Aragón

Aragon ( Spanish and Aragonese : Aragón , Catalan : Aragó ) is a region in the north of Spain . Despite seeing limited tourist traffic compared to other regions, it holds a wealth of unique sights, with villages and towns rich in architectural history picturesquely extending on the hillsides and in the valleys in the midst of the barren, mountainous countryside

Covering a vast territory in northeastern Spain, Aragón attracts millions of visitors annually with its stunning Pyrenean landscapes, medieval villages, and Romanesque architecture. The region is easily accessible from major European cities and offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveller.

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for visiting Aragón, with mild temperatures perfect for exploring cities and hiking. Summer is pleasant in the Pyrenees but can be hot in the Ebro valley around Zaragoza. Winter brings snow to the Pyrenees, making it perfect for skiing at resorts like Formigal and Astún. The Fiestas del Pilar in Zaragoza (October) are the region's biggest festival.

Zaragoza is the transport hub, connected by high-speed AVE trains to Madrid (1h15), Barcelona (1h30), and other major Spanish cities. Regional trains and buses serve Huesca, Teruel, and smaller towns. Driving is the best option for exploring the Pyrenees and the region's many medieval villages. The A-2 motorway links Zaragoza with Madrid and Barcelona, while the A-23 connects Zaragoza to Teruel and Valencia. Mountain roads in the Pyrenees can be winding.

• Zaragoza
• Huesca
• Teruel
• Calatayud
• Jaca
• Barbastro
• Alcaniz
• Tarazona
• Ainsa
• Albarracin
• Sos del Rey Catolico
• Uncastillo
• Roda de Isabena
• Anento
• Hecho
• Anso
• Biel
• Daroca
• Mora de Rubielos
• Rubielos de Mora
• Cantavieja
• Fuendetodos
• Benasque
• Bielsa
• Torla
• Alquezar
• Campo
• Graus
• Canfranc
• Murillo de Gallego
• Villanueva de Sigena
• Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
• Moncayo Natural Park
• Sierra y Canones de Guara Natural Park
• Posets-Maladeta Natural Park
• Valles Occidentales Natural Park

Aragonese cuisine is hearty and mountain-influenced. Lamb (ternasco de Aragón) is the signature dish, roasted or grilled to perfection. The region produces excellent olive oil from the Bajo Aragón region. Longaniza (cured sausage) and jamón de Teruel (cured ham from Teruel) are protected D.O. products. Migas aragonesas (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo and bacon) is a traditional shepherd's dish. For dessert, try adoquines de Alcañiz (marzipan-like pastries) or guirlache (almond nougat). Borraja (borage) is a locally-loved vegetable rarely found elsewhere in Spain.

Aragón has a rich cultural heritage spanning Romanesque architecture (declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Pyrenees), Mudéjar art, and the legacy of the Crown of Aragon. The Fiestas del Pilar in Zaragoza (October) honour the city's patron saint with parades, concerts, and the famous ofrenda de flores (flower offering). Semana Santa in Zaragoza and Teruel features impressive processions. The region is known for its jota aragonesa dance and music, performed in traditional costume. The medieval villages of Albarracín and Sos del Rey Católico host historical reenactments.

• Hike through the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic canyons and waterfalls
• Explore the medieval village of Albarracín, one of Spain's most beautiful hilltop towns with its pink-hued walls
• Visit the Basilica del Pilar in Zaragoza, one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites
• Ski in the Aragonese Pyrenees at resorts like Formigal, Astún, or Candanchú
• Discover the Romanesque churches of the Serrabona Valley and the Cathedral of Jaca