15 Best Things to Do in Zaragoza 🇪🇸 – The Ultimate Guide to Top Attractions

🏠 Where to Stay in Zaragoza

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Reina Petronila
• ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Palafox
• 🏨 4-Star: Catalonia El Pilar
• 🛏️ 3-Star: AZ Hotel El Príncipe
• 💸 Cheap: El pilar a 3 minutos
• 🏢 Apartment: Aparthotel Los Girasoles
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hotel Sauce
• 🏩 For Couples: Finca Almenara de Copau

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class from € 75 (⭐4.8/5)
• Zaragoza Wine Tasting and Tapas Private Walking Tour from € 65 (⭐4.9/5)
• Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide from € 40 (⭐5.0/5)
• Zaragoza: Private Tour with a Local Guide from € 45 (⭐4.8/5)

Best Things to Do in Zaragoza

1. La Seo Cathedral (Catedral del Salvador)

Architectural Marvel. Walking into La Seo Cathedral, I was struck by its stunning blend of architectural styles. Built over centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Romanesque apses, intricate Mudéjar brickwork, Gothic arches, and a Baroque tower. Each corner tells a story of Zaragoza’s layered history, from its Roman roots to its Islamic past and Christian evolution.

Flemish Tapestry Museum. Inside the cathedral lies one of Zaragoza’s hidden gems: the Museum of Flemish Tapestries. With over 60 tapestries from the 15th to 18th centuries, this collection is among the finest in the world. I marveled at their vibrant colors and intricate details, woven in European workshops like Arras and Brussels. These tapestries once served practical purposes—insulating walls and narrating religious stories—but today they stand as priceless works of art.

Practical Tips:

• Entry Fee: €6 (approx. $6.50 USD) includes access to the cathedral and tapestry museum.
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
• Location: Plaza de la Seo, Zaragoza.

2. Aljafería Palace

Moorish Grandeur. Stepping into Aljafería Palace felt like traveling back to the splendor of 11th-century Islamic Spain. Originally built as a “Palace of Joy” by Al-Muqtadir, this fortress is a masterpiece of Taifa architecture. I couldn’t help but admire the intricate poly-lobed arches in the Golden Hall, which reflect a blend of Cordoban influences and local artistry.

Christian Transformations. After Zaragoza’s conquest in 1118, the palace became a royal residence for Aragonese monarchs. The Mudéjar-style additions, including elegant mixtilinear arches, are breathtaking examples of medieval craftsmanship. Later renovations under the Catholic Monarchs added Gothic ceilings and decorative motifs celebrating their reign.

Practical Tips:

• Entry Fee: €5 (approx. $5.50 USD); free on Sundays.
• Guided Tours: Highly recommended for €2 extra to learn about its rich history.
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Location: Calle de los Diputados, Zaragoza.

Must-See Highlights:

• The Trovador Tower, dating back to the 9th century.
• The Patio de Santa Isabel, where water features symbolize Muslim cultural values.
• The Throne Room, with its ornate wooden ceiling.

⭐ Best Activities

• Zaragoza Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide – Explore Zaragoza with a knowledgeable local guide who will customize the experience to your preferences. Discover the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture while visiting both famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path locations.

3. Plaza del Pilar

Urban Heart. This vast pedestrian square connects Zaragoza’s most important monuments. Stretching between La Seo Cathedral and Basilica del Pilar, it’s where locals gather for celebrations, protests, and leisurely strolls. I loved watching children splash in the Fuente de la Hispanidad, whose shape cleverly represents the American continent.

Architectural Diversity. Walking across Plaza del Pilar offers a crash course in Zaragoza’s architectural evolution. The Renaissance-style La Lonja (old market) stands in stark contrast to the modern Town Hall building. Street performers and artisans add vibrant energy to this historic space.

Festival Hub. If you’re lucky enough to visit during Fiestas del Pilar (October 12), you’ll witness this square transform into the epicenter of celebrations. I watched in awe as thousands of people brought flowers to create a massive floral offering to the Virgin.

⭐ Best Activities

• Zaragoza Like a Local: Customized Private Tour – Experience Zaragoza like a local on this personalized private tour. Your guide will tailor the itinerary to your interests, helping you discover authentic spots, hidden gems, and local favorites while sharing stories and insights about life in the city.

4. Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta

Green Escape. Just a short tram ride from the center, this sprawling park offered me a peaceful retreat from urban sightseeing. Locals call it simply “Parque Grande” (Big Park), and at over 40 hectares, it lives up to its name. I spent a delightful afternoon strolling through manicured gardens and along tree-lined avenues.

Water Features. The park’s centerpiece is a grand staircase adorned with fountains that cascade down to a large monument. On hot summer days, these fountains provide welcome cooling, with families gathering around to enjoy the refreshing mist.

Botanical Variety. The Botanical Garden section showcases plants from different regions of Spain. I particularly enjoyed the rose garden with hundreds of varieties creating a symphony of colors and scents during spring and summer months.

5. Goya Museum

Artistic Heritage. The Goya Museum (Museo Goya – Colección Ibercaja) houses an impressive collection of works by Francisco de Goya, Zaragoza’s most famous artistic son. Though born nearby in Fuendetodos, Goya’s connection to the city runs deep, and this museum celebrates his genius through various career phases.

Collection Highlights. I spent hours examining his powerful “Los Caprichos” series of etchings, which critique Spanish society with dark humor and sharp observation. The museum also features works by Goya’s contemporaries, providing context for understanding his revolutionary approach.

Visitor Information: €4 (approximately $4.35 USD); free on Wednesday afternoons.

6. Zaragoza Aquarium

Freshwater Wonders. The Zaragoza Aquarium (Acuario de Zaragoza) surprised me as Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium. Unlike typical marine aquariums, this unique attraction focuses on river ecosystems from around the world. I spent hours watching exotic species that I’d never seen before in traditional aquariums.

River Journeys. The exhibits are organized around five major rivers:

• The mighty Amazon with its colorful piranhas and arapaima
• The ancient Nile featuring Nile perch and tigerfish
• The mysterious Mekong with its giant catfish
• Australia’s Murray-Darling showcasing unusual species
• The local Ebro River’s native fauna

Conservation Focus. What impressed me most was the aquarium’s commitment to education about freshwater conservation. Interactive displays explain the challenges facing river ecosystems worldwide and how visitors can help protect these vital resources.

Entry Details: €13.50 for adults (approximately $14.60 USD); €9.50 for children aged 4-12; family packages available.

⭐ Best Activities

• Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket – Visit Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium featuring river ecosystems from around the world. Explore exhibits showcasing the Nile, Amazon, Mekong, Murray-Darling, and Ebro rivers, and learn about their unique aquatic life and conservation efforts.

7. Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

Spiritual Landmark. The Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is one of Zaragoza’s most iconic landmarks. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it’s a major pilgrimage site and a symbol of faith for locals. The basilica’s grandeur is unmatched, with its massive domes and four towering spires dominating the skyline.

Art and Architecture. Inside, I was captivated by the frescoes painted by Francisco de Goya, Zaragoza’s most famous artist. The artwork on the ceilings adds a personal touch to this monumental space. Don’t miss the chance to climb one of the towers for panoramic views of the city and the Ebro River.

Practical Tips:

• Entry Fee: Free for general access; €3 (approx. $3.20 USD) for tower access.
• Opening Hours: Daily from 6:45 AM to 8:30 PM.
• Location: Plaza del Pilar, Zaragoza.

8. Caesaraugusta Route

Roman Origins. Following the Caesaraugusta Route gave me fascinating insights into Zaragoza’s Roman past. The city was founded as a Roman colony in 14 BC, and remarkably, many structures have survived. The route connects four key archaeological sites that showcase daily life in ancient times.

Theater Experience. The Roman Theater, built in the 1st century AD, once seated 6,000 spectators. Today’s interactive museum brings the venue to life through digital reconstructions. I was particularly impressed by the original marble flooring still visible in some sections.

Forum Discoveries. At the Forum Museum, I walked through the foundations of what was once the city’s political and commercial center. The scale models helped me visualize how this bustling marketplace would have looked 2,000 years ago.

Combined Ticket: €7 (approximately $7.60 USD) grants access to all four Roman sites (Theater, Forum, Public Baths, and River Port).

Museums in Zaragoza

1. Origami Museum (EMOZ)

Folded Art. The Escuela Museo Origami Zaragoza (EMOZ) houses Europe’s first museum dedicated to the Japanese art of paper folding. Tucked inside the Centro de Historias building, this unexpected gem showcases intricate creations from international origami masters.

Collection Highlights:

• Life-sized paper animals
• Complex geometric sculptures
• Miniature architectural models
• Interactive displays explaining folding techniques

Hands-On Experience. What makes this museum special is its interactive approach. I joined a 30-minute workshop (€5 extra) where I learned to fold a traditional Aragonese figure. The museum regularly hosts visiting artists and special exhibitions that push the boundaries of this ancient art form.

Entry Fee: €4 (approximately $4.35 USD); combined ticket with Centro de Historias exhibitions available.

2. Museo de Zaragoza

Historical Significance. The Museo de Zaragoza is the oldest museum in the city, having opened its doors in 1908. Housed in a stunning Neo-Renaissance building designed by architects Ricardo Magdalena and Julio Bravo, it was originally created for the Spanish-French Exhibition of 1908.

Diverse Collections. I was amazed by the museum’s extensive collections spanning from the Lower Palaeolithic era to modern times. The archaeological section features exceptional Roman mosaics that showcase Zaragoza’s ancient Roman heritage when it was known as Caesaraugusta. The fine arts collection includes impressive works by early Aragonese artists and Spanish masters like El Greco, Ribera, Velazquez, and Sorolla.

Goya Masterpieces. The highlight of my visit was definitely the 19 paintings by Francisco de Goya. While most are early works, there are some outstanding mature pieces including portraits of the Duque de San Carlos and Fernando VII. If you’re a Goya enthusiast like me, don’t miss these treasures!

Practical Tips:

• Entry: Free admission makes this an excellent budget-friendly option
• Location: Plaza de los Sitios, about 400m south of the Teatro Romano
• Satellite Spaces: The museum extends beyond its main building with Casa Pirenaica (ethnology) and Casa de Albarracín (ceramics collection)

3. Pablo Gargallo Museum

Artistic Legacy. The Pablo Gargallo Museum offers a unique monographic experience dedicated to this revolutionary Aragonese sculptor (1881-1934). Inaugurated in 1985 through an agreement between Zaragoza City Council and Gargallo’s daughter Pierrette, the museum houses over 100 of his works including drawings, cartoons, and sculptures.

Innovative Techniques. Walking through the museum, I was fascinated by Gargallo’s groundbreaking approach to metal sculpture. His works demonstrate a masterful use of shaping techniques like embossing, hammering, and welding. What struck me most was his brilliant integration of empty space as an element in itself, creating dynamic tension between fullness and void.

Masterpiece Collection. The museum’s standout pieces include “The Prophet,” “Picasso’s Mask,” “Kiki de Montparnasse,” “Uranus,” and “Homage to Chagall.” These works showcase Gargallo’s ability to capture the essence of his subjects while pushing the boundaries of traditional sculpture. Four of his sculptures surround the museum, helping visitors locate the entrance.

Accessibility Innovation. I was impressed by the museum’s commitment to inclusivity with its tactile room “Between Lights.” This pioneering space allows visitors of all abilities to experience art through touch, featuring ten tactile replicas of Gargallo’s emblematic sculptures with information in Braille and audio descriptions.

Outdoor Activities in Zaragoza

1. Luis Buñuel Water Park

Urban Oasis. Created for Expo-2008, the Luis Buñuel Water Park spans over 120 hectares and stretches about two kilometers along the Ebro River. Located in the Ranillas meander, this sprawling urban park has transformed a former area of orchards into one of Spain’s largest urban parks. It feels like a green lung for Zaragoza, offering a refreshing escape from city life.

Water Activities. The park lives up to its name with numerous water-based attractions. During summer months, I enjoyed the Playas Zaragoza area, which features swimming pools with white sand and restaurant facilities. The boating lake area offers kayaking, paddle boating, and biking options that are perfect for families looking for outdoor fun.

Environmental Recognition. I learned that the park has received numerous international awards for its design and management. It holds the prestigious Green Globe award, making it the first green space in Europe to receive this distinction. The park is also designed as a floodplain prepared to withstand extraordinary flooding of the Ebro River.

Practical Information:

• Summer Beach Area: Open June to early September
• Pricing: €5.50 for adults Monday-Friday, €6 on weekends (discounts available for children and seniors)
• Activities: Over 30 different recreational options available throughout the park
• Location: Avenida de Ranillas 109, near the Zaragoza Aquarium

2. Galachos de Juslibol

Natural Escape. Just 15 minutes from downtown, the Galachos de Juslibol nature reserve offers a surprising wilderness experience. These “galachos” (oxbow lakes) formed when the Ebro River changed course, creating a unique wetland ecosystem. I spotted numerous bird species during my visit, including herons and kingfishers.

Hiking Options. The reserve features several well-marked trails:

• Shoreline path (1.5 km) – Easy walk along the water
• Steppe route (3 km) – Moderate hike with panoramic views
• Complete circuit (7 km) – Full exploration of diverse habitats

Visitor Experience. The interpretation center provides maps and information about the area’s flora and fauna. I recommend bringing binoculars, as the birdwatching opportunities are exceptional. The contrast between this serene natural area and the nearby urban center makes it all the more special.

Access: Free entry; reachable by city bus #28 or a short drive from the center.

Culinary Experiences in Zaragoza

1. Tapas Crawl in El Tubo

Tapas Paradise. El Tubo district is Zaragoza’s gastronomic heart, a maze of narrow medieval streets packed with tapas bars and traditional taverns. I discovered that locals follow a specific ritual called “ir de tapas” (going for tapas), moving from bar to bar, enjoying a small dish and drink at each stop.

Must-Try Specialties:

• Ternasco de Aragón (local roast lamb)
• Migas aragonesas (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo)
• Longaniza de Graus (regional sausage)
• Frutas de Aragón (chocolate-covered candied fruits)

Authentic Experience. At Bar El Champi on Calle Estébanes, I paid just €1.50 for their famous champis (garlic mushrooms) that locals have been enjoying for generations. The tiny bar was packed with a mix of tourists and residents, creating an electric atmosphere.

⭐ Best Tours

• Evening Tapas Tour of Zaragoza – Embark on a culinary adventure through Zaragoza’s vibrant tapas scene. Sample delicious local specialties at authentic tapas bars while your guide shares insights about Spanish food culture and the city’s gastronomic traditions.
• Wine Tasting and Tapas in the Ancient Town of Zaragoza – Combine wine tasting with tapas on this guided tour through Zaragoza’s historic center. Discover local wines from the Aragon region paired with traditional tapas as you explore the city’s charming streets and learn about its rich culinary heritage.

2. Central Market (Mercado Central)

Culinary Heritage. Zaragoza’s Central Market, housed in a stunning modernist building from 1903, offers a feast for the senses. Recently renovated, this food lover’s paradise combines traditional market stalls with modern gastro bars. I spent a morning wandering among vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses.

Local Delicacies. The market is the perfect place to discover Aragonese specialties. I watched as locals carefully selected:

• Borage (a local vegetable rarely found elsewhere)
• Melocotón de Calanda (protected designation peaches)
• Jamón de Teruel (regional cured ham)
• Olive oils from Sierra del Moncayo

Market Experience. For just €2, I bought a glass of local Cariñena wine at one of the market bars and paired it with freshly sliced jamón. The vendors were happy to offer samples and explain the origins of their products, even with my limited Spanish.

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM; closed Sundays.

⭐ Best Tours

• Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class – Begin with a guided tour of Zaragoza’s vibrant market to select fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare authentic Spanish dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Enjoy your creations with local wines for a complete culinary experience.
• Midday Market and Tapas Tour of Zaragoza – Explore Zaragoza’s bustling market and sample the best local tapas on this guided food tour. Discover fresh regional products, learn about Aragonese culinary traditions, and enjoy tapas at selected venues throughout the city.

Unusual Attractions in Zaragoza

Patio de la Infanta. This Renaissance jewel represents a valuable piece of history that was nearly lost forever. Originally built in the 16th century by Gabriel Zaporta as a wedding gift for his second wife, Sabina Santangel, the courtyard was dismantled and sold to a French antique dealer in 1903. After being stored for over twenty years, it was finally reinstalled in 1980 at Ibercaja’s headquarters in Plaza Paraíso, where visitors can now appreciate what remains of the Zaporta house.

Museo de los Faroles y Rosario de Cristal. Located in Plaza San Pedro Nolasco inside the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, this unique museum displays over 300 pieces of illuminated crystal lanterns and carriages. Each October 13th since 1890 (only interrupted by the Spanish Civil War), these pieces process through Zaragoza’s streets during the Fiestas del Pilar celebrations. The visit is audio-guided, with lanterns lighting up as their history is explained.

Suggested Itineraries

1 Day in Zaragoza

Morning: City Center Highlights. Begin at the iconic Basilica del Pilar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Zaragoza. Explore Plaza del Pilar, the heart of the city, admiring its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere.

Afternoon: Roman Heritage. Follow the Caesaraugusta Route to discover Zaragoza’s Roman past. The city was founded as a Roman colony in 14 BC, and remarkably, many structures have survived. Visit the Roman Theater, which once seated 6,000 spectators, and the Forum Museum to see the foundations of what was once the city’s political and commercial center.

Evening: Culinary Delights. End your day with a tapas crawl in El Tubo, experiencing the tradition of “ir de tapas” (going for tapas) by moving from bar to bar, enjoying a small dish and drink at each stop. Try local specialties like ternasco de Aragón (roast lamb), migas aragonesas (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo), and longaniza de Graus (regional sausage).

2 Days in Zaragoza

Day 1: Historic Landmarks. Start with the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and La Seo Cathedral, exploring their architectural and artistic treasures. Take a stroll along the Ebro River and enjoy the views of the city.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion. Visit the Aljafería Palace, a fortified medieval Islamic palace that later became the residence of the Kings of Aragon. In the afternoon, explore the Zaragoza Museum with its extensive collection of Roman artifacts and fine arts, then relax in Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit. The ideal time to visit Zaragoza is June, with maximum daytime temperatures between 22-30°C and 10+ hours of sunshine daily. July is the hottest and sunniest month, while May tends to be the wettest with around 45mm of rainfall. Spring (April-June) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while fall (September-October) features beautiful weather and the famous Fiestas del Pilar.

Transportation Options. Madrid to Zaragoza is best traveled by high-speed train, taking just 1h 15m and costing €12-50. The city center is compact and walkable, with a tram line crossing from north to south making 25 stops. Buses offer more than 30 day lines and 7 night lines, operating 21 hours on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends. The Bizi Zaragoza public bicycle service provides a fun, healthy, and sustainable way to explore with over 100 stations throughout the city.

❓ FAQ about Trips to Zaragoza

What makes Zaragoza worth visiting in the Aragon region?

Zaragoza is worth visiting for its remarkable history and architecture, where you’ll be able to see ancient Roman ruins alongside Moorish fortresses and Baroque churches. The city is also one of Spain’s largest cities yet remains less crowded with tourists, offering an authentic atmosphere and affordable experiences.

What places should I visit in Zaragoza’s old town?

The old town of Zaragoza features the magnificent Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Lady of the Pillar), La Seo Cathedral, and Plaza del Pilar, one of the city’s most famous squares. You’ll also discover El Tubo district with the best tapas bars, La Lonja Renaissance building, and the Roman wall of Zaragoza, all located in the center of Zaragoza.

When is the best time to visit Zaragoza?

The best time to visit Zaragoza is between May and October when the weather is pleasant with maximum daytime temperatures between 22-30°C. June through September offers perfect climate conditions, while October allows you to experience the famous Fiestas del Pilar celebrations.

What Roman history can I see in Zaragoza?

In Zaragoza, you can explore the ancient Roman city of Caesaraugusta through the Caesaraugusta Route, which connects four key archaeological sites including the Roman Theater, Forum, Public Baths, and River Port. The Museum of Zaragoza also houses extensive Roman artifacts that showcase the province of Zaragoza’s rich heritage as one of the oldest settlements in Spain.

Where should art lovers visit in Zaragoza?

Art lovers should visit the Goya Museum in Zaragoza to see works by the city’s famous son, the Pablo Gargallo Museum for modern sculpture, and the unique Museum of Origami (EMOZ), which is Europe’s first origami museum. The Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza (La Seo) houses the magnificent Museum of Flemish Tapestries, making it a jewel of Zaragoza’s cultural landscape.

What’s the best way to explore Zaragoza?

Visitors can explore Zaragoza on foot as the city center is compact and walkable, with many attractions just minutes apart. The city also offers excellent public transportation including a tram line crossing from north to south, over 30 bus routes, and the Bizi Zaragoza public bicycle service with more than 100 stations throughout the fifth largest city in Spain.

What day trips from Zaragoza are recommended?

Popular day trips from Zaragoza include visiting Belchite Viejo (a Civil War ruins site), the Monastery of Veruela, and Calatayud with its fascinating historical heritage. Nature lovers can explore Aguarales de Valpalmas for its curious geological formations or Aguallueve de Anento, both located north of Zaragoza and accessible within an hour’s drive.

What foods should I try in Zaragoza?

Food enthusiasts should experience tapas in Zaragoza by visiting El Tubo district, Plaza Santa Marta, and Mercado Central de Zaragoza, which is housed in a stunning modernist building from 1903. Don’t miss trying local specialties like ternasco de Aragón (roast lamb), migas aragonesas, and regional wines, as Zaragoza is known for having some of the best restaurants in Spain.

How do I travel from Madrid to Zaragoza?

The best way to travel from Madrid to Zaragoza is by high-speed train, which takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs between €12-50. Most visitors find that 1-2 days is the perfect amount of time in Zaragoza to see the main attractions, though architecture enthusiasts and those interested in the rich history of the Savior of Zaragoza might want to extend their stay.

Where can I see the best sunset in Zaragoza?

The most spectacular sunset in Zaragoza can be viewed from the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge) or from the northwest tower of the Basilica, where for just €3 you can capture breathtaking photos of the Basilica reflected in the Ebro River. The Basilica, which is a symbol of Zaragoza, creates a magical silhouette against the evening sky, making it one of the most emblematic views in all of Spain.