Travelling to Spain? Zaragoza is a cultural and historical metropolis not to be overlooked! The capital of Aragon, it reveals its treasures at every turn. From its imposing cathedral to its art museums, lively streets and thriving street art scene, you've found a destination you can't afford to miss. In just a day or two, treat yourself to a taste of Spain, with these 11 things to do in Zaragoza.
1. Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, magnificence incarnate
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar in Zaragoza is a symbol of the Christianization of Spain. Whether or not you're a fan of religious buildings, you can't help but be dazzled! Erected on the pillar where the Virgin appeared, it is celebrated on October 12. Successively rebuilt, it preserves remarkable works such as the altarpiece by Damián Forment, which we invite you to discover.
The actual construction began in the 17th century, with imposing towers and decorated domes, some by Francisco de Goya. The result is simply breathtaking! The icing on the cake: the Pilar Tower offers a panoramic view of Zaragoza. Take the opportunity to visit the Museo Pilarista, which exhibits objects dedicated to the Virgin, including capes and jewelry donated since the 16th century.
2. The Plaza del Pilar, a compendium of wonders
The Plaza del Pilar is the heart of Zaragoza, surrounded by the famous Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and San Salvador Cathedral. It is also home to the Lonja, used for exhibitions. The spacious, pedestrian-friendly square offers a peaceful refuge in the heart of the city. Its history dates back to Muslim times, when Zaragoza was a major cultural center. Its historic buildings are remarkably well-preserved, offering a unique insight into the city's history. A must-see when discovering the beauty of Spain!
3. Stroll through Zaragoza's old town
Listen and listen: the cobblestones that line the streets of the old town seem to want to tell you their story... Zaragoza's old quarter, the Casco Antiguo, stretches around the Plaza del Pilar, between Avenida Cesar Augusto and Calle del Coso. The city's eventful history has been etched in stone by various civilizations. Your steps will lead you from museums to religious and secular buildings, witnesses to Zaragoza's rich past. We recommend you book this guided tour to explore Zaragoza in the company of a local guide!
Take advantage of your city break to sit down on the terrace of La Loberta de Martin, a typical local bar, and enjoy a tapas ! Gourmet friends, you'll also find some of the city's best restaurants in this district.
4. The Aljaferia Islamic Palace, an immersion in Zaragoza's history
An immutable witness to the past, the Aljafería Palace has a rich and eventful history. In turn, it was :
- a royal Aragonese residence,
- the seat of the Inquisition,
- the palace of the Catholic Monarchs.
Today, and since 1987, this impressive building has been the seat of the Cortes of Aragon. Built in the 11th century as a leisure residence for Muslim kings, it bears witness to the splendour of the Taifa kingdom at its height. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, it is the epitome ofAragonese Mudejar art. The promise of a breathtaking visit! You'll admire both Islamic and medieval elements, elegant arcatures and an imposing tower. From 20th-century barracks to its current status, the Aljafería is a cultural symbol of Aragonese history, and a must-see in Zaragoza.
Click here to book your guided tour of the Palacio de la Aljafería.
5. Caesaraugusta Forum Museum, ancient Zaragoza
Zaragoza is one of the 21 most beautiful places to see in Spain, and it's partly thanks to this cultural gem. Certainly the best-known museum in Aragon's most beautiful city! Its ultra-modern square shape is an unmistakable eye-catcher.
Located beneath the Plaza la Seo in Zaragoza, the Caesaraugusta Forum Museum displays the ruins of the Roman forum, the city's political, social, economic and religious center. The remains plunge you into a past more than 2,000 years old. Step by step, you'll discover porticoes, temples and administrative buildings. A true immersion in the past, this unusual tour reveals a variety of artifacts.
Unusual : the museum exhibits... a sewer dating back to the Iᵉʳ century! Did you know they already existed?
6. Discover the Lonja de Saragossa
Built in the 16th century on commission from Don Hernando de Aragón, the Lonja de Saragossa is a jewel of the Aragonese Renaissance. This distinctive rectangular brick building once served as a public space for commercial transactions. A small revolution at the time, it marks an evolution towards civil architecture distinct from churches. While the exterior is impressive, the interior is well worth a look. Its facades, inspired by Italian palaces, and its star-spangled rib vaults make it a remarkable example ofRenaissance architecture. A truly impressive building! Today, the (free!) entrance allows visitors to admire a variety of art exhibitions.
A little anecdote : the sculpture of the Lonja Horse on the façade is a tribute to the photographer Ángel Cordero Gracia.
7. Zaragoza's central market, an Aragonese institution
Did you know? Zaragoza's central market, an architectural and historical marvel, was almost demolished in 1970 to ease traffic. Thanks to all those who fought for it! This modernist treasure in the heart of the city is much more than just a place to shop. Built in the early 20th century by architect Félix Navarro, it has become a symbol of Renaissance architecture. Its stone, iron and glass facades are adorned with plant and animal motifs, reflecting the commercial activities that took place there. Declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1978, it has undergone several renovations, most recently in 2019. Today, Zaragoza's central market has become an open space, delighting visitors with food stalls and a stage for concerts.
8. IAACC Pablo Serrano, immersion in local and international art
Art enthusiasts come together at theInstitut d'art et culture contemporains d'Aragon, with its inimitable futuristic building. Also known as the IAACC Pablo Serrano, it invites you to discover a major collection of works by the eponymous Aragonese sculptor. More than just a museum, you'll discover theartistic evolution of a great artist, as well as his message about Man and his roots. A fascinating experience! Opened in 1994, the museum is housed in the former offices of the provincial hospice. Building on its success, it has expanded over the years, much to the delight of art lovers. In 2011, an extension tripled the exhibition space, enabling the installation of a vast selection of works by Serrano, as well as other international and Spanish artists.
9. The Zaragoza Aquarium, an ideal family outing
With its cascading façade (quite literally!), the impressive silhouette of the Zaragoza Aquarium is a must-see for families on vacation in Spain. Push open its majestic doors and discover Europe's largest freshwater aquarium. It's home to no fewer than 300 animal species from the world's five largest rivers! More than just a visit to an aquarium, you'll be taking your family on a journey through the river ecosystems of the Nile, Mekong, Amazon, Darling Murray and Ebro. Children and parents enjoy interactive activities for all ages, including :
- dramatized tours,
- educational workshops,
- overnight stays with the fish.
Do you like the strange, the surprising and the unusual? AtAcuarucio de Zaragoza, you can discover the anaconda, the piranha and the Nile crocodile! Click here to book your ticket for the Zaragoza Aquarium.
10. The Goya Museum, a tribute to a great artist
A must-see in Zaragoza during your stay, the Goya-Ibercaja Museum houses the four complete series of engravings by Francisco de Goya, one of the greatest engravers in the history of art. You'll discover his works in the Casa Jerónimo Cósida, a 16th-century Renaissance building. With over 800 works, spanning art from the Gothic to the 20th century, your visit promises to be a fascinating one! The second floor is entirely dedicated to Goya, with rooms devoted to his paintings and engravings. Take advantage of the audioguided tours, or the loan of tablets and videos for adults and children. The museum also offers visitors a wide range of cultural activities.
11. Zaragoza's churches
In addition to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, a number of other religious buildings are well worth a visit. During your stroll through downtown Zaragoza, we invite you to discover thechurch of San Pablo de Zaragoza, built to replace a former Romanesque hermitage. Its interior is crowned with ribbed and barrel vaults. A pure marvel! Its octagonal brick tower is also remarkable, as is its Gothic north facade. The church is part of the Mudejar architectural ensemble of Aragon, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Two other religious buildings are just waiting to be discovered: San Salvador Cathedral and Santa Engracia Church.
Where to stay in Zaragoza?
The historic center is a great place to spend a weekend in Zaragoza. The El Tubo district offers a strategic location, close to points of interest and excellent tapas bars.
- The most modern
The modern design of the Reina Petronila, conceived by Rafael Moneo, immerses guests in an enchanting setting. Large, luminous rooms offer a relaxing stay, all topped off with a spa area: the very best! Click here to book your stay.
- Luxury at a fair price
A slightly old-fashioned decor, without ever being rococo, invites itself to the Hôtel Palafox, a luxury establishment with affordable rates that can be booked right here. Small touches and an upscale ambience are the order of the day.
- The cheapest
No fuss at the Hotel Rio Arga, just designer communal areas and comfortable rooms that you can book in just a few clicks here. Located in the heart of the historic center, the hotel offers easy access to the city's main sights, bars and restaurants, all at a low price.
What to do in Zaragoza with children?
Among the must-sees in Zaragoza with children, the Zaragoza Aquarium stands out. Looking for family fun? Tierraventura is the place to be! Paintball for all ages, orienteering races and a variety of games: there's plenty to keep you entertained. And when you're on vacation in Zaragoza with children, don't miss the Luis Buñuel Metropolitan Water Park, which offers a wide range of leisure activities:
- cycling
- walking,
- water park,
- botanical and aquatic gardens,
- golf course,
- beach with water games.
The kids are in for a treat! Finally, add a little learning to your vacation, without sacrificing the fun, at the Fire and Firefighters Museum: a visit rich in discoveries!
What to do around Zaragoza?
One of the most astonishing places to visit is the ghost town of Belchite, around three-quarters of an hour from Zaragoza. A remnant of a particularly violent Spanish war, it can be discovered on a guided tour. In the province of Zaragoza, Utebo is another of Aragon's jewels to be discovered without moderation. The superb Mudejar-style tower is one of the must-sees, to be discovered as you wander through its cobbled streets.
Looking for nature? Then head for the Sierra Natural Park, for some superb hiking! The Ordesa and Mont Perdu national parks, with their splendid waterfalls, have nothing to envy it. For lovers of culture and historic buildings, Huesca is the place to be.
An ideal destination less than 2 hours from Paris, Zaragoza's charm lies in its period architecture and culture. Between two tapas, don't hesitate to sample the local cuisine. Ternasco, Migas a la pastora, borage, Ajoarriero, Crespillos: the menu promises to be delicious!
