{"id":39689,"date":"2025-05-14T10:55:10","date_gmt":"2025-05-14T08:55:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/demo.winalist.fr\/blog?p=39689"},"modified":"2026-04-20T11:42:49","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T09:42:49","slug":"calatayud-things-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.winalist.com\/blog\/spain\/aragon\/calatayud-things-to-do","title":{"rendered":"Discover the Best Things to Do in Calatayud: A Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Tucked away in the province of Zaragoza, Calatayud<\/strong> is a hidden gem in the Aragon region that blends centuries of history, stunning Mud\u00e9jar architecture, and a growing reputation for wine tourism. From Roman ruins and fortress walls to thermal spas and natural parks, there are plenty of things to do in Calatayud if you're stopping by for the day or staying longer to soak it all in. This charming town is also a great starting point for an Aragon wine tour<\/a>, with vineyards scattered across the nearby hills producing standout Garnacha and other local varietals. Explore the winding streets of the old town, visit impressive landmarks like the Collegiate Church of Santa Mar\u00eda, and indulge in regional cuisine paired with wines straight from the source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What are the best things to do in Calatayud?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Mar\u00eda la Mayor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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When listing the top things to do in Calatayud, the Collegiate Church of Santa Mar\u00eda la Mayor easily earns a spot at the top. Towering above the historic Jewish Quarter, this breathtaking church is a masterclass in Gothic-Mud\u00e9jar fusion. Its ornate brickwork, ribbed vaults, and Renaissance flourishes reveal centuries of craftsmanship. Step inside to admire the richly decorated interior and explore one of the most celebrated monuments in all of Aragon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Wander at Monasterio de Piedra and discover stunning waterfalls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Just a short drive from the city, the Monasterio de Piedra<\/strong> is one of the most magical escapes near Calatayud. This lush natural park, draped in waterfalls and winding forest trails, surrounds the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. It\u2019s the kind of place where nature and history hold hands, and where you can take a breath, slow down, and simply explore. If you\u2019re looking for things to do in Calatayud that blend outdoor adventure with cultural heritage, this spot is an absolute must.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Walk to the Church of San Juan el Real<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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One of the most remarkable things to do in Calatayud for art and architecture lovers is to step inside the Church of San Juan el Real. This elegant Baroque structure holds a unique cultural treasure, murals attributed to Francisco de Goya himself. It's one of the few places where you can see how religious art evolved through the centuries, all beneath beautifully crafted domes and altarpieces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Explore the Calatayud Jewish Quarter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Step back in time<\/strong> as you explore Calatayud\u2019s historic Jewish quarter, one of the most atmospheric corners of the city. Winding cobbled alleys, vibrant brick facades, and hilltop viewpoints reveal the layered stories of a once-thriving medieval Jewish community. It's a peaceful, open-air museum of memory, and a must if you're curious about multicultural roots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Visit Puerta de Terrer, a Monumental Gateway<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The Puerta de Terrer<\/strong> stands as a proud remnant of the city\u2019s fortified past. Topped with a charming Baroque chapel, this gateway leads you straight into the heart of local life. Nearby, cozy inns and family-run taverns invite you to slow down with a glass of Calatayud wine and a hearty plate of lamb with borage, an Aragonese favorite worth savoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Wander around the Plaza de Espa\u00f1a<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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No trip to Calatayud is complete without stopping at Plaza de Espa\u00f1a, the city\u2019s vibrant main square. Framed by historic facades and bustling with caf\u00e9s, tapas bars, and local energy, it\u2019s the perfect place to soak in daily life<\/strong>. Whether you\u2019re people-watching with a coffee or hopping between tabernas for traditional bites, this plaza captures the social spirit of Calatayud right at the heart of the old town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Discover Mud\u00e9jar architecture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Looking for iconic photo spots? Don\u2019t miss the Mud\u00e9jar architecture that punctuates Calatayud\u2019s skyline, masterpieces of architecture. These intricate brick structures, like those of San Andr\u00e9s and San Pedro de los Francos, showcase the city\u2019s Islamic and Christian artistic fusion. While you\u2019re at it, follow the path of the ancient city wall, whose remaining stretches whisper centuries of coexistence among Arab, Jewish, and Christian communities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What are the best things to do around Calatayud?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Discover Calatayud\u2019s wine country<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The Calatayud wine region is a hidden gem in Aragon\u2019s winemaking landscape. The region\u2019s unique combination of slate and clay soils, along with dramatic shifts between day and night temperatures, lends depth and structure to its wines. As you explore the countryside around Calatayud, you'll find a mix of family-run bodegas and modern wineries offering tastings, tours, and a glimpse into centuries-old viticulture. Whether you\u2019re curious about Spanish terroir or planning an Aragon wine tour, Calatayud delivers an authentic, flavor-rich experience that remains blissfully under the radar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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