I just returned from Zaragoza last month and want to share my experience with this underrated Spanish city. While most people visiting Spain choose Barcelona or Madrid, Zaragoza, as the capital of the Aragon region, is truly worth a few days to properly experience. You can find more details about Zaragoza tourism and its attractions.
Must-Visit Attractions
Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar
This basilica is absolutely the landmark of Zaragoza. I recommend arriving around 9 AM when there are fewer people, so you can leisurely admire the dome frescoes painted by Goya. Climbing the basilica’s bell tower costs an additional 3 euros, but as mentioned in this Zaragoza travel guide, you can overlook the entire Ebro River and old town, which is absolutely worth it. There are many cafes around the basilica square where you can sit down for coffee and rest after your visit.
Aljafería Palace
This is a well-preserved Moorish palace featured in Zaragoza tourism guides, now serving as the seat of the Aragonese parliament. The Islamic-style courtyard inside the palace is particularly beautiful, with golden carvings and exquisite arches that make you feel as if you’re in Granada’s Alhambra. Admission is 5 euros, free on Sundays but requires advance reservation. I recommend allocating 1.5-2 hours for the visit.
Culinary Experience
Zaragoza’s cuisine truly left a deep impression on me. El Tubo in the old town is where tapas bars congregate. Avoid the tourist-packed places and observe where locals are queuing - follow them and you won’t go wrong. I especially recommend trying local specialties like Ternasco and Bacalao ajoarriero.
Here are a few restaurants I’ve compiled:
| Restaurant Name | Specialty Dishes | Average Price |
|---|
| Casa Lac | Roast Lamb | 25-30 euros |
| La Matilde | Traditional Tapas | 15-20 euros |
| El Candelas | Paella | 20-25 euros |
Practical Information
For transportation, the AVE high-speed train from Madrid takes only about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and from Barcelona it’s just 1.5 hours. Within the city, transportation mainly relies on walking and buses. The old town is compact and most places are walkable. For accommodation, I recommend staying in the old town or near Delicias train station - the former is convenient for sightseeing, while the latter offers good transportation links and relatively cheaper prices.
A final reminder: October is Zaragoza’s rainy season, so remember to bring an umbrella. Also, many shops and restaurants close from 2 PM to 5 PM, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Overall, Zaragoza is a city with a relaxed pace but full of charm, perfect for travelers who enjoy in-depth exploration.
