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Fiestas del Pilar in Zaragoza: A Visitor’s Guide and Where to Exchange Money

Zaragoza completely transforms every October for the Fiestas del Pilar. From October 10 to 18, 2026, the Aragonese capital welcomes visitors from around the world to witness the traditional Flower Offering, attend dozens of concerts, and soak up the constant street atmosphere. Managing your travel budget and currency properly makes a real difference when navigating fairgrounds and traditional tapas areas. In Spain, the official currency is the euro, and having cash on hand prevents you from missing out on local specialties just because a small stall doesn’t take cards. For those traveling from outside the Eurozone, Eurochange operates a centrally located branch in Zaragoza, allowing you to exchange your currency quickly and get right back to the celebrations.

 

 

Tradition and Getting Around the Capital

October 12 is the peak of the festivities with the Flower Offering to the Virgen del Pilar, an event where thousands of people in regional costumes build a massive floral mantle in front of the basilica. The following day features the Fruit Offering, with all collected goods donated to social causes.

During these days, the city center is largely pedestrianized. The tram is the fastest public transport option to travel along the city’s main axis, connecting the historic center with areas like the main fairgrounds. However, to navigate the immediate surroundings of the Plaza del Pilar, walking is the only realistic option.

Our Eurochange branch is strategically located at Calle de Alfonso I, 3, right in the Casco Antiguo and less than a five-minute walk from the Basilica. You can handle your foreign exchange needs without straying from the main festival routes.

Local Gastronomy: A Mandatory Stop in El Tubo

A stone’s throw from our branch is El Tubo, a network of narrow streets famous for having the best tapas in the city. The atmosphere here during the festival is electric. You can try the classic stacked mushrooms at ‘El Champi’, order the famous croquettes at ‘Doña Casta’, or enjoy a glass of local wine with anchovies at the historic ‘Bodegas Almau’. Having our currency exchange office so close makes sorting your physical money before diving into the narrow streets incredibly convenient.

Money and Payments During the Festival

The euro (EUR) is the only currency accepted by merchants. Debit and credit cards work seamlessly in hotels, formal restaurants, and mainstream shops.

The Fiestas del Pilar present certain situations where cash is essential. Outdoor bars, artisan stalls, fairground attractions, and some traditional, busy spots prefer or strictly require cash to keep service moving fast amidst the crowds.

Carrying small bills (5, 10, and 20 euro notes) makes it much easier to pay exact amounts for a beer or a tapa, so you don’t have to wait around for change.

How Much Cash Should You Carry?

It depends on your daily plans. If your day revolves around hopping between El Tubo bars and buying snacks at street markets, keeping 50 to 80 euros in cash per person provides a comfortable buffer. Formal sit-down meals or large store purchases can be easily handled with a card.

 

Exchanging Currency Before and During Your Trip

If you are arriving from the UK, the US, or elsewhere outside the Eurozone, sorting your currency out immediately lets you enjoy the city right after dropping off your bags. Eurochange provides flexible options:

  • Online Services: If you want to prepare ahead, you can order euros directly through our website before your trip.

  • Zaragoza Branch: Located at Calle Alfonso I, 3, right in the epicenter of the action. Bring your physical dollars, pounds, or Swiss francs, and our team will provide the current exchange rate and complete the transaction on the spot.

Financial Planning for Your Trip

Monitor your daily budget

Divide your planned spending by the number of days you’ll be there. Keep a portion locked in your hotel safe and only carry what you need for the day to reduce risk in highly crowded areas.

Distribute your money

At massive events like the Plaza del Pilar concerts, keep your wallet in front pockets or wear a crossbody bag over your chest. Avoid keeping all your cash and cards in a single compartment.

What to do with leftover currency

If the festival ends and you still have physical euros, you can return to our Calle Alfonso I branch for a money exchange back into your home currency before flying out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Money and Fiestas del Pilar

What currency is used in Zaragoza? The official currency is the euro (EUR). It is the only currency accepted for everyday transactions.

Where can I exchange money near Plaza del Pilar? The Eurochange branch is located at Calle de Alfonso I, 3, just meters away from the main square and the El Tubo tapas area.

Can I pay with a card at the street fairs and outdoor bars? Many temporary stalls and outdoor bars only accept cash to ensure fast service during the busy festival days.

Can I buy currency online before my trip to Spain? Yes, you can use the Eurochange website to organize your currency exchange, selecting branch pickup or home delivery.

What are the dates for Fiestas del Pilar 2026? The main celebrations run from October 10 to October 18, with October 12 being the central day featuring the Flower Offering.

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