Zaragoza Essentials: A Guide to Must-Visit Gems
It is impossible to create a list of must-visit places in Zaragoza without mentioning the Catedral de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, commonly known as El Pilar. This is the city’s flagship and most representative monument.
This Baroque-style building has a complex and legendary origin. According to these legends, the building was created around 40 AD by the city’s first Christians living near the Ebro River, but there is no documentary evidence of this. However, there is confirmation of the existence of a church in the 9th century at the site of the current basilica.
After the reconquest of Zaragoza, the initial building was in ruins, so it was remodeled for the first time. The subsequent kings of the region continued to use and remodel it until the original basilica was founded in 1681, to which towers and domes were added in the following centuries.
But the importance lies not only in the temple itself but also in the significance of Virgen del Pilar for the “maños” (as the inhabitants of Zaragoza are called). The building houses a sculpture of the Virgin with a mantle. This representation, whether you are a believer or not, is one of the main symbols of the city and its people. Any Zaragozan you meet feels identified and protected by the virgin, so much so that every October 12th (Pillar Day in Zaragoza), thousands of people parade through the streets dressed in traditional “Baturro” attire, bringing flowers to the virgin.
We recommend entering the Cathedral as it is spectacular and contains some paintings and frescoes by renowned artists such as Goya and Velázquez, making it a true gem. Also, while you’re there, it’s interesting to see the mentioned sculpture of the virgin.
Entrance to the Cathedral of the Pillar is free every day. If you want something extra and enjoy privileged views, you can also climb its lookout tower for €4 (Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 8:30 pm).
As for the square, it is truly amazing as one of the largest pedestrian squares in Europe. It is one of the iconic places for the maños, serving as a meeting point, social events venue, and the hub of its most active streets.
Seo Cathedral, essential attractions in Zaragoza
Another of the essential attractions in Zaragoza. It is located right next to the Basilica of the Pillar. It is a basilica with a marked blend of styles and was the city’s first Christian church.
One of its most emblematic features is on the exterior, located in an adjoining building, the Parroquieta de San Miguel Arcángel, whose exterior wall is one of the most important examples of Mudéjar art and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The interior of the cathedral has an admission cost of €7, allowing you to visit its 16 chapels and its Tapestry Museum, which with 63 pieces, is one of the most important tapestry collections in the world. As a tip, there are days when entry is free (you can check this in this post).
Aljaferia Palace
The Aljafería Palace is one of the remaining examples of Muslim architecture in the city and one of the jewels from the period of occupation that still exists in our country.
It was built in the 11th century as a leisure place for the Muslim kings during their occupation of the area. After that period, this building has been one of the references for Mudéjar art in Aragón (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001).
Moreover, it’s a building with numerous uses throughout history, serving as a palace for the Catholic Monarchs, a fortress, a prison for the Inquisition, or a military barracks. Currently, it serves as the seat of the Cortes de Aragón (Aragonese regional parliament).
We recommend taking a stroll through its exterior park and also entering the building, as you have seen it is a place of great
historical importance for the city. In our opinion, it is advisable to take a guided tour. The entrance fee is €5, but admission is free on the first Sundays of each month and the first Monday afternoon of each month.
Here is a link for a guided tour of the Aljafería Palace.
El Tubo
The Tubo is one of the essential places in Zaragoza and also one of the most emblematic. As we mentioned in the introduction, food and drink are very important in the city. Not a day goes by without the streets of downtown Zaragoza being filled with people eating and drinking in groups at its thousands of themed bars and restaurants.
The concept is very simple and fun. These are a series of alleys in the city center with many tapas restaurants, most of them specializing in a particular type of cuisine. The idea is to go from bar to bar, trying their typical tapas with a small beer.
We can recommend several places to go in this area, but it is advisable to get lost and try the places that seem most attractive to you. You’re sure to discover new and exciting things!
Caesaraugusta Route, essentials attractions in Zaragoza
As we mentioned, Zaragoza originated as a Roman city and still preserves ruins from this ancient civilization. There are 4 museums you can visit:
- Foro de Caesaragusta: One of the must-visit sites in Zaragoza, located in the same Plaza del Pilar, beneath the Seo Cathedral. The interior represents the forum, the place where the city’s most important daily activities took place. You’ll see audiovisual projections showing how the city was and exhibitions with models and remains from that era. Some of the lead pipes from the Roman period are also interesting.
- Puerto Fluvial: The most important goods port in the region during the Roman era.
- Museo de las Termas Públicas: A meeting point for the Roman high society, located in the city center.
- Teatro Romano: One of the largest theaters in Roman Hispania with a seating capacity for 6000 people.
You can purchase a pass for all 4 Caesaragusta museums, allowing you to visit all 4 places for 7 euros, or buy an individual ticket if you are interested in a specific location.
Ebro riverside
Another of the essential attractions in Zaragoza is not a specific point but rather the entire Ebro Riverbank of the city. Zaragoza is not understood without the Ebro River, which crosses it in the middle and is one of its pillars (pun intended).
The riverbank is fully adapted for walking or cycling, offering spectacular places and panoramic views, both of the Pillar and the city itself. It stretches for approximately 10 km, so if we consider both banks, there are almost 20 km to stroll and get lost.
Puente de Piedra
This place, located next to the Pilar, is the most important and emblematic bridge in the city. Its origin dates back to the ancient city of Caesaraugusta, so it has several centuries of history. The current style dates back to 1440.
Notable details include the Cross of San Basilio built in honor of those who fell during the Sieges of Zaragoza and the four lions on the bridge, symbolizing the power and strength of the city.
It is one of the best spots to photograph the Pillar, so we recommend crossing it and capturing the best pictures of the cathedral.
Balcón de San Lázaro
This location is the best point for photographing el Pilar. It’s called Balcón de San Lázaro and is special because it is right on the riverbank, next to the Stone Bridge, offering an unbeatable perspective of the Basilica. So, if you’re in the area, just cross Puente de Piedra in the opposite direction of the Basilica, and you’ll find it on the riverbank.
Arch and Dean's house
One of the essential attractions in Zaragoza is located behind the Seo Cathedral, and it’s a curious house with an arch built by one of the deans of the cathedral to connect his house with it. It is known as the Arch and Dean’s House.
Currently, it is a symbol of the city and an interesting spot to visit. It’s a quiet little alley that leads to the Plaza del Pilar, creating a unique contrast between the busiest point in the city and a super quiet place.
It is said that anyone passing under the arch should make a wish, so take advantage, you never know 🙂
Expo Area
As you may already know, Zaragoza was the host city for the International Exposition of 2008, one of the most significant events in the city’s history. The thematic focus of this exposition was Water and Sustainable Development.
This exposition completely transformed Zaragoza, as it served as a gateway to the world. Currently, the buildings and the area that hosted this exposition can still be visited in one of the most modern and intriguing parts of the city. It’s a green area with lots of vegetation, right next to the Ebro River, making it a perfect place to wander and stroll, one of our must-visit spots in Zaragoza.
Some of the key important buildings in the area include:
- Torre del Agua
- Pabellón Puente
- Pabellón de España
- Parque del Agua
Alfonso I and Paseo Independencia
Two of the most important streets in the city that must be part of your essential list for Zaragoza.
Alfonso I is one of the main streets in the old town and is particularly known for offering a breathtaking view of the main dome of the Pilar Cathedral, as it starts at Plaza del Pilar. It’s delightful to stroll along this street, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the multitude of shops, and the various activities in the surroundings. During festive seasons like Christmas, its decoration with lights adds to the charm.
Paseo Independencia stretches from Plaza España to Plaza del Paraíso and is one of the city’s most important streets due to its considerable width, central location, numerous shops (making it a great shopping area), and historic buildings such as the Post Office building, Telefonica building, and the Porches. It’s highly recommended for a leisurely walk, experiencing the lively atmosphere, and perhaps grabbing a drink nearby.
Jose Antonio Labordeta Park
One of the city’s lungs, the Jose Antonio Labordeta Park, is a park inaugurated in 1929 spanning 27 hectares. It features broad avenues, fountains, 22 sculptures, terraces…
If you’re looking for a place to stroll leisurely, surrounded by greenery, and sit down for a drink, this is your spot in Zaragoza
Zaragoza's Central Market
The Central Market of Zaragoza is a market designed in 1895 by Félix Navarro Pérez and underwent renovations in 2020, reopening to the public. Located less than 5 minutes from Plaza del Pilar, it is a great place to go for a drink, enjoy a beautiful building, and be in a central area close to other points of interest.
- Museo Pablo Gargallo
Pablo Gargallo Museum
For art and sculpture enthusiasts, Zaragoza is home to a museum dedicated to one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, Pablo Gargallo. The building is remarkable, featuring multiple sculptures (including two replicas of the sculptures from the Olympic Stadium of Montjuic at its entrance) and cobblestone courtyards. However, the main attraction lies within, where you can explore the works of the sculptor.
The museum entrance fee is €4, and it is open every day except Mondays, from 10 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm, and on Sundays from 10 am to 2:30 pm.
Las Fiestas del Pilar
It’s impossible to discuss the essential attractions in Zaragoza without mentioning its famous Fiestas del Pilar, considered one of the best celebrations in Spain.
Taking place during the week of October 12th, the festivities kick off in the Plaza del Pilar on the day of the Pregón, which starts from the town hall. October 12th is the highlight of the celebration, featuring the Floral Offering to the Virgin of the Pilar. During this event, hundreds of thousands of people, dressed in their regional costumes (Zaragozans are known as Baturros), parade flowers throughout the city to the Plaza del Pilar, where they offer the flowers to the Virgin. Whether religious or not, it’s an incredible sight to witness the city on this day.
Throughout the rest of the week, you can enjoy numerous events across the city, including many concerts, fairs, and parties. Most locals, known as “maños,” will be out on the streets, reveling in the city’s festivities, making it a fun and highly recommended experience.
Don’t forget to wear a “cachirulo” to complete your outfit during these days!
BONUS: Where to stay in Zaragoza?
We bring you a selection of places to stay in Zaragoza. We haven’t tried them ourselves, but we’ve researched based on reviews and knowing the best areas, and these would be our suggestions. Our usual filters on booking are based on ratings (over 9 or at least 8) and location. The prices per night listed below are for low-season nights (November).
In terms of location, we would recommend staying in the city center, near Plaza del Pilar, the area around Aljafería, or even neighborhoods close to the historic center like La Magdalena or the area near Delicias Station. We believe that in terms of location, these options would be the best for getting around (remember that it’s an easily walkable city).
Low price (0€-80€)
- Location: 1 minute from El Pilar, very new, and it’s an apartment, with the advantage of saving on meals and breakfast as it has a kitchen. The location is unbeatable. In a low-season month, the price is around €80 per night.
- Location: Near Delicias Station. Not as central, but a good option if you want to stay away from the center and be close to the station since Zaragoza is well connected by train. It’s quite new and has options for less than €80.
Medium price (80€-110€)
- Location: Located in the heart of the city (1 minute from Plaza del Pilar). It is a well-maintained and lovely 2-star hotel with a very comprehensive and delicious breakfast. The price is around €90 per night.
- Location: This apartment seems quite nice to us. It has all the amenities and is situated in a pretty good area, right next to the Aljafería. It is 15 minutes away from Plaza del Pilar, but it allows you to reach other areas like the Aljafería or the Expo zone more quickly. It is priced at around €105 per night.
high Price (>110€)
Ático con vistas al Pilar, Jacuzzi y Garage:
- For those who want more luxuries, open the link to this place. This accommodation is located just across the Ebro River by the Stone Bridge, so it is right in front of El Pilar. The views are AMAZING, among the best we’ve seen. The location is perfect, and it even has a spectacular terrace. The price is €200 per night.
NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza:
- A very nice 4-star hotel located in the Magdalena neighborhood, near the center of Zaragoza. It offers many more amenities with an approximate price of €140 per night.
Map of Zaragoza
As you can see, Zaragoza is a place with many things to do, perfect for a 1-2 day cultural and gastronomic visit. If you decide to visit, you will discover a place that has a lot to offer and a welcoming people proud of their land.
As always, if you have any questions, contact us through our social media or in the comments.
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