Begin your tour at Plaza del Pilar, Zaragoza’s grand central square, flanked by the immense Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a baroque masterpiece with colourful domes and Goya frescoes. Admire the basilica’s riverside façade and, if time allows, pop in for a quick look at its ornate interior (free entry). From here, stroll west along Calle de Alfonso I, a lively pedestrian street lined with shops and cafés, capturing Zaragoza’s vibrant Aragonese charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Casa Lac (Calle de los Mártires, 12), a historic restaurant since 1825, known for its tapas and traditional Aragonese dishes. Enjoy a quick lunch of migas (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo) or a lighter ternasco (roast lamb) tapa, affordable, no reservations needed for the bar area, but arrive early to avoid the local crowd.
Continue west to Plaza de España, a bustling square with the Diputación Provincial building and a monument to the Spanish Constitution. Head north along Calle Don Jaime I to La Seo (Catedral del Salvador), a stunning cathedral blending Gothic, Mudejar, and baroque styles. A quick 20-minute visit (small fee) reveals its intricate altarpiece and tapestry collection.
Wander south into the El Tubo district, Zaragoza’s historic tapas quarter, with narrow streets like Calle Estébanes brimming with bars. Stop at Bodegas Almau (Calle Estébanes, 10), a no-reservations wine bar for a glass of Cariñena red or a quick tapa of jamón ibérico, arrive promptly to snag a spot.
Proceed to Puente de Piedra, a 15th-century stone bridge over the Ebro River, offering views of the basilica’s domes and the city’s skyline. Cross to the north bank for a quick stroll along Paseo de la Ribera, then return to explore Palacio de la Aljafería, a 11th-century Islamic fortress with Mudejar arches and a serene courtyard. A brief 20-minute visit (small fee, book ahead if possible) showcases its Moorish splendor.
Loop back towards the centre via Calle Mayor and stop at Chocolatería La Fama (Calle Prudencio, 25), a traditional patisserie for a coffee or thick hot chocolate with churros, a Zaragoza staple, no bookings needed, but expect a queue. The nearby Calle Coso, with its elegant buildings, offers a chic vibe.
End your tour at Plaza de los Sitios, a tranquil square with the Museo de Zaragoza and a monument to the 1808 siege. For a final treat, visit Café Botánico (Calle Santiago, 5), a cozy spot near Plaza del Pilar, for a glass of local Garnacha wine or a tarta de almendra (almond tart), soaking up Zaragoza’s warm ambiance. Alternatively, relax at Gran Café Zaragoza (Calle de Alfonso I, 25), watching the city’s vibrant street life unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Zaragoza’s Moorish and baroque heritage, Aragonese cuisine, and riverside allure, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled El Tubo streets
