Zaragoza — Discover Aragón’s Historic Capital

Zaragoza, Aragón’s capital, sits strategically between Madrid and Barcelona on the banks of the Ebro River. The city’s 2,000-year history has left a remarkable legacy: Roman ruins, the Aljafería Islamic palace, and the stunning Basilica del Pilar—one of Spain’s most important pilgrimage sites. But beyond the city, Aragón offers dramatic landscapes: the Pyrenees to the north, the desert of Los Monegros to the south, and charming villages throughout. Hiring a car in Zaragoza provides access to all of this.

The city’s position at the crossroads of Spain makes it an ideal base for exploration. Within two hours, you can reach the Pyrenees for hiking and skiing, the wine regions of Cariñena and Somontano, or the medieval villages of the Aragonese countryside. A rental car transforms Zaragoza from a city break into a comprehensive exploration of one of Spain’s least-visited but most rewarding regions.

Picking Up Your Rental Car in Zaragoza

Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) sits 16km southwest of the city. All major companies operate here, though selection is more limited than at Madrid or Barcelona. The airport serves domestic flights and some international routes.

City locations include offices near Delicias train station (high-speed trains from Madrid and Barcelona) and in the city centre.

Required documents: Valid driving licence, passport or ID, and credit card. EU licence holders don’t need an International Driving Permit; non-EU visitors should check requirements.

Where to Go with Your Rental Car from Zaragoza

Zaragoza City

The Basilica del Pilar, Aljafería Palace, and Roman forum ruins deserve at least a full day. The city’s tapas scene is excellent, particularly in the El Tubo quarter. Goya’s birthplace is marked by several sites.

Monasterio de Piedra (100km, 1.5hr)

A stunning natural park with waterfalls, caves, and a historic monastery. The waterfalls are spectacular, and the gardens offer cool shade in summer. One of Aragón’s most visited attractions.

Cariñena Wine Region (50km, 45min)

One of Spain’s oldest wine denominations, producing robust reds from Garnacha grapes. Bodegas offer tastings and tours. The landscape of vineyards against distant mountains is photogenic.

Albarracín (180km, 2hr)

One of Spain’s most beautiful villages, with medieval streets climbing a hillside beneath a fortress. The surrounding sierra offers hiking and prehistoric rock art.

Pyrenees (150km, 2-2.5hr)

The Aragonese Pyrenees offer hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Ordesa National Park is spectacular, and villages like Aínsa and Bielsa maintain traditional character.

Tips for Driving in the Zaragoza Region

Roads: Main roads are excellent. The A-2 connects to Madrid and Barcelona. Mountain roads to the Pyrenees can be winding—allow extra time.

Speed limits: 50km/h in built-up areas, 90km/h on open roads, 120km/h on motorways.

Driving style: Spanish drivers are generally courteous. Zaragoza is less touristy than coastal areas, making for more relaxed driving.

Parking: Zaragoza has paid parking in the centre. Small towns generally have free parking.

Fuel: Stations are plentiful on main routes. Fill up before heading into the Pyrenees or remote areas.

Weather: Zaragoza has an extreme climate—very hot summers, cold winters. Check mountain conditions before driving to the Pyrenees in winter.

Book your Zaragoza car hire through the search above for competitive rates with airport and city pickup options.