The Most Memorable Day Trips from Zaragoza
There are many day trips from Zaragoza that will allow you to explore everything from impressive natural landscapes with unique ecosystems to tasting its exquisite gastronomy and regional wines.
Additionally, you can immerse yourself in its rich historical heritage. Zaragoza’s geographical location, halfway between Madrid and Barcelona, and its more than 2000 years of history with various cultures that have populated the region, give it a vast cultural heritage. In this article, we present 5 exciting day trips from Zaragoza to discover the surroundings of the Aragonese countryside.
Whether you seek adventure in nature, a historical tour through ancient towns, or an unforgettable gastronomic experience, Zaragoza and its surroundings have something special to offer every visitor.
What can you enjoy in our day trips from Zaragoza?
Connection with Nature
From Zaragoza, you can embark on various adventures that will take you to discover surprising corners. You can choose to delve into virgin landscapes full of flora and fauna and participate in outdoor activities that bring you closer to the purest nature. These excursions are ideal for those seeking contact with the wild and breathtaking views.
Historical Exploration
For history enthusiasts, these day trips mean a journey through time to learn about the cultural heritage that endures in the region. You can visit sites that tell the Aragonese saga, understand important events, and admire constructions that defy centuries. Each town offers a window to the past and a way to rediscover the origins of this fascinating land.
Gastronomic Delights
The Zaragoza region delights the most discerning food lovers. It is known for its tasty cuisine made with local ingredients and its exceptional wines. You can try typical dishes made with dedication and share them with quality wines produced in this area with care. These culinary experiences will captivate your senses and allow you to delve into the customs and spirit of the people through their unique way of eating.
Discover the best bars for tapas in the famous coffee shops in Zaragoza, a must-visit area for food enthusiasts.
Recreational and Leisure Activities
Additionally, the day trips from Zaragoza offer various ways to enjoy your free time. Day trips from Zaragoza are a magnificent opportunity to get to know the best of the region without straying too far. Whether you seek nature, culture, gastronomy, or entertainment, Zaragoza and its surroundings will surprise you with unforgettable experiences.
1. Web Monasterio de Piedra: an essential excursion from Zaragoza
If you want to spend a wonderful day in good company, the Monasterio de Piedra excursion will meet your expectations. You can enjoy the natural landscapes of its park, including waterfalls, visit a unique Cistercian monastery, delight in its cuisine at an excellent restaurant, and taste the wines of the Calatayud area.
Nature in its Purest State
Day trips from Zaragoza to the Monasterio de Piedra offer the perfect opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature in its wildest state. The natural park surrounding the monastery is a true paradise for outdoor lovers. Walking along its paths, you will encounter a series of spectacular waterfalls that create a magical and relaxing atmosphere. Every corner of the park offers a unique view, whether it be small streams or large waterfalls, making it the ideal place for photography and contemplation of natural beauty in its purest form.
History and Culture at the Monastery
The Monasterio de Piedra, founded in the 12th century, is a true gem of Cistercian heritage. During your visit, you can thoroughly explore its cloisters, chapter rooms, and the impressive abbey church, all magnificently preserved. This monastery is not only a witness to medieval religious architecture but has also been a source of inspiration for countless artists and writers over the centuries. Inside, you can learn about monastic life and the fascinating history of the place through exhibitions and guided tours that will transport you to another era.
Quality Gastronomy
One of the highlights of the day trips from Zaragoza to the Monasterio de Piedra is the opportunity to delight in the local gastronomy. The monastery hotel’s restaurant offers an excellent selection of traditional Aragonese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, you can accompany your meal with the special wines from the Calatayud region, renowned for their exceptional quality and flavor. This pairing of food and wine is the perfect way to culminate your visit, giving you an authentic taste of Aragonese gastronomic culture.
If you’re planning to explore Zaragoza beyond its famous attractions, be sure to check out our guide on the 10 things to do if you visit Zaragoza. This comprehensive list includes unique activities and hidden gems that will make your visit truly memorable.
Activities for the Whole Family
The Monasterio de Piedra is an ideal destination for families. Children will enjoy exploring the natural park, observing the local wildlife, and participating in educational activities designed especially for them. Additionally, the monastery organizes events and workshops that allow visitors of all ages to learn more about the region’s history, nature, and culture. These activities make the visit both fun and enriching, ensuring that all family members have an unforgettable day.
2. Belchite: a must-visit getaway from Zaragoza
Just half an hour’s drive southeast from Zaragoza, you’ll find one of the best day trips from the Aragonese capital. You can visit the historic center of Belchite, which was devastated during the Spanish Civil War, where you can tour its impressive ruins with local guides and discover the secrets they hide. Besides its rich past, Belchite is surrounded by centuries-old olive groves, where we will also visit an oil mill renowned for the excellent quality of its liquid gold: Molino Alfonso.
A Journey through History
Walking through the streets of Belchite is immersing yourself in the recent history of our country. The old urban core seems to have stopped in time. Its remains, which remain as a reminder of the horrors of war, offer a moving and educational experience. Through guided tours, visitors can gain an in-depth understanding of the events that led to the town’s destruction and the dramatic experiences of its former inhabitants. Every corner of the town holds a story to tell, making this tour a living lesson about the past.
Discover the Centuries-Old Olive Groves
Besides its historical past, Belchite is surrounded by beautiful centuries-old olive groves. These plantations not only delight the eyes but also represent a deeply rooted agricultural tradition in the region. A visit to the Molino Alfonso oil mill allows you to learn firsthand about olive cultivation and the production of precious green gold. The tour lets you witness how this golden liquid is obtained. Tasting freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil is an experience not to be missed, as it highlights the authentic flavors of the land that make them unique.
Cultural and Gastronomic Experiences
Day trips from Zaragoza to Belchite offer an immersion in the rich local culture. The contrasting historical ruins and the vibrant life of the surroundings create a truly unique experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in colorful markets, traditional festivities, and the warm hospitality of the Belchitans. The gastronomy also deserves special attention, with dishes that reflect the Aragonese heritage in both classic and avant-garde forms.
3. Cariñena: a journey from Zaragoza to the heart of wine
Just 50 km away, wine lovers can get a quick look at the Cariñena wine region, south of Zaragoza. Its designation of origin dates back to 1933, being the oldest in Aragón and one of the pioneers in Spain. Several wineries offer visits to taste the magnificent Garnacha wines and other native varieties.
A Land of Wines with History
Day trips from Zaragoza to Cariñena take you to one of the oldest and most prestigious wine destinations in Spain. The designation of origin established in 1933 attests to the region’s long winemaking tradition. This area is famous for its high-quality wines, especially those made with the Garnacha grape, known for its potent flavor and versatility. Exploring Cariñena means delving into the history of wine, learning about the traditional and modern techniques that have made this land a global benchmark.
Winery Visits and Tastings
Day trips from Zaragoza to Cariñena offer the opportunity to explore its historic wineries. Many ancient wineries regularly open their doors, conducting interesting guided tours that explain the slow process of wine production, from the vine’s fruit to the bottle’s rest. In these private visits, you can walk among the centuries-old vineyards, marvel at the modern production facilities, and, of course, taste some of the best local wines. Wine tastings usually include a selection of native varieties like Garnacha, allowing you to discover the diversity and richness of the wines produced in Cariñena over the centuries.
When planning your day trips from Zaragoza, don’t miss exploring the culinary delights of the city itself. Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of El Tubo, the most popular tapas area in Zaragoza, a must-visit for any food lover.
Wine Culture and Tradition
Cariñena is a region with a millenary culture rooted in viticulture. Day trips from Zaragoza allow you to delve into Aragonese rural life and understand how wine has shaped this land’s economy and customs over the years. Its colorful festivities and harvest-related events are common during this time, and visitors can enjoy local celebrations that highlight the importance of this drink in Cariñena’s identity. These ethnographic experiences enrich the trip, providing a deeper understanding of the people and traditions of the region.
Gastronomy and Wine
The perfect combination of regional cuisine and its exclusive wines is one of the greatest attractions of day trips from Zaragoza to Cariñena. Local restaurants offer enotourism menus that highlight each wine’s unique qualities, creating a sensory experience that will delight the most discerning food and wine lovers. From typical Aragonese dishes to avant-garde proposals, Cariñena’s gastronomic offerings perfectly complement its centuries-old wines, turning each meal into a celebration of its native flavors.
4. A Day Trip to Tarazona
Located just an hour from Zaragoza, Tarazona captivates anyone
who wishes to immerse themselves in history and culture. Its origins date back to the pre-Roman era, and thanks to its early establishment as an episcopal see, its historic center houses impressive monuments that tell its past. For centuries, the harmonious coexistence of Christians, Jews, and Muslims further enriched this city, whose cobbled streets invite visitors to explore centuries of traditions.
A Journey through Time
Day trips from nearby Zaragoza allow you to transport yourself to another era in Tarazona. With pre-Roman roots, its historic center captivates with its unique charm and architecture, shaped by its early designation as an episcopal see. The churches, palaces, and squares of the old town describe the trajectory of cultures that left their mark. Losing yourself in its narrow streets is immersing yourself in the history of this beautiful city, cradle of important religious and cultural milestones.
Coexistence of Cultures
Tarazona stands out as a model of harmony between cultures. For centuries, its streets peacefully housed Christians, Jews, and Muslims, whose traditions shaped the city. The old Jewish and Moorish quarters testify to this coexistence while teaching about each community’s contributions. Day trips from Zaragoza allow you to explore these historic neighborhoods and appreciate the wealth each culture brought to this fascinating town.
Architectural and Artistic Heritage
Tarazona’s old town hides a world of architectural and artistic heritage to discover. The cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Huerta impresses with its unique blend of Gothic, Mudéjar, and Renaissance styles within its walls. Other notable sites include the Episcopal Palace, the Renaissance and emblematic Town Hall, and the Church of San Miguel Arcángel. Each of these buildings tells a part of Tarazona’s fascinating history and showcases the region’s architectural evolution over the centuries. Guided tours offer a deeper perspective on these monuments and their legacy.
Events and Festivities
Tarazona also stands out for its vibrant events and festivities that enrich the annual calendar. Weekend trips from Zaragoza can coincide with some of the most representative celebrations, such as the traditional and colorful Fiesta del Cipotegato. Participating in these festivities allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the euphoria and traditions passed down from generation to generation. They are a unique opportunity to meet the locals and be part of deeply rooted customs.
5. The Royal Monastery of Santa María de Veruela
It is a 12th-century Cistercian abbey located near Vera de Moncayo, in Tarazona and El Moncayo. Approximately 50 minutes from Zaragoza, this excursion will allow you to discover a monastery in perfect state of conservation. Illustrious figures such as the Bécquer brothers, Gustavo Adolfo and Valeriano –the painter–, found in Veruela a romantic place par excellence that inspired many passages of their works. Additionally, you can visit its new Borja wine museum and enjoy restaurants with typical ecological cuisine of the region.
A Cistercian Treasure
The Royal Monastery of Santa María de Veruela is a gem of Cistercian architecture in Spain. Founded in the 12th century, this monastery has been carefully preserved, offering visitors an authentic vision of medieval monastic life. Day trips from Zaragoza to Veruela allow you to explore its impressive cloisters, the abbey church, and other monastic dependencies, all surrounded by an atmosphere of serenity and architectural beauty. Every corner of the monastery tells a story, from the austere simplicity of its cells to the majestic structure of its church.
While exploring the attractions around Zaragoza, make sure to indulge in the local cuisine. Discover the top culinary delights in our guide on the 10 dishes you should taste if you come to Zaragoza and experience the rich flavors that define this historic city.
Romantic Inspiration
The Monastery of Veruela has been a source of inspiration for numerous artists, including the Bécquer brothers. Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, one of Spain’s most important romantic poets, and his brother Valeriano found a creative refuge in Veruela. Day trips from Zaragoza to this monastery will allow you to discover the places that inspired some of their most famous works. The romantic atmosphere and natural surroundings of the monastery evoke a time of introspection and creativity that still resonates within its walls.
Borja Wine Museum
A visit to the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Veruela would not be complete without exploring its new Borja wine museum. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of wine in the region. You can learn about traditional winemaking techniques, discover local grape varieties, and, of course, taste some of the exquisite wines produced in the area. This enological experience is an excellent way to complement your visit to the monastery, combining history, culture, and sensory pleasure.
Ecological Gastronomy
The restaurants near the monastery offer ecological cuisine that reflects the authentic flavors of the region. Day trips from Zaragoza to Veruela allow you to enjoy dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients, paired with Borja wines. The combination of the monastery’s rich history with an exceptional gastronomic experience makes this excursion a perfect option for culture and good food lovers.
Discover the Magic!
Are you ready to uncover hidden treasures on day trips from Zaragoza? Don’t wait any longer and start planning your next journey. Each destination offers unique emotions, whether it’s the medieval history of Tarazona, the lush nature of the Monastery of Piedra, or the wineries of Cariñena. Explore, have fun, and feel the rich culture, landscapes, and gastronomy that await you beyond the Aragonese capital. Make your stay unforgettable! Share your adventures and photos using #Rutica41. We look forward to seeing you soon discovering everything this wonderful land has to offer.