Are you planning a city break in Spain? A little-known yet fascinating city, the capital of Aragon (in northern Spain) is the fourth largest city in the country. It's a city on a human scale where a thousand years of history rubs shoulders with modernity, and where architectural treasures, urban vineyards, gourmet flavors, and friendliness come together. We present our turnkey trip to discover this Spanish gem in five days, tested and approved by our reporters! A city break that will appeal to culture lovers and travelers seeking relaxation alike. Follow the guide.
After arriving by train from France at Zaragoza Delicias station, take a stroll through the city before heading to your hotel.
If you’re unsure where to stay, we recommend Hotel Avenida (tested by our reporters), ideally located for exploring the historic center.
©Elsa Beaudeux - Zen vibes at Hotel Avenida
To start the day off right, we suggest exploring the city's rich heritage, either on your own or with an official guide from Zaragoza Turismo.
You can’t visit Zaragoza without stepping inside the Basilica del Pilar, a baroque masterpiece overlooking the Ebro River. A major Marian pilgrimage site, it impresses with its size and its frescoes, some painted by Goya himself! More info.
©Elsa Beaudeux - View from the basilica rooftops
Nearby, the Cathedral of the Savior, built on a former mosque, surprises visitors with its blend of styles — from Romanesque to Neoclassical. Its Mudejar wall, the Parroquieta, is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More info.
©Elsa Beaudeux - Inside the cathedral
Don’t miss La Lonja (the old stock exchange) and the Arco del Deán, one of the city’s most photogenic spots! More info.
Arco del Deán - © Zaragoza Turismo
After some tapas on Plaza Santa Marta or nearby, continue with the splendid Aljafería Palace, nicknamed “the Palace of Joy.” This 11th-century Hispano-Muslim jewel is one of the northernmost Islamic palaces in Europe.
Currently, it also hosts the temporary exhibition Goya: From the Museum to the Palace, offering a unique perspective on the Aragonese artist - a prelude to the new facilities planned for Goya’s bicentenary in 2028.
©Elsa Beaudeux - A true architectural gem, inside and out
End the day wandering through Zaragoza’s charming plazas, soaking up the local atmosphere and lively terraces.
Walk along the Ebro’s urban path to discover the Jardín de la Garnacha (Grenache Garden), symbol of the “Zaragoza, World Capital of Grenache” project.
With 129 vines from three local appellations, planted according to expert agronomic advice and nurtured in soils mimicking each terroir, this small garden is an urban ode to wine culture. Learn more.
Next, head to Zaragoza’s Expo zone, developed for the 2008 International Exhibition on “Water and Sustainable Development.”
Today, this modern riverside district is filled with architectural marvels like Zaha Hadid’s Bridge Pavilion, the Water Tower, and the Fluvial Aquarium — Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium!
©Elsa Beaudeux - Discovering the Fluvial Aquarium
After visiting Expo 2008, lose yourself in the lively streets of Zaragoza’s historic center. Start with the El Tubo district — a maze of pedestrian alleys filled with tapas bars, bodegas, and terraces where locals gather after work to share drinks and regional specialties like migas aragonesas. The place to be for a fun evening!
Continue toward Plaza del Pilar, the beating heart of the city, then to Plaza España and Avenida de la Independencia, the main shopping avenue lined with boutiques and cafés.
If you love craftsmanship and design, don’t miss the Made in Zaragoza network’s shops, celebrating local creators and artisans (ceramics, jewelry, decor, etc.).
Head to the Aragonese countryside to visit the Monasterio de Piedra in Nuévalos - a hidden gem of caves, waterfalls, and Cistercian ruins set in a stunning natural park.
©Elsa Beaudeux - he beauty of Monasterio de Piedra
©Elsa Beaudeux - The magicness of waterfalls
On your way back, stop in Calatayud, a charming town known for its Mudejar façades and rich history. Founded in the 9th century around a Muslim fortress, its heritage — from Santa María la Mayor to San Andrés — is recognized by UNESCO.
©Elsa Beaudeux - Wine tasting among the vines
Then, head to the Libre y Salvaje winery in the Cariñena D.O. to learn more about the “Zaragoza, World Capital of Grenache” initiative and taste local wines.
©Elsa Beaudeux - Libre y Salvaje
Back in the city, enjoy a convivial dinner as Zaragoza comes alive at night. Tapas aromas fill the air, terraces buzz, and conversations spill into the streets.
Head back to El Tubo for classic tapas (croquetas, grilled ternasco, stuffed mushrooms...) or choose a quieter table on Plaza del Pilar or Plaza San Felipe for a creative twist on Aragonese cuisine.
End your evening with a toast to your Aragonese adventure — preferably with a glass of local Garnacha!
Photo : © Elsa Beaudeux - The perfect spot to unwind after a full day
Start the day at the Mercado Central, a modernist gem inaugurated in 1903. Between colorful stalls and tasting counters, it’s the perfect place to sample local products.
Mercado Central- © Zaragoza Turismo
Then, follow the Caesaraugusta Route through Roman Zaragoza, founded by Emperor Augustus. The Roman Theatre Museum is its highlight — discovered in 1972, beautifully restored, and once able to host nearly 6,000 spectators.
Teatro romano - © Sitios de España
Finish the morning at the Patio de la Infanta, one of Aragon’s Renaissance treasures. Built in the 16th century by banker Gabriel Zaporta, its mythological and astrological carvings make it both artistic and symbolic.
©Elsa Beaudeux - The magnificent carvings of the Patio de la Infanta
Fun fact: After a 19th-century fire, the patio was dismantled and sold to a Parisian antique dealer. In 1958, Ibercaja bank bought it back, returned it to Zaragoza, and reopened it to the public in 1980.
End your trip with a relaxing stroll through José Antonio Labordeta Park, the city’s largest green space and true urban lung. With French-style gardens, rose gardens, fountains, lawns, and scenic viewpoints, it’s beloved by locals for jogging, cycling, or picnicking.
Parque J.A. Labordeta - Sitios de España
If you visit in September, don’t miss the Asalto Festival, Zaragoza’s open-air urban art event turning city walls into canvases.
Mural Asalto - © Asalto
The next day, catch your train from Zaragoza Delicias back to France — with your heart full of memories.
So, when are you leaving?
This article was written in partnership with the Spanish Tourism Office and www.zaragozaturismo.es .
Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).
Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.
