Zaragoza Travel Guide: Hotels, Flights, and City Attractions

Zaragoza (a.k.a Saragossa), Spain’s fifth-largest city with a population of over 700,000, stands out for its rich history, unique cultural mix, and stunning architecture. 

Located in the north-east of Spain, Zaragoza is the capital of the province of Zaragoza and the autonomous community of Aragón.

As I explore its streets, there are truly no limits to my imagination when I see the picturesque cathedrals, grand castles, and the fascinating blend of Roman, Islamic, and Gothic influences. Zaragoza offers a captivating experience that sets it apart from many other Spanish cities. 

In this article, I'll take you through the city's most sought-after locations and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some lesser-known wonders, helpful tips on transport and accommodation, as well as some insider dining confessions and insights on how to make the most of your stay in this remarkable city.

Right, let's get this virtual Zaragoza tour started!

When it comes to accommodation in Zaragoza, there are great options to suit every budget, all conveniently located near the city's top attractions. 

Below is my curated list of suggestions based on guest reviews and value for money:

• Luxury Hotels: Gran Hotel Zaragoza in the city center offers upscale rooms just a short walk from the famous Basilica del Pilar. Rates here range from €150 to €300 per night.

• Mid-range hotels: Hotel Alfonso offers modern comforts just steps from Zaragoza's lively shopping streets, with prices ranging from €80 to €150 per night.

• Budget-friendly opt: Hostal Cataluña in the Casco Antiguo (old town) offers clean and affordable rooms from €40 to €80 per night, perfect for those who want to be close to the action without breaking the bank.
  

☝️ Useful Tips: 

Staying in the Casco Antiguo or Plaza del Pilar area will keep you close to Zaragoza's top  attractions. Consider booking early during peak periods such as Easter and the Fiestas del Pilar. Public transport is easily accessible from most hotels, making it easy to explore beyond the city center.

Getting to Zaragoza is easy, with several direct and connecting flight options from major cities in the US, UK, Germany and France. 

For your convenience, and based on in-depth research with various travel agencies, people reviews and Spaincheck community polls, I have compiled a list of the top 4 departures from where most tourists visiting Zaragoza come from, along with need-to-know remarks: 

• USA: From the US, you can expect connecting flights via Madrid or Barcelona, with a total travel time of around 12-15 hours and prices starting at around €600.

• UK: Direct flights from London take around 2 hours and cost between €50 and €150, depending on the season. 

• Germany: From Germany, flights from cities such as Berlin or Frankfurt take around 2.5 hours and fares typically range from around €100 to €200. 

• France: Flights from Paris or Lyon are quick, taking just 1.5 hours, with prices starting from €50.

Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ), just 10 kilometers from the city center, is a small but well-connected hub for both domestic and international flights. 

Once you land, getting into the city is easy. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, with a trip to the center costing around €25 and taking 15-20 minutes. 

For budget travelers, the airport bus is a convenient option, running every 30 minutes and costing just €1.85, although the journey takes around 45 minutes.

If you prefer to travel by train, there's a shuttle service from the airport to Delicias Station, Zaragoza's main train station, where you can easily connect with regional and national trains.

Zaragoza operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1, and during the summer months switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC +2. 

For travelers from the US or UK, this time difference means you'll want to plan your days accordingly to avoid any surprises when local attractions open or close.

And remember, if you forget to check the time, don't worry - there's always time for a siesta in Spain!

Zaragoza is a city that effortlessly combines its rich history with modern charm. While the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Aljafería Palace and the iconic Basilica del Pilar are a must, you'll be just as enchanted by the desire to get lost in the winding streets of this monumental historical complex. 

From its incredible restaurants to its hidden courtyards, Zaragoza invites you to explore beyond the obvious and discover its unique blend of history, art and local life. 

Continue with the next sections where I will "walk" you through the best culinary spots, the city's popular attractions (and not so popular) as well as what is "longaniza".

Zaragoza's culinary scene is as rich and varied as its history. 

For a true taste of local cuisine, Casa Lac, located in the heart of the Casco Antiguo, is one of the oldest and most popular restaurants in the city. Just a short walk from Plaza del Pilar, it offers an unforgettable dining experience with traditional Aragonese dishes such as ternasco (roast lamb), borrajas (wild greens), and the delicious longaniza (Aragonese sausage).

For a more contemporary option, La Prensa in the Delicias district is a Michelin-starred gem that skilfully blends modern techniques with local ingredients. The tasting menu showcases the best of Zaragoza, with dishes such as bacalao (salted cod) and local wines to match.

Wherever you dine, Zaragoza's restaurants capture the heart and soul of Aragonese cuisine, offering both tradition and innovation in every bite

Zaragoza is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. 

Start your journey at the Basilica del Pilar, an awe-inspiring masterpiece that dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views of the city from its towers. 

Nearby, the Aljafería Palace transports you back to the grandeur of Islamic architecture with its stunning courtyards and intricate carvings. 

Stroll through the streets of the old town and you'll find fascinating Roman ruins, charming squares and lively tapas bars.

For art lovers, the Museo Goya is a must, featuring works by Spain's legendary artist, Francisco de Goya, who was born just outside the city. 

And if you're in the mood to explore beyond the historical sights, Zaragoza's Parque Grande (Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta) offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens, fountains and views over the city.

Zaragoza offers a wide range of exciting activities that go beyond sightseeing. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, a bike ride along the banks of the Ebro River is a perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the city while enjoying the fresh air. The river also offers kayak tours for those looking for a little adventure on the water.

If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, explore El Tubo, the city's famous tapas district, where hopping from bar to bar while sampling local delicacies is.

If you're in the mood for something a little different, visit the Pabellón Puente, a stunning bridge designed for Expo 2008 that offers stunning views and a glimpse of Zaragoza's modern architecture.

Whether you want to get active or simply soak up the local atmosphere, Zaragoza has plenty to offer.

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Aragon, Zaragoza is a city that stays with you long after you leave. 

Its captivating blend of history, culture and architectural wonders will leave a lasting impression and you'll want to return to explore more of its wonders. 

Zaragoza offers visitors a variety of experiences to suit their interests. It's a city where past and present coexist in perfect harmony, and once you've experienced it, you'll never forget it.