Strolling through the Casco Antiguo

Like everywhere in Spain, Zaragoza dates back to pre-Roman times. Undoubtedly, Goya would have been inspired while walking these city streets. So, what other incredible things are there to see here?

Zaragoza takes its name from Roman times, when the city was named Caesaraugusta. A meander through the Casco Antiguo (old town) offers plenty of opportunities to marvel at the well-preserved ruins of this important era in the city’s history.

The Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta, located in the Plaza del Pilar, gives visitors a glimpse into ancient life via the fragments of the old walls, market, sewer, government buildings, shops and temple. A short stroll from the Plaza del Pilar lies the beautiful Teatro romano de Zaragoza, a Roman amphitheatre dating back to the 1st Century, and its interesting museum. It can be seen from the street and I always love taking a few moments here at night when it’s so beautifully floodlit.

The breathtaking Aljafería Palace

When I think of the Islamic influence in Spain, Andalucia and its famous sites like the Alhambra in Granada or La Mezquita in Córdoba immediately come to mind.

If you go…

When to go: Zaragoza is land-locked and inland making the summers very hot and the winters chilly. It is fairly dry with lots of sun all year round, but spring and fall are definitely the best.

How to get there: Zaragoza is well-connected by train and bus service and has a small airport serving destinations such as London, Bucharest, Milan and various cities in Spain. It is also a seasonal airport, adding destinations during peak times like summer or holidays. It is easy to get into the city from Estación Delicias, the main bus and train station, and the airport via taxi or public bus. Check transportation options here.

Where to stay: Accommodation for any taste and budget is easy to find as hotels, Airbnbs and hostels are all widely available. I really enjoyed my stay at the Hotel Avenida. Keep in mind, the beginning of October will be the most difficult and expensive time to find a bed as the city hosts the spectacular Fiestas del Pilar. Book well in advance if visiting the city at this time of year. Find somewhere to stay here.

Getting around: Zaragoza is small and very walkable. Most of the major sites are located in the old city centre and your feet are all you’ll need. However, the bus service is extensive and reliable for exploring different neighbourhoods. There is one tram line which is useful for a visit to the delightful Parque Grande Jose Antonio Labordeta or to cross the Ebro River and visit the park and aquarium at the former Expo 2008 site.

Where to eat and drink: Zaragoza has plenty of wonderful bars and restaurants to grab a bite to eat. I love to have a coffee and piece of cake at Doña Hipólita, La Bendita or Café Botánico, all in the town centre. For more substance and less sugar, some favourites are Bar Dumbo, Mott & More, La Clandestina Cafe and Tragantua. For bar hopping and enjoying the lively tapas scene, the streets of El Tubo are the best place to be. And upscale food court, Puerta Cinegia, offers a variety of Spanish favourites and is another energetic place to mix with the locals.

Nightlife: There is plenty to do in Zaragoza once the sun goes down. There is a vibrant local music scene and cool venues to take in live performances. I always enjoy evenings out at Las Armas, The Rock and Blues Café , El Corazon Verde and La Campana Underground. Even if you don’t speak Spanish well, it is a fun experience to take in a theatre show at the beautiful Teatro Principal. Check for things to do here.