Spain has experienced a wave of protests as locals voice frustration over overtourism. Popular Spanish cities, including Barcelona, have become hotbeds for demonstrations, with many tourists reporting feeling unwelcome while there on holiday.
However, among them is one Spanish city that is looking for more tourists, especially from the UK. Nestled along the banks of the Ebro River, Zaragoza is a captivating city in northeastern Spain. It is the capital of the autonomous community of Aragon and the fifth-largest city in Spain by population. Located just over an hour on the high-speed train from either Madrid or Barcelona, the city of Zaragoza hasn’t seen any overtourism protests so far. Far from it.
Tourism officials in the city are working to draw more visitors, setting themselves apart from destinations like Barcelona, where an overwhelming influx of holidaymakers has strained local infrastructure.
Ignacio Rodriguez Ruiz, head of tourism promotion at the Aragon regional government: “Zaragoza is an underrated city. It has much to offer in terms of hotels, restaurants and cultural riches. It is a welcoming city.
“We want more tourists because Zaragoza is eager to show to the world the cultural and gastronomic treasures that it has. It is a city which is more than 2,000 years old. It wants to share this legacy with other tourists from across the world.
“We want tourists to come, not just in summer. We want them to come in spring and autumn. It is a city full of events throughout the year. It is a city full of life.”
The city is home to Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a stunning baroque church and pilgrimage site, said to be the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Zaragoza is renowned for its lively tapas culture, particularly in the bustling El Tubo district, where narrow alleys are filled with atmospheric bars and local flavours.
The city proudly claims Francisco de Goya as one of its own—many of the legendary artist’s early works are housed in Zaragoza’s museums and churches, offering visitors a glimpse into his formative years.
Every October, the city comes alive during the Fiestas del Pilar, one of Spain’s most iconic festivals, celebrating its patron saint with vibrant parades, cultural events, and dazzling displays.
Currently, Zaragoza Airport operates just three weekly Ryanair flights from London Stansted, but local authorities are keen to expand direct air links and encourage more airlines to serve the city.