Zaragoza, Spain, is where time seems to take a breath. Even if you only have two days, the city will leave you feeling like you’ve lived in its ancient, cobbled streets forever. My wife and I chose the splendid Hotel Alfonso for our stay—a beautiful oasis with awe-inspiring views, particularly of the Basilica of Saint Engratia, as it lit up in the golden hour. There’s something magical about watching this city’s history come alive from such a perch. But Zaragoza’s charm only grows when you step outside and immerse yourself in the living, breathing tapestry of its streets, especially in the Magdalena neighborhood, where whimsy and romance are the language of the winding alleys and colorful facades.
La Magdalena Neighborhood
A leisurely stroll brought us to Pilar Square, where a world of architectural beauty surrounds you. The Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of Pilar anchors the square with its majestic presence, and as you look around, you’ll see Zaragoza’s story etched into every column and archway. Here, the Fuente de la Hispanidad offers a stunning fountain that almost seems to trace the map of Latin America in water—a testament to Zaragoza’s connections with the Spanish-speaking world.
The city’s walkable scale is a delight, especially compared to larger cities like Madrid or Barcelona, where the sights can sometimes feel spread thin. In Zaragoza, every notable landmark is a short walk or a breezy tram ride away. Wandering down Calle de Alfonso, we savored the bustling cafés and charming boutiques, each storefront offering a little bit of the city’s soul. This lively street embodies Zaragoza’s flair for balancing the historical with the contemporary—a place where locals sip coffee in centuries-old cafés, and you can find artisan shops with crafts that feel timeless.
Local Cuisine
When evening fell, we indulged in a hearty, flavor-packed dinner at Taberna Doña Casta, famous for its huevos rotos. It’s a dish as delightful as it sounds—crispy potatoes, luscious eggs, and savory Iberian ham—mine were con setas (mushrooms)—all mixed together to create something worth writing home about. There’s a sense of pride in the food here, as if each dish is a love letter to Zaragoza’s culinary heritage.
The following morning, we explored Paseo de la Independencia, a grand boulevard lined with shops and cafés, its architecture a blend of neoclassical facades and modern spaces. It leads you like an arrow into the city’s heart, and it’s easy to imagine generations before us doing the same. A little further on, the Aljafería Palace took us by surprise; its ancient walls hold centuries of history from Islamic rule to Christian kings, making it a monument that tells the city’s rich and varied history.
Though our time in Zaragoza was brief, it felt like a lifetime in the best way possible. It’s a city where every corner invites you to pause, linger, and listen. From the basilicas to the hidden taverns, from the quiet of the Magdalena Neighborhood to the grandeur of Pilar Square, Zaragoza makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a story that is old and new, all at once. If you find yourself with only two days, it’s all you’ll need to fall in love with this incredible city, where every street feels like a place to begin.
For more information on Zaragoza, check out their official tourism bureau.