Spain · City Guide
Zaragoza
Zaragoza is the capital of Aragon and one of Spain's most historically layered cities, home to the extraordinary Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar on the banks of the Ebro, outstanding Mudéjar architecture recognised by UNESCO, an excellent tapas culture and a vibrant regional identity shaped by the legacy of Francisco de Goya. From the Basílica and the Aljafería Palace to the El Tubo tapas district and easy access to the Pyrenees, Zaragoza is an outstanding base for exploring Aragon.
Elect's take
"Zaragoza is a city I consistently underestimate and consistently enjoy more than expected. The Basílica del Pilar is extraordinary, the tapas culture is excellent and the combination of Mudéjar heritage and access to the Pyrenees creates a destination with genuine variety."
The Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is one of the most significant religious buildings in the Spanish-speaking world, a baroque basilica of remarkable scale on the banks of the Ebro. The Aljafería Palace is one of the finest examples of taifa Moorish architecture in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. El Tubo, the tapas district around Calle del Estébanes, is one of Spain's most enjoyable concentrations of bar culture. The Pyrenees and Ordesa National Park are approximately two hours by road.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Basílica del Pilar
One of the most significant religious buildings in the Spanish-speaking world on the Ebro.
Aljafería Palace
One of the finest examples of Moorish taifa architecture in Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
El Tubo Tapas
One of Spain's most enjoyable tapas districts with excellent bars and pintxos culture.
Goya Heritage
The birthplace region of Francisco de Goya, one of Spain's greatest artists.
Mudéjar Heritage
UNESCO listed Mudéjar architecture combining Islamic and Gothic traditions uniquely.
Pyrenees Access
The extraordinary Ordesa National Park and Pyrenean mountains approximately 2 hours away.
