Zaragoza Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Zaragoza.
Healthcare System
Zaragoza operates under Spain's high-quality public healthcare system (Sistema Nacional de Salud), supplemented by excellent private medical facilities. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access public healthcare, while non-EU visitors typically need private insurance or must pay for services.
Hospitals
Major hospitals include Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa (public, comprehensive emergency services), Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet (public, major trauma center), and Hospital Quirónsalud Zaragoza (private, English-speaking staff). The emergency department (Urgencias) at public hospitals treats all patients regardless of insurance status, though payment may be required later for non-EU citizens.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmacias) are identified by green crosses and are widely available throughout the city. At least one pharmacy in each district operates 24-hour duty rotation (farmacia de guardia). Pharmacists are knowledgeable and can provide advice on minor ailments. Many common medications available over-the-counter in other countries require prescriptions in Spain. Check the rotation schedule posted on pharmacy doors or at www.cofzaragoza.org.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended for non-EU citizens and is often required for visa applications. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Insurance should cover medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical repatriation.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient prescription medications in original packaging with a copy of your prescription, as brand names may differ in Spain
- The emergency number 112 can dispatch English-speaking operators and coordinate medical assistance
- Private clinics offer faster service and English-speaking staff but are significantly more expensive than public facilities
- Extreme summer heat (often exceeding 40°C/104°F) can cause heat-related illnesses; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak hours
- Keep copies of medical insurance documents and emergency contacts in both digital and physical formats
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing is the most common crime affecting tourists, particularly in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and during festivals. Thieves often work in pairs or groups using distraction techniques.
Opportunistic bag snatching can occur, sometimes involving motorcycles or bicycles, though this is less common in Zaragoza than in larger Spanish cities.
Rental cars and vehicles with foreign plates are targets for break-ins, especially when parked near tourist attractions or with visible luggage inside.
Zaragoza experiences extreme temperatures: very hot summers (often 38-42°C/100-108°F) and cold winters with occasional freezing temperatures. The Cierzo wind can be strong and persistent.
Drivers in Zaragoza can be assertive, and pedestrians must be cautious. Scooters and motorcycles often use bike lanes and sidewalks.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
One person spills something on you or asks for directions while an accomplice steals your wallet or bag. Variations include someone pointing out 'bird droppings' on your clothes or dropping coins/items to distract you.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants may add items you didn't order to your bill, charge for bread or appetizers that seemed complimentary, or apply higher prices than advertised.
People approach tourists with clipboards asking for signatures on petitions (often claiming to support deaf or disabled people). While you're signing, accomplices pickpocket you, or they demand a donation after you sign.
Some taxi drivers may take longer routes, claim the meter is broken, or add fraudulent surcharges, particularly from the airport or train station.
Devices attached to ATMs capture card information and PIN numbers, leading to fraudulent withdrawals later.
Someone approaches offering to tie a 'free' friendship bracelet on your wrist, then demands payment once it's attached and difficult to remove.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Personal Security
- Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance, credit cards) and store separately from originals
- Use hotel safes for valuables, passports, and extra cash
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave unnecessary credit cards and documents secured
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and when using ATMs
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it
- Keep emergency contact numbers saved in your phone and written down separately
Money and Valuables
- Divide cash and cards among different pockets and bags
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Notify your bank of travel dates to prevent card blocks
- Carry small denominations for purchases; large bills can be problematic at small establishments
- Use credit cards over debit cards when possible for better fraud protection
- Keep receipts from ATM withdrawals and monitor accounts regularly
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodations in well-lit, central areas with good reviews
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening your door
- Know the location of emergency exits and evacuation routes
- Don't advertise your room number publicly or to strangers
- Use door locks, chains, and deadbolts when in your room
- Report any suspicious activity or people to hotel management immediately
Transportation Safety
- Use official taxis (white with red diagonal stripe) or registered ride-sharing services
- Validate tickets on public transport to avoid fines (€100+)
- Be extra vigilant on crowded buses and trams, especially lines serving tourist areas
- If renting a car, familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and parking regulations
- Avoid leaving rental car agreements or documents visible in vehicles
- Use designated bike lanes when cycling; helmet use is recommended though not mandatory for adults
Food and Water Safety
- Tap water in Zaragoza is safe to drink and of good quality
- Choose busy restaurants with good turnover for fresher food
- Be aware that dinner is typically served after 9 PM; restaurants open earlier may be tourist traps
- Food safety standards are high; food poisoning is rare
- If you have allergies, learn key Spanish phrases or carry an allergy card
- Try local specialties like ternasco (lamb) and migas, but be aware of portion sizes
Communication
- Learn basic Spanish phrases; English is not as widely spoken as in Barcelona or Madrid
- Download offline maps and translation apps before arriving
- Keep your accommodation address written in Spanish for taxi drivers
- Tourist information offices (Plaza del Pilar) provide excellent free maps and advice
- Save important addresses and phone numbers in Spanish in your phone
- WiFi is widely available in cafés, hotels, and public spaces
Cultural Awareness
- Respect siesta hours (approximately 2-5 PM); many shops close during this time
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Basilica del Pilar
- Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, restaurants, and bars
- Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated
- Be prepared for late dining hours; lunch is 2-4 PM, dinner 9-11 PM
- During Fiestas del Pilar, the city becomes extremely crowded; book accommodations early and expect higher prices
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Zaragoza is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female visitors. Spain has progressive attitudes toward women, and female travelers are common. Harassment is less frequent than in some other European cities, though catcalling (piropos) can occasionally occur. Women should exercise the same precautions they would in any European city, being more cautious after dark and in isolated areas.
- Solo dining is completely normal in Spain; don't hesitate to eat alone at restaurants
- Dress as you would in any Western European city; Zaragoza is cosmopolitan and there are no strict dress codes outside religious sites
- If experiencing unwanted attention, enter a shop or café and ask for help; locals are generally supportive
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps late at night rather than walking alone in quiet areas
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- The siesta period (2-5 PM) means some streets can be very quiet; this is normal but stay in populated areas
- Female-only accommodations are available if preferred for added comfort
- Spanish women often go out in groups, especially at night; consider joining walking tours or group activities to meet other travelers
- Emergency services are responsive; don't hesitate to call 112 if you feel threatened
- Nightlife areas like El Tubo are busy and generally safe, but stay with groups and watch your drink
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Spain has some of the most progressive LGBTQ+ rights in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005, discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal, and LGBTQ+ individuals enjoy comprehensive legal protections. Zaragoza follows Spanish national law with full equality.
- The main LGBTQ+ scene is concentrated around Calle San Vicente de Paúl and nearby streets in the city center
- Zaragoza Pride (Orgullo Zaragoza) takes place annually in June with parades and events
- Gay-friendly accommodations, bars, and clubs are available but fewer than in larger Spanish cities
- Public displays of affection are generally accepted in central and tourist areas but use discretion in more traditional neighborhoods
- LGBTQ+ travelers should experience no issues with hotel accommodations or services
- The Lambda Collective (Colectivo Lambda) is a local LGBTQ+ organization offering information and support
- Healthcare providers are professional and non-discriminatory
- While generally safe, some caution is advisable in less cosmopolitan areas late at night
- Spanish society is largely secular despite Catholic heritage; religious-based discrimination is rare
- Dating apps are widely used and safe in Zaragoza
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Zaragoza. While the city is safe and has excellent healthcare, medical costs for non-EU citizens can be substantial. Insurance provides essential coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. EU citizens should carry their EHIC/GHIC card but may still want supplemental insurance for repatriation and non-emergency care.
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