About Place
- "A hidden treasure trove of historical wonders."
- "An architectural blend of Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences."
- "A vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and lively tapas bars."
Reasons to Visit
- Historical and Architectural Marvels : Zaragoza is home to some of the most stunning examples of historical architecture in Spain. The Basilica del Pilar, a stunning baroque masterpiece, and the Aljafería Palace, a fortified medieval Islamic palace, are just a couple of the city's architectural highlights. The city's Roman history is also on display at sites like the Roman Theatre and the ancient city walls.
- Cultural Vibrancy : The city is a cultural hub, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Museo Goya, dedicated to the famous Spanish painter Francisco Goya, who was born in a nearby village, showcases an impressive collection of his works. Zaragoza's cultural calendar is packed with festivals and events, including the famous Fiestas del Pilar in October.
- Gastronomy : Zaragoza offers a delightful culinary experience. The city is known for its tapas bars, where you can sample a variety of traditional Aragonese dishes. The Mercado Central is a great place to explore local produce and taste regional specialties like ternasco (young lamb) and chilindrón (a traditional pepper and tomato sauce).
Visa
- EU Citizens : No visa required.
- US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan : No visa required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Other countries : Check the Spanish consulate for specific visa requirements, as they may vary.
Travel Expenses
Travel to & from Destination :
- Flight Cost : Average round-trip airfare from a major metro city like Madrid to Zaragoza is approximately $100 per person.
Hotel Cost:
- Average Nightly Rate : $80 per night
- Total Cost for 3 Nights : $240
Food Cost:
- Lunch : $20 per person per meal
- Dinner : $30 per person per meal
- Total Food Cost for 3 Days : $300 for two people
Activity Cost:
- Basilica del Pilar : Free
- Aljafería Palace : $7 per person
- Museo Goya : $6 per person
- Caesaraugusta Theater Museum : $4 per person
- Total Activity Cost : $34 for two people
Near Destination Travel Cost:
- Rented Car : $40 per day
- Total Car Rental Cost for 3 Days : $120
Total Estimated Travel Expenses : $894
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and City Center Exploration
Arrive in Zaragoza and check into your hotel. Spend the morning exploring the historic city center, starting with the Plaza del Pilar. Visit the Basilica del Pilar, taking in its impressive baroque architecture and stunning frescoes by Goya. For lunch, head to Casa Lac to try their exquisite tapas and local wines. In the afternoon, visit the La Seo Cathedral, a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Mudejar architecture. Enjoy dinner at El Tubo, a lively area filled with tapas bars, and end the evening with a leisurely stroll along the Ebro River, admiring the illuminated bridges and cityscape.
Day 2 : Historical and Cultural Immersion
Start your day with a visit to the Aljafería Palace, a stunning example of Islamic architecture in Spain. The palace opens at 10:00 AM and offers guided tours. For lunch, visit Café Nolasco for a taste of contemporary Spanish cuisine. In the afternoon, head to the Museo Goya to explore the works of Francisco Goya and other Spanish artists. Spend your evening in El Tubo again, sampling different tapas and enjoying the lively atmosphere. For dinner, try Taberna El Papagayo, known for its traditional Aragonese dishes.
Day 3 : Roman Zaragoza and Local Flavors
Dedicate your morning to exploring Zaragoza's Roman heritage. Start with the Caesaraugusta Theater Museum, which opens at 10:00 AM, and then visit the Roman Forum and the city walls. For lunch, try Restaurante El Fuelle, which serves delicious regional cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Alma Mater Museum, housed in a stunning medieval building. Spend your evening enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Zaragoza. Have dinner at Los Xarmientos, known for its grilled meats and local wines. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at El Plata Cabaret, a historic venue offering live performances.
Safety Tips
- Keep your valuables secure and be aware of pickpockets.
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
- Use only licensed taxis and official transport services.
- Be cautious of strangers offering help or trying to distract you.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to communicate in emergencies.
- Carry a copy of your passport and important documents.
- Drink bottled water if you're unsure about the local water quality.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
- Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
- Know the emergency contact numbers and nearest medical facilities.
Flights
- Iberia : Direct flights from Madrid to Zaragoza, approximately 1 hour, costing around $50 each way.
- Renfe AVE Train : High-speed train from Madrid to Zaragoza, taking about 1.5 hours, costing around $35 each way.
Hotels
- Hotel Alfonso : Modern hotel with central location and rooftop pool.
- NH Collection Gran Hotel : Elegant hotel with historic charm and excellent amenities.
- Hotel Pilar Plaza : Boutique hotel offering views of the Basilica del Pilar.
- Catalonia El Pilar : Comfortable hotel located in a historic building.
- Vincci Zaragoza Zentro : Stylish hotel with contemporary design and central location.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Madrid : +34 91 309 88 30
- Police : 091
- Ambulance : 061
- Firefighters : 080
Country
Closet Airport
- Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ)
Nearest City
- Madrid
Heritage Sites
- Aljafería Palace
Airlines
- Iberia
- Ryanair
- Vueling
- Air Europa
Currency
- Euro (€)
Languages Spoken
- Spanish
Real Story
One of the most significant historical events in Zaragoza is the Siege of Zaragoza during the Peninsular War in 1808-1809. The siege was part of the larger conflict between Napoleonic France and the Spanish forces. Zaragoza, known for its strong spirit and resistance, became a symbol of Spanish defiance.
The first siege began in June 1808 when French forces attempted to capture the city. The people of Zaragoza, led by General José de Palafox, mounted a fierce resistance. The city's civilians, including women and children, played a crucial role in defending their homes. Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing severe hardships, the defenders managed to repel the French forces after two months of intense fighting.
However, the second siege, which started in December 1808, was even more brutal. The French army, determined to take the city, employed relentless artillery bombardments and launched multiple assaults. The defenders, suffering from a lack of supplies and facing dire conditions, continued to resist valiantly. The siege turned into a street-by-street, house-by-house battle, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.
After two months of relentless fighting, the French forces finally breached the city's defenses in February 1809. The city was left in ruins, and the death toll was staggering, with thousands of civilians and soldiers losing their lives. Despite the fall of Zaragoza, the city's resistance became a powerful symbol of Spanish patriotism and determination.
The Siege of Zaragoza is remembered as one of the most heroic episodes of the Peninsular War. It highlighted the courage and resilience of the Spanish people in the face of overwhelming odds. Today, the city honors this history through various monuments and memorials, preserving the memory of those who fought and sacrificed for their homeland.
Cuisine
Zaragoza's cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Aragonese flavors and modern culinary innovations. The city's tapas scene is legendary, offering a wide variety of small dishes that highlight local ingredients. Some must-try dishes include ternasco, a succulent roasted lamb often served with potatoes and peppers, and migas, a dish made from fried breadcrumbs, chorizo, and garlic.
Another local favorite is chilindrón, a rich and savory sauce made from peppers, tomatoes, and onions, often served with chicken or lamb. For dessert, try frutas de Aragón, candied fruits covered in chocolate, which are a sweet treat unique to the region.
Culture and History
Zaragoza is a city steeped in history, with roots dating back to Roman times. Founded as Caesaraugusta by the Romans in the 1st century BC, Zaragoza has been a significant cultural and commercial center for centuries. The city's architecture reflects its diverse history, with Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences evident in its buildings.
The Basilica del Pilar is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, a baroque masterpiece that has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. The Aljafería Palace, a fortified medieval Islamic palace, is another architectural gem, showcasing the city's Moorish heritage.
Zaragoza is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Fiestas del Pilar, a week-long celebration in October featuring parades, music, and traditional dancing. The city's museums and galleries, such as the Museo Goya, offer a glimpse into its rich artistic heritage.
The local cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Zaragoza. The city is famous for its tapas bars, where you can sample a variety of traditional dishes. The Mercado Central is a great place to explore local produce and taste regional specialties like ternasco and chilindrón.
Overall, Zaragoza is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.