Zaragoza, or Saragossa, situated along the mighty Ebro, holds a unique place in Spanish history as the capital of ancient Roman, Moorish, and Christian kingdoms. This fascinating city offers a rich cultural heritage and spectacular architectural landmarks. Continue to learn more about the best areas to stay in Zaragoza, Aragón.
Accommodation Options in Zaragoza
Founded in 25 BC by the Romans, the Aragonese capital features remnants from various periods throughout its history. Main attractions include the stunning Basilica del Pilar and the Aljafería Palace. Zaragoza has an active tourist industry and is one of the most visited cities in inland Spain. It has accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and pensions.
Other attractions in Zaragoza are the Roman Theatre Museum, which showcases well-preserved ancient structures and artifacts; the Goya Museum dedicated to the acclaimed Spanish artist Francisco Goya; La Seo Cathedral featuring impressive Mudejar architecture; and Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta, a vast green space perfect for outdoor activities.
Kindly continue reading this guide to discover more facts about Zaragoza and unearth information on selecting the best areas and accommodations in this remarkable Spanish city.
The Best Areas to Stay in Zaragoza: A Summary
If you don’t have time to read the full article, this summarizes our recommended districts for tourists in Zaragoza. Keep reading to learn more about each of these barrios.
- Best area for sightseeing: Old Town
- Best area for nightlife: City Center
- Area with the best transport connections: Delicias
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Zaragoza?
The best area to stay in Zaragoza is the Old Town. This central area offers historical charm, an unbeatable location, and cultural attractions. The area is home to several important attractions, such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and La Seo Cathedral. Staying in the Old Town provides easy access to authentic local shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as some of the best-rated hotels in the city.
Find available accommodation in Zaragoza’s Old Town.
Best Hotels in Zaragoza’s Old Town
- Best 5-star hotel: Hotel Palafox
- Best 4-star hotel: INNSiDE by Meliá Zaragoza
- Best 3-star hotel: Hotel Inca
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Sauce
- Best B&B: Hostal Plaza Boutique
- Best tourist apartments: Aparthotel Los Girasoles
- Best hostel: AZ The Botanic Hostel
Where to Stay in Zaragoza for Sightseeing
- The Old Town of Zaragoza is a cultural hub, perfect for experiencing the city’s history and atmosphere. Within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar and Museo Goya, this area offers plenty of sightseeing. Some of the best hotels in Casco Antiguo are Hotel Palafox and INNSiDE by Meliá Zaragoza.
- Not to be confused with the Old Town, Distrito Centro is a bustling neighborhood with several shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues steps away from popular attractions like El Tubo or Plaza España. Our favorite hotel here is Hotel Gran Vía.
- Located south of the city center, Delicias offers a more contemporary take on Zaragoza. Home to the city’s main train station, this area is perfect for convenient transportation options and modern hotels like the Eurostars Zaragoza.
- Likewise, the Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel & Palacio de Congresos area combines nature and modernity and is a great area for business travelers as it is very close to the city’s main fairgrounds. A great option here is the 4-star Hotel Hiberus.
Where to Stay in Zaragoza: District by District
1. Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Best area for sightseeing in Zaragoza
With its many attractions, charming cobblestone streets, tapas bars, and museums, the Old Town is the best area to stay in Zaragoza and experience it to the fullest.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Zaragoza:
- El Tubo nightlife area
- La Seo cathedral
- The picturesque Aljafería Palace
- Basílica del Pilar
- Traditional Aragonese cuisine
- Roman Theatre of Caesaraugusta
- Goya Museum
- Charming accommodations options
- Easy access to public transportation
- Great shopping
The Old Town of Zaragoza, known as Casco Antiguo, is the second-largest old town in Spain. It encompasses the neighborhoods of San Pablo, El Gancho, San Miguel, Las Tenerías, and La Magdalena. It is like an open-air history museum featuring different architectural styles.
Zaragoza’s Old Town has a fascinating Roman history, as the city was once an important port on the Ebro River. Here, you’ll find several well-preserved ancient sites, including the Roman Forum, built in the 1st century AD; the Roman Theatre, dating back to the same period; and the Caesar Augusta Tower, once part of the city’s defensive walls.
In addition to its Roman attractions, Casco Antiguo is home to the famous Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, an iconic symbol of Zaragoza. The Baroque-style basilica houses the image of Our Lady of the Pillar. The basilica also showcases frescoes painted by Francisco Goya.
Adjacent to the basilica is Plaza del Pilar, a central with landmarks like La Lonja, a 16th-century Renaissance-style building; Fuente de la Hispanidad, a modern fountain shaped like Latin America; and Goya Monument standing tall at its center.
For travelers seeking vibrant nightlife in Zaragoza’s Old Town, the El Tubo area’s narrow streets house traditional taverns, as well as wine and tapas bars.
Tram Line 1 connects the area to other Zaragoza neighborhoods. Additionally, several bus stations are situated throughout Old Town.
Conveniently, the Old Town is home to the widest accommodation offering in the city; from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find it here. Nonetheless, given its historical significance and prime location where major attractions are within walking distance, hotel rates may be slightly higher than in other areas of the city. Overall, Old Town offers an immersive experience in Zaragoza’s history and vibrant culture for travelers.
Best Hotels in Zaragoza’s Old Town
Hotel Palafox
Located a 5-minute walk from Zaragoza’s Old Town, Hotel Palafox offers a seasonal rooftop pool with great city views. It offers free Wi-Fi throughout, and its elegant, air-conditioned rooms come with satellite TV.
INNSiDE by Meliá Zaragoza
Innside Zaragoza is 500 meters from Zaragoza’s Plaza España and a 10-minute walk from the Basilica del Pilar. It features a rooftop terrace with a pool and bar and a gym.
Hotel Inca
Hotel Inca is less than 100 meters from Plaza del Pilar, in the historic heart of Zaragoza. Each spacious room includes climate control, a minibar, and a safe.
Hotel Sauce
Hotel Sauce is located in the historic center of Zaragoza, just 50 meters from the iconic El Pilar Basilica. It offers private parking, a 24-hour reception, and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and satellite TV.
Hostal Plaza Boutique
Centrally located just 50 meters from Zaragoza’s impressive Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar, Hostal Plaza Boutique offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and free WiFi.
Aparthotel Los Girasoles
Located in central Zaragoza 400 meters from Plaza España, Aparthotel Los Girasoles offers great views of El Pilar Basilica from its roof terrace. It has a gym, sauna, sun bed, and seasonal outdoor pool.
AZ The Botanic Hostel
Set in the center of Zaragoza, AZ The Botanic Hostel offers a shared kitchen, a shared lounge, and organizing tours for guests.
2. Distrito Centro
Best area for shopping in Zaragoza
Distrito Centro offers a combination of history, architecture, shopping destinations, and excellent connectivity which makes it an ideal area to stay in Zaragoza.
Distrito Centro is bordered by Las Delicias, the Old Town, Universidad, and San José neighborhoods, and it serves as the heart of Zaragoza’s bustling city life.
One of the most iconic spots within Distrito Centro is Paseo de la Independencia, a major street that connects Plaza España and Plaza Aragón. This vibrant thoroughfare is known for its impressive architecture and numerous shopping destinations. As such, those interested in retail therapy will find the City Centre particularly appealing while staying in Zaragoza.
Distrito Centro is home to several notable landmarks like Paraninfo, a prestigious cultural institution housed in an exquisite modernist building; the Church of Santa Engracia with its beautiful facade and interesting crypt; Puerta del Carmen, a gate that was once part of the city’s defensive walls; the Palace of Justice; the General Captaincy; and the Public Library of Aragon.
Distrito Centro is well-connected to other parts of Zaragoza through bus and tram lines. Its strategic location makes it one of the most convenient areas for exploring both commercial and tourist points of interest.
Best Hotels in Zaragoza’s Distrito Centro
Hotel Zaragoza Royal
Hotel Zaragoza Royal is located in central Zaragoza and offers free Wi-Fi in rooms. The high-speed Train Station and Feria conference center are 20 minutes away.
Hotel Gran Via
Located right in the center of the interesting and historical city of Zaragoza, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations along with good facilities and services.
Hostal Zaragoza Centro
Hostal Zaragoza Centro features free wifi throughout the property and rooms with air conditioning in Zaragoza. Boasting a shared lounge, the guest house is close to several noted attractions.
3. La Almozara
Central area to stay
Staying in La Almozara offers visitors a taste of Zaragoza’s historic charm combined with modern conveniences.
La Almozara is a district in Zaragoza, Spain, situated west of the Ebro River and south of the city center.
This district dates back to the Moorish period from the 8th to the late 15th century, featuring a fascinating mix of Arab, Mudejar, and Renaissance architectural influences. One prominent historical site is the Aljafería Palace, constructed by the Moorish kings in the 11th century. The palace is now home to the regional parliament of Aragon and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
For visitors interested in religious history, La Almozara is home to several churches, such as Our Lady of La Almozara Church, built in 1942, with striking neo-Gothic-style architecture standing amidst modern buildings. Another noteworthy religious site is Santa Maria Magdalena Church, which dates back to the 14th century.
In terms of nightlife, La Almozara offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other districts in Zaragoza. Rather than being an area with an abundance of nightclubs or late-night bars, it boasts quiet streets lined with residential buildings as well as small shops and cozy restaurants.
When it comes to transportation options, this neighborhood provides excellent connectivity to other parts of Zaragoza. The Delicias Transport Interchange Station, located at its western edge, connects La Almozara with national and regional train services.
The accommodation options in La Almozara include hotels ranging from budget-friendly to mid-range properties, making it suitable for travelers with varying budgets.
Best Hotels in La Almozara, Zaragoza, Spain
Hesperia Zaragoza Centro
Hesperia Zaragoza Centro is located in the historic center of Zaragoza, a 5-minute walk from the Basilica del Pilar. It offers free WiFi and is well-connected to all the city´s principal access points and just 10 minutes from the AVE Station.
AZ The Zity Hostel – Coliving
Located in Zaragoza, The Zity Hostel – Coliving features a shared lounge, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi.
4. Delicias
Best-connected area in Zaragoza
Home to the main railway station in the city, Delicias is one of the best areas to stay in Zaragoza, Spain.
Delicias, situated in the city of Zaragoza, Spain, is a bustling and lively neighborhood well-known for its array of shops and restaurants. Notably, the area is home to the main Renfe Station, which makes it a particularly convenient location for those traveling via train or needing to catch an early departure.
The Delicias Intermodal Station, also known as Zaragoza-Delicias Railway Station, serves as a significant hub for both national and regional train services, as well as intercity buses. Its exact location is at Calle Rioja 33. It operates high-speed AVE trains (Alta Velocidad Española), connecting Zaragoza with important Spanish cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Málaga. Avant trains link Zaragoza with regional destinations such as Huesca, Calatayud, and Teruel.
The area features several notable recreational spots, such as Delicias Park, civic centers, and a theater. With various attractions within easy reach, it has become a highly recommended area for leisure and business travelers. Delicias enjoys excellent transport connections to the rest of the city, allowing guests to explore Zaragoza with ease.
In terms of accommodations, Delicias offers options across different price ranges.
Best Hotels in Delicias near the AVE station
B&B HOTEL Zaragoza Los Enlaces Estación
The modern B&B HOTEL Zaragoza Los Enlaces Estación is strategically located just off the A-2 motorway, which links with Madrid and Barcelona.
Exe Plaza Delicias
Exe Plaza Delicias is opposite the Zaragoza-Delicias AVE high-speed train station, 3 km from the city’s historic center. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.
Hotel Delicias
The Hotel Delicias is located on a quiet street, 10 minutes from Zaragoza’s High-Speed AVE Train Station. High-speed free WiFi is offered throughout the property.
5. La Romareda
Upscale and modern area to stay in Zaragoza
La Romareda offers a lively atmosphere in close proximity to the University of Zaragoza and La Romareda Stadium.
La Romareda is situated south of Zaragoza’s city center. As a cultural and student hub, the area hosts the headquarters of the University of Zaragoza, one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the country.
Aside from its academic prominence, La Romareda is popular for its gardens, numerous green spaces, and sports venues. Sports enthusiasts often flock to the neighborhood’s renowned La Romareda football stadium, while culture aficionados can explore the Zaragoza Auditorium and the city’s Ceramics Museum.
Given its status as a university district, La Romareda boasts a vibrant, youthful atmosphere with several bars and entertainment venues. Moreover, the area is well-connected to other parts of Zaragoza via public transport.
Best Hotels in La Romareda
Hotel Reina Petronila
This luxury hotel is next to the Aragonia shopping and leisure center. Hotel Reina Petronila offers free Wi-Fi access and a spa with an indoor pool and fitness area.
Ilunion Romareda
Ilunion Romareda is next to Real Zaragoza’s football stadium and the Conference Centre. It offers free WiFi and a modern TV lounge in the reception area. The Auditorium, main hospitals, and the Conference Centre are just a few minutes walk away.
U Hotel Villa-Gomá
U Hotel Villa-Gomá is a modern hotel situated next to Hospital Miguel Servet, Hospital Clínico, and the Romareda de Zaragoza Stadium.
Pensión Corona
Pensión Corona is located in Zaragoza’s University Delicias District and is a 15-minute walk from the city’s Old Town. This guest house features simple rooms and free Wi-Fi access.
6. Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel & Palacio de Congresos
Best area for business travelers
Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel and Palacio de Congresos are some of the best areas to stay in Zaragoza, Spain.
Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel and Palacio de Congresos are two attractions in Zaragoza, Spain. Located on the banks of the Ebro River, they together offer visitors an exceptional combination of recreational spaces, natural surroundings, and architectural masterpieces.
Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel, spanning over 120 hectares, was constructed as part of the 2008 International Exposition and serves as a prime example of sustainable urban development. This large urban park features abundant green spaces, walking and cycling paths, as well as picturesque streams and ponds. It also houses the spectacular Bridge Pavilion designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid.
The nearby Palacio de Congresos, also built for the 2008 International Exposition, is an architectural marvel designed by Spanish architects Fuensanta Nieto and Enrique Sobejano. Known for hosting exhibitions, conferences, and socio-cultural events, it boasts state-of-the-art facilities, and its iconic sail-shaped structure has become synonymous with modern Zaragoza.
In terms of accommodation options in this area of Zaragoza, there are various types of hotels available for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly choices to upscale properties.
Best Hotels near Palacio de Congresos
Hotel Hiberus
Hotel Hiberus is located on Zaragoza’s Expo 2008 site, a 15-minute walk from Delicias AVE and bus station. It offers an outdoor seasonal pool, a sun terrace, and stylish, modern rooms with flat-screen TVs.
