A Weekend Away: Zaragoza, Spain

Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and Ebro River

In February 2025, I treated myself to a little solo adventure: a weekend getaway to Zaragoza, Spain. I had heard whispers of its rich history and stunning landmarks, and I was eager to explore it at my own pace. In today’s post, I’ll share the highlights and little moments that made this trip memorable.

I caught an early train from Atocha Station in Madrid, leaving around 7:30 am. As the countryside blurred past my window, I felt that familiar mix of excitement and calm that comes with solo travel. By 8:50 am, I arrived in Zaragoza, ready to dive into the city's stories.

Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and Plaza del Pilar

My first stop was a free walking tour through the historic center, booked through GuruWalk. Our local guide wove together tales of Zaragoza’s past from its Roman foundations to Napoleon’s siege and the scars left by the Spanish Civil War. As we paused outside the grand Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and the Cathedral of El Salvador in the Plaza del Pilar, I was struck by the sheer scale and intricate facades. Even without stepping inside, the buildings felt alive with centuries of devotion and resilience.

For lunch, I followed the guide’s recommendation and tried Migas Aragonesas, a traditional dish where bread crumbs are sautéed with chorizo, garlic, and sweet grapes. The mix of savory and sweet was surprisingly comforting and offered a simple, but hearty meal. After lunch, I checked into The Botanic Hostel, about a 15-minute walk from the historic center. It had a relaxed vibe, with lots of greenery and cozy corners, perfect for a solo traveler.

Palacio de la Aljafería

In the afternoon, I visited the Palacio de la Aljafería. Built in the 11th century during Moorish rule, the palace’s blend of Islamic arches and Gothic additions tells the layered story of Spain itself. I wandered through its peaceful courtyards and admired the intricate stucco work. It’s still home to the parliament of Aragon today, but during my visit, it also hosted an art exhibit featuring works by Goya, a famous Spanish painter.

As evening settled in, I took a quiet walk along the banks of the Ebro River. The soft light reflected on the water, and there was a calmness in the air that invited reflection. I found a bench, pulled out my journal, and took time to pray, mediate, and reflect.

The next morning, I woke early to tour the Palacio de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Zaragoza, also known as Casa Donlope. This 16th-century Renaissance palace once belonged to Don Miguel Donlope, a wealthy jurist, before becoming the headquarters of the Royal Cavalry Armory. Its elegant courtyards and carved ceilings offered a quiet glimpse into Zaragoza's noble past.

Before leaving, I squeezed in a visit to the city's Roman ruins. I explored the Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta, where remnants of the ancient forum lie beneath modern streets. At the Museo del Teatro de Caesaraugusta, I stood before the remains of a Roman theater that once held 6,000 spectators. The Museo de las Termas Públicas showcased ruins of public baths, while the Museo del Puerto Fluvial highlighted Zaragoza's importance as a river port in Roman times. Each site felt like peeling back layers of the city’s soul as I imagined what life would have been like before the additions of cars and electricity.

I ended my trip with another riverside walk, slowly making my way back to the train station. Along the way, I found quiet spots to pause, reflect, and savor the last moments of this beautiful weekend.

Zaragoza surprised me with its blend of grand history and quiet charm. It’s a city where ancient stones and living traditions coexist and it gave me exactly the pause and perspective I was hoping for. I would highly recommend it for any history lovers looking for a short weekend trip away from the bustling city of Madrid.