Zaragoza isn’t just a city of stunning architecture and ancient ruins; it offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that bring its stories and flavors to life. If you’re into exploring local cuisine, an evening of wine tasting and tapas in the lively El Tubo district offers a perfect blend of history, gastronomy, and local color. For those wanting a more personalized approach, a private guide can tailor a walk through Zaragoza’s key sights and hidden corners, making the city feel like your own. And if you’re curious about the local wine culture or want to learn how to cook authentic Spanish dishes, Zaragoza has fantastic options to suit various interests and budgets.
Some of our favorites include the Wine Tasting and Tapas Tour, a lively, private 3-hour walk through Zaragoza’s historic streets with food and drink, and the Midday Market & Spanish Cooking Class, where you get hands-on with regional recipes. Whether you prefer a structured guided tour or a flexible, personalized experience, Zaragoza’s diverse offerings make it easy to find something that fits your travel style.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of tours and experiences in Zaragoza, ranging from culinary adventures and private walking tours to cultural excursions and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include the popular Wine Tasting and Tapas in Zaragoza, which combines regional wines with local bites, and the Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide, perfect for tailored explorations. For a taste of local gastronomy, the Midday Market Tour and Cooking Class offers delicious hands-on learning. Those interested in history and architecture can choose the Monumental Walking Tour, which delves into Zaragoza’s 2000-year story.
Below, you’ll find detailed breakdowns of each experience, helping you decide which aligns best with your interests and schedule.
1. Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza
At number 1 on our list, this private 3-hour culinary tour immerses you in Zaragoza’s vibrant evening scene. Led by a private guide, you’ll wander through the historic center, stopping at four local bars for generous samples of regional wines and traditional tapas. The tour is carefully curated to showcase Zaragoza’s culinary heritage, with tastings from four distinct denominations of origin—Cariñena, Campo de Borja, Calatayud, and Somontano—paired with local cheeses, vegetables, and ham.
What makes this experience stand out is the intimate setting—your guide customizes the experience based on your tastes, providing personalized tips for the rest of your stay. The walking pace allows you to savor the atmosphere of Zaragoza’s Roman, Muslim, Jewish, and Christian influences woven into its food scene. Reviewers love Marta, the guide, for her depth of knowledge and approachable style. One wrote, “Her personality is easy and congenial – she was a joy to spend an evening with!”
Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers wanting an authentic taste of Zaragoza’s culinary history paired with lively local atmospheres.
2. Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza
For around $52, you can enjoy a flexible, private walking tour that puts you in the driver’s seat — or rather, your local guide. No set itinerary means you can focus on your interests or simply ask your guide to craft a personalized experience. This tour typically includes highlights like Puente de Piedra, Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, and the Roman Walls, but can also go beyond the standard path to explore lesser-known sights.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and ability to customize the tour, with reviewers noting that their guide, Jose, “provided insights into the fascinating history of Zaragoza” and helped them understand the city’s architecture, religious sites, and local culture. The flexibility makes this ideal for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed introduction without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious travelers who want a tailored experience and the freedom to explore at their own pace.
3. Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class
This 4-hour hands-on experience begins with a visit to Zaragoza’s Mercado Central, where you’ll meet local vendors, buy seasonal ingredients, and learn how Zaragoza residents do their shopping. Then it’s into the kitchen to learn how to prepare dishes like lamb paella, tomato salad, and regional tapas under the guidance of an expert.
What makes this experience memorable is the combination of market immersion and cooking—you’re not just tasting, but learning the techniques behind authentic regional cuisine. Jorge, the instructor, is praised for his friendly, informative style, making even complex dishes approachable. Reviewers mention that they loved the opportunity to cook and then enjoy their creations paired with local wine. One said, “It’s a not-to-miss experience; I learned so much and ate a lot.”
Bottom line: Ideal for culinary travelers eager to master authentic Aragonese dishes and engage directly with local food culture.
4. Midday Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Old Town of Belchite
This 5-hour experience offers a deep dive into olive oil production and history. You’ll stroll through groves of ancient olive trees before visiting a family-run olive oil mill to see the process firsthand. You’ll even taste some of the virgin olive oil produced on-site.
Afterward, you’ll explore the historic village of Belchite, known for its ruins and tales of wartime destruction. The guide shares stories that bring the place’s turbulent past to life, making for an emotionally and culturally rich outing.
Guests praise Marta’s engaging storytelling and the “outstanding” olive oil tasting. The visit to Belchite is described as “unforgettable,” especially with a guide who knows the full story. This tour is perfect for history buffs and those interested in agriculture or local traditions.
Bottom line: A unique mix of culinary and historical exploration, suited for travelers with a curiosity for rural life and wartime history.
5. Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket
For families or curious visitors, the Zaragoza Aquarium offers a fascinating escape into freshwater ecosystems. With admission to Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium, you’ll see over 300 species of river fauna from the Amazon, Mekong, Nile, and other rivers. The ticket allows flexible entry, so you can visit at your own pace.
The highlight is the large central tank representing primal river waters, along with numerous smaller habitats showcasing caimans, rays, colorful fish, and turtles. Reviewers describe it as “impressive” and “beautiful,” making it a good option for a relaxing, educational break from urban sightseeing.
Bottom line: A perfect option for families or anyone interested in aquatic life, especially if you want a hassle-free visit with pre-purchased tickets.
6. Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket
This ticket grants access to the same impressive River Aquarium experience but with the convenience of a one-day validity. It’s ideal if you plan to visit the aquarium along with other attractions, giving flexibility to fit it into your schedule.
Reviewers note the tank diversity—more than 6,000 animals across 320 species—and the chance to explore various aquatic ecosystems. It’s a great option for those wanting a straightforward, budget-friendly activity.
Bottom line: An easy choice for visitors wanting to explore Zaragoza’s aquatic ecosystems at a good value.
7. Zaragoza: Private Tour with a Local Guide
This 2-6 hour private tour emphasizes personal connection over a fixed itinerary. Your local guide will take you through main sights and hidden corners, sharing stories and tips on local eateries, transport, and culture. Reviewers highlight guides like Jose, who “provided insights into the fascinating history” and tailored the experience to their interests.
This tour is perfect if you want to discover less touristy spots or focus on specific themes like architecture or local neighborhoods. The guide’s familiarity with the city allows for a more relaxed, authentic experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a personalized, flexible introduction to Zaragoza with a friendly local.
8. Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Similar to the previous experience but with even more flexibility, this 2-8 hour tour offers a fully customizable exploration. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see major sights and off-the-beaten-path locations based on your interests.
Guests describe guides like Reyes as “enthusiastic and highly informative,” making the city’s history and architecture come alive. The tour is highly adaptable, whether you want to focus on history, food, or local life.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want complete control over what they see and learn about Zaragoza, with a guide who acts as your personal concierge.
9. Zaragoza: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This 2-6 hour personalized walk emphasizes authentic connections. Your local guide will reveal hidden gems, stories, and the best spots for local food and drink. It’s perfect if you’re after a less touristy experience that feels more like exploring with a friend.
Guests mention how their guide, Reyes, was “enthusiastic and very informative,” making the city’s history and culture accessible and engaging. This tour is suitable for those who want a relaxed, personal experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a friendly, in-depth look at Zaragoza with a local’s touch.
10. Half-day Winery Tour from Zaragoza
For wine lovers, this half-day tour takes you to Cariñena, a region known for its D.O.P. wines. Visiting two small wineries—Bodegas Ignacio Marin and Heredad Anson—you’ll learn about local wine-making traditions and sample their wines and cava.
The tour includes round-trip transfer, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Guests love Jorge’s passion and knowledge, describing it as a “memorable experience.” One review notes, “He picked two fabulous wineries, and we enjoyed every moment from tasting to the ride back.”
Bottom line: Great for wine enthusiasts wanting an intimate look at local wineries without the hassle of self-driving.
11. Evening traditional tapas walking tour in old Zaragoza center
This 3-hour private evening tour combines tapas, wine, and local stories. Starting around 6 pm, you’ll visit El Tubo, Zaragoza’s famed tapas district, sampling local delicacies along with Aragonese wine. Your guide shares insights into Zaragoza’s culinary influences and culture as you hop between bars.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the engaging atmosphere, though some mention the portion sizes could be larger—“a tasty, lively evening,” as one reviewer put it. The tour is especially suited for foodies wanting to experience Zaragoza’s nightlife.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a relaxed, social evening exploring local tapas and wine with a knowledgeable host.
12. Monumental Walking Tour in Old Town of Zaragoza
This 2.5-hour guided walk showcases Zaragoza’s 2000-year history through its architectural landmarks. Starting at the Roman Theater Museum, you’ll explore La Seo Cathedral and the Basilica del Pilar, learning about their architectural styles and historical significance.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide who “made the past come alive,” and the rundown of Zaragoza’s cultural legacy. The tour is suitable for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Bottom line: A solid choice for those interested in architecture and history, providing a broad overview of Zaragoza’s monumental heritage.
How to Choose Your Perfect Zaragoza Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and how you want to experience Zaragoza. If you’re a food lover, the Wine Tasting and Tapas or the Cooking Class are top picks. For a personalized experience, both the Private Custom Tour and the Zaragoza Private Guided Tour offer flexible routes tailored to your preferences.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Monumental Walking Tour, while families or aquatic life fans may prefer the Zaragoza Aquarium. For wine connoisseurs, the Half-day Winery Tour combines scenic countryside with tastings, making it a worthwhile day trip.
Remember to book in advance, especially for popular experiences, and consider your schedule—some tours are better suited for mornings, others for evenings.
In The Sum Up
Zaragoza offers a range of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes—whether you’re after gastronomy, history, culture, or family fun. For a lively, flavorful introduction, the Wine Tasting and Tapas Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more tailored, local touch, the Private Guided Tours and Custom Walking Tour let you set your own pace and focus.
For those seeking a mix of culinary and cultural experiences, the Midday Market & Cooking Class and Olive Oil & Belchite Visit are excellent options. Whatever your interest, booking early will ensure you secure a spot in these popular Zaragoza experiences.