With the arrival of spring, the days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, and our beloved city of Zaragoza is inviting us to get out and about more often. After the winter, it’s a great time to get back into going for walks, enjoying the fresh air and making plans with the family.
Here at the Lycée français Molière in Zaragoza, we like to remind ourselves that often the best plans don’t involve travelling far. Our city offers plenty of green spaces, urban walking routes and natural spots where children—and those who are young at heart—can play, get some exercise and discover new things.
If you fancy making the most of this season to spend more time outdoors, here are a few simple ideas for enjoy the city with your family, whether it’s during the week after school and work, or at the weekend or during the holidays.
1. Take a stroll through José Antonio Labordeta Park
If you’re looking for an easy way to spend a spring afternoon, José Antonio Labordeta Park is always a good choice. It’s one of Zaragoza’s most iconic parks and offers plenty of space to take a leisurely stroll, go for a bike ride or simply let the children explore.
You can start your walk along Avenida de San Sebastián, with its fountains and gardens, and gradually make your way towards the more wooded areas. You can finish the walk by heading up to the Batallador monument, which also offers some lovely views of the city.
For younger children, the play areas and the pond are usually must-see stops. And if you’re visiting with teenagers, the park is also a great place to skate, go for a run or take a leisurely stroll at the end of the day.
2. Explore the banks of the Ebro by bike or on foot
Another lovely way to enjoy this season in Zaragoza is to follow one of the paths and trails that run alongside the River Ebro. The riverbank features wide paths and cycle lanes that connect different parts of the city.
You could treat it as a short ride after school or as a little weekend outing. Along the route there are green spaces where you can stop, rest or simply watch the river and admire the Basilica del Pilar from its banks. Older children tend to particularly enjoy these bike rides!
3. Spend the afternoon at Luis Buñuel Water Park
The Water Park is located in the Ranillas area and was built during the 2008 Expo. This park is one of the largest green spaces in Zaragoza and a great place to visit when you fancy spending a few hours outdoors. Its spacious green areas are perfect for walking, running or playing freely, and it’s also a lovely spot for a picnic.
The paths are ideal for walking, running or cycling, and the open spaces are perfect for an impromptu picnic or a game of ball. Many families make the most of spring afternoons to relax there whilst the children play.
4. Head to Galacho de Juslibol to explore more of the natural surroundings
If you fancy getting away from the city for a bit without straying too far from it, the Galacho de Juslibol is a great option.
This nature reserve is formed by an old meander of the River Ebro and offers the chance to walk along its paths whilst observing birds and the vegetation typical of the area. It is the perfect place for children to experience nature first-hand as part of their daily lives.
This area is perfect for a half-day outing: a leisurely stroll, a little picnic and plenty of time to explore the surroundings at your own pace.
5. Rediscover Zaragoza’s historic centre on foot
Sometimes it’s also a good idea to see the city through fresh eyes. A stroll through Zaragoza’s historic centre can be a really enjoyable way to spend your time if you take it at a leisurely pace and step away from your daily routine for a while.
You can stroll through its squares, explore the remains of the ancient Roman city, or follow part of the Caesaraugusta Route, which gives you a glimpse of what Zaragoza was like many centuries ago. Children usually love the idea of walking in the very places where the Romans once lived.
6. Enjoy a quiet afternoon in Bruil Park
If you're simply looking for a quieter spot near the city centre, the Bruil Park It’s a lovely option for a family stroll.
Its paths and green spaces are perfect for a leisurely stroll whilst the little ones have a snack, play or explore the surroundings. It’s a simple plan you can enjoy after school or to kick off the weekend at a relaxed pace.
7. Go on a short trip in the area around Zaragoza
Our latest suggestion takes you a little way out of the city. It’s best suited for a day off or a weekend away. You don’t always need to plan big trips, as there are plenty of places in Aragón within easy reach where you can go for a short walk, enjoy the scenery and spend a different kind of day out with the children.
The options are almost endless, but here are three ideas that might inspire you if you fancy organising a simple family getaway.
- Monastery of Piedra: Located in Nuévalos. The walk through the nature reserve surrounding the monastery winds its way past waterfalls, lakes and well-signposted paths. The walk is usually great fun for children, as along the way they come across viewing points, caves and waterfalls, making the route a lovely and enjoyable experience.
- Alquézar: Located in the Sierra de Guara. Highly recommended! This small medieval village is considered one of the prettiest in Aragón, and from there you can walk along the footbridges over the River Vero. It is an easy route that runs alongside the river, combining nature, beautiful scenery and spectacular views of the surrounding area.
- Paseo de la Cantera. Located in Villanúa, near Jaca. Ideal if you fancy getting a little closer to the Pyrenees. The Paseo de la Cantera is a short, very easy trail that winds through a forest and takes you past old quarries used in the construction of the Canfranc International Railway Station. It’s a peaceful route, perfect for children and for enjoying the fresh mountain air.
These short getaways are also a great way to continue exploring the natural surroundings so close to Zaragoza. From the Lycée français Molière of Saragossa We encourage you to try out different activities outside the classroom, and spring is the perfect time to incorporate more time outdoors into your family routine. Going for walks, getting out and about, and exploring the city and its surroundings together can be a simple way to spend quality time together.
