Last month I spent three days in Zaragoza, and this city turned out to be more interesting than I expected. Many people might just pass through Zaragoza, but it’s actually worth dedicating time to explore properly. Here I’ll share some places in Zaragoza that I found worthwhile.
Basílica del Pilar
This is probably Zaragoza’s most famous building. The basilica sits by the Ebro River, with 11 domes that are visible from afar. Inside, there are murals painted by Goya - while I’m not an art expert, they’re genuinely impressive. I recommend buying a ticket to climb one of the towers, where you can overlook the entire old town and river views. Tickets cost around 3 euros, great value for money. The square around the basilica has many small shops and restaurants where you can sit down for coffee when tired.
Aljafería Palace
This is a Moorish palace, now home to the Aragonese regional parliament. The architectural style is distinctive, somewhat resembling Granada’s Alhambra but on a smaller scale. The courtyard pools and carved decorations are exquisite, perfect for photos. It may be closed or have limited hours on weekends, so check ahead. Admission is 5 euros, with student discounts available.
Other Places Worth Visiting
The Stone Bridge connects the old town to the opposite bank, offering full views of the Basílica del Pilar - especially beautiful when illuminated at night. The Zaragoza Museum houses numerous Roman-era artifacts, ideal for history enthusiasts. Independence Avenue in the city center is great for shopping, with brands like Zara and Mango.
Below is a summary of basic information for major attractions in Zaragoza:
| Attraction | Ticket Price | Recommended Duration |
|---|
| Basílica del Pilar | Free | 1-2 hours |
| Aljafería Palace | 5 euros | 1 hour |
| Zaragoza Museum | Free | 1 hour |
| Stone Bridge | Free | 30 minutes |
Practical Tips
For transportation, the AVE high-speed train from Madrid takes only 1.5 hours, very convenient. City transport relies mainly on buses and trams, but actually the old town is compact enough to walk most attractions. I recommend staying near Plaza del Pilar for easy access everywhere. For food, try the local fried lamb chops and rice pudding - tasty and reasonably priced.
Zaragoza has fewer tourists than Barcelona or Madrid, with a more relaxed pace perfect for unwinding. If you have time, plan two to three days to leisurely experience the city’s historical and cultural atmosphere.
