Free Things to Do in Zaragoza Spain | Ultimate Budget Itinerary

March 30, 2021

Spain is one of many gorgeous European countries that exude culture, tradition, and festivity. The stunning city of Zaragoza, in specific, is characterized by beautiful ancient architecture, many impressive historical monuments, and of course, delicious Spanish delicacies.

Zaragoza is conventionally known as Saragossa Espana. It’s located in the north-eastern parts of Spain and is the capital of the Aragon region. Following Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, Zaragoza is the fifth-largest city in Spain.

It’s also one of the most historic and monumental towns in the country. Having been ruled by multiple cultures, including the Old-Iberians, Romans, Arabians, the Moors, and Christian kings, the city is home to many different traditions and heritages. This can easily be seen in the architecture of Zaragoza.

Boasting over 2000 years of rich history, there is so much on offer in terms of Zaragoza tourism.

Things to Do in Zaragoza Spain: Points of Interest

There are many points of interest and tourist attractions in Zaragoza, Spain. If you are wondering where to start or what to do in Zaragoza, we’ve got you covered.

Here is a list of 12 of the best free Zaragoza attractions that you can visit and experience during your next trip to Spain.

1. Museo de Zaragoza (The Zaragoza Museum)

The Zaragoza Museum is the largest in the Aragon region and is located in the old pavilion, which was first built for the Universal Expo in 1908.

Founded in 1836, it has a collection of hundreds of historical items, offering an overview of the areas past. Some of its exhibitions include presentations of the Early Middle Ages, the Renaissance times, the Baroque periods, and so much more.

The museum is split into two different sectors – one for fine art and one for archaeology. In the fine arts section, you will find many artworks dating back to as early as the 12th century. In the archaeology section, you will find archaeological remains, including those from Aljafería Palace, as well as the head of Augustus from Tarazona.

Museo de Zaragoza is just one of many museums in the city. To find out more about other museums in Zaragoza, read here.

museum

2. Parque Grande Jose Antonio Labordeta

The Parque Grande Jose Antonio Labordeta, commonly known as the Parque Grande, was built between 1913-1927. Although it was originally opened by and named after Miguel Primo de Rivera, it was later renamed after much-loved singer, poet, and TV presenter, Jose Antonio. His death in 2010 caused a major public outcry, as he was known for his expressive resistance to the censorship found in Spanish print and television.

The park is located within the urban center of the city and was the city’s largest park until the Luis Buñuel Water Park was completed in 2008.

The Parque Grande has so much to offer, including many impressive monuments, the Botanical Garden of Zaragoza, and even an Ethnological Museum. There is also a 1,500-meter running track, as well as opportunities to rent bicycles, tandems, and even pedal cars.

3. Daroca

Daroca is just one of the smaller historic towns in the city of Zaragoza Spain and is located in the valley of the Jiloca river. The town boasts a mixture of both Moorish and Christian religious architecture, making it a Property of Cultural Interest.

There is so much to explore throughout the town of Daroca, including the Pastry Museum Manuel Segura. Being three stories high, the museum displays gorgeous collections of chocolate, equipment and tools, and essential ingredients commonly used in pastry-making.

The City Walls are another beautiful attraction in Daroca. In medieval times the entire city was surrounded by these high city walls, but now only three and a half kilometers of the city walls still remain.

4. Plaza del Pilar

The Plaza del Pilar, formally referred to as the Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar (The Plaza of Our Lady of the Pillar), is one of the busiest and most popular tourist attractions and pedestrian plazas in Zaragoza.

Here you will find many different tourist attractions, some of which are mentioned below.

5. Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar

Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, directly translates to ‘The Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar’ in English. The cathedral is a Roman Catholic church situated in the heart of Zaragoza Old Town and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, under her title Our Lady of the Pillar.

You can take a lift up to (almost) the top of the northwest tower, where you will be left with only a mere 109 steps to climb to the finish. This will give you an impeccable viewpoint of Zaragoza’s domes, river, and the city.

el ebro river

6. Fuente de la Hispanidad (The Fountain of Hispanicity)

Situated in Zaragoza Spain, within the Plaza del Pilar, is one of the city’s largest monuments, the three-part Fuente de la Hispanidad, which translates to The Fountain of Hispanicity in English.

This very interesting and thought-provoking monument includes three elements: a fountain in the shape of Latin America, a representation of Columbus’ fleet, and a depiction of the world without America.

7. Torreón de la Zuda (The Zuda Tower)

Torreón de la Zuda is located in Zaragoza Old Town, just behind the Fuente de la Hispanidad within the Plaza del Pilar.

It is one of the few towers left standing from the old palace of Zuda (or Azuda), dating back to as early as the 16th century. The Zuda Tower, which was once a Muslim fortress, is now used as a municipal tourist office and information center, which tourists can access for help, directions, or just more information on the city in general.

Not only can you access the tower for more information during your trip, but you can explore the gorgeous palatial architecture. As you enter the tower, you will find yourself standing on a glass floor, just above the remains of the ancient Roman tower. Climb up four floors, and you will also have an exquisite view of the Spanish city.

8. El Ebro (The Ebro River)

The Ebro is a river located on the Iberian Peninsula which runs 930 kilometers into the Mediterranean Sea, making it the longest river in Spain. There are two bridges along the river – one is very modern and the other is more traditional, featuring lion statues made of stone.

The Puente de Piedra (The Piedra Bridge) is one of the bridges crossing the Ebro river and is often referred to as the Bridge of Lions due to the four impressive lion statues placed at the columns on either side of the bridge.

Whether you want to take a walk or bike ride on the path alongside El Ebro, beautiful trees will provide you with shade. If you do not mind spending some money, you can also rent kayaks and explore the river some more.

el ebro river bridge of lions

9. La Lonja

La Lonja is one of the oldest and most popular attractions in Spain. This historic building, now commonly used as an exhibition hall for temporary exhibitions is within close proximity to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, another great attraction.

The pale-brick, Renaissance-style building was initially built in the 16th century with the purpose of being used as a trading exchange. It now represents Aragon’s commercial power back then.

Explore La Lonja for a true experience of the art and culture of Zaragoza.

10. Calle Alfonso (Alfonso Street)

Calle Alfonso is an old traditional-styled street in Zaragoza. It’s a popular shopping street, lined with stores, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. But you can still take a leisurely stroll at no cost.

Not only is it a festive and culture-filled experience on its own, but it is also a perfect access route into the Plaza del Pilar.

11. El Tubo

El Tubo is another one of Zaragona’s narrow but festive streets located in the city center. The street is lined with tapas bars and is the perfect place if you want to explore some more traditional Spanish delicacies.

Again, you do not have to spend any money when walking along the street to experience the liveliness and vibe, but it’s a great idea to stop and grab a few bites here and there.

If you love trying out the Spanish delicacies, there are also many different tapas and wine tours in Seville, in Barcelona, and in Madrid.

el tubo street tapas

12. Patio de la Infanta

The elaborate Patio de la Infanta is another one of Zaragoza’s historic museums. This art-filled space is also classified as a gallery.

The main attraction of the Patio de la Infanta is the 16th-century Renaissance-style courtyard, which displays human figures carved into the ornate columns.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Zaragoza Spain

zaragoza spain fireworks tourism

So there you have it – we have narrowed it down to twelve of the best things to do in Zaragoza at no cost. But there are so many more activities to do and attractions to see, you can spend weeks being entertained in this city.

With so many tourist attractions to choose from, the ancient city of Zaragoza is bound to keep you busy on your next trip to Spain. From museums to ancient buildings, parks to markets, and two beautiful cathedrals – we can guarantee that you will not find yourself getting bored.

Where will be your very first stop when visiting the beautiful Spanish city of Zaragoza?

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