I visited Zaragoza last month and stayed for three days. I genuinely feel this city is underrated. Most people traveling to Spain only focus on Barcelona and Madrid, but Zaragoza has plenty of worthwhile places to see. Today I’m sharing several spots I found impressive, as a reference for those planning to visit.
Basilica del Pilar
This basilica is absolutely the iconic landmark of Zaragoza, located right by the Ebro River. The scale of the cathedral is truly impressive, with 11 domes that look spectacular from a distance. I went around 3 PM, and the sunlight hitting the building made for excellent photos. The interior is free to visit, but if you want to climb the tower for panoramic views, there’s an additional fee of about 3 euros. Once you’re up there, you can overlook the entire old town and the Ebro River - the scenery is definitely worth it, though the stairs are a bit steep, so those with limited stamina should consider this.
Aljafería Palace
This is a hidden gem in Zaragoza, a Moorish-style palace built in the 11th century. The entire structure blends Islamic and Christian elements, especially the exquisite carvings and arches, which are truly impressive. The palace now houses the Aragonese Parliament, but most areas are open to tourists. Admission is 5 euros, free on Sundays, though it gets more crowded on free days. I recommend visiting on weekdays so you can appreciate the details at leisure. There’s a particularly beautiful courtyard in the palace, where orange trees and fountains create a very peaceful atmosphere.
Stone Bridge and Old Town
The Stone Bridge connects the old town with the opposite bank. The bridge itself has a long history, and walking across it offers full views of the Basilica del Pilar. Street performers often play on the bridge, creating a nice atmosphere. After crossing the bridge, you’ll find the old town, with narrow streets lined with traditional buildings - perfect for casual strolling. The old town has many tapas bars where I had several meals; prices are much cheaper than Barcelona, and the food tastes great.
Practical Information Comparison
Below is basic information about the main attractions to help you plan your itinerary:
| Attraction Name | Ticket Price | Recommended Visit Time | Best Visiting Hours |
|---|
| Basilica del Pilar | Free | 1-2 hours | 3-5 PM |
| Aljafería Palace | 5 euros | 1.5 hours | Weekday mornings |
| Stone Bridge & Old Town | Free | 2-3 hours | Evening |
Zaragoza isn’t a mainstream tourist city, so Zaragoza attractions have relatively fewer visitors, making for a more comfortable experience. You won’t have to deal with crowds everywhere like in Barcelona. Transportation-wise, the high-speed train from Madrid takes only an hour and a half, very convenient. If you have time, I recommend allocating at least two days to more deeply explore Zaragoza’s attractions and experience the city’s charm. Overall, Zaragoza is a place worth visiting, especially suitable for those who love history and culture without wanting an overly commercialized experience.
