Things To Do
in Zaragoza
Zaragoza is a vibrant city located in northeastern Spain, along the Ebro River. It is known for its rich history, with landmarks such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and the Aljafería Palace, showcasing the city's diverse architectural influences. Zaragoza also boasts a lively cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters.
The city comes alive during annual events such as the Fiestas del Pilar, attracting visitors from around the world.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3.50
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, one of Zaragoza's most iconic landmarks. Afterward, stroll along the banks of the Ebro River for scenic views.
Visit the Aljafería Palace, a Moorish castle that offers a glimpse into Zaragoza's rich history. Enjoy lunch at a local tapas bar and taste some traditional dishes.
Take a leisurely walk through the Plaza del Pilar to admire the stunning architecture at sunset. End your day with a delicious dinner at a restaurant that specializes in Aragonese cuisine.
Visit the Goya Museum to appreciate the works of Francisco Goya, a famous Spanish painter. It's a great way to immerse yourself in Zaragoza's cultural heritage.
Explore the city’s main squares such as Plaza de España and Plaza del Pilar, where you can find street performers and local artisans. Grab a quick bite from one of the food stalls.
Head to the Teatro Principal for an evening of local theater or live music. Wrap up the day with a coffee and dessert at a charming café nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including landmarks like the Basilica del Pilar and Aljafería Palace.
- Vibrant culinary scene, famous for tapas and local dishes such as ternasco and migas.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
- Well-connected transportation system, including high-speed trains and buses to other major cities.
- Beautiful parks and natural spaces, such as Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), which can be uncomfortable for some.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities, leading to potential economic challenges.
- Public transport options may be impacted by time schedules and frequency, particularly in less central areas.
- Some areas might experience issues with urban development and maintenance, leading to uneven living conditions.
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, as not all locals are fluent in English.
Best Activities in Zaragoza
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large park with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas perfect for outdoor activities like picnics, walking, and cycling.
A scenic walkway along the Ebro River, ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, and enjoying the waterfront views.
Explore the city and its surroundings by cycling along the picturesque Ebro River, with designated cycling paths and trails.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zaragoza with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zaragoza
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning viewpoint with panoramic views of the Ebro River and the city of Zaragoza.
The Islamic architecture and the well-maintained gardens around the palace provide beautiful photo opportunities.
The bridge offers picturesque views of the river and the old town of Zaragoza.
Food in Zaragoza
Zaragoza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Aragonese dish featuring tender, oven-roasted lamb. It's a must-try for meat lovers and can be found in many local restaurants such as Restaurante Roche.
Must-Try!
This dish consists of salted cod cooked with a rich garlic and tomato sauce, offering a delightful blend of flavors. It's often served at Taberna El Sardi.
A popular comfort food made from breadcrumbs sautéed with garlic, chorizo, and sometimes grapes. Head to Los Victorinos for a delicious serving of Migas.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zaragoza better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Zaragoza's main food market, Mercado Central, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. It offers a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, charcuterie, and other tantalizing treats. Be sure to sample the local olives and artisanal cheeses.
This lively street is packed with tapas bars and small eateries, making it a vibrant hub for street food and socializing. Don't miss trying the traditional Tapa de Bacalao (cod tapa) at establishments like Bodegas Almau.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zaragoza, it's common to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on each cheek, starting with the left cheek. This is a sign of warmth and familiarity.
Meal times are important in Zaragoza, and it's respectful to arrive punctually if invited to someone's home for a meal. It's also customary to linger at the table after the meal, engaging in conversation and savoring the experience.
In Zaragoza, the siesta culture is still prevalent, so it's important to be mindful of the midday break. Many businesses and shops close for a few hours in the afternoon, and it's considerate to avoid making loud noises during this time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zaragoza with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zaragoza
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Zaragoza, Spain is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it is common to leave a 5-10% tip if the service was satisfactory. Tipping in bars and cafes is not expected, but rounding up the bill is common.
In Zaragoza, Spain, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. When paying by card, it is customary to wait for the card machine to be brought to your table in restaurants and cafes.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zaragoza.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Zaragoza is during the spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the city is full of blooming flowers. This season is perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying cultural events such as the Holy Week processions and the Fiestas del Pilar.
Summer (July to August) in Zaragoza can be hot with temperatures reaching highs. However, this is also when many local festivals and events take place, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts, food festivals, and traditional celebrations.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time to visit for a more relaxed experience. The city's parks and gardens display beautiful fall colors, and visitors can enjoy pleasant strolls along the Ebro River and explore the cultural heritage sites with fewer tourists.
Winter (December to February) in Zaragoza can be cold, but it offers a unique charm with holiday decorations and festive markets. Visitors can experience traditional Spanish Christmas celebrations and enjoy indoor activities such as visiting museums, galleries, and tasting local winter delicacies.
Zaragoza at Night
Hiking in Zaragoza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning set of waterfalls located in the Mascún River canyon, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A popular hiking destination with diverse flora and fauna, featuring various trails leading to the peak of Moncayo mountain.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes and natural canyons. Offers multiple hiking routes suitable for different skill levels.
The Pyrenees mountains provide numerous hiking opportunities with stunning views, varied terrain, and wildlife.
A unique semi-desert landscape with interesting rock formations and trails to explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zaragoza through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zaragoza by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Spain, located approximately 320 km from Zaragoza.
An international airport serving Barcelona, located about 300 km from Zaragoza.
An international airport located around 350 km from Zaragoza, serving the city of Valencia.
An international airport in Bilbao, approximately 520 km from Zaragoza.
An international airport located in Malaga, around 900 km from Zaragoza.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Zaragoza, representing the majority of the population, primarily of Spanish origin.
A significant immigrant community, mainly due to recent migration trends in Spain.
One of the largest North African immigrant populations, contributing to the cultural diversity in the city.
A growing community with a focus on business and retail sectors in Zaragoza.
An expatriate group that has increased in number due to retirement and work opportunities.
Includes various smaller groups from countries such as Italy, France, and others.
Includes immigrants from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
The Soul of Zaragoza
Discover the essence of Zaragoza through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Zaragoza, with the local team Real Zaragoza having a rich history and strong local following.
Basketball has gained popularity in Zaragoza, particularly with the success of the local team Casademont Zaragoza in national leagues.
Handball is a well-followed sport in Zaragoza, with several local teams competing in regional and national leagues.
Running is popular among the residents of Zaragoza, with various events and marathons taking place throughout the year.
Cycling is a favored activity both for leisure and sport, with many scenic routes in and around the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zaragoza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Zaragoza offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including innovative takes on traditional Aragonese cuisine. Look out for places like Novodabo, which specializes in catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus in various eateries across Zaragoza. Restaurants like La Jamada del Casco Histórico and El Sótano Gastrobar provide gluten-free choices and are attentive to dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Zaragoza with these cultural adventures.
