trying house specialties at each stop. Soaking up the buzzing atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Visitor Information: In the city center near Plaza de Santa Marta. Bars open evenings until late. Go earlier or on weekdays to beat crowds. Cash only.
No visit to Zaragoza is complete without eating and drinking your way through the tapas bars and restaurants concentrated in the El Tubo neighborhood. This atmospheric warren of narrow pedestrian streets contains traditional taverns and eateries serving up classic tapas like grilled mushrooms, stuffed peppers, cured meats and seafood. Hop between venues while mingling with lively local crowds and enjoying glasses of tasty local wines or beers.
Check Out the Pablo Gargallo Museum
Name and Location: Pablo Gargallo Museum, Zaragoza, Spain
History and Significance: This museum in Pablo Gargallo’s former home and workshop displays works by the acclaimed local modernist Aragonese sculptor.
What to Expect: Viewing Gargallo’s sculptures in materials like bronze, marble and iron. Seeing his avant-garde style evolve through different periods. Smaller intimate museum.
Visitor Information: Located west of the city center. Open Tue-Sat mornings and Thu-Fri afternoons. Small admission fee. Tours available by appointment.
Occupying a 16th-century Renaissance palace, this small museum highlights the work of Aragonese sculptor Pablo Gargallo. He’s known for his groundbreaking avant-garde sculptures in metal and marble created in the early 20th century. The museum displays about 200 of his works in techniques ranging from bronze to paper mâché. Be sure to see masterpieces like The Prophet and Mask of Picasso. Temporary exhibitions showcase additional contemporary art.
Conclusion
With its impressive architecture, vibrant food scene, wealth of museums and laid-back atmosphere, Zaragoza offers visitors many memorable activities. From strolling through historic plazas to admiring works by artistic masters like Goya, this diverse Spanish city provides cultural enrichment and fun. Zaragoza’s location near mountains and quaint villages creates opportunities for scenic day trips. The delicious regional cuisine and lively tapas bars add to the city’s appeal. When planning your 2024 Spain itinerary, be sure to include several days exploring the magnificent sights of Zaragoza.