I’ve been living in Zaragoza for nearly three years now, and I often drive to nearby areas on weekends. Recently, a friend asked me what places around here are worth visiting, so I decided to compile and share this guide with everyone.
Teruel
It’s about an hour and a half drive from Zaragoza. This city is most famous for its Mudéjar architecture—the towers are truly beautiful, especially the Torre de San Martín and Torre de San Salvador. The old town isn’t large; you can explore it leisurely in half a day. I recommend avoiding summer visits, as the area has high altitude with significant temperature variations. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons.
Nearby Cities Comparison
| City | Distance | Features | Rating |
|---|
| Teruel | 180km | Mudéjar Architecture | ★★★★☆ |
| Huesca | 75km | Gateway to Pyrenees | ★★★★★ |
| Lleida | 150km | Catalan Culture | ★★★☆☆ |
| Soria | 170km | Medieval Town | ★★★★☆ |
Huesca is even closer, less than an hour’s drive. The city is somewhat larger than Teruel and has a nice cathedral. If you enjoy outdoor activities in Zaragoza, this is an excellent starting point for the Pyrenees. You can go skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Personally, I prefer Huesca because it has well-developed facilities and more restaurant options.
Lleida is in Catalonia, about a two-hour drive. The old cathedral Seu Vella sits on a hilltop with spectacular views. However, this city has a more commercial atmosphere and lacks the historical charm of the previous two. I previously wanted to visit for Zaragoza sightseeing, but ended up canceling due to heavy rain that day.
Practical Tips
If you only have one day from Zaragoza, I recommend Huesca—it’s close and enjoyable. For experiencing a different cultural atmosphere, Teruel is the top choice. Lleida is suitable for a stopover when passing through, but not worth a dedicated trip. Parking isn’t difficult in any of these cities; there are usually free or affordable parking lots on the outskirts of the old towns. Remember to check restaurant opening hours in advance, as many establishments in small cities close for afternoon breaks.
