How to get to Huesca

When planning a journey to Spain, many tourists aspire to visit Huesca — a charming historic city in the Aragon region, situated right at the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains. If you are looking for information on how to reach Huesca, you will be pleased to know that this region boasts an excellent transport network: you can travel here comfortably by train, bus, or rental car. The choice of the optimal route depends on your preferences and point of departure, but the road to this colourful corner of the country will undoubtedly mark the beginning of an exciting adventure.

The local Huesca-Pirineos Airport does not currently handle regular passenger flights, so travellers typically choose to fly into neighbouring major transport hubs. This allows for a more flexible itinerary and often helps save on ticket costs.

The most convenient and closest option is considered to be Zaragoza (ZAZ): it is located approximately 75 kilometres away and receives flights from many European cities. Alternatively, you can consider routes via Lleida or Lourdes in France. All these airports offer good transport accessibility, so the final leg of the journey to Huesca by rental car or public transport will not take much time.

Rail travel is one of the most comfortable and fastest ways to get to Huesca. The city features a modern station that accommodates both regional and high-speed trains (AVE). This allows tourists to travel here directly from Madrid in just 2–2.5 hours, enjoying premium service and scenic views from the window.

For travellers departing from Barcelona or other parts of Spain, Zaragoza usually serves as the key transit hub. From there, regional express trains run regularly to the destination, with the journey taking less than an hour. Huesca's railway station is located quite close to the historic centre, so upon arrival, you can easily reach your hotel on foot or by taxi.

Bus services connect Huesca with many regions, offering an economical way to enjoy the landscapes along the route. The most popular and shortest route runs from neighbouring Zaragoza: covering the distance of 75 kilometres takes just one hour, with services departing from the central bus station regularly throughout the day.

A trip from Lleida is also a convenient option, taking around 1.5–2 hours and serving as a great alternative to the train. If you plan to arrive from the French side, consider the picturesque cross-border route from Lourdes; however, be prepared to spend about 3–4 hours on the road due to the winding mountain paths.

Travelling by car to Huesca offers you the freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque views of Aragon. The fastest and most comfortable route leads from Zaragoza: via the excellent A-23 motorway, you will cover 75 kilometres in less than an hour. The drive from Catalan Lleida takes a little longer — about 1 hour 20 minutes to drive approximately 115 kilometres along the A-22 road, which also features high-quality surfacing.

For those seeking inspiration, the scenic route from French Lourdes is an ideal option. Although the distance is only about 170 kilometres, allow at least 3.5 hours for the journey, as the path runs through the majestic Pyrenees and requires careful driving. If you are considering a taxi, be aware that a transfer from the nearest major cities will cost on average between 90 and 120 Euros, so renting a car often proves to be a more cost-effective solution.

To ensure your stay in Huesca is as comfortable as possible, it is useful to familiarise yourself with local customs in advance. The Aragonese way of life has its nuances, and knowing them will help you save time and avoid any inconvenience.

• Weather and Clothing. The climate here is continental, so the weather can be full of contrasts. In summer, the city can be quite hot, while winters are cool and breezy due to the proximity of the mountains. For walking around the historic centre, which is paved with cobblestones, be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes.
• Rhythm of Life and Siesta. As in all of Spain, the afternoon rest is respected here. From 14:00 to 17:00, many shops, pharmacies, and even some attractions close. Plan your shopping for the morning or evening, and try to have lunch before 15:30, otherwise, you risk waiting until dinner, which typically starts no earlier than 20:30.
• Language. In tourist offices and large hotels, you will be understood in English, but in small cafés and shops, communication takes place primarily in Spanish. Learning a few basic phrases of courtesy ("Hola", "Gracias", "Por favor") is highly recommended — locals greatly appreciate such respect for their culture.
• Currency and Payment. Despite the widespread use of bank cards, small eateries, kiosks, or city buses may only accept cash. It is recommended to always carry small denominations of Euro notes and coins.
• Getting Around. Huesca is a compact city, and its main attractions are within walking distance. Public transport may only be needed for trips to the station or outlying districts. It is better to book a taxi by phone or find one at designated stands, as hailing a car on the street is not customary here.
• Safety. The city is distinguished by a calm and friendly atmosphere; walking here is safe even in the evening. However, as with any travel, do not leave personal belongings unattended on café terraces or in crowded places.
• Gastronomic Souvenir. If you wish to bring back something delicious, look for the famous dessert "Russian Cake" (Pastel Ruso). This is a local pride — a delicate pastry made of almonds, hazelnuts, and praline cream, which can be found in the city's historic confectioneries.

By keeping these simple recommendations in mind, you will easily settle into the rhythm of the city and enjoy its hospitality. May your journey be filled with only positive emotions and bright discoveries!