Top 9 Zaragoza, Spain road trips: Towns and Landmarks of Interest

Planning a road trip from Zaragoza offers a wealth of opportunities to explore Spain’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural treasures. To help you navigate these options, we’ve compiled a list of the top nine Zaragoza Spain road trips, each featuring must-visit towns and landmarks.

1. Calatayud and Monasterio de Piedra

Distance: Approximately 110 km southwest of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Calatayud: A historic town renowned for its Mudéjar architecture, including the Collegiate Church of Santa María. Nearby, explore the ancient Roman ruins of Bilbilis.
Monasterio de Piedra: A 12th-century monastery set within a park famous for its stunning waterfalls, caves, and lush greenery.

Travel Hack: Start your day early at Monasterio de Piedra to enjoy the serene landscapes before the crowds arrive, then spend your afternoon exploring Calatayud’s rich history.

Citations:

2. Belchite

Distance: Approximately 49 km southeast of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Old Town of Belchite: Preserved ruins from the Spanish Civil War serve as a poignant reminder of history. Guided tours provide deep insights into the events that unfolded here.

Travel Hack: Evening tours offer a unique atmosphere, with the setting sun casting evocative shadows over the ruins.

Citations:

Belchite Tourism

3. Tarazona and Moncayo Natural Park

Distance: Approximately 85 km northwest of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Tarazona: A town known for its well-preserved Mudéjar architecture, notably the Cathedral of Santa María de la Huerta.
Moncayo Natural Park: Offers diverse hiking trails and is home to the highest peak in the Iberian System mountain range.

Travel Hack: Combine a morning hike in Moncayo with an afternoon exploring Tarazona’s historic sites for a balanced day of nature and culture.

Citations:

Tarazona Tourism
Moncayo Natural Park Information

4. Huesca and Loarre Castle

Distance: Approximately 75 km north of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Huesca: A city rich in history with landmarks like the Huesca Cathedral and the Monastery of San Pedro el Viejo.
Loarre Castle: One of the best-preserved Romanesque castles in Europe, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Travel Hack: Visiting Loarre Castle in the morning allows for fewer crowds and optimal lighting for photography.

Citations:

5. Sos del Rey Católico

Distance: Approximately 122 km north of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Sos del Rey Católico: A medieval village known as the birthplace of King Ferdinand II of Aragon. Its well-preserved stone streets and buildings transport visitors back in time.

Travel Hack: Staying overnight in one of the village’s charming accommodations allows you to experience its tranquil nighttime ambiance.

Citations:

Sos del Rey Católico Tourism

6. Alquézar and Vero River Footbridges

Distance: Approximately 127 km northeast of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Alquézar: A picturesque village perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views and rich history.
Vero River Footbridges: A scenic walking route featuring hanging footbridges over the Vero River, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Travel Hack: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry water, especially during warmer months, to fully enjoy the trails.

Citations:

Alquézar Tourism
Vero River Footbridges Information

7. Daroca

Distance: Approximately 83 km southwest of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Daroca: A town encircled by impressive medieval walls stretching over 4 km. Key sites include the Basilica of Santa María and the Puerta Baja gate.

Travel Hack: Visiting during local festivals offers a deeper insight into the town’s traditions and vibrant community life.

Citations:

Daroca Tourism

8. Fuendetodos

Distance: Approximately 44 km south of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Birthplace of Francisco Goya: Visit the house where the renowned painter was born, now a museum showcasing his works and life.

Travel Hack: Combining the museum visit with a tour of local art workshops provides a comprehensive understanding of Goya’s influence and the town’s artistic heritage.

Citations:

Fuendetodos Goya Museum

9. Mequinenza

Distance: Approximately 150 km southeast of Zaragoza

Highlights:

Mequinenza Castle: A restored fortress offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Ebro, Segre, and Cinca rivers.
Water Sports: The reservoirs around Mequinenza are popular for fishing, sailing, and other water activities.

Travel Hack: Pack a picnic and spend the day on or near the water — Mequinenza’s peaceful riverbanks and lake views make it perfect for a relaxing escape, especially in spring and early autumn.

Citations:

✅ Fact Check & Research Sources

This list was compiled and cross-referenced using official Aragon tourism portals, municipal websites, and user-generated travel platforms like TripAdvisor and Spain.info. All distances were fact-checked via Google Maps using Zaragoza city center as the starting point.

✨ Conclusion: Why These 9 Zaragoza Spain road trips Are Worth Your Time

If you’re based in Zaragoza or passing through, these nine road trip ideas offer a powerful mix of:

🏛️ Historical depth (e.g., Belchite, Sos del Rey Católico)
🏞️ Natural beauty (e.g., Moncayo, Mequinenza)
🎨 Artistic legacy (e.g., Fuendetodos)
🏰 Epic landmarks (e.g., Loarre Castle, Monasterio de Piedra)

Each destination is under 2.5 hours by car, making them perfect for day trips or overnight stays. The roads are generally well maintained, and the surrounding regions are safe, scenic, and culturally rich.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or a couple seeking romantic hidden gems, Zaragoza’s central location makes it a launchpad for discovering some of the best-kept secrets of northeastern Spain.

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