Zaragoza: 3 Days of Delightful Discoveries

Discover Zaragoza on a budget without sacrificing the experience.

21 June 2023

Zaragoza is a hidden gem in Spain that's often overlooked by tourists. But, as a budget traveler, it's the perfect destination for an affordable trip. You can explore the city's rich history, enjoy delicious traditional cuisine, and soak up the charming atmosphere, all without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Wander through the charming alleys of El Tubo, the gastronomic quarter, and try some tapas with a glass of wine.
  • Admire the Basilica del Pilar, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, and climb up to its rooftop for a panoramic view of the city.
  • Visit the Gothic-style Cathedral of San Salvador, with its impressive ceiling paintings and a museum of sacred art.
  • Discover the Roman legacy of Zaragoza at the Museo del Foro, a fascinating underground site with mosaics, sculptures, and ruins.
  • Relax in the Plaza del Mercado Central, a lively square surrounded by colorful buildings and a bustling market.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hostal El Carmen, a budget-friendly guesthouse in the heart of the Old Town, with comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Step into the futuristic world of the CaixaForum Zaragoza, a cultural center housed in a former modernist factory, with exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
  • Marvel at the frescoes, tapestries, and altarpieces of the Museum of Zaragoza, which showcases the history and art of the city and the region.
  • Stroll along the Ebro River promenade and enjoy the views of the Basílica del Pilar and the Aljafería Palace, two iconic landmarks of Zaragoza.
  • Visit the contemporary art gallery Pablo Serrano, dedicated to the works of the eponymous sculptor and painter, and located in a sleek building on a hill overlooking the city.
  • Watch a show at the Teatro Principal, a 19th-century theater with a striking neoclassical façade and a program of drama, music, dance, and comedy.
  • Eating options: La Republicana, a trendy bistro with creative dishes, local products, and vegan options; Bar Los Xarmientos, a vintage tavern with a traditional cuisine and a great beer selection.
Day 3

Nature and Adventure

  • Escape the urban buzz and head to the Parque del Agua, a green oasis with lakes, fountains, gardens, and sports facilities, perfect for a picnic or a bike ride.
  • Take a guided tour of the Aljafería Palace, a magnificent Moorish fortress that blends Islamic and Christian styles, and learn about its history and legends.
  • Explore the Botanical Garden of Zaragoza, a peaceful enclave with a rich variety of plants from all over the world, including bonsais, succulents, and orchids.
  • Watch a football match at the La Romareda Stadium, home to the Real Zaragoza club and a symbol of the city's passion for sports.
  • Taste the local sweets at Confitería Fantoba, a family-owned bakery that has been producing delicious pastries since 1830.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Sauce, a charming boutique hotel with a vintage decor and a terrace with views of the Pilar and the Ebro, located in a lively pedestrian street.
  • Note: Don't forget to check the schedule of the Feria de la Virgen del Pilar, the biggest festival of Zaragoza, which takes place in mid-October and features concerts, parades, and fireworks.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Zaragoza by plane is to fly into Zaragoza Airport, which is located just outside the city center. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to your destination.

Car

If you plan to drive to Zaragoza, you can take the A-2 highway, which connects Madrid with Zaragoza. The journey takes about 3 hours from Madrid and the route is straightforward. There are various car rental options available at both Madrid Airport and Zaragoza Airport.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the AVE high-speed train from Madrid to Zaragoza. The journey takes about 1.5 hours and the train station in Zaragoza is located in the city center.

Boat

Zaragoza is not accessible by boat as it is an inland city and does not have a sea port or river docks.

Bus

Taking a bus is another option for getting to Zaragoza. Several bus companies offer services from major Spanish cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona, to Zaragoza. The bus station in Zaragoza is located in the city center.

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Zaragoza is a hidden gem in Spain that's often overlooked by tourists. But, as a budget traveler, it's the perfect destination for an affordable trip. You can explore the city's rich history, enjoy delicious traditional cuisine, and soak up the charming atmosphere, all without breaking the bank.