Jaca Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Jaca, Spain with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, and transportation options.
- Introduction to Jaca
- List of Places to Visit in Jaca
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Jaca
- Best Things to Do in Jaca: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Jaca
- Food and Drink Scene of Jaca
- Where to Stay in Jaca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Jaca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Jaca
- Best Time to Visit Jaca
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Jaca: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Jaca
- Where to Go Next from Jaca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Jaca
Located in the Aragon region of Northern Spain, Jaca is a charming town with rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by the Pyrenees, it is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. It is also home to historical landmarks, museums, and gastronomical delights.
List of Places to Visit in Jaca
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Citadel of Jaca: A 16th-century military fortress that has been transformed into a cultural center.
- Romanesque Cathedral of Jaca: A remarkable architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 11th century.
- Diocesan Museum of Jaca: Displays an impressive collection of religious art from the Romanesque and Gothic periods.
- Clock Tower: A medieval tower that stands on the main square and that houses the Town Hall.
Natural Attractions of Jaca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Valle de Canfranc: A stunning valley located near Jaca with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Ideal for hiking.
- Coll de Ladrones: A mountain pass offering amazing views of the Aragonese Pyrenees. Popular for cycling and hiking.
- Astún Ski Resort: A popular skiing destination near Jaca, known for its well-maintained tracks.
- Ibon de Estanes: A beautiful lake surrounded by mountain peaks, located about 25 km from Jaca.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Jaca
- Camino de Santiago: A 900 km trail that passes through Jaca and attracts hundreds of hikers and bikers from all over the world.
- GR 11: A long-distance trail that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea and passes through the Pyrenees.
- Valle de Tena: A picturesque valley located near Jaca with several hiking and biking trails.
Best Things to Do in Jaca: Activities and Tours
- Skiing and snowboarding: Enjoy a day on the slopes at Astún Ski Resort.
- Romanesque Art Route: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Jaca by exploring its impressive collection of Romanesque art and architecture.
- Horse Riding: Enjoy a guided horseback ride in the mountains surrounding Jaca.
Week-Long Itinerary for Jaca
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Jaca and explore the town center |
| 2 | Hike in Valle de Tena |
| 3 | Ski at Astún Ski Resort |
| 4 | Visit the Citadel and Diocesan Museum of Jaca |
| 5 | Explore the Camino de Santiago Trail |
| 6 | Bike in Coll de Ladrones |
| 7 | Relax and enjoy the local cuisine |
Food and Drink Scene of Jaca
Must-Try Dishes
- Migas: A traditional dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, chorizo, and bacon.
- Ternasco de Aragón: Slow-roasted lamb, a popular dish in Aragon.
- Chiretas: Sausage made with lamb meat and rice.
Local Beverages
- Rioja Wine: A famous red wine produced in the La Rioja region.
- Sangria: A refreshing alcoholic beverage made with red wine, fruit, and sweeteners.
- Patxaran: A local liqueur made from sloe berries.
Where to Stay in Jaca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hotel Oroel: A charming hotel located in the heart of Jaca, known for its excellent service.
- Albergue Jaca: A budget-friendly hostel that offers comfortable rooms and a friendly ambiance.
- Casa Rural Alodia: A traditional guesthouse surrounded by beautiful gardens, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
What to Buy in Jaca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Ceramics: Handcrafted pottery made in the traditional Aragonese style.
- Embroidered Linens: Delicate linens embroidered with traditional designs.
Local Culture and Customs of Jaca
The Aragonese people, of which citizens of Jaca belong to, have a strong sense of community and family values. They celebrate their religious and cultural events with heavy involvement in traditions and festivals. Visitors should respect these customs and traditions of the locals when visiting Jaca.
Best Time to Visit Jaca
The best time to visit Jaca is in the summer (June to August), when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Winters are popular for skiing and snow sports, and can become very cold.
Do’s and Don’ts of Jaca
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Try the local cuisine, including regional specialties.
Don’t:
- Touch or disturb ancient monuments and artifacts.
- Ignore traffic laws and pedestrian crossing signs.
Safety and Health
Safety in Jaca
Jaca is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and avoid leaving their possessions unattended.
Health in Jaca
The health care system in Jaca is advanced and well-established. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate medical insurance and carry any necessary medication throughout their stay.
Getting to Jaca: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Jaca
The nearest airports to Jaca are Zaragoza Airport (136 km) and Pau-Pyrenees Airport (135 km).
Bus Stations Near Jaca
Jaca has a bus station that connects it to neighboring towns and cities. ALSA is the primary bus company servicing Jaca.
Other Options
Visitors can reach Jaca by train, taking the RENFE line to Sabiñánigo.
How to Get Around in Jaca
Visitors can get around Jaca by foot or by taking a taxi.
Where to Go Next from Jaca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Huesca: A historic town known for its Romanesque architecture and local cuisine, located about 70 km from Jaca.
- Ordesa National Park: A stunning nature reserve located about 100 km from Jaca, known for its diverse wildlife and waterfalls.
- Santander: A coastal city located about 250 km from Jaca, known for its beaches, local cuisine, and museums.
Conclusion
Jaca is a historical and cultural treasure, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, Jaca has something to offer. Take our tour guide with you when planning your next trip, and enjoy a unique, unforgettable experience in this beautiful town.
