Jaca

A historic Pyrenean town anchored by an imposing star-shaped citadel and a Romanesque cathedral, once a key stop on the Camino de Santiago. It serves as a lively base for skiing and mountain excursions.

Things to do

• Explore the Ciudadela de Jaca — This pentagonal 16th-century star fort, one of the best-preserved in Europe, has a moat with grazing fallow deer and hosts medieval-themed tours.
• Visit Jaca Cathedral — One of Spain's earliest Romanesque cathedrals, its carved capitals and adjoining Diocesan Museum showcase remarkable medieval murals.
• Wander the old town streets — Stroll past porticoed houses and pilgrim hostels along the Camino de Santiago route that threads through Jaca's historic center.
• Day trip to Canfranc International Railway Station — This grand, half-abandoned Belle Époque station near the French border was once one of Europe's largest and now hosts a boutique hotel and exhibits.
• Ski at Astún — A modern ski resort in the Pyrenees a short drive from Jaca, popular for its varied slopes and lively après-ski scene.
• Ski or hike at Candanchú — Spain's oldest ski resort offers winter slopes and, in summer, trails leading toward mountain lakes and the French border.
• Hike to Ibón de Estanés — A scenic high-altitude glacial lake reachable via a moderate trail through the Valle de Aísa, popular with day hikers from Jaca.
• Attend the Sunday citadel reenactment — On select Sundays, costumed performers reenact 16th-century garrison life within the citadel walls, complete with period music and drills.

Food to try

• Ternasco de Aragón — Tender young lamb, roasted or grilled, is the region's signature dish and a staple on Jaca's menus.
• Migas aragonesas — A hearty shepherd's dish of fried breadcrumbs mixed with chorizo, bacon, and grapes, warming after a day in the mountains.
• Trucha del río Aragón — Fresh trout from the nearby Aragón River, often served pan-fried with cured ham in the local style.
• Queso de Jaca — A creamy cow's milk cheese from Pyrenean pastures, commonly served as a tapa with quince paste.
• Longaniza de Aragón — A cured, lightly spiced pork sausage found in local charcuterie boards and bocadillos.
• Pastel Ruso — Jaca's beloved almond and meringue cake, a specialty of local bakeries like Pastelería Torrijos since the 19th century.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect pilgrim etiquette — As a stop on the Camino de Santiago, Jaca sees many pilgrims, so albergues and cafés often prioritize their early-morning routines.
• Expect a slower midday pace — Many shops and some restaurants close for a few hours in early afternoon, reopening in the evening as is typical across Aragón.
• Join the Primer Viernes de Mayo festival — On the first Friday of May, the town commemorates a legendary medieval victory over Moorish forces with parades and costumed reenactments.
• Dress for mountain weather shifts — Jaca's location near the Pyrenees means quick temperature changes, so layered clothing is wise even in summer.