Pilar Tower Viewpoint
Ascend the historic Pilar Tower for unparalleled 360-degree views of Zaragoza's iconic landmarks and the Ebro River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Pilar Tower Viewpoint
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend the historic Pilar Tower for unparalleled 360-degree views of Zaragoza's iconic landmarks and the Ebro River.
"The view upstairs is definitely worth the visit."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and choose your visit time by booking tickets in advance online.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
After the elevator, there are more stairs to climb for the best views. Wear comfortable shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Zaragoza Views
Top of the tower
Capture breathtaking 360-degree views of Zaragoza's historic Casco Antiguo and the Ebro River.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
Visible from the tower
Admire the iconic Baroque architecture of the Basilica, a prominent landmark in the city.
Ebro River Vista
Visible from the tower
Enjoy sweeping views of the majestic Ebro River and its surrounding landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Pilar Tower
Staff Etiquette & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Must do in Zaragoza
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and choose your visit time by booking tickets in advance online.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
After the elevator, there are more stairs to climb for the best views. Wear comfortable shoes!
Zaragoza Recommendations?
📍 Find the Right Entrance
Access the tower from the Ebro River side, not from within the Basilica itself.
📸 Glass vs. Netting
The first level has views through netting, the second (via stairs) through glass. Glass views are less ideal for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and choose your visit time by booking tickets in advance online.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
After the elevator, there are more stairs to climb for the best views. Wear comfortable shoes!
📍 Find the Right Entrance
Access the tower from the Ebro River side, not from within the Basilica itself.
📸 Glass vs. Netting
The first level has views through netting, the second (via stairs) through glass. Glass views are less ideal for photos.
⏳ Elevator Schedule
The elevator operates on a schedule, so be mindful of timing to avoid missing your slot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Zaragoza from the Pilar Tower, offering a unique perspective of the city and the Ebro River. While the ascent involves an elevator and stairs, the vistas are considered well worth the effort and modest fee. However, some guests have encountered issues with rude staff and found the viewing area to be quite narrow and potentially challenging for photography due to glass windows.
"Beware of the rude staff at the entrance! We were shocked how such an attitude is tolerated in a religious place like this! His face was extremely unpleasant. There was zero line and nobody at all at the entrance when we arrived so we went into the booth where we met the staff who was just immediately angry because we missed to see the information. He can, as any staff do, guide us and speak politely without a very unpleasant rude attitude so that we will understand the procedure. Besides, that is part of the job, guiding the visitors.
Then when he brought us upstairs with the elevator he was extremely grumpy. I hope the management sees this review as such attitude is very improper.
The view upstairs is definitely worth the visit. Beware of the steps that still have to be taken after the elevator. It is quite tiring. The viewing area is circular and very limited but luckily there were only 5 of us during our visit."
A Gentle Supportive Soul
"You can get a panoramic view of Zaragoza's Casco Antiguo, including the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and the Río Ebro. After taking the elevator up, you need to climb more stairs. Since the elevator operates on a schedule, you might not be able to enter if you’re late. This place can be entered from the Río Ebro side, not from inside the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. The top is very narrow, accommodating only 5 to 6 people at a time."
Seokjin Ham
"Ok view from the top, there is 2 levels the first the elevator goes to giving you outside views through a net. The 2nd level you climb stairs and the view is through glass so not good for photo taking. Probably worth doing if you get the pass."
Jamie Hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pilar Tower Viewpoint is best accessed from the Ebro River side of the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, not from inside the church itself. Look for signs directing you to the tower entrance.
There are several public parking garages in the vicinity of the Basilica, such as the Mercado Central parking. It's advisable to check parking availability and rates in advance.
Yes, if you are staying in Zaragoza's city center, walking to the Pilar Tower Viewpoint is a pleasant option, allowing you to explore the charming streets of the Casco Antiguo.
Several bus lines stop near the Basílica del Pilar. You can use local transport apps to find the most convenient route from your location in Zaragoza.
The viewpoint is accessible via an elevator, but there are additional stairs to climb to reach the highest viewing platform. Visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of this.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately €5, though prices can vary. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee your entry and preferred time slot.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Basilica website or potentially at the viewpoint entrance. Booking online is the most reliable method.
Opening hours can vary, and the elevator operates on a schedule. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on hours and elevator times.
Yes, booking online often allows you to select a specific time slot for your visit, which is advisable to avoid waiting or missing the elevator.
No, the entrance to the Pilar Tower Viewpoint is separate from the Basilica and is located on the Ebro River side.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photos are allowed from the viewpoint. However, the second level, accessed by stairs, has glass windows which can make photography challenging.
Late afternoon during the golden hour can offer beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Weekday mornings might provide fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Generally, photos are not allowed inside the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar itself, but this does not apply to the tower viewpoint.
You'll get panoramic views of Zaragoza's historic center, the Ebro River, and the surrounding cityscape. The circular viewing area offers 360-degree perspectives.
While not explicitly stated, standard visitor etiquette applies. Tripods might be cumbersome in the narrow viewing areas.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You'll take an elevator part of the way up, then climb more stairs to a circular viewing platform offering panoramic city views. The visit is typically brief, around 15 minutes.
Most visitors spend about 15 minutes at the top, enjoying the views. The ascent and descent via elevator also add to the total time.
After the elevator, there are stairs to the top. While not excessively long, it can be tiring for some.
The viewing area is circular and quite narrow, typically accommodating only 5 to 6 people at a time, which can limit the number of visitors at once.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the stairs. Dress in layers as it can be windy at the top.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children more space to move around and enjoy the views without feeling overwhelmed. The brief duration of the visit (around 15 minutes) is also suitable for shorter attention spans.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, consider purchasing tickets online in advance, which can sometimes offer slight discounts or guarantee entry without additional hassle. Combine your visit with exploring the free-to-access Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar nearby for a fuller experience without extra cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be aware of the limitations: the first level has netting, and the second level has glass, which can affect photo quality. Patience and experimentation with angles will be key to overcoming these challenges. Visiting during off-peak hours can also help secure unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Ascent: Elevator and Stairs
Following the elevator ride, you'll need to climb a set of stairs to reach the highest viewing platform. While not an extreme climb, it can be tiring for some visitors, so comfortable footwear is advised. The viewing area itself is circular and quite narrow, designed to offer unobstructed 360-degree views of Zaragoza.
Pro Tip: Be prepared for the stairs and check the elevator schedule upon arrival to plan your visit efficiently. The limited space at the top means visits are often brief but rewarding.
Navigating Entry and Staff Interactions
There have been reports of less-than-friendly staff interactions at the entrance and during the ascent. While the views are a major draw, be prepared for potentially curt service. Managing expectations regarding staff attitude can help ensure a smoother experience.
Community Advice: Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended not only to secure your visit time but also to potentially bypass some of the entry friction.
Capturing the Best Views: Photography Tips
However, photography conditions vary between the two levels. The first level, accessible by elevator, offers views through a net, which can be less ideal for clear shots. The second level, reached by stairs, provides views through glass. While this offers protection, it can lead to reflections and reduce photo quality.
Best Practices: Consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon for softer light. Weekday mornings might offer fewer people, allowing for more unobstructed shots. Be patient and try different angles to capture the best of Zaragoza's skyline.
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