What to See in Zaragoza in 1 Day: Itinerary, Highlights & Free Tours
Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon and Spain's fifth-largest city, is often overlooked by tourists, even though it has treasures that rival Barcelona or Seville. The city’s 2,000-year history brings together Roman ruins, Moorish palaces, and Christian cathedrals, making it a fascinating cultural crossroads. Two impressive buildings stand out in Plaza del Pilar: the large Baroque Basílica del Pilar and La Seo Cathedral. Nearby, the beautiful Aljafería Palace is one of Spain’s best examples of Islamic architecture outside Andalusia. Many churches feature UNESCO-listed Mudéjar art, El Tubo’s winding streets are filled with lively tapas bars, and the Ebro River runs through the center of this vibrant and authentic Spanish city. You’ll find connections to Francisco Goya, Roman history from Caesaraugusta, and strong Aragonese traditions. Whether you’re admiring Goya’s frescoes in the Basilica, exploring Islamic palaces, or sampling tapas, Zaragoza offers rich experiences without big crowds. This guide from Freetour.com will help you discover the city’s top landmarks, food spots, and hidden gems, with expert tips for every stop.
Must-see sights: Basilica del Pilar, La Seo Cathedral, Aljafería Palace, Plaza del Pilar, El Tubo, Roman walls
Typical daily budget: €40–65 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: March–May or September–November
Famous for: Basilica del Pilar, Aljafería Palace, Roman heritage, Goya, tapas in El Tubo, Mudejar architecture
Top tours: Essential Zaragoza Free Tour: Old Town, Free Tour through the Historical Center of Zaragoza, Free Monumental Tour of Zaragoza
Begin your exploration at Plaza del Pilar, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares and Zaragoza's monumental heart. This expansive space hosts the city's most important landmarks, including the Basilica del Pilar, La Seo Cathedral, and La Lonja. Street performers, fountains, and cafés create a lively atmosphere while Roman walls stand as ancient sentinels.
Visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, Zaragoza's iconic landmark and spiritual symbol. This enormous Baroque church ranks among Spain's most important pilgrimage sites, built on the spot where tradition holds the Virgin Mary appeared to St. James the Apostle atop a jasper pillar in 40 CE. The pillar itself stands protected within a small chapel, encased in silver, receiving thousands of devotional touches daily.
The basilica's spectacular interior features elaborate frescoes, including works by Francisco Goya, adorning the domes. The Pilarista Museum displays religious art treasures and the basilica's history. For breathtaking perspectives, ascend to the basilica's rooftop viewing platform offering close-up views of the colorful tile-covered domes and panoramas across Zaragoza, the Ebro River, and surrounding landscapes.
Practical Info: Basilica open daily 6:45am-8:30pm; FREE entry to main basilica; Full access with High Altar area Mon-Fri 7:30am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-8:15pm, Sat 7:30am-11:45am & 4:30pm-8:30pm, Sun/holidays 7:30am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-9:30pm; Pilarista Museum daily 10:00am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-8:00pm; Tower visits Fri-Sun 10:00am-8:00pm (€4); Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Walk across Plaza del Pilar to La Seo Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of San Salvador, showcasing five centuries of architectural evolution. This extraordinary building blends Romanesque foundations, Gothic arches, Mudejar brick work, Renaissance elements, and Baroque decoration into a harmonious whole. The stunning exterior features intricate Mudejar tilework—a UNESCO World Heritage example of Islamic-influenced Christian architecture unique to Spain.
Inside, admire the elaborate Gothic altarpiece, Flemish tapestries, and the Tapestry Museum housing one of Europe's finest medieval tapestry collections. The cathedral stands on foundations of the Roman forum, Visigothic church, and the main mosque of Islamic Saraqusta, revealing Zaragoza's layered history.
Practical Info: Open Tue-Fri 10:00am-2:00pm & 4:00pm-7:00pm, Sat 10:00am-12:30pm & 4:00pm-7:00pm, Sun 4:00pm-7:00pm; Closed Mondays; Entry €5 (includes Tapestry Museum); Allow 45 minutes.
Visit the Aljafería Palace, Spain's finest example of Islamic architecture outside Andalusia and a breathtaking journey into Moorish Zaragoza. Built in the 11th century as the pleasure palace for the Moorish Banu Hud dynasty rulers of Zaragoza (Zaragoza's Islamic name), this fortified palace features intricate carved stucco, horseshoe arches, and geometric patterns that showcase Islamic architectural mastery.
After the Christian reconquest, Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella renovated sections in Gothic-Mudejar style, while later additions include a Renaissance staircase and Baroque elements. Today, the palace houses the Aragonese Parliament while remaining open for tours. The Golden Hall, an intimate Islamic chapel, and a serene courtyard with an ornamental pond transport visitors to medieval Al-Andalus.
Practical Info: Open daily (except Thu-Fri mornings) 10:00am-2:00pm; Afternoons Nov-Mar 4:00pm-6:30pm, Apr-Oct 4:30pm-8:00pm; Closed Sundays pm; Guided tours 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm mornings; 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm afternoons (Apr-Oct); Entry €5 general, FREE Sundays & Aragonese residents; English/French tours July-Aug 10:00am & 5:00pm; Last entry 30 min before closing; Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Roman Walls & Theater: Large sections of 3rd-century Roman walls surround Plaza del Pilar, and the underground Roman Theater Museum (Teatro de Caesaraugusta) displays impressive ruins beneath the modern city.
La Lonja — Renaissance palace on Plaza del Pilar featuring stunning interior arches, now hosting art exhibitions.
Puente de Piedra: This historic stone bridge crosses the Ebro River and dates back to Roman times, though it has been rebuilt. It is decorated with lion sculptures.
Goya Museum — Dedicated to Zaragoza's most famous artist Francisco Goya, displaying etchings, paintings, and documenting his life.
Mercado Central — Beautiful covered market offering local products, meats, cheeses, fresh produce, and authentic atmosphere.
Plaza San Felipe — Charming square in Old Town with traditional architecture and local bars.
Iglesia de Santa Isabel de Portugal — Baroque church showcasing ornate interiors.
El Tubo is the heart of Zaragoza’s food scene. It’s a maze of narrow medieval streets filled with more than 50 tapas bars, where locals enjoy bar-hopping. The name "Tubo" (tube) comes from the tube-like shape of the tightly connected lanes. This lively area, located between Plaza España and Plaza San Felipe, is especially busy in the evenings when people fill the streets with small plates and wine glasses.
Each bar has its own specialty tapas. Migas aragonesas (toasted breadcrumbs with chorizo, grapes, and garlic) is a classic Aragonese comfort food. Jamón croquetas (ham croquettes) are known for their crispy outside and creamy inside, with each place offering its own twist. Ternasco (roasted lamb), a local favorite, is common on menus, as are different cod dishes. Be sure to try patatas bravas with spicy sauce, boletus croquettes, and the well-known champiñones (mushrooms) at different bars.
To experience El Tubo like a local, move from bar to bar, enjoying one or two tapas with drinks at each stop before heading to the next. Popular places include La Republicana, Casa Lac, El Plata, and many other neighborhood favorites. Tapas usually cost €2-5 each, so you can enjoy a full evening for €15-25. The best time to visit is during the busy evening hours from 8:00pm to 11:00pm, when the streets are full of people.
Essential Zaragoza Free Tour: Old Town. Duration: 2 hours. Starts at Avenida César Augusto 115 (statue of Caesar Augustus). Discover more than 2,000 years of Zaragoza's history, including Roman Caesaraugusta, Islamic Saraqusta, and UNESCO World Heritage Mudéjar art. The tour visits Basílica del Pilar, Cathedral of San Salvador, El Tubo tapas area, Mercado Central, La Lonja, Roman Theater Museum, and Plaza San Felipe. It is suitable for people with reduced mobility, families, and is pet-friendly. Tours are available in English and Spanish. The guide wears a ZaragozaTours red Z logo. A minimum of 5 people is required. The tour is tip-based.
Free Tour through the Historical Center of Zaragoza — Comprehensive tour covering Zaragoza's historic center monuments and neighborhoods. Check the website for the detailed route, meeting point, and schedule.
Free Monumental Tour of Zaragoza — An essential tour highlighting the city's architectural treasures. Check the website for the detailed route, meeting point, and schedule.
Explore more tours Zaragoza.
Zaragoza has a continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and little rain. Spring (March to May) is ideal, with pleasant temperatures between 12-24°C (54-75°F), blooming parks, and good weather for exploring. May is the best month, with long days and little rain. Summer (June to August) is very hot, with temperatures reaching 29-38°C (85-100°F), so early morning or evening is the most comfortable time to go out. Many locals leave the city in August. Autumn (September to November) is also a great time to visit, with temperatures from 13-24°C (55-75°F), harvest events, and the Pilar Festival in October. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures between 7-16°C (45-60°F) and occasional rain, but it is usually dry. The Cierzo wind from the Pyrenees can make it feel colder. Bring layers and sun protection.
The Romans founded Caesaraugusta in 25 BCE, naming it after Emperor Augustus Caesar, creating an important provincial capital with a forum, theater, baths, and walls. The city prospered for four centuries, leaving a substantial archaeological legacy visible today.
After Rome fell, the Visigoths took over the city. In 714 CE, Moorish forces arrived and renamed it Saragossa. Islamic Zaragoza thrived as the capital of the Taifa kingdom under the Banu Hud dynasty in the 11th century, building the impressive Aljafería Palace and promoting culture and the arts. Mudéjar artisans, who were Muslims living under Christian rule, created a unique style of Islamic-influenced Christian architecture that is now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage.
King Alfonso I of Aragon reconquered Zaragoza in 1118, establishing it as the capital of the Kingdom of Aragon. The city prospered throughout the medieval and Renaissance periods, building grand cathedrals and palaces. During the Peninsular War (1808-1809), Zaragoza heroically resisted two French sieges, with citizens fighting house-to-house, earning the city legendary status for its courage.
The 20th century brought industrialization and growth. Today, Zaragoza thrives as Aragon's capital, balancing historic preservation with modern development, hosting EXPO 2008, which revitalized the riverfront.
What can you see in Zaragoza in one day?
Visit Basílica del Pilar and the rooftop, La Seo Cathedral, explore Plaza del Pilar, tour Aljafería Palace, wander El Tubo for tapas, and see Roman walls.
What are the best things to do in Zaragoza?
Explore the Basílica del Pilar, tour the Aljafería Palace, admire La Seo Cathedral, tapas-hopping in El Tubo, see Goya frescoes, visit Roman ruins, walk along the Ebro River, and take free walking tours.
When is the best time to visit Zaragoza?
March-May or September-November offer ideal 12-24°C (54-75°F) temperatures with comfortable weather and fewer crowds; avoid scorching July-August.
What should you eat in Zaragoza?
Try migas aragonesas, jamón croquetas, ternasco (roast lamb), bacalao, patatas bravas, champiñones, and bar-hop through El Tubo.
How many days do you need in Zaragoza?
1-2 days covers main sights; 2-3 days allows relaxed exploration and full tapas experiences.
Is Zaragoza worth visiting?
Absolutely. Zaragoza has impressive monuments, a genuine Spanish atmosphere, great food, and far fewer tourists than Barcelona or Madrid, making it a very rewarding place to visit.
Which free tours are available in Zaragoza?
Freetour.com offers the Essential Zaragoza Old Town tour (2h, covering the main sights and El Tubo), the Historical Center tour, and the Monumental tour—all with expert historian guides.
Quick Takeaway
Must-see sights: Basilica del Pilar, La Seo Cathedral, Aljafería Palace, Plaza del Pilar, El Tubo, Roman walls
Typical daily budget: €40–65 (excluding accommodation)
Best time to visit: March–May or September–November
Famous for: Basilica del Pilar, Aljafería Palace, Roman heritage, Goya, tapas in El Tubo, Mudejar architecture
Top tours: Essential Zaragoza Free Tour: Old Town, Free Tour through the Historical Center of Zaragoza, Free Monumental Tour of Zaragoza
1-Day Itinerary in Zaragoza
Plaza del Pilar & Basílica del Pilar
Begin your exploration at Plaza del Pilar, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares and Zaragoza's monumental heart. This expansive space hosts the city's most important landmarks, including the Basilica del Pilar, La Seo Cathedral, and La Lonja. Street performers, fountains, and cafés create a lively atmosphere while Roman walls stand as ancient sentinels.
Visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, Zaragoza's iconic landmark and spiritual symbol. This enormous Baroque church ranks among Spain's most important pilgrimage sites, built on the spot where tradition holds the Virgin Mary appeared to St. James the Apostle atop a jasper pillar in 40 CE. The pillar itself stands protected within a small chapel, encased in silver, receiving thousands of devotional touches daily.
The basilica's spectacular interior features elaborate frescoes, including works by Francisco Goya, adorning the domes. The Pilarista Museum displays religious art treasures and the basilica's history. For breathtaking perspectives, ascend to the basilica's rooftop viewing platform offering close-up views of the colorful tile-covered domes and panoramas across Zaragoza, the Ebro River, and surrounding landscapes.
Practical Info: Basilica open daily 6:45am-8:30pm; FREE entry to main basilica; Full access with High Altar area Mon-Fri 7:30am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-8:15pm, Sat 7:30am-11:45am & 4:30pm-8:30pm, Sun/holidays 7:30am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-9:30pm; Pilarista Museum daily 10:00am-1:30pm & 4:30pm-8:00pm; Tower visits Fri-Sun 10:00am-8:00pm (€4); Allow 1.5-2 hours.
La Seo Cathedral (Cathedral del Salvador)
Walk across Plaza del Pilar to La Seo Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of San Salvador, showcasing five centuries of architectural evolution. This extraordinary building blends Romanesque foundations, Gothic arches, Mudejar brick work, Renaissance elements, and Baroque decoration into a harmonious whole. The stunning exterior features intricate Mudejar tilework—a UNESCO World Heritage example of Islamic-influenced Christian architecture unique to Spain.
Inside, admire the elaborate Gothic altarpiece, Flemish tapestries, and the Tapestry Museum housing one of Europe's finest medieval tapestry collections. The cathedral stands on foundations of the Roman forum, Visigothic church, and the main mosque of Islamic Saraqusta, revealing Zaragoza's layered history.
Practical Info: Open Tue-Fri 10:00am-2:00pm & 4:00pm-7:00pm, Sat 10:00am-12:30pm & 4:00pm-7:00pm, Sun 4:00pm-7:00pm; Closed Mondays; Entry €5 (includes Tapestry Museum); Allow 45 minutes.
Aljaferia Palace
Visit the Aljafería Palace, Spain's finest example of Islamic architecture outside Andalusia and a breathtaking journey into Moorish Zaragoza. Built in the 11th century as the pleasure palace for the Moorish Banu Hud dynasty rulers of Zaragoza (Zaragoza's Islamic name), this fortified palace features intricate carved stucco, horseshoe arches, and geometric patterns that showcase Islamic architectural mastery.
After the Christian reconquest, Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella renovated sections in Gothic-Mudejar style, while later additions include a Renaissance staircase and Baroque elements. Today, the palace houses the Aragonese Parliament while remaining open for tours. The Golden Hall, an intimate Islamic chapel, and a serene courtyard with an ornamental pond transport visitors to medieval Al-Andalus.
Practical Info: Open daily (except Thu-Fri mornings) 10:00am-2:00pm; Afternoons Nov-Mar 4:00pm-6:30pm, Apr-Oct 4:30pm-8:00pm; Closed Sundays pm; Guided tours 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm mornings; 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm afternoons (Apr-Oct); Entry €5 general, FREE Sundays & Aragonese residents; English/French tours July-Aug 10:00am & 5:00pm; Last entry 30 min before closing; Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Major Landmarks & Museums
Roman Walls & Theater: Large sections of 3rd-century Roman walls surround Plaza del Pilar, and the underground Roman Theater Museum (Teatro de Caesaraugusta) displays impressive ruins beneath the modern city.
La Lonja — Renaissance palace on Plaza del Pilar featuring stunning interior arches, now hosting art exhibitions.
Puente de Piedra: This historic stone bridge crosses the Ebro River and dates back to Roman times, though it has been rebuilt. It is decorated with lion sculptures.
Goya Museum — Dedicated to Zaragoza's most famous artist Francisco Goya, displaying etchings, paintings, and documenting his life.
Mercado Central — Beautiful covered market offering local products, meats, cheeses, fresh produce, and authentic atmosphere.
Plaza San Felipe — Charming square in Old Town with traditional architecture and local bars.
Iglesia de Santa Isabel de Portugal — Baroque church showcasing ornate interiors.
El Tubo & Tapas Culture
El Tubo is the heart of Zaragoza’s food scene. It’s a maze of narrow medieval streets filled with more than 50 tapas bars, where locals enjoy bar-hopping. The name "Tubo" (tube) comes from the tube-like shape of the tightly connected lanes. This lively area, located between Plaza España and Plaza San Felipe, is especially busy in the evenings when people fill the streets with small plates and wine glasses.
Each bar has its own specialty tapas. Migas aragonesas (toasted breadcrumbs with chorizo, grapes, and garlic) is a classic Aragonese comfort food. Jamón croquetas (ham croquettes) are known for their crispy outside and creamy inside, with each place offering its own twist. Ternasco (roasted lamb), a local favorite, is common on menus, as are different cod dishes. Be sure to try patatas bravas with spicy sauce, boletus croquettes, and the well-known champiñones (mushrooms) at different bars.
To experience El Tubo like a local, move from bar to bar, enjoying one or two tapas with drinks at each stop before heading to the next. Popular places include La Republicana, Casa Lac, El Plata, and many other neighborhood favorites. Tapas usually cost €2-5 each, so you can enjoy a full evening for €15-25. The best time to visit is during the busy evening hours from 8:00pm to 11:00pm, when the streets are full of people.
Free Walking Tours
Essential Zaragoza Free Tour: Old Town. Duration: 2 hours. Starts at Avenida César Augusto 115 (statue of Caesar Augustus). Discover more than 2,000 years of Zaragoza's history, including Roman Caesaraugusta, Islamic Saraqusta, and UNESCO World Heritage Mudéjar art. The tour visits Basílica del Pilar, Cathedral of San Salvador, El Tubo tapas area, Mercado Central, La Lonja, Roman Theater Museum, and Plaza San Felipe. It is suitable for people with reduced mobility, families, and is pet-friendly. Tours are available in English and Spanish. The guide wears a ZaragozaTours red Z logo. A minimum of 5 people is required. The tour is tip-based.
Free Tour through the Historical Center of Zaragoza — Comprehensive tour covering Zaragoza's historic center monuments and neighborhoods. Check the website for the detailed route, meeting point, and schedule.
Free Monumental Tour of Zaragoza — An essential tour highlighting the city's architectural treasures. Check the website for the detailed route, meeting point, and schedule.
Explore more tours Zaragoza.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Getting There: Train connections from Madrid (1h 20min AVE), Barcelona (1h 30min), Bilbao (3h); Well-connected by bus; Airport 10km from the center
- Getting Around: Old Town is compact and easy to walk around. There is a good bus and tram network, and bike rentals are available. Parking in the Old Town is limited, so use paid lots.
- Accommodation: Stay near Plaza del Pilar for convenience; Book ahead for the October Pilar Festival
- Language: Spanish spoken; Limited English outside tourist sites; Basic Spanish helpful
- Meal Times: Lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm; El Tubo busiest 8-11pm
- Tapas Etiquette: Order at bar, pay when finished; Moving between bars expected; €2-5 per tapa
- Safety: Very safe city; Normal precautions in crowded areas
- Weather: Summers are hot, so bring sun protection. Winters are cold. Spring and fall are the best times to visit.
- Tipping: Not mandatory; Round up or 5-10% for good service; Free tours €10-15 per person
- Visit Duration: You can see the main sights in 1-2 days. If you want a more relaxed visit, plan for 3 days.\
Weather in Zaragoza
Zaragoza has a continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and little rain. Spring (March to May) is ideal, with pleasant temperatures between 12-24°C (54-75°F), blooming parks, and good weather for exploring. May is the best month, with long days and little rain. Summer (June to August) is very hot, with temperatures reaching 29-38°C (85-100°F), so early morning or evening is the most comfortable time to go out. Many locals leave the city in August. Autumn (September to November) is also a great time to visit, with temperatures from 13-24°C (55-75°F), harvest events, and the Pilar Festival in October. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures between 7-16°C (45-60°F) and occasional rain, but it is usually dry. The Cierzo wind from the Pyrenees can make it feel colder. Bring layers and sun protection.
Short History of Zaragoza
The Romans founded Caesaraugusta in 25 BCE, naming it after Emperor Augustus Caesar, creating an important provincial capital with a forum, theater, baths, and walls. The city prospered for four centuries, leaving a substantial archaeological legacy visible today.
After Rome fell, the Visigoths took over the city. In 714 CE, Moorish forces arrived and renamed it Saragossa. Islamic Zaragoza thrived as the capital of the Taifa kingdom under the Banu Hud dynasty in the 11th century, building the impressive Aljafería Palace and promoting culture and the arts. Mudéjar artisans, who were Muslims living under Christian rule, created a unique style of Islamic-influenced Christian architecture that is now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage.
King Alfonso I of Aragon reconquered Zaragoza in 1118, establishing it as the capital of the Kingdom of Aragon. The city prospered throughout the medieval and Renaissance periods, building grand cathedrals and palaces. During the Peninsular War (1808-1809), Zaragoza heroically resisted two French sieges, with citizens fighting house-to-house, earning the city legendary status for its courage.
The 20th century brought industrialization and growth. Today, Zaragoza thrives as Aragon's capital, balancing historic preservation with modern development, hosting EXPO 2008, which revitalized the riverfront.
FAQ about Zaragoza
What can you see in Zaragoza in one day?
Visit Basílica del Pilar and the rooftop, La Seo Cathedral, explore Plaza del Pilar, tour Aljafería Palace, wander El Tubo for tapas, and see Roman walls.
What are the best things to do in Zaragoza?
Explore the Basílica del Pilar, tour the Aljafería Palace, admire La Seo Cathedral, tapas-hopping in El Tubo, see Goya frescoes, visit Roman ruins, walk along the Ebro River, and take free walking tours.
When is the best time to visit Zaragoza?
March-May or September-November offer ideal 12-24°C (54-75°F) temperatures with comfortable weather and fewer crowds; avoid scorching July-August.
What should you eat in Zaragoza?
Try migas aragonesas, jamón croquetas, ternasco (roast lamb), bacalao, patatas bravas, champiñones, and bar-hop through El Tubo.
How many days do you need in Zaragoza?
1-2 days covers main sights; 2-3 days allows relaxed exploration and full tapas experiences.
Is Zaragoza worth visiting?
Absolutely. Zaragoza has impressive monuments, a genuine Spanish atmosphere, great food, and far fewer tourists than Barcelona or Madrid, making it a very rewarding place to visit.
Which free tours are available in Zaragoza?
Freetour.com offers the Essential Zaragoza Old Town tour (2h, covering the main sights and El Tubo), the Historical Center tour, and the Monumental tour—all with expert historian guides.
