Things to Do in Huesca capital

In this guide, you’ll discover a city that for years has flown under the radar for many travellers heading straight towards the Pirineo aragonés. With just over 50,000 inhabitants, it’s one of the least populated provincial capitals in Spain, yet its historic centre is packed with heritage gems, including the Cathedral and the Monasterio de San Pedro el Viejo. Peaceful and welcoming, you really shouldn’t leave the province of Huesca without visiting its capital.

Perched on a small hill and surrounded by the Hoya de Huesca, the city’s origins go all the way back to prehistoric times, when it was the Celtiberian Bolskan; later the Roman Osca and the Muslim Wasqa, before becoming part of the Reino de Aragón. A stroll through its streets is like walking through history, as you discover how it has evolved over the centuries while ticking off the most important sights to see in Huesca capital.

If you’re planning your next trip and wondering what to do in Huesca capital, beyond visiting its main landmarks, don’t leave without trying some of its traditional sweets. You can see the highlights in half a day, although you could easily extend your stay with nearby excursions. Known as the “Gateway to the Pyrenees”, this guide covers the must-see places to visit in Huesca capital.

1. Catedral de Huesca

The Catedral de Huesca stands on the site of former places of worship: first a Roman temple, then a Visigothic church and later a Muslim mosque. Construction began at the end of the 13th century and was completed in the mid-14th century, making it the largest Gothic temple to see in Huesca.

You really shouldn’t leave Huesca without climbing the tower. It’s not suitable for everyone, as access involves a long and narrow staircase, with a particularly steep and tight final section. That said, the effort is well worth it, as from the top you’ll enjoy the best panoramic views of the city.

Extra tip: buy the combined ticket that includes entry to the cathedral, the Museo Diocesano and the Monasterio de San Pedro el Viejo. It’s a great way to save a bit of money and get a deeper insight into the history of Huesca.

2. Monasterio de San Pedro El Viejo

Continuing with the top places to see in Huesca, a must-stop is the Monasterio de San Pedro el Viejo. Its Romanesque basilica-style church and spectacular cloister, with beautifully carved capitals, make it one of the true jewels of Aragonese Romanesque architecture.

This monastery also played an important role in the history of the Reino de Aragón. In the 12th century it was the residence of King Ramiro II el Monje, and today it houses the tombs of Ramiro II and Alfonso I el Batallador, making it a Royal Pantheon.

Although it nearly disappeared in the 19th century due to the building’s poor condition, it was declared a Monumento Nacional and restored. In short, it’s the perfect place to experience Huesca’s medieval past first-hand.

3. Museo de Huesca

The Museo de Huesca, founded in 1873, is another key place to see in Huesca if you’d like to dive deeper into its history and artistic heritage. It was created after the suppression of convents in the province, as many of the works displayed here come from those confiscated collections.

An important figure in its development was Valentín Carderera, who donated much of his personal collection and helped secure significant paintings from the Museo del Prado, greatly enriching the museum’s holdings.

Today, the museum is divided into two main sections: Archaeology and Fine Arts. Entry is free, which makes it an easy addition to your itinerary. If you’d like to understand Huesca’s story from prehistoric times to the 20th century, don’t miss it.

4. Casino de Huesca y Plaza de Navarra

The plaza de Navarra is one of the main meeting points for locals and the starting place for many free tours around the city. It’s definitely one of the essential places to see in Huesca.

Right in the centre of the square you’ll find the fuente de las Musas, designed by French decorator Jean-Baptiste Jules Klagmann. Decorated with colourful tulips, it’s become one of those postcard-perfect spots I’d recommend for a souvenir photo of your trip.

Just opposite stands the Casino de Huesca, one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Designed by Ildefonso Bonells, it’s considered the first modernist building in Aragón. Its style, inspired by architects such as Gaudí and Domènech i Montaner, reflects the ambition of the local bourgeoisie at the beginning of the 20th century.

5. Teatro Olimpia

The Teatro Olimpia, inaugurated in 1925, is another of the must-see places in Huesca. Its white neoclassical façade makes it an elegant and easily recognisable landmark, and it remains one of the most important cultural venues in the province.

Beyond its architecture, the theatre is best known as the main venue for the Festival Internacional de Cine de Huesca, one of the most prestigious international short film festivals. Thanks to this event, the city becomes a meeting point each year for filmmakers and cinema lovers alike.

Throughout the rest of the year, the theatre hosts a varied programme including plays, dance performances and film screenings. So if you fancy something a bit more cultural, it’s worth checking what’s on during your visit to Huesca.

6. Basílica de San Lorenzo

The Basílica de San Lorenzo, built between 1608 and 1703 in Baroque style, stands on the remains of a former Romanesque temple located in today’s plaza de San Lorenzo. Over time, and due to its religious importance, it was elevated to the rank of basilica by Pope Leo XIII.

Although the exterior may seem fairly understated, I’d definitely recommend stepping inside. The highlight is the main altarpiece, carved in 1678 by Sebastián de Ruesta and decorated by Bartolomé Vicente.

The most important sculptural work is the reliquary bust of San Lorenzo, the city’s patron saint, which attracts many visitors, especially during the fiestas de San Lorenzo in August.

7. Iglesia de San Vicente El Real

Popularly known as la Compañía, as it belonged to the Jesuit order from the 17th century, the Iglesia de San Vicente is another of the religious landmarks to see in Huesca.

The current building dates from the mid-18th century and stands out for its exposed brick façade, simple yet elegant. Inside, you’ll find carefully designed Baroque decoration with a harmonious feel that makes it well worth a visit.

According to tradition, this is the very spot where San Vicente, co-patron saint of Huesca, was born. If you look up at the façade, you’ll see an image of the saint commemorating this link with the city.

8. Iglesia Parroquial de Santo Domingo y San Martín

The Iglesia Parroquial de Santo Domingo y San Martín was originally the church of the now-vanished monastery of Santo Domingo. Built in 1254, it has undergone several renovations over the centuries, with its current appearance largely the result of a Baroque remodelling in 1695.

During the Mendizábal confiscations in 1836, the monastery was demolished, although the church survived and became a parish church. This allowed one of the most important religious ensembles to see in Huesca to be preserved.

While the façade is fairly understated, the interior may surprise you with its rich decoration. Highlights include the main altarpiece featuring a painting by Vicente Berdusán, the decorated dome of the Rosario chapel, the 18th-century organ and several altarpieces dedicated to Dominican saints.

9. Parque Miguel Servet

The next place to see in Huesca is just a short walk away. Parque Miguel Servet, with more than 100 years of history and seven hectares of green space, is the city’s most important urban park.

If you fancy a wander, inside you’ll come across the escultura de Las Pajaritas, dedicated to origami and another symbol of the city, as well as the bandstand and a statue honouring the Pyrenean kings.

The real highlight, especially if you’re travelling with children, is the casita de Blancanieves, a replica of the Seven Dwarfs’ house that now serves as a library. It’s a lovely spot if you’re planning to visit Huesca with kids.

10. Plaza Luis López Allué

Right in the heart of Huesca, plaza Luis López Allué is one of the locals’ favourite spots. Also known as plaza Mayor or plaza del Mercado, this is where you’ll find the Oficina de Turismo.

In this square you’ll also come across «La Confianza», the oldest grocery shop in Huesca and the fifth oldest in Europe, which first opened its doors in 1871 as a haberdashery. Just a few steps away you’ll find the Museo Pedagógico de Aragón.

It’s also one of the best places to eat in Huesca. Lined with cafés and restaurants, it’s ideal for a drink or a relaxed meal at any time of year. Throughout the year, the square hosts concerts, markets and other events that are important to city life.

Map of Places to See in Huesca capital

In Conclusion

To sum up, you only need half a day to visit Huesca capital, leaving you plenty of time to explore nearby villages afterwards. Although the city isn’t very large, it’s worth checking opening times and ticket prices in advance, as not all monuments are open to visitors at all times.

Huesca is also the perfect destination if you’re after a peaceful getaway, without the crowds and with surprisingly rich history. Its size means you can explore at your own pace, without rushing. So make a note of the places that catch your eye and enjoy making the most of your day in Huesca city.