Visit Zaragoza: what are the best things to do and see in this fabulous Spanish city?
The fifth city of Spain and capital of Aragon, Zaragoza is a fabulous historic city located in the South of the Pyrenees, right next to Catalonia. In addition to its history, Zaragoza has an impressive cultural richness, as well as a sumptuous architecture combining different styles, eras and cultures! Visiting Zaragoza is exploring the history of Spain while enjoying the joy of living Mediterranean.
What to do in Zaragoza? The answer with this list of essential things to see and visit in Zaragoza:
1. Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Jiuguang Wang
This jewel of baroque art is held at the edge of the Ebro: it is the icon of the city of Zaragoza, present on all the promotional photos of the city. The Basilica Notre Dame Du Pilier is immense and sumptuous, it measures 130 meters long for 67 wide!
In her bosom is preserved the famous pillar on which the Virgin Mary appeared to the Apostle Saint James in the year 40. This was the origin of the construction of the basilica, which was completed in 1961 – most of the construction took place between 1681 and 1754.
It is possible to see the sacred statuette of the Virgin Mary (posed on the pillar) only 3 days a month: 2, 12 and 20. The rest of the time, the pillar is covered with a cape. Behind the Chapel of the Virgin, it is possible to come and touch a little bit of the pillar. To get an exceptional view of Zaragoza, you can use a lift (3€ climb) on the Ebre side.
2. Palace of Aljaferia
Photo credit: Wikimedia
Built in the 10th century, this fortified castle-house is a true testimony of the Islamic architecture of the time. Today, the palace has become the seat of the Aragon parliament, but you can still visit a part of it. The visit to Aljaferia Palace also allows you to discover its patio and garden – which has an incredible charm. Please note that on Sunday, the visit is free.
3. San Salvador Cathedral
Photo credit: Wikimedia- Fernando
A few steps from the Basilica, on the same square, is the Cathedral of San Salvador – nicknamed the Seo, the “seat”, because it is the seat of the archdiocese of Zaragoza. It was built in the 12th century on the vestiges of a Roman temple and a mosque. The Cathedral is a blend of Mudejar, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque style. Thus, through its styles and history, this building is a testament to the historical and cultural richness of the city.
The visit is paid (4€) unlike that of the Basilica – its exterior architecture is more sober than its neighbour, but its interior is remarkable and fabulous.
4. Tasting tapas in the historic centre
Who says Spain, say tapas! It is impossible to resist the temptation of a glass on the terrace accompanied by delicious tapas when visiting Zaragoza: it is always beautiful thanks to this mild Mediterranean climate. To taste the best tapas in Zaragoza, go to El Tubo. Do not hesitate to explore the city and to discover by yourself the terraces and tapas bars, there are for all tastes and especially everywhere!
5. Walking along the Ebro
Photo credit: Wikimedia- Rheins
Nothing better than a walk along the Ebro, especially in the evening, to discover and appreciate the beauty of Zaragoza. After having tasted delicious tapas, a small digestive ride is also excellent. The banks of this long river are partly arranged for the walk: enjoy it to admire (and cross) the Pont de Pierre – the oldest bridge in the city – built between the 14th century and the 15th century!
6. Discover the remains and the Roman past of the city
Photo credit: Wikimedia- Bauglir
Roman city, Zaragoza derives its name from « Caesaraugusta » or « Caesar Augusta », adopted by the city in honor of the Roman Emperor Augustus (Octave). For more information on the Roman history of the city, we recommend visiting two museums:
- The Museo del Teatro Romano of Caesaraugusta, a wonderful Roman theatre, built in the 1st century – it is visible from the street for free or you can visit it (extra charge).
- The Museo del Foro of Caesaraugusta, a modern architecture, is just a step away from the Cathedral of Zaragoza and allows you to learn more about the history of the city and especially about life in Roman times.
7. Tasting chocolate sweetness
Photo credit: Flickr- Enrique Dans
Do not be surprised by the abundance of chocolateries and pastries during your visit to Zaragoza: the city has a long chocolate tradition. Indeed, it is here that monks tasted cocoa, with the recipe of chocolate sent by Brother Jeronimo de Aguilar in 1530, for the first time in Europe!
Visiting Zaragoza without stopping in a pretty chocolate shop to get a local specialty (such as chocolate-coated fruit) would be a shame!
How to go to Zaragoza?
If you want to visit Zaragoza, know that there are few flights from France. Only Paris offers a good flight offer to Zaragoza: do not hesitate to consult our partner Ulysses to find out.
The train represents a second good option: from Madrid or Barcelona, you can easily access Zaragoza (1H30 on average). Otherwise, there is an agreement between the SNCF and the Renfe allowing you to visit Saragosse from French cities (Montpellier or Marseille for example).
Finally, the bus represents a third good option. Flixbus includes trips from Lyon (between 13 and 19 hours), Bordeaux (between 10 and 13 hours) or Toulouse (10€ for a 6 hours 30 live trip).
Where to stay in Zaragoza?
To help you in your search for the best accommodation in Zaragoza, we have prepared an article to find out in which neighborhood house in this beautiful city of Zaragoza . You can find a cheap hotel in Zaragoza by looking for this Compare hotels .
Main Photo Credit: Flickr – Gregorio Puga Bailón
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