7 Reasons Why Ainsa Spain is a Great Road Trip Stop
Known as one of the most beautiful of Spain's "Pueblos Bonitos", Ainsa is a medieval gem that is perfect as a road trip stop en route to the Pyrenees, or south towards Huesca and Zaragoza.
Here's a few of the reasons I discovered that make this charming village worth an afternoon visit.
Note: Always Pack Tissues represents many tried and tested travel sites as what is called an 'affiliate' partner. That means if you click on my ads I may get a commission from a resulting sale. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For information on how this may impact your privacy rights, please consult my privacy policy.
Ainsa's Old Town is Adorable
The old village sits high on a hilltop overlooking the modern town of Ainsa, and beyond the parking lot lurks a truly hidden gem.
Every alley is worthy of an Instagram post, and the stone buildings surrounding the main square ooze charm.
Even if you just go to walk around, it's adorable.
One of Aragon's must visit destinations, Ainsa is a perfect place for a road trip stop.
Every Restaurant is Brimming with Charm
It doesn't matter where you eat, really. I was concerned about everything being closed due to January holidays, but we found many options open and welcoming (without a reservation!)
Wherever you end up, it's a surefire bet that you'll be met with stone walls, roaring fireplaces, scenic vistas and lovely menu del dia selections throughout the town. Take your time and relax.
My suggestion is to bypass the plaza restaurants in the main square and walk down the right hand lane (the plaza splits in two directions). You'll find numerous viable options this way.
It's Small Enough to See Quickly
You don't need much time to visit the village, but allow for a few hours including that cozy fireside lunch.
If you time it right, shops will be open for browsing, then you can have lunch and walk around by the time the souvenir shops are closed.
There are some museums and exhibits to see just inside the town wall, if you're into that and have the time. One of them is the Eco Museo, a birds of prey exhibit for birds of the Pyrenees.
When you are done, head on to the Pyrenees, go wine tasting in nearby Somontano, or venture down into Aragon where the cities of Huesca and Zaragoza await.
There's plenty of things to do in and around Ainsa!
It's an Easy Day Trip From Zaragoza
Less than two hours from Zaragoza, Ainsa is one of my recommended day trips in Aragon for people looking to tick some boxes:
It's close
It's cute
It's ancient
What more do you need for a little side trip away from the city?
I will note, however, that this makes for a long day. Be prepared to have someone drive home safely after your big lunch (which usually means lots of red wine and the need to take a siesta).
Ainsa is Also Great for Overnight Stops
That said, you may want to consider pushing back your start time from Zaragoza (or elsewhere) and stay the night.
Overnight visitors may want to stay at the Casa Rivera Apartments, which we passed walking around.
If you choose to spend the night, I recommend arriving later in the day to browse shops once they have re-opened (usually around 5pm), and then hang around until dinner time.
These apartments were really well located to the main plaza and they get a high score on Booking.com (my favorite booking tool for affordable accommodations) so it's a great option.
Ainsa with Kids is Great
Even kids will enjoy Ainsa.
My daughter enjoyed the little playground at the head of the town, and marveled at the building structures.
She especially enjoyed the miradors (overlooks) found down alleyways throughout down.
It's a Great Place to Stretch Your Legs
Logistically speaking, it was easy to get in and out of on our way to Benasque from Zaragoza. It's a perfect half way point between the two, and it was timed perfectly for the lunch hour.
There is ample parking the town lot, and you have to pay to park - so don't forget!
There are also nice clean restrooms there by the parking lot gate. It's always good to note that when you are on a road trip!
It's clear that Ainsa is a popular tourist spot in Aragon for buses and summer tours, so off season visits can be quite nice to enjoy the quiet.
So get your photographs in, enjoy a quiet stroll, and embrace the ancient village for its charm and beauty.
Commentaires