General Information
Zaragoza, the fifth-largest city in Spain, is a hidden gem filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Situated on the banks of the Ebro River, the city is known for its Moorish, Roman, and Gothic influences, as well as being home to one of Spain’s most important religious sites, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Zaragoza offers a mix of historical landmarks, art museums, delicious Aragonese cuisine, and a lively atmosphere that makes it an excellent destination for travelers.
Location
Zaragoza is located in northeastern Spain, within the autonomous community of Aragón. The city sits almost equidistant from Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Valencia, making it an important transportation hub in Spain. It lies along the Ebro River, surrounded by semi-arid landscapes and picturesque mountain views.
Distances from Major Cities:
- Madrid: 315 km (1.5 hours by train)
- Barcelona: 300 km (1.5 hours by train)
- Bilbao: 300 km (3 hours by car)
- Valencia: 315 km (2.5 hours by train)
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) serves both domestic and limited international flights. A bus connects the airport to the city center in about 25 minutes.
- By Train:
- High-speed AVE trains run from Madrid and Barcelona, taking 1.5 hours to reach Zaragoza’s Delicias Station.
- By Bus:
- ALSA and Avanza buses operate from major Spanish cities, offering budget-friendly travel.
- By Car:
- Zaragoza is well-connected by AP-2 and AP-68 highways, making it easily accessible by car.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): The best time to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Ideal for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.
- Summer (June – August): Zaragoza gets very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). If visiting in summer, enjoy the riverside areas and indoor attractions like museums.
- Autumn (September – November): A great season to explore the city with comfortable temperatures and the famous Fiestas del Pilar in October.
- Winter (December – February): Zaragoza experiences cold but dry winters, making it a good time for exploring museums and historical sites.
Key Events & Festivals:
- Fiestas del Pilar (October): Zaragoza’s biggest festival, celebrating the patron saint, Our Lady of the Pillar, with parades, concerts, and cultural events.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week): A grand celebration with religious processions and traditional music.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Hotel Reina Petronila: A modern 5-star hotel offering luxury amenities and panoramic city views.
- Hotel Palafox: An elegant hotel in the city center, featuring a rooftop pool and fine dining.
- Mid-range:
- NH Ciudad de Zaragoza: Located near the Basilica del Pilar, offering great views and modern comforts.
- Silken Reino de Aragón: A stylish hotel in the historic district, perfect for city explorers.
- Budget:
- Ibis Zaragoza Centro: A budget-friendly option near the Old Town with comfortable rooms.
- Albergue La Posada del Comendador: A great hostel for backpackers, offering affordable stays in a historic building.
Top Attractions
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar: Spain’s most important baroque cathedral, a pilgrimage site believed to be the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
- Aljafería Palace: A stunning Moorish palace from the 11th century, showcasing Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture.
- Plaza del Pilar: The city’s main square, surrounded by historical landmarks and perfect for people-watching.
- La Seo Cathedral: A magnificent Gothic-Mudejar cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge): An iconic bridge over the Ebro River, offering some of the best views of the city.
- Goya Museum: Dedicated to Francisco de Goya, one of Spain’s greatest painters, featuring a collection of his works.
- Central Market: A beautiful Art Nouveau-style market, great for fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Expo 2008 Park: A modern riverside area with futuristic buildings from the 2008 World Expo, including the Water Tower and Pavilion Bridge.
Getting Around
- Public Transport:
- Zaragoza has an efficient tram system and bus network covering major attractions.
- Walking & Cycling:
- The city is very walkable, especially around the Old Town. Bike rentals are also available.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
- Taxis are widely available, and apps like Cabify and Uber operate in Zaragoza.
Local Cuisine
- Ternasco de Aragón: A famous local roast lamb dish.
- Migas: A traditional dish made of fried breadcrumbs, garlic, and chorizo.
- Borrajas: A unique Aragonese dish featuring boiled borage leaves.
- Bacalao Ajoarriero: A cod dish with garlic and potatoes.
- Chilindrón Stew: A flavorful meat stew with tomatoes and peppers.
- Frutas de Aragón: Traditional candied fruits dipped in chocolate.
Best Restaurants:
- Casa Lac: One of the oldest restaurants in Spain, serving authentic Aragonese cuisine.
- El Tubo District: A lively area filled with tapas bars, perfect for trying jamón ibérico, croquettes, and local wines.
- La Prensa: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative modern Spanish dishes.
Shopping
- El Corte Inglés: The largest department store, perfect for fashion and souvenirs.
- Calle Alfonso I: A pedestrian shopping street lined with boutiques and local shops.
- Mercado Central: The best place for buying local products like cheese, wine, and ham.
- Indie & Art Shops: Visit Las Armas district for local designers, handicrafts, and art pieces.
Nightlife
- El Tubo: The heart of Zaragoza’s nightlife, filled with tapas bars, pubs, and live music venues.
- La Casa del Loco: A popular live music club for indie and rock lovers.
- Daluxe Club: A vibrant club with electronic music and DJ nights.
- Rock & Blues Café: A cozy spot for cocktails and live jazz/rock performances.
Day Trips from Zaragoza
- Belchite (50 km): A ghost town left in ruins from the Spanish Civil War, offering a haunting yet fascinating visit.
- Monasterio de Piedra (110 km): A stunning monastery with waterfalls and lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers.
- Tarazona (85 km): A charming town with a mix of Moorish and Jewish influences, featuring a unique Mudejar-style cathedral.
