Jaca
,Jaca is a charming town located in the province of Huesca in northeastern Spain. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Jaca Citadel. The town also serves as a gateway to the Pyrenees mountain range, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the natural beauty of the surrounding area in Jaca.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the Fortifications
morning
:Begin your day by visiting the historic Jaca Citadel, where you can stroll along the impressive bastions. The views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking.
afternoon
:Head to the Jaca Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Take time to enjoy lunch at a nearby tapas bar.
evening
:Wind down with a leisurely walk through the quaint streets of the old town, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Find a cozy restaurant for dinner and enjoy local cuisine.
Hiking in the Pyrenees
morning
:Start your day with an invigorating hike along one of the scenic trails in the nearby Pyrenees. The fresh mountain air and breathtaking views will energize you.
afternoon
:Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. After lunch, explore more hiking routes or relax by a picturesque lake.
evening
:Return to Jaca and relax in a charming square with a glass of local wine. Reflect on your day while enjoying the sunset.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Pyrenees mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites, such as the Castle of Jaca.
- Vibrant local festivals and traditions, offering an authentic experience.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking available year-round.
- Charming architecture and picturesque streets in the town center.
Bad
- Limited access to larger urban amenities compared to bigger cities.
- Cold winters, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded conditions during peak travel months.
- Job opportunities may be limited, particularly for specialized professionals.
- Public transportation options can be limited, making it necessary to have a car.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Pyrenees
Explore the stunning trails of the Pyrenees mountain range, offering breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Cycling around Jaca
Enjoy cycling along scenic routes around Jaca, with easy access to the surrounding natural beauty and charming villages.
Rafting on the Rio Ara
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Rio Ara, suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
Visit Fort of San Bartolomé
Take a hike to this historical fort, which offers panoramic views and insights into the region's military history.
Skiing in Astún and Candanchú
In winter, take advantage of nearby ski resorts like Astún and Candanchú for skiing or snowboarding adventures.
Canyoning in the Valle de Tena
Challenge yourself with an adrenaline-pumping canyoning experience in the picturesque Valle de Tena.
Horse riding tours
Join guided horse riding tours through the beautiful landscapes surrounding Jaca, suitable for all skill levels.
Paragliding
Enjoy the thrill of paragliding from the nearby mountains, offering an unparalleled view of the Pyrenees.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Jaca with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Castillo de San Pedro
A historic fortress offering panoramic views of Jaca and the surrounding mountains, perfect for capturing the essence of the region.
Cathedral of Jaca (Catedral de San Pedro)
This stunning Romanesque cathedral features beautiful architecture and provides excellent photo opportunities inside and outside.
Plaza del Gobierno
The central square of Jaca, surrounded by charming buildings, vibrant local life, and the well-known ice cream shops, offering a cozy ambiance for photographs.
La Ciudadela
A star-shaped fortress with beautiful gardens and views over the city, ideal for photography showcasing historical architecture.
Pico Tobazo
A hike to the summit offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and the scenic landscape around Jaca, perfect for nature photography.
Iglesia de San Juan de la Peña
Situated in a picturesque setting, this church is carved into a cliff, providing a unique backdrop for stunning photos.
Mirador del Camino
A viewpoint along the walking paths offering exquisite vistas of Jaca and its surrounding areas, ideal for capturing peaceful landscapes.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Trucha a la Aragonesa
Aragón-style trout, often marinated in garlic, parsley, and white wine, then grilled. Locally sourced from the nearby rivers and streams, this dish can be found in traditional restaurants like Rincon del Cierzo.
Must-Try!
Cordero a la Pastora
Shepherd-style lamb, slowly roasted with aromatic herbs and served with locally grown vegetables. La Tasca de Ana is known for their exceptional preparation of this dish.
Ternasco de Aragón
Aragónese-style roast young lamb, cooked to perfection and served with a side of crispy potatoes. La Bodeguilla de Santiago is a recommended spot to enjoy this local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jaca better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado de Jaca
The bustling Mercado de Jaca is a treasure trove of local delights. Visitors can explore an array of fresh produce, artisan cheeses, cured meats, and regional specialties such as embutidos (cured sausages). It's also a great place to sample street food like bocadillos de jamón.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Jaca, it's customary to greet people with a warm 'Hola' and a handshake. Close friends and family may exchange kisses on both cheeks. Always maintain eye contact to show sincerity.
Dining Etiquette
When dining in Jaca, wait for the host to begin the meal. It’s polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to finish everything on your plate to show appreciation for the meal.
Pace of Life
The pace of life in Jaca is generally more relaxed. It's common for shops to close during the afternoon for siesta. Be patient and don’t rush conversations or interactions; take the time to enjoy social exchanges.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jaca with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Jaca, Spain, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving small change (around 5-10%) is common if the service was satisfactory. In cafes and bars, it's customary to leave change or round up the total to the nearest euro. Tipping taxi drivers is also appreciated, but not obligatory.
Payment
Payment practices in Jaca typically include cash and card payments. Many establishments accept major credit and debit cards, though it's wise to carry some cash for smaller venues and markets. It's common to ask for the bill in restaurants, and service charges are usually included in the menu prices, making tipping optional.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jaca.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) in Jaca is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the surrounding nature as the landscapes come alive with vibrant colors.
Summer
Summer (June to August) offers warm weather, making it the peak tourist season. Expect temperatures to be quite pleasant for outdoor festivals, mountain biking, and visiting historic sites. However, it can get crowded, especially in July and August.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Jaca with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. It's ideal for hiking and enjoying local cuisine, as many harvest festivals take place during this season.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Jaca can be cold, with snowfall likely. This is perfect for skiing and winter sports in the nearby ski resorts. The town is beautifully decorated for the festive season, and you can expect a charming winter atmosphere.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Peña Oroel Natural Park
A beautiful natural park with various hiking trails offering stunning views of the region's landscapes. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Valle de Tena
Known for its breathtaking scenery, Valle de Tena offers numerous hiking routes, including paths along its crystal-clear lakes and up to the surrounding peaks.
Mausoleo de San Mames
This area features scenic trails that take you through historical sites and offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Sierra de Armantes
A lesser-known hiking area that provides a mix of nature and biodiversity, featuring trails suitable for all levels of hikers with picturesque surroundings.
Canfranc Valley
An impressive valley that offers several hiking trails, leading to beautiful spots where you can enjoy the local flora and fauna along with spectacular mountain views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jaca through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Jaca by plane.
Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ)
Located approximately 170 km southeast of Jaca, Zaragoza Airport serves as a key international airport in northeastern Spain, providing flights to various destinations.
Pamplona Airport (PNA)
Situated around 90 km northwest of Jaca, Pamplona Airport mainly offers domestic flights and a few international connections.
Bilbao Airport (BIO)
About 170 km northwest of Jaca, Bilbao Airport is one of the main international airports in the Basque Country, offering a range of domestic and international flights.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
Located approximately 380 km southeast of Jaca, Barcelona-El Prat is one of the largest and most important international airports in Spain, serving numerous international routes.
Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD)
Around 530 km southwest of Jaca, Madrid-Barajas is the largest airport in Spain, providing extensive international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Spanish
The primary demographic group, consisting of native Spaniards who predominantly speak Spanish.
Aragonese
A regional group native to the Aragon region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Basque
A minority group residing in Jaca, reflecting the cultural and linguistic uniqueness of the Basque Country.
Catalan
Present due to historical migration, this group speaks Catalan and participates in regional culture.
Immigrants from Latin America
This group includes individuals from various Latin American countries who have moved to Jaca for work and opportunities.
Tourists
Seasonal influx of visitors from various countries, impacting local demographics during peak seasons.
The Soul of Jaca
Discover the essence of Jaca through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Skiing
Jaca is located near the Pyrenees, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
Mountain Biking
The diverse landscapes around Jaca provide excellent trails for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Hiking
Jaca serves as a gateway for numerous hiking trails in the Pyrenees, suitable for adventurers of all levels.
Rock Climbing
The region offers various climbing routes, attracting rock climbing enthusiasts from all over.
Football (Soccer)
Like much of Spain, football is a popular sport in Jaca, with local teams and community support.
Rugby
Jaca has a growing rugby community with local clubs and events promoting the sport.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Aragonese cuisine leans heavily towards meat dishes, many restaurants in Jaca offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as patatas a lo pobre (poor man's potatoes), pisto (Spanish ratatouille), and ensalada mixta (mixed salad). El Coral Vegetariano is a dedicated vegetarian restaurant that provides a diverse and satisfying menu for non-meat eaters.
Gluten-Free Options
For those with gluten restrictions, several restaurants in Jaca offer gluten-free dishes or can accommodate requests for gluten-free versions of traditional meals. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to the staff, and places like La Tasca del Serrablo are known for their attentiveness to such requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jaca with these cultural adventures.
