Just got back from Zaragoza last month, and this city is genuinely more interesting than I imagined. As the capital of the Aragon region, Zaragoza blends Roman, Moorish, and Christian cultures—walking through the streets, you can feel the marks left by different historical periods. Today I’ll share a few places I consider must-visits.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
This is the landmark building of Zaragoza, right by the Ebro River. The basilica has 11 domes that you can spot from afar. Inside, there are frescoes painted by Goya—though I’m no art expert, standing there genuinely takes your breath away. I recommend going around 9 AM when there are fewer people and better lighting. Climbing to the top requires a separate ticket, about 3 euros, offering panoramic views of the old town and river—totally worth it. For more hidden gems, check out Zaragoza’s lesser-known attractions.
Aljafería Palace
This is an 11th-century palace built by the Moors, later converted into a Catholic royal palace. The architectural style is quite unique, showcasing a blend of Islamic and Gothic elements. The orange trees and fountains in the courtyard create a very pleasant atmosphere. Today, this is the seat of the Aragon Parliament, and some areas require a guided tour to access. Admission is 5 euros, free on Sundays but advance booking is required. Learn more about Zaragoza attractions worth visiting.
| Attraction Name | Ticket Price | Opening Hours |
|---|
| Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar | Free | 6:45-20:30 |
| Aljafería Palace | 5€ | 10:00-14:00, 16:00-18:30 |
| Stone Bridge | Free | All day |
Old Town and Stone Bridge
It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Basilica of the Pillar to the Stone Bridge. The bridge was built in the 15th century, connecting the old town with the opposite bank. There are four bronze lion sculptures on the bridge—a great spot for photos. The sunset view from the bridge in the evening is particularly beautiful, with the river turning golden. The old town has many narrow streets where you can randomly wander and discover interesting shops and restaurants.
Other Places Worth Visiting
If you have time while exploring Zaragoza attractions, you can also visit the Caesaraugusta Museum to see Roman ruins, or stroll around Plaza del Pilar. There are many tapas bars in that area, very lively at night. I originally wanted to visit the Goya Museum, but it was closed that day. Zaragoza isn’t that big—you can walk to all the main attractions, though getting a city sightseeing card would be more economical.
Overall, Zaragoza is a city perfect for leisurely exploration, not as crowded as Barcelona or Madrid. Two to three days is just right—enough time to see the main attractions without rushing. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll try to answer.
