Zaragoza
· ES

Zaragoza

Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain

Zaragoza, located in the region of Aragon, Spain, is a captivating city with a rich history and vibrant culture that attracts visitors from around the world. Steeped in centuries of fascinating history, Zaragoza offers a…

#Historic city#Cultural heritage#Medieval architecture#Basilica del Pilar#Ebro River
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Zaragoza.

Top Hotels in Zaragoza

Top Flights to Zaragoza

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Zaragoza.

Tours

Explore Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

A stunning example of Baroque architecture and an important pilgrimage site, famous for its beautiful frescoes by Goya.

Visit Aljafería Palace

A magnificent Moorish castle featuring intricate Islamic architecture, currently serving as the seat of the Aragonese Parliament.

Enjoy a Day at Zaragoza Aquarium

Home to Europe's largest urban river aquarium, featuring aquatic species from five continents.

Explore the Goya Museum

Dedicated to the famous Spanish painter Francisco de Goya, this museum houses many of his works and related artefacts.

Discover Roman Ruins at Caesaraugusta

Explore Zaragoza's ancient Roman history with remnants of walls, theatres, and forums.

Shopping

Spend Time at Mercado Central de Zaragoza

A vibrant marketplace with a historic facade, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisan goods.

Shopping at Puerto Venecia

A major shopping destination offering a variety of stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Outdoor

Walk Along the Puente de Piedra

Cross the River Ebro on this iconic stone bridge, offering picturesque views of Zaragoza's skyline.

Stroll through Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta

A large park in the heart of the city, ideal for leisurely walks, jogging, or picnics.

Hike in Sierra de Guara

Experience outdoor adventure with hiking, canyoning, and birdwatching opportunities in a stunning natural park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Zaragoza.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain, is '0.7 million'.
Languages
Spanish, Spanish, Aragonese
Average weather
Zaragoza
Jan
cold
11°2°
Feb
cold
13°3°
Mar
cloud
17°5°
Apr
cloud
19°8°
May
sun
23°11°
Jun
sun
29°15°
Jul
hot
33°18°
Aug
hot
32°18°
Sep
sun
27°15°
Oct
cloud
21°11°
Nov
cloud
15°6°
Dec
cold
11°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Zaragoza.

What people love

Zaragoza, located in the Aragon region of Spain, offers a mix of historical, cultural, and culinary attractions that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Zaragoza include:

  1. Rich History: Zaragoza boasts a long and fascinating history, with influences from Roman, Moorish, and Christian civilizations. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Aljafería Palace, and the Roman walls.

  2. Architectural Marvels: The city is home to stunning examples of architecture, including the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, designed by renowned architect Goya, and the modern Expo 2008 site with innovative buildings like the Water Tower.

  3. Gastronomy: Zaragoza is known for its delicious cuisine, with a focus on traditional Aragonese dishes such as migas, ternasco (roast lamb), and bacalao al ajoarriero (cod with garlic). The city's tapas scene is also vibrant, offering a variety of small plates to sample.

  4. Festivals and Events: Zaragoza hosts several lively festivals throughout the year, including the Fiestas del Pilar in October, which celebrates the city's patron saint with parades, concerts, and cultural events. The city also has a thriving music and arts scene, with numerous events and exhibitions.

  5. Strategic Location: Zaragoza is well-connected by high-speed train and road networks, making it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Spain, such as Barcelona, Madrid, and the Pyrenees mountains.

Overall, Zaragoza offers a unique blend of history, culture, cuisine, and modern amenities, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic Spanish experience.

Enjoy your trip to Zaragoza!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Zaragoza, Spain, could include:

  1. Weather: Zaragoza can experience extreme temperatures, with very hot summers and cold winters. This may not be ideal for everyone, especially those sensitive to heat or cold.

  2. Limited English spoken: While many people in Zaragoza can speak English, it is not as widely spoken as in other tourist destinations in Spain. This could pose a challenge for English-speaking travelers, especially if they are not proficient in Spanish.

  3. Limited tourist infrastructure: Compared to cities like Barcelona or Madrid, Zaragoza may have a more limited tourist infrastructure, including fewer accommodations, restaurants, and tourist attractions. This could mean fewer options for travelers looking for a wide variety of experiences.

  4. Distance from other major cities: Zaragoza is not as well-connected to other major cities in Spain as some other destinations. Traveling to and from Zaragoza may require longer journeys or multiple connections, which could be inconvenient for some travelers.

  5. Limited nightlife: While Zaragoza has a vibrant cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and historic sites, the city may not offer as bustling a nightlife as other Spanish cities. This could be a drawback for travelers looking for vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.

Please note that these are potential cons and may not apply to every traveler. It is always a good idea to research and consider your own preferences and needs before traveling to any destination.

Zaragoza is a historic city located in northeastern Spain and serves as the capital of the autonomous community of Aragon. Its rich history spans over two millennia, marked by various cultural influences and significant events.

Early History and Roman Era:

  • Founding: The city was originally founded by the Celtiberians, a group of Celtic tribes in Iberia. It was known as Salduba.

  • Roman Period: Zaragoza became an important Roman settlement known as Caesaraugusta, named in honor of the Emperor Augustus. This occurred around 14 BCE. The city was a crucial military and commercial center due to its strategic location along the Ebro River.

Middle Ages:

  • Visigothic and Muslim Rule: After the fall of the Roman Empire, Zaragoza came under Visigothic control. In 714, the city was conquered by the Moors and became part of the Muslim Emirate of Córdoba.

  • Taifa of Zaragoza: In the 11th century, during the fragmentation of the Caliphate of Córdoba, Zaragoza became the capital of an independent taifa (a Muslim principality). It was a significant cultural and political center under the rule of the Banu Hud dynasty.

  • Reconquista: Zaragoza was reconquered by Christian forces in 1118 under King Alfonso I of Aragon, and it became a part of the Kingdom of Aragon.

Modern History:

  • War of Spanish Succession: The city played a role in the War of Spanish Succession, siding with the Habsburg claimants. It was besieged and captured by the Bourbon forces in 1710.

  • Peninsular War: Zaragoza is renowned for its fierce resistance during the Peninsular War against Napoleonic France. The two sieges of Zaragoza in 1808 and 1809 were notable for their intensity and the city's eventual capitulation.

Landmarks and Cultural Heritage:

  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar: One of the most iconic landmarks of Zaragoza, this basilica is a major site of pilgrimage and is reputed to be the first church dedicated to Mary in history.

  • La Seo Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cathedral showcases a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.

  • Aljafería Palace: Originally constructed in the 11th century, this Moorish castle was later used as a royal residence by the Catholic Monarchs. It is a masterpiece of Hispano-Muslim architecture.

  • Roman Theatre: The remains of a Roman theatre, discovered in the 1970s, highlight the city's ancient Roman heritage.

Notable Historical Figures:

  • Saint Engratia: A Christian martyr from Zaragoza, who, along with her companions, was killed during the Diocletianic Persecution in the early 4th century.

  • Al-Muqtadir: A ruler of the Taifa of Zaragoza in the 11th century, known for his patronage of the arts and culture.

Zaragoza today is a vibrant city that reflects a blend of its historical past and modern development, with a rich tapestry of cultural influences and a significant role in Spanish history.