Things to Do in Zaragoza: Sights, Food and Day Trips
Zaragoza packs a surprising amount into a compact centre: Baroque and Moorish landmarks, Roman remains, riverside walks and one of Spain's most enjoyable tapas scenes. Two days is enough to see the highlights, and three lets you slow down or add a day trip. This guide lists the best things to do, with practical notes that help you choose a hotel in the right area.
Basílica del Pilar and La Seo
Start at the Plaza del Pilar, where the Baroque basilica rises beside the Ebro. Look up at the domes, which include frescoes by Goya, and consider the tower views if they are open. A few minutes away, La Seo cathedral combines Gothic, Mudéjar and Baroque styles in a single building. Both are easy to reach on foot if you stay nearby, as explained in our guide to hotels near the Basílica del Pilar.
The Aljafería Palace
The Aljafería is an eleventh-century palace built by the Muslim rulers of the Taifa of Zaragoza and later adapted by Christian kings. Its patios, carved plasterwork and arches are among the finest examples of Moorish architecture in northern Spain, and it forms part of the UNESCO-listed Mudéjar architecture of Aragon. Today it also houses the regional parliament. Allow around two hours, and check visiting hours in advance because guided access can vary.
Roman Caesaraugusta
Zaragoza began as the Roman colony of Caesaraugusta, and four small museums show what remains: the forum, the river port, the public baths and the theatre. They are easy to combine into a half-day route and give useful context for the modern city.
Museums and architecture
- The Lonja: a Renaissance exchange building used for exhibitions.
- Museo de Zaragoza: a regional museum of archaeology and fine art.
- Museo Pablo Gargallo: works by the sculptor in a restored palace.
- Goya museum collections: several venues present the painter's connection to Aragon.
The Expo 2008 area and the river
Walk or cycle along the Ebro to the former Expo 2008 site, where the Water Tower, the Bridge Pavilion and the river aquarium offer a modern contrast to the old town. The route is flat and pleasant, and it suits families, as noted in our overview of where to stay in Zaragoza. Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta is another green option close to the centre.
Tapas and Aragonese food
Spend an evening moving between bars in El Tubo, the web of lanes beside the basilica. Typical bites include croquetas, grilled mushrooms and small portions of cured meat. Look for ternasco, roast young lamb, migas, fried breadcrumbs often served with sausage and grapes, and Frutas de Aragón, candied fruit coated in chocolate. The Mercado Central is a good place for a morning snack and to see local produce.
Easy day trips
With a car or an organised tour, you can reach the waterfalls and gardens of the Monasterio de Piedra in around ninety minutes. The ruined old town of Belchite, left standing as a Spanish Civil War memorial, lies roughly fifty kilometres to the south-east. Wine lovers can explore the Cariñena region, known for its Garnacha. Regional trains from Delicias also reach other Aragonese towns, which is handy if you stay near the station, as described in our guide to hotels near Delicias station and the airport.
A simple two-day plan
On day one, visit the basilica and La Seo in the morning, take tapas at lunchtime, explore the Roman museums in the afternoon and finish in El Tubo. On day two, see the Aljafería, walk through the centre, then spend the late afternoon along the river. Opening hours change, and many museums close on Mondays, so verify details first. If you are visiting in October, read about the Fiestas del Pilar to plan around the crowds, and travellers from Singapore can find extra tips in our travel guide for Singapore visitors.