Aragon is a landlocked autonomous community in northeastern Spain stretching from the crest of the Pyrenees in the north to the semi-arid steppes of the Ebro basin in the center and the rugged Iberian System in the south. Its capital Zaragoza holds two-thirds of the regional population and anchors a rich tapestry of Mudéjar Islamic-Gothic architecture recognized by UNESCO. Beyond the city, medieval hilltop villages such as Alquézar and Aínsa overlook river gorges, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park offers some of Iberia's finest high-altitude scenery, and Cañón del Río Ara draws canyoneers from across Europe.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Jamón de Teruel DOP: available vacuum-packed at El Corte Inglés or Jamones Arturo (Calle Gargallo, 5, Teruel)
Cariñena / Somontano wines: buy from local bodegas or Casa del Vino de Aragón (Calle Mártires, 14, Zaragoza)
Truffle products from Sarrión (Teruel): fresh truffles Nov–Feb; year-round preserved oils and butters at Arotz (trufasdelmaestrazgo.com)
Mudéjar-inspired ceramics: Albarracín and Teruel shops carry hand-painted tiles and tableware
Borau brand almond turrones: traditional Aragonese nougat from Confitería Fantoba (Calle Don Jaime I, 26, Zaragoza)
Saffron from La Mancha/Teruel border area: buy from specialist spice shops on Calle Alfonso I
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Mercado Central de Zaragoza
Fresh produce, Aragonese charcuterie, Teruel ham, olives, cheeses, local vegetables including borraja
Where: Zaragoza, Casco Histórico
Hours: Mon–Sat 07:00–15:00; closed Sun
Mercado de Lanuza
Neighborhood market; fresh fish, meat, fruit
Where: Zaragoza
Hours: Mon–Fri 08:00–14:00 and 17:00–20:00; Sat 08:00–14:00
Rastro de Zaragoza (Flea Market)
Second-hand goods, antiques, collectibles; free to browse
Where: Zaragoza
Hours: Sun 09:00–14:00
Mercado de Productores de Aragón
Direct-from-producer olive oils, wines, honey, saffron, vegetables, artisanal cheeses
Where: Zaragoza (varies)
Hours: Monthly Saturday market 10:00–15:00