Zaragoza on a Budget: Tapas, Cathedrals & Views

Explore the charm of Zaragoza without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Zaragoza, located in northeastern Spain, offers plenty of experiences and attractions on a limited budget. Visiting the iconic Basílica del Pilar is a must, as is strolling the picturesque streets of the Casco Antiguo. For budget-friendly eats, head to the Mercado Central for fresh produce and fare or enjoy tapas at various bars in the city center.

Day trip plan

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Day

The Best of Zaragoza on a Budget

  • Start the day with traditional Spanish breakfast at Café Yolanda
  • Visit the impressive Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the largest baroque church in Spain
  • Enjoy views of the city from the top of La Seo Cathedral's Tower
  • Wander through the colorful streets of El Tubo district and sample tapas at the local bars
  • Follow the banks of the Ebro River to the futuristic Water Tower
  • End the day with a budget-friendly dinner of regional cuisine at Bar Néboa
  • Zaragoza is a city with a rich history and vibrant energy, and this itinerary allows you to experience its highlights without breaking the bank. Start the day with coffee and pastries at Café Yolanda, a charming local café with a vintage feel.
  • Next, visit the stunning Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, with its ornate baroque façade and richly decorated interior. Don't miss the many chapels dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
  • Afterward, head to La Seo Cathedral, a Gothic-style church with stunning frescoes and a tower that offers panoramic views of the city.
  • For lunch, head to El Tubo district and explore its colorful streets, home to some of the best tapas bars in the city. Sample local specialties like croquetas and patatas bravas.
  • Take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Ebro River, admiring the city's bridges and architecture. Nearby, the Water Tower is a must-see for its unique architecture and beautiful views.
  • End the day with a dinner of regional specialties at Bar Néboa, a local favorite known for its affordable prices and great food. Try the arroz a la cubana or the chicken with mushrooms for a taste of Zaragoza.

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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