Things To Do
in Jaca
Jaca is a historic mountain town in the Aragonese Pyrenees that blends medieval architecture with rugged alpine scenery. It sits at the gateway to the northern valleys and the glacier-carved peaks that surround the area. Its compact old town centers on the Romanesque Catedral de San Pedro and the stout Ciudadela fortress, both evocative of its strategic past.
Visitors come for history, outdoor adventures, and easy access to nearby ski resorts and hiking routes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Castillo de Jaca, a star-shaped fortress that dates back to the 16th century. Wander through its well-preserved ramparts and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Pyrenees mountains. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes.
After a hearty lunch at a local café, stroll to the nearby Cathedral of Jaca, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Explore the intricacies of its stunning frescoes and the serene atmosphere of the cloister area. Spend some time visiting the small artisan shops around the cathedral that offer handmade crafts and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Spanish tavern to enjoy tapas and local wines, mingling with locals and savoring the flavors of the region. The lively ambiance and warm hospitality make for an unforgettable dining experience. Take a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the charm of Jaca's beautifully illuminated streets.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast, then embark on an adventurous hike in the nearby Pyrenees National Park. The cool morning air and stunning mountain scenery invigorate your senses as you traverse the well-marked trails. Look out for unique wildlife, including chamois and numerous bird species.
Post-hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, with scenic views that are perfect for relaxation. Dedicate some time to explore the lush valleys and crystal-clear lakes that make this area a hiker's paradise. You might even stumble across hidden waterfalls along your journey.
Return to Jaca for a well-deserved dinner at a traditional mountain lodge, where you can indulge in hearty regional dishes. Share stories from your day with fellow travelers while enjoying the cozy atmosphere and local wines. End your evening by taking a stroll along the reflective river, relishing the peacefulness of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (single ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and well-preserved medieval architecture
- Access to world-class Pyrenean scenery and outdoor activities
- Compact, walkable historic center with charming plazas
- Relatively calm nightlife and safe, welcoming atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services may be seasonal outside peak tourism
- Winter access can be affected by mountain weather and road conditions
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Jaca
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive Romanesque architecture with a strong silhouette and intricate stonework; best photographed from the plaza or along the surrounding arcades.
A formidable fortress with bastions and grassy ramparts offering dramatic angles for landscape and architectural shots.
Cobblestone lanes, traditional balconies, and shaded corners ideal for street photography and moody golden-hour shots.
Food in Jaca
Jaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roast lamb cooked slowly with garlic and herbs, a regional specialty often served with potatoes or vegetables.
Must-Try!
Chicken braised with tomatoes, peppers, and paprika, a classic Aragonese dish.
Fried breadcrumbs with garlic, chorizo or pancetta, often served with peppers and fried egg.
Salt cod with olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes; a staple in mountain towns.
Smoked sausages and cured meats typical to the region, great in tapas and shared plates.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and regional snacks.
Casual street-level options near the old town plazas, perfect for trying a variety of small plates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Hola'; meals are often enjoyed later in the day, and guests may be offered a seat with patience in queues and cafes.
Respect in churches and historic sites; modest dress when visiting religious sites; keep noise moderate on public avenues, especially in the evening.
Safety
Tipping in Jaca
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional and modest in Spain. If service is not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants and bars is common practice.
Cash and cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are readily available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool evenings; best for outdoor activities and hillside walks. Be prepared for bright sun and occasional afternoon showers; stay hydrated.
Cold and snowy in the mountains; day trips may include skiing at Candanchú or Astún. Roads can be icy; carry chains and dress in layers.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for hiking and photography but expect mixed rain. Trails can be muddy.
Cool, crisp air with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic walks and fewer crowds. Nights grow colder quickly.
Jaca at Night
Hiking in Jaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and valley routes with river views and alpine scenery, suitable for day hikes.
Day hikes and longer routes offering panoramic mountain vistas and diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Jaca by plane.
A smaller airport with regional connections; typically provides links to Madrid, Barcelona, and other hubs; about 1.5 to 2.5 hours by road from Jaca.
Major gateway with national and international flights; about a 2 to 2.5 hour drive from Jaca.
French regional airport serving several European routes; roughly 2.5 to 3 hours by car from Jaca.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Aragonese locals with strong regional identity; aging population in some areas and a steady influx of tourists in peak season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Accessible from nearby resorts Candanchú and Astún, offering runs for all levels in winter.
Year-round option in the surrounding Pyrenees with valley trails and high-mountain routes.
Road cycling on alpine passes and mountain biking on forested trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetable-forward dishes, legumes, mushrooms, and cheeses. Ask for pimientos (peppers) and tomate-based plates; consider requesting no meat stock or pork products where possible.