Discover the Splendors of Zaragoza, Spain: An Unforgettable Travel Destination

Discover the Splendors of Zaragoza, Spain: An Unforgettable Travel Destination

Immerse yourself in the allure of Zaragoza, with its breathtaking architectural masterpieces, deep-rooted history, and delectable local cuisine. This tranquil European city is an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life.

After reveling in a lively 9-day adventure in Barcelona, Spain, we found ourselves yearning for a quieter atmosphere. We boarded a high-speed train for a swift 1-hour and 42-minute journey, arriving at the serene city of Zaragoza.

Like numerous Spanish destinations, Zaragoza boasts an intriguing past, marked by a series of conquests, diverse civilizations, and epic conflicts. Tracing its roots back to the 5th century B.C, this city emerged as an Iberian Settlement along the banks of the Ebro River, eventually transforming into a Roman stronghold and a vital hub for the propagation of Roman culture.

Out & About:

Experience the Majestic Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar: This iconic city landmark, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, was constructed during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Basilica has an extraordinary origin story; it's said that Saint James the Apostle had a vision of the Virgin Mary in Jerusalem. She instructed him to establish a church on this site and provided a figure of herself and a jasper pillar as symbols. He followed her wishes and built a small chapel dedicated to her. Over centuries, various churches were erected at this location, with the current basilica continuing to honor Virgen del Pilar, or Our Lady of Pilar.

Stroll the Historic Puente de Piedra: Cross the 15th-century Puente de Piedra bridge and marvel at the views of the Basílica. This stone bridge, often referred to as the "Bridge of Lions" due to the four lions at the entrances, has been a vital crossing point over the Ebro River since its construction.

Discover the Medieval Palacio de la Aljafería: A visit to the fortified palace of Palacio de la Aljafería is a journey back to the 11th century. This Islamic fortress, built under the direction of Al-Muqtadir, the Hudid king of Zaragoza, is one of the most significant examples of Spanish-Islamic architecture of the period. The palace has been a significant center of political power, serving as the residence of the Catholic Kings in the 15th century and the site of the Cortes (Parliament) of Aragon in contemporary times.

Experience the Ebro River at Night: Flowing through the heart of the city is the mighty Ebro River. For a serene Zaragoza experience, pack a bottle of your preferred wine, traverse the Puente de Piedra bridge at night, and absorb the stunning spectacle of the Basílica reflecting on the river's surface, accompanied by the harmonious notes of music.

Venture to the Roman Wall: Near the Central Market, you can encounter the remnants of Zaragoza's ancient Roman wall. Built in the 3rd century AD as a defense structure, portions of the original wall still stand today, bearing testament to the city's Roman heritage.

Explore Caesaraugusta at The Museo del Foro: Step into the world of Caesaraugusta, an ancient Roman city that thrived during the 1st and 2nd centuries. The Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta provides an in-depth look into life during this period, showcasing well-preserved archaeological remains of the forum, the city's social and political hub.

Visit the Teatro Romano de Zaragoza: Round off your historical journey at the ancient Roman theater, Teatro Romano de Zaragoza. Built in the 1st century AD, it was once one of the largest theaters in the Roman empire, seating over 6,000 spectators. Today, it serves as a unique exhibition space, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Zaragoza's classical past.

Eat:

Delve into Global Flavors at Baobab: A personal favorite dining spot during my Zaragoza journey, Baobab is a celebration of diverse gastronomy. Drawing from global culinary traditions, this gem stands out with its robust vegetarian offerings. Its inviting ambiance makes it the perfect locale to sample vibrant dishes crafted from fresh, local produce. Over the years, Baobab has earned a loyal following among locals and travelers alike for its dedication to vegetarian-friendly, sustainable, and flavorful dining experiences.

Experience a Taste of Mexico at Distrito Mexico: For those craving a bit of Mexican fare while in Spain, Distrito Mexico is a must-visit. Tucked away in the heart of Zaragoza, this charming restaurant has curated a menu that reflects an authentic and health-conscious take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Their vegetarian-friendly options ensure everyone finds something to savor. In a country where finding a wide selection of tequila can be a challenge, Distrito Mexico shines with an impressive collection, contributing to an authentic and enjoyable dining experience.

Drink:

Embark on a Time-traveling Cocktail Adventure at Moonlight Experimental Bar: Pushing the boundaries of the traditional cocktail bar experience, Moonlight Experimental Bar presents a unique concept. Upon arrival, guests receive a magnifying glass and a timeline charting periods of human history. Each cocktail you order is masterfully crafted and served in a glass symbolic of your chosen historical epoch. This innovative approach to mixology creates a captivating atmosphere, making Moonlight Experimental Bar a must-visit spot in Zaragoza.

Discover Southern Hospitality at Louisiana Café: Experience a taste of the American South in the heart of Spain at Louisiana Café. This vibrant watering hole offers affordable drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that channels Southern charm. The café has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, seeking to unwind, mingle, and savor refreshing beverages.

Unravel Secrets at El Federal Cocktail Bar: For an intriguing night out, drop by El Federal Cocktail Bar. This stylish establishment is renowned for its creative cocktails and intriguing ambiance. Keep an eye out for a seemingly out-of-place phone booth against the wall—it's a hush-hush secret worth discovering. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply seeking a memorable evening, El Federal promises a uniquely captivating experience.

Stay:

Relax and Rejuvenate at Hotel Palafox Zaragoza: Discover timeless elegance intertwined with modern comfort at Hotel Palafox Zaragoza. Situated merely steps away from the bustling city center, this hotel provides an accessible base to explore all that Zaragoza has to offer. The hotel exudes a distinct European allure, thanks to its tasteful decor that seamlessly blends classical charm and contemporary chic. One of the standout features of Hotel Palafox Zaragoza is its seasonal rooftop pool, offering guests a refreshing urban oasis. After a day of sightseeing, take a dip in the pool or unwind by its side while basking in panoramic views of the city. The hotel's dedicated team ensures a welcoming and comfortable stay, making Hotel Palafox Zaragoza a splendid choice for your Zaragoza visit.

After immersing ourselves in the rich heritage of Zaragoza, it was time to head towards our next destination. We took to the road, traversing the scenic Spanish countryside towards Basque Country, with our sights set on San Sebastián.

Visited last in July 2022