tarragona tourist information

13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Tarragona

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Tarragona is blessed with sunshine, a beautiful coastline, and interesting ancient monuments. The city extends along Catalonia's Costa Dorada , prized for its sandy beaches. El Milagro Beach is within walking distance of the main landmarks.

View over Tarragona, Spain and it's Roman Amphitheater

Layer upon layer of history is everywhere, from the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins to the medieval alleyways and cobblestone streets and the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral.

To soak up the old-world ambience, head to El Serrallo. The quarter represents the little fishing village that grew into the big city that is now Tarragona. In this atmospheric neighborhood, you can take a scenic stroll and enjoy delicious fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.

One of the best places to visit in Spain's Catalonia region , Tarragona offers both natural beauty and culture. Plan a fabulous sightseeing itinerary with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Tarragona.

1. Catedral de Tarragona

2. roman amphitheater, 3. paseo arqueológico, 4. balcón del mediterráneo, 5. museu nacional arqueològic de tarragona, 6. roman forum, 7. el serrallo: an old fishing village, 8. casa castellarnau, 9. playa del milagro, 10. pretty avenues and public squares, 11. acueducto pont de les ferreres (roman aqueduct), 12. gaudí centre in reus, 13. head to the beach resort of salou, where to stay in tarragona for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in tarragona.

The Cathedral of Tarragona is one of Catalonia's largest and most magnificent churches. This classified monument "of Cultural Interest and Heritage" was built in the 12th century on the site of a 10th-century Moorish mosque.

Construction of the building continued over several centuries, explaining the blend of architectural styles. The architecture reveals the transition from Romanesque to Gothic.

The main facade features an early 14th-century Gothic portal with highly detailed sculptures and a stunning rose window with openwork tracery. An austere ambience defines the domed interior, which is illuminated by 16th-century stained-glass windows.

The Capilla Mayor (Central Nave) centers around a marvelous 15th-century altarpiece by Pere Johan, considered a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic carved stonework. Intricately crafted from polychromatic alabaster, the piece incorporates a trilogy of statues that represent the Virgin and Child, Saint Thecla, and Saint Paul.

Another artistic gem is the Plateresque Capilla de Santa María (Chapel of Saint Mary Magdalene), dating to the 16th century. This ornate chapel is noteworthy for its retablo dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which was painted by Francesc Olives around 1536.

Address: Pla de la Seu, Tarragona

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Barcelona

Vestiges of classical Roman buildings are dotted all over Tarragona, which after Mérida is the second most important archaeological site in Spain. The Roman Amphitheater, along with other ancient Roman ruins in the area, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The ancient Roman Amphitheater is the most impressive of Tarragona's ancient remains. Built on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the amphitheater dates back to the 2nd century CE during the reign of Emperor Augustus.

The immense stadium staged gladiatorial games, as well as other spectacles that entertained the Roman population. In its sloping rows of seats, the amphitheater could accommodate 14,000 spectators.

The amphitheater was also the scene of the martyrdom of Bishop Fructuosus in CE 259.

Beneath the arena are pits that were used for behind-the-scenes production of the events. In the center of the amphitheater are remains of a 6th-century Visigoth basilica.

Address: Parc de l'Amfiteatre Romà, Tarragona

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Northern Spain

The Paseo Arqueológico walking path invites leisurely strolls in a lush garden setting. The landscaping features palm trees, cypresses, and other Mediterranean vegetation. Some corners of the gardens provide welcome shade on sunny days.

The path skirts the base of the Muralla Romana (Roman Wall), which was built from the 3rd to the 2nd century BCE and originally enclosed the entire ancient town. Several sections of the Muralla Romana are still intact, including one stretch that extends for 1,000 meters. Along the way, you will find replicas of ancient statues.

Three towers of the ancient Roman Wall have survived: the Cabiscol Tower , Minerva Tower , and Arzobispo Tower . The Minerva Tower is an excellent example of Roman architecture, and the Arzobispo Tower was altered during the Middle Ages.

The Paseo Arqueológico begins where the Vía del Imperio (Imperial Way) runs into the Puerta del Rosario , an entrance gate that dates from around the 5th century BCE.

You may visit the Paseo Arqueológico from Tuesday through Sunday. The site is closed on Mondays.

Address: Avenida Catalunya, Tarragona

At the south end of the broad tree-lined Rambla Nova , Tarragona's main street, is the Balcón del Mediterráneo. From this spacious terrace, you can admire views of the Mediterranean Sea and El Milagro Beach.

A pedestrian staircase leads from the Balcón del Mediterráneo down to the railroad station and the harbor, and several promenades begin at the Balcón and follow the coastline to the beach.

The terrace and the paths that extend from the Balcón del Mediterráneo offer a multitude of photo opportunities. Continuing farther along the beach, the scenery becomes more rugged, providing a wide range of picture-perfect backdrops.

The National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona contains one of Spain's finest collections of ancient Roman art. The exhibits display antiquities from the town's archaeological sites, including a wide variety of ancient Roman sculptures, pottery, mosaics, and other artworks as well as sarcophagi and amphora.

Highlights of the museum's collection are the marble statues, coins of the Augustus period, and intricate floor mosaics. Not to be missed are the Medusa Mosaic (2nd-3rd century CE) and the highly detailed Mosaic of the Fish (3rd century AD), which depicts 47 different types of marine creatures known to live in the Mediterranean Sea.

Adjoining the Archaeology Museum is the massive Pretorio Romano (Roman Praetorium), the Roman general's residence. Built in the 1st century BCE, this immense tower is known as the Torreón de Pilatos because Pilate is believed to have been born here. A vaulted underground chamber links to a passageway, and the tower borders the Roman Forum , just behind it.

The National Archaeological Museum (on the Plaça del Rei) is currently closed to the public while the building is undergoing renovations. During the closure, the Tinglado 4 (on the Costa Wharf in the Port of Tarragona) presents several interesting exhibits from the museum.

Address: 5 Plaça del Rei, Tarragona

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Spain

The Roman Forum is a monumental archaeological site (west of the Rambla Nova) that was the center of Tarraco , an ancient Roman city that flourished in the 1st and 2nd centuries CE.

This expansive site corresponds with a public square dating to around 30 BCE. The ruins reveal remnants of Roman houses, temples, shops, and establishments that once stood here. You can also see elements of an ancient basilica and traces of several streets of the Roman era.

Along with the Roman Amphitheater and other ancient Roman ruins in the area, the Roman Forum is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Address: Calle Lérida, Tarragona

El Serrallo is the old fishing village at the heart of Tarragona. This area has retained its old-world charm, even though Tarragona developed into a modern city.

Go for a stroll along the pleasant seaside promenade in El Serrallo. You might like to stop for an authentic seafood meal. Numerous restaurants line the promenade.

Restaurant owners in El Serrallo shop at the local fish market to purchase fresh catches daily. Typical dishes include fresh cod dumplings, cuttlefish in its own sauce, and pataco (a hearty stew of potatoes, tuna, garlic, and almonds).

Casa Castellarnau was built in the 15th century for an influential aristocratic family, and generations of the family resided here until the 19th century.

This elegant palace reveals a melange of Gothic and Neoclassical architectural elements. Much of the furnishings are in the style of Queen Isabella II.

The most remarkable room of the palace is the ballroom, which features 18th-century ceiling frescoes depicting mythological scenes. The palace's interior patio and staircase with Gothic columns are also noteworthy.

Besides splendid architecture and interior decor, the Casa Castellarnau also presents archaeological and ethnographic exhibits from the Molas i Agramunt collection. The Casa Castellarnau is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Address: 14 Carrer dels Cavallers, Tarragona

Tarragona's 15-kilometer coastline is prized for its beautiful sandy beaches. From the Balcón del Mediterráneo , scenic promenades lead to the beaches.

The main beach in Tarragona is Playa del Milagro, a wide sandy shore nearly one kilometer in length right in the center of town. Ruins of the Roman amphitheater can be seen in the background.

Ready to welcome visitors, the Playa del Milagro has public restrooms, showers, and an area for outdoor sports. El Milagro Beach, as well as the rest of Tarragona's public beaches, features signposts of water safety and other hazards, and the sand is groomed daily.

ESSENTIAL Tarragona Tourist Guide: BEST Advice from Locals

Table of Contents

Tarragona is a city located in Catalonia on the Costa Dorada in the north-eastern corner of Spain.

Tarragona is the place to come and enjoy a city break where you can enjoy the museums, fine restaurants beaches as well as golf.

It has a wide range of activities on offer for the whole family to enjoy and is also a good place for a summer holiday.

Just look at this amazing must-see video to see what you can see and visit!!!

Where is Tarragona?

Tarragona is located to the south of Barcelona which because of its airport is a major hub servicing arriving tourists. Reus Airport which is only thirteen kilometres away from Tarragona is serviced several times daily by carriers such as Thomson, Thomas Cook and Ryan Air from UK airport such as London Gatwick, Birmingham, Cardiff, Newcastle and Belfast.

Sights & Attractions

Culturally Tarragona also has a lot to offer, you can visit the Cathedral, Roman Circus, Amfiteatro Roma, Passeig Arqueologic, Real Monasterio de Santa Maria de Poblet, Miravet Castle, Roman Aqueduct, Museu Necropolis, Casa Castellarnau, Golscinc and the Tarraco Art Gallery.

See the city on this video with photos and images:

Tarragona is great for a city break or family beach holiday very much in the same vein as can be enjoyed in the great Spanish cities of Barcelona and Valencia.

To play golf you have to head to the south of the city where the Parking Sur Aventura is located. Further golf courses include the Club de Golf Reus Aiguesverds, Golf Par 3 Cambrills and the Club de Golf Costa Dorada.

Port Aventura

The popular theme park of Port Aventura is also situated to the south of the city. Port Aventura is open from March until the end of October, and then every weekend until the end of January. The park is only closed during the month of February. For more information on the theme park or water park or booking a hotel on the complex you can look at https://www.portaventura.co.uk .

Another water park is located in La Pineda to the south of Tarragona. Aquopolis is open from mid May until the first week of October. Day passes start at €16.50 for children and €22 for adults. Season passes can be purchased for €55 so if you intend to visit the park more than twice you will have saved some money. For more information you can look at https://www.costa-dorada.aquopolis.es .

Aqualeon is the only theme park in Europe where you can go on safari and enjoy the services of a water park as well. Rates start as €10 for the day for children and €12 for adults. The safari park is open all year round while the water park is open from May until September. You can research Aqualeon in greater detail on https://www.aqualeon.es .

Tarragona has a number of fine beaches and the best ones to enjoy are Arabassada Beach, Cala Crancs, Cala Font, Capellans Beach, Penya Tallada Beach, Llarga Beach, Playa Larga, Llenguadets Beach, Llevant Beach, Playa Miragla, Ponent Beach and Savinosa Beach.

Hotel Accommodation

Top Tarragona hotels start from as little as €45 a night and accommodations which have been recommended include the La Grava Hotel, Hotel Sant Jordi, AC Hotel Tarragona by Marriott, Hotel de la Font and the Hotel Ciutat de Tarragona.

To enjoy the best of both worlds such as an apartment and hotel you need look no further than the Alexandra Hotel which starts at around €48 a night and comes highly recommended.

Restaurants

Tarragona has some really good Spanish restaurants as well as international ones to enjoy and highly recommended eateries include La Cuineta, El Terrat, Barquet Arcs Restaurant, La Grava, Palau del Baro and Sol-Ric.

Nightlife revellers will find more than a few choices to dance the night away at. Arsis, Discoteca Totem, Sala Zero, Shiva Music and Sala Loop.

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11 awesome things to do in tarragona: spain’s roman city by the sea.

Welcome to Tarragona, Spain where the warm waters of the Mediterranean meet rich Roman history.

Tarragona’s calling card is its clutch of first-rate Roman ruins, earning it coveted UNESCO World Heritage site status. But this vibrant port city is so much more than this.

Featuring grand plazas, narrow medieval streets and a show-stopping cathedral, its Old Town (Part Alta) is made for wandering. Throw into the mix sandy beaches that stretch for miles and fantastic places to linger over freshly grilled seafood and you have a perfect short-break destination in one of Spain’s most appealing cities .

Discover all these and more fabulous things to do in Tarragona.

cat sitting on a stone wall in tarragona spain

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IN THIS ARTICLE

A Short History of Tarragona

One of the reasons to visit Spain is for its rich history, which is perfectly encapsulated in Tarragona.

Settled by the Iberians in the 5 th Century BC, Tarragona was captured by the Romans in 218 BC. Known as Tarraco , it was transformed into the earliest Roman stronghold in Spain.

Legend has it that St. Paul founded the Christian church in Tarraco in 60 AD, with a little help from St. Thecla.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Tarraco was captured by the Visigoths . This Germanic tribe held the city until the Moors ’ invasion in 714 AD.

The city languished in obscurity until 1119 when it was reborn as a key city in the new Spanish kingdom of Aragon .

Best Things to Do in Tarragona, Spain

1. explore tarragona’s roman ruins.

As an ensemble, Tarragona’s ruins paint a vivid picture of the city’s grandeur as a provincial Roman capital. Follow this Roman route to discover more of the city’s past:

Map of key Roman sites in Tarragona, Spain

Model of Tarraco (Maqueta de Tàrraco)

Begin your exploration of Tarragona’s Roman past at the reconstruction of the Roman city of Tarraco.

scale model of the roman city of tarraco

This model shows Tarragona in its Roman heyday. Made to a scale of 1:500, and at 18m 3 in size, it is the second-largest model of the Roman world in Europe.

Tarragona’s Roman Walls (Passeig Arquelògic)

The Roman city of Tarraco was fortified by a wall that was around 4km in length. Just over a kilometre of this wall remains, bordering Tarragona’s Old Town.

The best-preserved section of the surviving wall is along the Passeig Arqueològic or Archaeological Promenade.

Initially made from stones, wood and earth, this was replaced by a sturdier wall of large uneven stones (megaliths) reinforced with towers . Three of these towers remain: the Archbishop, Capiscol and Minerva towers.

The Provincial Forum

The lively Plaça del Fòrum is the site of Tarraco’s Provincial Forum, the administrative nerve centre of the Roman city.

square in spanish city with ochre coloured buildings and roman ruins

The forum was a huge rectangular space, surrounded on three sides by an intricate portico, extending beyond the current Plaça del Fòrum. Several of its inscribed pedestals and walls also survive along Carrer Merceria , and in Plaça del Pallol and the Praetorium .

Tarragona’s Roman Circus & Praetorium

Visiting the Roman Circus and Praetorium is one of the unmissable things to do in Tarragona.

This first-century Roman circus must have been quite something in its day. Measuring over 1,000 feet long, this horse-drawn chariot racing track could host around 30,000 spectators.

Although much of the site remains hidden under 19 th Century buildings – a corner of the track and seating area are all that remain – Tarragona’s circus is one of the best conserved in the Western world.

roman ruins in tarragona spain of old steps for seating and large open space

Its underground tunnels, connecting the circus to the Praetorium, are impressive. The Praetorium , or Praetorian Tower, was built to house a staircase linking the lower city to the provincial forum.

Climb to the top of the tower for a 360-degree view of the city.

panoramic view of medieval town with church spire

The Roman Amphitheatre (Amfiteatre Romà)

Whereas residents of Tarraco got their chariot racing fix at the circus, the amphitheatre was the place to go for public executions and gladiatorial fights.

Tarragona’s Roman amphitheatre was built at the turn of the 2nd Century AD and is estimated to have accommodated 12,000 bloodthirsty spectators. Its 221 AD alterations are recorded in a 140-metre inscription on its podium, the longest such inscription in the Roman Empire.

large roman amphitheatre which is one of the best things to see in tarragona spain

The amphitheatre is another example of the layering of the ancient with the more modern in Tarragona.

In 259 AD, the Amphitheatre was the site of the martyrdom of Saint Fructuosus and his two deacons. When the Visigoths arrived in Tarragona at the end of the 6th Century, they built a basilica on the site to commemorate the event.

Fast forward to the 12 th Century and the Romanesque church of Santa Maria del Miracle was built over the Visigoth basilica. In subsequent years, the site was home to other structures, including a prison and holiday apartments, before its Roman roots were laid bare.

The Local Forum (Fòrum Local Romà)

The last site on Tarragona’s Roman route is the Local Forum.

Located in the residential part of the city, Tarragona’s local forum was the hub of daily life. Originally a vast square, this was lined with shops, temples and public buildings.

Sadly, much of the forum was the victim of urban expansion in the 19th Century. Today, we can see a portion of a Roman basilica , a cistern and some fine Corinthian columns .

roman ruins in tarragona spain with corinthian columns

If you are planning to visit Tarragona’s core Roman sites, buy a pass at your first stop. This will gain you entry to the Walls, the Praetorium and Roman Circus, the Amphitheatre and the Local Forum.

Alternatively, pay as you go at each site. It is free to visit the Model of Roman Tarraco.

2. Wander around the Old Town of Tarragona

Tarragona’s Roman footprint is planted firmly in its Old Town. Formally known as the Upper Town ( Part Alta ), this is where the city’s entire population lived until the late-middle ages, separated from El Serrallo, Tarragona’s seafront community.

man with bike in narrow medieval street with sand and ochre coloured buildings

This medieval maze of narrow shaded streets of sand and ochre is made for wandering. Throw away your city map and just go where your feet take you.

And when your feet are sore, stop for a meal at one of the restaurants in the Old Town’s squares.

3. Visit Tarragona Cathedral and take time out in its cloisters

Tarragona Cathedral is the latest in a series of sacred sites to be built at the highest point of the Old Town

This site was previously occupied by a temple dedicated to Augustus, around which Tarraco was developed. In 475 AD, the Visigoths built a cathedral here which was demolished during the Muslim invasion in the 8 th Century. A mosque was then established on the site.

Work on the current cathedral started in the 12 th Century and it was consecrated in 1331. Tarragona Cathedral is considered to be the finest in Catalonia.

Its main façade features three superb portals and, above the lintel, there are intricate stone carvings of scenes from The Last Judgement.

gothic cathedral door with carved sculptures

Check the seasonal opening hours here . An entrance fee applies.

Here’s what to expect from your visit.

Chapel of Saint Thecla

This Baroque chapel featuring carvings hewn from pinkish jasper and Carrara marble was built to house the reliquary containing the arm of St Thecla, to whom the cathedral is dedicated.

Chapel of Saint Mary (Tailors’ Chapel)

With its rich architectural, sculptural and pictorial detail, this was my favourite chapel in Tarragona Cathedral. It owes its popular name to it being bankrolled by the city’s Guild of Tailors in the second quarter of the 14 th Century.

fresco painting of mary and baby jesus with bishop

Chapel of St. Olegarius

Occupying the right-hand apse bay underneath the cathedral’s bell tower, this 13 th Century chapel features expressive carvings of angels playing musical instruments.

High Altar and the main altarpiece

This magnificent white marble altar is carved with scenes depicting the life and martyrdom of St Thecla. The Gothic altarpiece features delicate alabaster carvings on a large limestone base.

Tarragona Cathedral cloister

One of the main highlights of Tarragona Cathedral is its cloister.

Completed in the early 13 th Century, this is one of the oldest parts of the cathedral. It was a place to read, stroll and meditate, today as much as in the past.

Its four galleries enclose a small garden with resident fish and tortoises.

4. Pick up a present in one of the oldest candle shops in Europe

A stone’s throw from the cathedral is Casa Corderet. This tiny candle shop is not only the oldest shop in Catalonia but also one of the oldest in Europe.

Its doors have been open for business since 1751. In addition to its waxy delights, it has a secret doorway leading to the basement and four gravestones with Roman inscriptions.

Casa Corderet is located at 17 Carrer Merceria.

5. Check out Tarragona’s street art

Make sure that you check out the street art when you are in Tarragona’s Old Town.

Start at Plaça dels Sedassos (you can also see some remains of the Roman circus here). The 24-year-old trompe-l’oeil style mural on the façade of the central building is a Tarragona must-see.

medieval street with plaza and central building painted with street art

Tarragonan painter Carles Arola has created an optical illusion that the figures and objects are real; you can almost believe that the figures are hanging out of the balconies.

A few minutes walk will bring you to Carrer d’en Mediona and Carrer dels Cavallers where the walls and bricked-in doors of some of the building façades have been used as canvases for brightly painted murals.

6. Walk along ‘Pilon Street’

Running parallel to Carrer d’en Mediona is Carrer del Comte , also known as Pilon Street.

This moniker is thanks to the street’s colourful array of painted parking pylons, which inject doses of vibrant colour into the muted palette of the Part Alta. On the first Saturday of July every year, organisations, groups and individuals repaint the 47 posts on the street with prizes awarded to the best.

7. Stroll along the Rambla Nova

Southwest of the Old Town is Tarragona’s answer to Barcelona’s Las Ramblas: Rambla Nova.

people walking along large pedestrianised street

Linking the Balcó del Mediterrani with the Plaça Imperial Tarraco Square , this pedestrianised strip is the beating heart of Tarragona. Over a mile in length, it is home to shops, stalls and restaurants and is a popular place to hang out, particularly at night.

P.S. I prefer it to Barcelona’s busier and more touristy Las Ramblas

8. Take in the view from the Mediterranean Balcony (Balcó del Mediterrani)

At the southeastern end of Rambla Nova is the Balcó del Mediterrani.

This is another popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike, and offers wonderful views, particularly at sunset.

mediterranean viewpoint with telescope at dusk

9. Stop for lunch at the Central Market of Tarragona (Mercat Central)

I was tempted to skip visiting Tarragona’s Mercat Central. Thank goodness I didn’t.

Two of the things that I love when travelling are beautiful buildings and local food, and the Central Market of Tarragona ties these up into one stunning bundle. Opened in 1915, this hallmark Modernist building , located just off Rambla Nova, is home to almost 70 food stalls.

bar in market with people chatting and eating

It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch.

10. Gawp at the superyachts in Tarragona’s port

One of the most under-the-radar things to do in Tarragona is to visit its port and El Serallo district.

From the Rambla Nova, it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk along the pedestrianised promenade under the shade of palm trees. The port area is home to some of the city’s best fish restaurants in town and the swankiest yachts that I have ever seen.

11. Chill out on Tarragona’s beaches

More chill-out time is never a bad thing. Right?

Although Tarragona has urban beaches, better ones are to be found out of town.

The best of the bunch is Platja Llarga . Over 600 meters of fine golden sand, studded with dunes and sheltered by pine forests make this the ideal getaway from the tourist crowds.

More Things to Do in Tarragona, Spain

If I had another day in Tarragona, I would have ventured to the city’s outskirts to check out these other Roman attractions.

Visit Tarragona’s Aqueduct

Popularly known as Pont del Diable (Devil’s Bridge) , the aqueduct was built in the 1st Century AD to supply the city of Tarraco with fresh water from the nearby River Francolí.

Rivalling the magnificent Pont du Gard in Provence , this masterpiece of Roman engineering is 249 meters in length and supplied Tarragona with water until as recently as the 18th Century.

Tarragona’s aqueduct is located in a wooded park 4km north of the city.

Visit Tarragona’s Paleochristian Necropolis

The Paleochristian Necropolis is one of the lesser-visited members of the UNESCO Archaeological Ensemble of Tarraco .

Located on the outskirts of the city, this paleo-Christian necropolis was used from the Roman era until the 7th Century. Excavations of both pagan and Christian burial sites offer an insight into how Romans at the time dealt with death and the afterlife.

When is the Best Time to visit Tarragona in Spain?

The best time to visit Tarragona is from May until October . Tarragona enjoys a subtropical climate. Winters are mild and summers are hot and humid. The highest rainfall is in autumn and spring. Visit in September to see castells at the city’s annual Santa Tecla Festival . In this dramatic display of Catalan culture, people join together to build castells , or human towers.

How Long Do You Need in Tarragona?

Although it is very easy to visit Tarragona as a day trip from Barcelona , I recommend spending at least two days here. Visiting its Roman ruins merits the best part of the day, and an overnight stay will allow you to enjoy the restaurants and bars of Tarragona’s Old Town at night.

Getting from Barcelona to Tarragona by train

Tarragona is an easy train ride from Barcelona.

The journey time is from 30 minutes on a high-speed train to over an hour on a regional train. Services are frequent and one-way tickets are from €5 when booked in advance.

There are two train stations in Tarragona:

Estación de Tarragona Adif

This centrally-located train station serves regional train services to Barcelona and Reus (amongst others) and long-distance trains to Valencia and Madrid.

From Estación de Tarragona Adif, it’s a 10-minute walk to the city centre.

Camp de Tarragona

Located eight miles from Tarragona, this modern station serves high-speed trains. Whilst the journey time from Barcelona to Camp de Tarragona is just 30 minutes, you need to factor in getting from the train station to Tarragona.

To travel between Camp de Tarragona and the city centre, catch a taxi or the Plana service from Tarragona Bus Station at the northern end of Rambla Nova.

Buses run frequently and the journey time is 15-20 minutes. You can pay the driver.

On balance, I recommend taking one of the slower train services from Barcelona to Estación de Tarragona Adif. Check train schedules and fares here .

Getting Around Tarragona

Tarragona is a small city and you will be able to walk between its main sites. The only time that you are likely to need public transport is to get to places on the outskirts of the city, including Camp de Tarragona and the aqueduct.

Where to Stay in Tarragona

Tarragona isn’t a big city but I recommend staying near the Old Town or near Rambla Nova to be close to many of its main attractions.

Mid-range : Hostal 977

I stayed in this charming guesthouse in a perfect location on Carrer dels Cavallers in the heart of the Old Town. The room was small but well-equipped and there was a communal lounge with an honesty bar.

hotel bedroom with large bed and stone walls

The owners were super helpful and the music wafting from the conservatoire next door was a bonus.

>>> CHECK RATES & BOOK A ROOM

Splurge : H10 Imperial Tarraco

This four-star hotel facing the amphitheatre and the sea was my second choice of lodgings in Tarragona. A large modern property that offers a swimming pool.

Budget : Pigal

Located close to Tarragona’s central train station, this guesthouse offers a range of rooms with private bathrooms and has attracted excellent reviews.

>>> CHECK RATES & BOOK A ROOM

>>>None of these places take your fancy? Discover other great accommodation choices in Tarragona here .

Is Tarragona Safe for Female Solo Travellers?

Staying safe as a solo traveller is a particular concern of women travelling alone and first-time solo travellers . Whilst you shouldn’t be complacent, you don’t have to be as concerned about petty crime in Tarragona as you would in other countries, or even in some other cities in Spain. It’s generally a safe place to walk around, even at night. Tarragona is not only one of the best solo travel destinations in Spain but also a perfect place to visit if you are travelling alone in Europe .

Enjoy exploring Tarragona’s Roman Ruins (& the rest!)

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and thought that Tarragona was 100% worth visiting.

It gives you the best of both worlds. Tarragona is small and charming but has the historical and cultural draws of a larger city. Go there to explore its rich Roman heritage and show-stopping cathedral. Stay to soak up the laid-back vibe in its medieval core and on its fine sandy beaches.

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About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

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1.1 By train
1.2 By plane
1.4 Visitor information
2 Get around
3.1 Archaeological Ensemble of Tárraco
4.1 Beaches
4.2 Major events
6.2 Mid-range
6.3 Splurge
9 Stay safe
10.1 el Vendrell

Tarragona is the first large seaside town south of Barcelona . The town also offers a number of historical sites including churches from several different periods and a well preserved Roman colosseum. The town itself has the usual Spanish assortment of plazas sprinkled with cafes and tapas bars. Tarragona is a good choice if you only have a day or two to get out of Barcelona , otherwise the beaches further south or the remoter seaside villages to the north of Barcelona offer a more unique experience.

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ]

Tarragona's main station, 41.11151 1.25318 1 Tarragona , is on the main train line between Barcelona and Alicante , International trains no longer run through here but intercity & regional expresses do. However, you always have the chance to take a stopping train, which is reasonable when coming from Barcelona, as it basically takes the same amount of time. Lines R14 R15 R16 serve Barcelona.

By plane [ edit ]

The nearest major airport is Barcelona El Prat ( BCN IATA ), about 90 km away. Transfers from Barcelona's airport can be by train, bus, hiring a taxi or renting a car.

By car [ edit ]

Tarragona is on the AP-7 (Autopista de la Mediterrània) motorway. Barcelona is roughly 100 km northeast and Valencia is roughly 250 km (just under 3 hrs) south. North of Tarragona, the AP-7 is a toll road, but south it is toll-free. The tolls north of Tarragona are expected to be removed in Sept 2021.

Tarragona also connects to the AP-2 motorway, via the A-27 and N-240 highways. Lleida is 100 km (1 hr) and Zaragoza is 235 km (2 ½ hrs drive) away.

Visitor information [ edit ]

41.118294 1.25748 1 Tarragona tourist office , Carrer Major 39 . This is the main tourist office in the city.

Get around [ edit ]

Many of Tarragona's sites are within walking distance of the train station. Taxis, buses and local trains can take you further.

See [ edit ]

Befitting a city that's existed for over 2,000 years, there are a number of historical sites to see in Tarragona. One of the most beautiful parts of city is the narrow old streets of the Casc Antic, or Medieval Quarter, particularly near the cathedral.

41.11374 1.25644 1 Balcó del Mediterrani ( Balcony to the Mediterranean ), end of the Rambla Nova . A viewpoint at the end of the Rambla Nova with views of the sea, the port, Miracle Beach and the Roman amphitheatre. The statue of Roger of Llúria, a 13th century admiral who defeated the French navy, is also located here. ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.1181 1.26018 2 Casa Canals , C. Granada, 11 , ☏ +34 977 242 858 . Tu-F 9:00-18:30, Sa 9:30-18:30, Su 9:30-14:30 . Preserved home that belonged to some of Tarragona's nobility. The main floor, garden and terrace are open, with the terrace offering nice views. €5, Joint ticket €15 (5 sites) . ( updated Apr 2024 )
41.1178 1.2554 3 Casa Castellarnau , C. dels Cavallers, 14 . Tu-F 9:00-14:30, Sa-Su 9:30-14:30 . Built in the 15th century and home to some of Tarragona's most influential families. The inside is a mix of styles from various eras, including arches from the 15th century, Gothic columns and the painted ceiling of the ballroom. closed for rennovation . ( updated Apr 2024 )
41.10983 1.24138 5 El Serrallo , C. de Sant Pere / Moll de Pescadors ( south of the railroad tracks at the western end of the Moll de Costa ). The historic and still active fishing district. The neighbourhood mixes the charm of brightly painted buildings, a palm-lined promenade, a selection of seafood restaurants and the markets and auction rooms where fish caught during the day is sold in the afternoon. ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.11824 1.25504 6 Marqueta de Tarraco ( Model of Tarraco ), Plaça del Pallol, 3 , ☏ +34 977 250 795 . M-F 9:00-20:30, Sa-Su 9:30-14:30 . A model of Tarraco in the second century AD. Free . ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.10946 1.24673 7 Museu del Port Tarragona ( Port Museum ), Tinglado 2, Moll de Costa , ☏ +34 977 259 434 . Oct to May: Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-19:00, Su 11:00-14:00; June-Sept: Tu-Sa 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00 (in Aug the hours are 9:00-15:00), Su 11:00-14:00 . Museum showcasing Tarragona's maritime past and present, including life on the docks, types of fisheries and local freight. Free . ( updated Apr 2024 )
41.10981 1.24484 8 Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona ( MNAT ), Tinglado 4, Moll de Costa , ☏ +34 977 251 515 . closed Mon, see website for times on other days. . Exhibits on the history of the Roman colony of Tarraco. Tinglado 4 is a small temporary venue by the port, with only a small sample from the main museum that has been closed for refurbishment. As of 2023, no estimated reopening date for the main museum has been announced. €4 adults, €2 seniors (includes admission to the Museu i Necròpolis Paleocristians); €7 MNAT ticket, for admission to this museum, the Necropolis, the Villa of Centcelles and the Roman Villa of Els Munts . ( updated Apr 2024 )
41.11733 1.25845 9 Museum of Modern Art ( Museu d'Art Modern, Tarragona ), C. Santa Anna, 8 ( within city walls, bus 8, 13 ), ☏ +34 977 235 032 . Closed M, see website for times . Gallery that exhibits paintings and sculptures from the 20th century. One of the most celabrated works is a carpet made in collaboration with Joan Miró. Free . ( updated Apr 2024 )
Universitat Rovira i Virgili

Archaeological Ensemble of Tárraco [ edit ]

The Roman city, Tarraco, was one of the Roman Empire's most important cities in Spain and a provincial capital. A number of buildings and landmarks remain from that era and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Many are within walking distance of the town center.

41.11593 1.25708 11 Circ romà ( Roman Circus ). Tu-F 9:00-18:30, Sa 9:30-18:30, Su 9:30-14:30 . The remains of the chariot track and buildings. Only a portion of the structure is left but some of the passages and vaults in the basement can be seen. Admission includes access to the nearby Torre del Pretori. €5, joint ticket €15 . ( updated Apr 2024 )
41.11291 1.24945 12 Teatre romà ( Roman Theatre ), Carrer Caputxins & Carrer Rebolledo , ☏ +34 977 25 15 15 . The remains of the Roman theatre. It was built in the first century AD and could hold 6,000 spectators. free for individuals but reservation required. . ( updated Apr 2024 )
41.11585 1.23917 14 Museu i Necròpolis Paleocristians ( Early Christian Necropolis & Museum ), Av. Ramón y Cajal 84 , ☏ +34 977 211 175 . Tu-Sa 10:00-13:30 and 15:00-17:30 (open until 20:00 June-Sept), Su 10:00-14:00 . One of the earliest Christian burial sites in the western Mediterranean. There is a museum with sarcophagus, epitaphs and other funerary objects, and part of the cemetery is open to the public. €4 . ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.11785 1.25882 16 Provincial Forum , Plaça del Pallol, Plaça del Fòrum, Plaça del Rei . The provincial forum was the administrative center of the city in Roman times and covered a large portion of the northern end of Tarraco. Much of the original structure has been torn down, but remnants of walls, vaults, entrances and towers remain in the Antiga Audiència on Plaça del Pallol, the Plaça del Fòrum, and the Praetorium on Plaça del Rei (near the Circ romà). Some pedestals with Roman inscriptions can still be seen along Carrer Merceria, too. ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.11885 1.25488 18 Walls , starts at the gate near Avinguda de Catalunya and Via de l'Imperi Romà . The city walls were built in the second century AD and modified in the Middle Ages and 18th century. About 1 km remains, bordering the Casc Antic (Old Quarter), with a number of towers and bastions. A cobblestone path follows the outside of the wall and has some interpretation plaques and gardens. ( updated Dec 2020 )

Do [ edit ]

There are not a lot of organized outdoor activities in Tarragona beyond strolling through the town, swimming at the beaches, and people watching in the plazas.

Beaches [ edit ]

Tarragona has a number of golden sand beaches , mostly to the north of town. Avoid pollution from the town's large shipping port (one of the biggest in Spain ) by walking a ways up the beach. There is a nice walk following the shoreline, about 6-7 km long, where you will find the five main beaches and several smaller ones.

41.11328 1.25855 1 Platja del Miracle ( Miracle Beach ), Passeig Maritim de Rafael Casanova . An urban beach with the port at the south end and the railroad and city centre behind it. It's a longish stretch of sand (roughly ½ km) and the water is generally calm but it tends to get crowded due to its proximity to the city centre. ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.11976 1.27695 2 Platja del l'Arrabassada , Passeig Maritim de Rafael Casanova & C. Josep Ras i Claravalis . A little north of Miracle Beach, l'Arrabassada is another ½ km of golden sand. It has some small beach restaurants and there's a palm-lined promenade behind it. This beach regularly earns a Blue Flag for its environmental management. ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.12285 1.28449 3 Platja Savinosa , foot of C. de Francesc Girminells i Mascaro . Smaller Blue Flag beach ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.12874 1.30258 4 Platja Llarga , C. de la Platja Llarga . Popular beach with restaurants, rentals, showers and sailing club. At 3 km (1.9 mi) in length, it's the longest stretch of sand in Tarragona. ( updated Dec 2020 )
41.1304 1.3624 5 Platja de Tamarit ( Tamarit's Beach ). Tamarit beach is the northernmost beach in the municipality and is characterized by its proximity to the natural area of the Gaià River. ( updated May 2023 )

Major events [ edit ]

The Tarragona 'Ajuntament' ie Town Council publishes a fortnightly online 'what's on' guide called 'publics' which can be accessed via the ajuntament website.

Tarragona International Dixieland Festival . The week before Holy Week, end of March . The unique Dixieland festival in Spain and one of the most important in Europe: 25 bands and 100 concerts.
Tarragona International Fireworks Displays Competition . first week of July . The most important fireworks contest in the Mediterranean area is held every first week of July in Tarragona, in a wonderful bay — Punta del Miracle — a place praised by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. The competition selects six international pyrotechnic companies every year.
Santa Tecla Festival . between 15th and 23rd September . One of the most important Spanish traditional festival, between 15th and 23rd September. It has been celebrated since 1321 and it has been considered of national touristic interest by Spanish government. Human towers, historical parades and fireworks are some of the main activities.
[dead link] Tarragona Cultura Contemporania ( TCC ). October to April . Concerts, films in Original version, Theatre... L'associació cultural Anima't since 1994 produced a cultural program in Tarragona under the label of Tarragona Cultura Contemporània (TCC) together a program of music and films in original version of the October to April.
Saint George's Day ( Sant Jordi ). Commemorates the feast of Saint George, patron saint of the Catalans. It is customary for couples to exchange roses and books. There is also a human towers exhibition by the city's four colles (groups): Xiquets de Tarragona, Colla Jove Xiquets de Tarragona, Xiquets del Serrallo and Colla Castellera Sant Pere i Sant Pau. ( updated Apr 2023 )
Human Towers . Schedule of human towers performances that go from June 23, Sant Joan, to September 23, Santa Tecla. Every Wednesday during the months of July and August there is a castella performance in Pla de la Seu (Cathedral of Tarragona). ( updated Apr 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

There are many interesting shops along the Rambla Nova and in the streets around it, as well as in the old part of the city. A lot of typical Catalan stuff can be bought there.

41.11918 1.19594 1 Bonavista street market . Sundays . Large street market. ( updated Oct 2016 )

Eat [ edit ]

Tarragona has a number of small bars, restaurants, and cafes serving the usual selection of tapas, bocadillos (sandwiches), and local seafood dishes. The best area to browse for tapas and full meals is from The Plaça de la Font along the Carrer Major up to the Cathedral, with Carrer Nau and the Plaça del Rei and Plaça del Fòrum particularly worthwhile.

The Serrallo neighbourhood near the fishing harbour has some excellent fish and seafood restaurants, which are particularly popular for Sunday lunch. There is a market hall just off the Rambla Nova in the middle of town where the basics of a good picnic can be bought cheaply.

Budget [ edit ]

41.11515 1.255245 1 La Pepita , Plaça de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer, 8 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.117302 1.255573 2 Istanbul , Carrer de Sant Domènec, 26 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.119712 1.253429 3 Snack Speed Bar , Av. Catalunya, 5 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.115247 1.249003 4 Tàrraco Taverna , Carrer de Lleida, 7 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.114305 1.248283 5 Restaurant Tànger , Carrer del Gasòmetre, 39 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.11528 1.254678 6 a tocar ferro , Carrer de Sant Agustí, 19 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

41.1172 1.25645 7 El Pulvinar , Carrer dels Ferrers, 20 , ☏ +34 977 235 631 . M, W-Su 13:00-15:45 and 20:00-23:30 . Pizza, pasta and other Italian dishes in a building that used to be part of the Roman Circus. €20-30 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.1181 1.25644 8 Filosofía Restaurante , Plaça d'en Ripoll, 6 , ☏ +34 693 471 639 . M, W-Su 13:00-15:30 and 20:30-23:30 . Grilled meat, burgers and fish. €20-30 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.1184 1.2572 9 La Cucafera , Plaza de Santiago Rusiñol, 5 , ☏ +34 977 242 007 . M, W-Su 13:00-15:45; open for dinner F-Sa 20:00-23:30 . Focuses on tradition Catalan dishes, particularly rice and fresh seafood, with some fusion influences. €20-30 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

41.119221 1.258792 10 AQ , Carrer de les Coques, 7 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
41.11827 1.256692 11 Arcs Restaurante , C. de Misser Sitges, 13 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

The nicest place to spend an evening is in one of Tarragona's many plazas with a glass of beer and plate of tapas. At night if you want to have some drinks and dance you should go to "El Port" (the port), there are a lot of pubs and dance locals there.

The local speciality is vermouth, and you will find plenty of vermuterias that serve their own brand vermouths.

Sleep [ edit ]

The tourist office at Carrer Fortuny in the New Town and Carrer Major in the Casc Antic can point you to hotel rooms at any budget.

41.11168 1.25191 1 Hotel Catalunya Express , C. General Contreras 16 , ☏ +34 977 219 119 . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . 30 room hotel in the city centre with basic furnishings. Most rooms are for two people, the Superior rooms can hold 3 or 4. Free Wifi and complimentary continental breakfast. From €60 in summer, from €45 in winter .
[dead link] Aparthotel Alexandra , Rambla nova 71 , ☏ +34 977 248 701 , fax : +34 977 245 672 , [email protected] . Rooms starting at €49 .
41.11552 1.21764 2 Hotel Canadá , Carretera de Valencia 211 , ☏ +34 977 541 633 , fax : +34 977 543 738 . 60 room hotel with individual, double, triple and quadruple rooms. Amenities include Wifi and air conditioned rooms. Parking is available but cannot be booked in advance. €75-125 .
41.11854 1.24475 3 Hotel SB Ciutat de Tarragona , Plaça Imperial Tarraco 5 , ☏ +34 977 250 999 , [email protected] . Modern and centrally located. Free Wi-Fi connection in all rooms and common areas, splendid reunion salons and a wide range of Tarragona’s rich gastronomy. Amenities include private garage, gym, sauna and solarium terrace with pool. Rooms come in a variety of sizes, for 2-5 people. From €100 in summer, from €70 in winter .
41.12357 1.23652 4 Hotel SB Express Tarragona , Plaça de les Corts Catalanes 4 , ☏ +34 977 221 050 , [email protected] . Located at the beginning of the Rambla of Tarragona. Private garage. Modern, comfortable and functional hotel, spacious rooms suitable for families. Free Wi-Fi connections in all rooms and common areas. Cafeteria, reunion salons and car rental office. €85-100 in summer, €50-70 in winter .

Stay safe [ edit ]

Be careful if you choose to visit the night clubs of the Puerto Deportivo alone, especially if you are a guy. Foreign visitors have been robbed there.

Nearby [ edit ]

El vendrell [ edit ].

Ohtels Sant Salvador , Calle Llobregat, 11 43880 Comarruga Tarragona , ☏ +34 977 684 041 . 3-star hotel in Comarruga
[dead link] Gran Hotel Europe Salou , Avda. Palfuriana, 125-127 , ☏ +34 977 68 42 00 . 4-star hotel in Comarruga.

Go next [ edit ]

Salou — Popular beach town with holiday resorts. PortAventura , one of Spain's largest amusement parks, is nearby.
Reus — Antoni Gaudi's birthplace.
Poblet Monastery UNESCO listed Cistercian monastery 30 km north on the road to Lleida

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Tarragona (Province)

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El Vendrell

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Sited on a rocky hill, sheer above the sea, TARRAGONA has a formidable ancient past. Settled originally by Iberians and then Carthaginians, it was later used as the base for the Roman conquest of the peninsula, which began in 218 BC with Scipio’s march south against Hannibal. The fortified city became an imperial resort and, under Augustus, Tarraco was named capital of Rome’s eastern Iberian province – the most elegant and cultured city of Roman Spain, boasting at its peak a quarter of a million inhabitants. Temples and monuments were built in and around the city and, despite a history of seemingly constant sacking and looting since Roman times, it’s this distinguished past which still asserts itself throughout modern Tarragona.

Time spent in the handsome upper town quickly shows what attracted the emperors to the city: strategically – and beautifully – placed, it’s a fine setting for some splendid Roman remains and a few excellent museums. There’s an attractive medieval section, too, while the rocky coastline below conceals a couple of reasonable beaches. If there’s a downside, it’s that Tarragona is today the second-largest port in Catalunya, so the views aren’t always unencumbered – though the fish in the Serrallo fishing quarter is consistently good and fresh. Furthermore, the city’s ugly outskirts to the south have been steadily degraded by new industries – chemical and oil refineries and a nuclear power station – which do little for Tarragona’s character as a resort.

Book tickets and tours for Tarragona

Human castles

It’s not often that you’ll come across a group of grown men and women who willingly climb onto each other’s back to form a tall, if a bit wobbly, human tower. But when you do, it’s a sight to behold. Catalunya’s famous castellers – teams of people competing to build human towers – originated in Valls, near Tarragona, at the end of the eighteenth century. Over time, the rest of Catalunya embraced the tradition, and castells now form a part of festivals throughout the region. The impressive castells can loom up to ten human storeys tall, and are completed by a small child scrambling to the very top.

Castells are a feature of Tarragona’s annual Festival of Santa Tecla in mid-September. To learn more about the history, pay a visit to Tarragona’s Casa de la Festa, Via Augusta 4 (end June to end Sept Tues–Sat 11am–2pm & 5–9pm, Sun 11am–2pm; rest of year Tues & Wed 9am–1pm, Thurs & Fri 9am–1pm & 5–7pm, Sat 10am–2pm & 5–7pm, Sun 11am–2pm; free; t977 220 086). The Festa Major of Vilafranca del Penedès in late August also showcases castells.

Cava country

Cava – Spain’s answer to champagne – is grown largely in the Penedès region, which also produces quality white wines and sturdy reds. “Cava” simply means cellar, and was the word chosen when the French objected to the word champagne. The eminently drinkable, and very affordable, sparkling wine is usually defined by its sugar content: seco (literally “dry”) has around half the sugar of a semi-seco (“very sweet”). In addition to selling cheap bottles of bubbly, the region’s famous bodegas often offer informative tours and tastings, and are located in stunning properties, attractions in themselves. Most can be found in the Penedès region near the town of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, about 30km west of Barcelona, and easily accessible via the highway that zips right past it. The countryside around Vilafranca de Penedès, 15km southwest of Sant Sadurní, is also dotted with wineries, including wine giant Torres. There are regular trains from Estació-Sants Barcelona to Sant Sadurní (40min) and Vilafranca de Penedès (50min).

Touring the Priorat

Around 35km west of Tarragona lies one of Spain’s emerging wine regions, the Priorat, which was awarded its DOC in 2001. The red wine produced here, and in the adjacent Montsany DOC, is highly sought after, and the cellers have started to follow their more established competitors in La Rioja by cashing in with wine tours and tastings. The turisme in Tarragona has up-to-date information, or you can try the local office in Falset (Mon–Fri 9am–3pm & 4–7pm, Sat 10am–2pm, Sun 11am–2pm; t977 831 023, w turismepriorat.org ). Most tours cost €5–7, and many have English-speaking guides – reservations are essential.

La Conreria de Scala Dei c/Mitja Galta 32, Scala Dei, just south of La Morera de Montsant t977 827 027, w vinslaconreria.com . This established winery, named after the Carthusian monks of Scala Dei, offers tours through its cellars and vineyards followed by tastings. Book tours in advance, via phone or website. Tours €10. Mon–Fri 11am–5pm, Sat & Sun 11am–2pm.

Costers del Siurana Camí Manyetes, Gratallops t977 839 276. This highly regarded winery offers tours through the cellars, and also runs the charming, small Cellers de Gratallop restaurant nearby, which serves regional cuisine – and Priorat wine, of course. Call or email ahead to enquire about tour hours and prices.

LLEIDA (Lérida), at the heart of a fertile plain in inland Catalunya, has a rich history. First a municipium under the Roman Empire and later the centre of a small Arab kingdom, it was reconquered by the Catalans and became the seat of a bishopric in 1149. Little of those periods survives in today’s city but there is one building of outstanding interest, the old cathedral, which is sufficient justification in itself to visit. Several interesting museums and a steep set of old-town streets will easily occupy any remaining time. Rooms are easy to come by, and the students at the local university fill the streets and bars on weekend evenings, including at the breezy Plaça de Sant Joan, in good-natured throngs.

The Monestir de Poblet

There are few ruins more stirring than the Monestir de Poblet, lying in glorious open country, vast and sprawling within massive battlemented walls and towered gateways. Once the great monastery of Catalunya, it was in effect a complete manorial village and enjoyed scarcely credible rights, powers and wealth. Founded in 1151 by Ramón Berenguer IV, who united the kingdoms of Catalunya and Aragón, it was planned from the beginning on an immensely grand scale. The kings of Aragón-Catalunya chose to be buried in its chapel and for three centuries diverted huge sums for its endowment, a munificence that was inevitably corrupting. By the late Middle Ages Poblet had become a byword for decadence – there are lewder stories about this than any other Cistercian monastery – and so it continued, hated by the local peasantry, until the Carlist revolution of 1835 when a mob burned and tore it apart. The monastery was repopulated by Italian Cistercians in 1940 and over the decades since then it’s been subject to continual – and superb – maintenance and restoration.

The cloisters

As so often, the cloisters, focus of monastic life, are the most evocative and beautiful part. Late Romanesque, and sporting a pavilion and fountain, they open onto a series of rooms: a splendid Gothic chapterhouse (with the former abbots’ tombs set in the floor), wine cellars, a parlour, a kitchen equipped with ranges and copper pots, and a sombre, wood-panelled refectory.

Beyond, you enter the chapel in which the twelfth- and thirteenth-century tombs of the kings of Aragón have been meticulously restored by Frederico Marès, the manic collector of Barcelona. They lie in marble sarcophagi on either side of the nave, focusing attention on the central sixteenth-century altarpiece.

The dormitory

You’ll also be shown the vast old dormitory, to which there’s direct access from the chapel choir, a poignant reminder of Cistercian discipline. From the dormitory (half of which is sealed off since it’s still in use), a door leads out onto the cloister roof for views down into the cloister itself and up the chapel towers.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Spain, created by local experts

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Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

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A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

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Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

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Tarragona travel guide

Tarragona tourism | tarragona guide, you're going to love tarragona.

The ancient Spanish port of Tarragona has it all: Roman ruins, superb seafood, world-class beach resorts, museums and festivals. It's a fantastic Mediterranean destination.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Tarragona

1. the ruins of roman tarraco.

In Roman times, Tarragona was a key seaport and a mighty city. These days, you can visit the UNESCO-protected site of Tarraco, with a well-preseved gladiatorial colosseum.

2. One of Spain's Most Beautiful Cathedrals

The Cathedral is Tarragona's jewel. Gothic and Romanesque at the same time, it has some quirky medieval sculptures and a magical collection of devotional wood carvings.

3. Excellent Museums

Tarragona has mined its past to great effect, with fabulous museums like the Museu Nacional Arqueològic, which has a stunning Roman mosaic collection.

4. A Huge Range of Special Events

Tarragona is a fun-loving party city. Head to the vibrant Dixieland Festival (yes, Dixieland), check out the International Fireworks Displays in July or attend the Santa Tecla Festival in September.

5. Superb Seafood

Tarragona is famous for its grilled seafood, with first-rate eateries like El Llagut, Can Bonachi and Xaloc vying for your attention.

What to do in Tarragona

1. cathedral: symbol of the city.

Built to honor Saint Tecla, the Cathedral of Tarragona occupies the site of a former Roman temple, which was part of the provincial forum, the seat of the Tarragona government in the first century A.D. Constructed around two terraced squares, the temple was surrounded by a portico, which is now housed in the cathedral's cloister. The present cathedral, which bears Romanesque and Gothic features, was designed in the twelfth century. The spectacular entrance and rose window of the façade have come to symbolize the city. Visitors will find the Diocesan Museum and the Saint Tecla altarpiece within the walls of the church, as well as collections of Romanesque, medieval and modern religious art, including stone sculptures, wood carvings, gold and wrought-iron work, textiles, and ceramics.

2. Balcó del Mediterran: Soak in the Seascape

Standing atop the Rambla Nova along the Passeig de les Palmeres, 40 metres above the sea, the Balcó del Mediterran, is considered one of the best lookouts in all of Spain. Offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, the port of Tarragona, the Platja del Miracle, and the early Roman amphitheater, the balcony is popular spot among locals and tourists alike, drawing visitors to its unique railing, which is said to bring good luck.

3. Roman Amphitheater: A Tribute to Gladiators

The oval Roman Amphitheater, which was built in the second century, overlooks the Mediterranean. Carved into the bedrock, the arena can hold up to 14,000 spectators. Back in its day, it hosted gladiator fights and public executions. In 259 A.D., Fructuoso, a Bishop, and Augurio and Eulogio, his deacons, were burned at the stake in the amphitheater. A Visigoth basilica was built on the site in the early sixth century, though it was ultimately INSERT IGNOREd by the medieval Santa Maria del Miracle church.

4. Platja del Miracle: Steps from the Sea

The Platja del Miracle, which is ten minutes from downtown, can be accessed from the upper part of the Rambla Nova, as well as the steps on both sides of the Balcón del Mediterráneo, which offers striking aerial views of the beach. The sandy beach itself extends to the port of Tarragona and affords visitors a stimulating walk through the ruins of the Roman Amphitheater and a lush park lined with pines and junipers. The beach hosts several events each year, including the Tarragona fireworks, the Fiestas de Santa Tecla and the Revetlla de Sant Joan, which commemorates the summer solstice with bonfires.

5. National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona: Roman Treasures

Established in 1848 by Hernández Sanahuja, the National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona relocated to its current site at Plaça del Rei in 1960. Featuring a wealth of Roman artifacts found in Tarragona, including sculptures, ceramics, mosaics, and coins, the museum also features a library on Carrer Ramón y Cajal. Visitors can enjoy exhibits, guided tours, video displays, children's workshops and a variety of other activities. The museum overlooks the Paleochristian Museum and the Necropolis, as well as the Els Munts and Roman villas of Centcelles.

Where to Eat in Tarragona

Food is one of the greatest draws in Tarragona. Check out superb seafood eateries like la Llugat or dive into the Old Town to discover places like La Fàbrica, La Cocotte or El Complet, all of which serve up traditional Catalonian specialties. Meals should cost between EUR15-25, but single tapas portions can be as little as EUR3.

When to visit Tarragona

Spring and fall are perfect times to visit the sights of Tarragona, as you can expect thinner crowds. But if you intend to hit the beach, visiting between June and early September delivers constant sun and high temperatures.

How to Get to Tarragona

Reus Airport is a few miles from Tarragona and offers domestic connections to Madrid as well as European budget flights. Buses from the airport cost EUR3, while a taxi will charge around EUR30.

Tarragona has a direct Renfe train connection to Barcelona and Alicante. It's about an hour from Barcelona and tickets start at EUR8.

From Barcelona, take the AP-7 highway. From Madrid, the best route is the E-90, then the AP-2, followed by the AP-7.

Buses from Barcelona and Madrid to Tarragona are operated by Alsa and there should be plenty of journeys every day.

Airports near Tarragona

Airlines serving tarragona, where to stay in tarragona.

Two of the city's outstanding hotels are the modern Hotel Husa Imperial Tárraco and the slightly out-of-town Hotel Tarraco Park Tarragona.

Popular Neighborhoods in Tarragona

Part Alta - Three thousand years old, Part Alta oozes atmosphere and is home to the famous amphitheater, the Roman walls as well as fine restaurants like La Llagut.

Salou - Just down the coast from Tarragona, Salou is a famous beach resort, with great sands, fine hotels and the attraction of PortAventura, a massive family amusement complex.

El Serallo - An old fishing neighborhood by the sea, el Serallo is home to some of the city's best restaurants, like Ca l'Eulàlia and Donosti.

Where to stay in popular areas of Tarragona

Most booked hotels in tarragona, how to get around tarragona, public transportation.

Local buses are provided by EMT and single tickets cost EUR1.50 (EUR3.50 for a day's travel).

Taxis should cost around EUR5 for the first mile, then EUR2 for every subsequent mile.

Car rental options in Tarragona include Hertz and Budget, and you should be able to rent a vehicle for around EUR15-20 per day.

The Cost of Living in Tarragona

Shopping streets.

Rambla Nova is Tarragona's premier shopping neighborhood and is home to boutiques like Coretfiel and Oysho as well as major brands like Calzedonia. It's also a regular location for street markets, which could be perfect for gift shopping.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets in the city include Mercadona, Carrefour and Spar. Expect to pay around EUR1.70 for 12 eggs.

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10 Things To Do In Tarragona: A One Day Itinerary

Last Updated on January 22, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Are you looking for things to do in Tarragona, Spain? Perhaps you’re looking for an excellent day trip from Barcelona or simply want to spend some time in a smaller city on the Catalonian coast — whatever your reason, heading to Tarragona is never a bad idea.

Many places in Catalonia tend to get overshadowed by Barcelona , but there is so much to see in this rich and historic region that it is incredibly worthwhile to venture away from the city and see what else the region has to offer.

Boasting countless fantastic sites, a beautiful seaside location and fascinating history, a day trip or a few days in Tarragona is an excellent choice for this.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Tarragona?

Those wondering how many days in Tarragona is ideal to see the city and do it justice will be happy to find out that you don’t need to dedicate a significant amount of time in order to really get a feel for the city.

In fact, you can cover a lot of ground and see the majority of the sites if you simply opt for a Tarragona day trip.

Of course, we always advocate for spending as long as you can in any given destination and Tarragona is no different. The city is small and relatively compact and the major sites are all within easy reach of each other, making it the perfect destination to only spend a short time in.

Though the above things are true, you’re still going to get a lot more out of the city if you give yourself enough time to properly explore it. Go beyond the tourist sites and get lost, find some local restaurants, or shop for fresh ingredients in the market to cook yourself an authentic Spanish meal.

While you are fine with just one day in Tarragona to see all the main sites, you can’t go wrong with two or three days if you want to travel slower and enjoy the way of life here.

Getting To and Around Tarragona

Now that you know how long to spend in Tarragona, let’s briefly discuss how to get to the city and how to get around once you’re there.

Tarragona is located roughly 100km (62 miles) south of Barcelona and you can reach the city in about an hour to an hour and a half if you’re going by car.

Renting a car when visiting Tarragona can be a great idea if you also want to explore a few other towns along the coast or even visit some other areas within Catalonia. We like booking through Rental cars.com because they have great deals across many major car rental companies.

If you don’t want to rent a car, Tarragona is easily reached by train, as well. There are numerous direct trains daily from Barcelona to Tarragona and the journey will take about an hour.

You can also reach Tarragona easily by direct train from Valencia in about 2.5 hours if you come from Spain’s third-largest city. You can book train tickets online in advance here.

If you don’t want to visit Tarragona independently, then there are plenty of tours to Tarragona from Barcelona. Many, such as this small-group tour or this full-day tour include stops both in Tarragona and in the lovely seaside town of Sitges.

If you’re more interested in heading solely to Tarragona, then this tour from Barcelona includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel and will take you all around Tarragona with a qualified guide.

Once in Tarragona, you’ll find that it is incredibly easy to get around this compact city on foot. There are areas where it can be a bit hilly, however, the city centre and all of the sites are located quite close to each other and the need for public transit is virtually nonexistent.

10 Best Things to Do in Tarragona

Now that we’ve covered all of the things that you may need to know before visiting this beautiful seaside city, let’s talk about what to do in Tarragona.

Follow this as a one-day itinerary if you’re planning a Tarragona day trip from Barcelona or split them into two days if you have the time to be a bit more leisurely.

Mercat de Tarragona

Begin your time in Tarragona at the incredible Mercat de Tarragona, the city’s central market hall.

You may notice that stops such as this exist on pretty much every single one of my Spanish city guides and that is for good reason – if you want an excellent insight into the local culture and cuisine, the market is the perfect place to start.

This market hall is one of the best in the region and it is incredibly clean and modern inside. There are stalls selling everything from fresh seafood, cured meats and cheeses, olives and aperitivos, butcher’s counters, sweet stands and even sushi stands and coffee places.

Take the time to browse the stalls and see what is fresh and local. I recommend heading here early as this is when the majority of the stalls will be open. If you’re feeling up for it, you could even opt to pick up some food for a picnic or grab a pastry and a coffee for breakfast.

La Rambla Nova

After enjoying the food and vibes at the market, take the time to stroll down Tarragona’s central thoroughfare – La Rambla Nova. Not to be confused with the street of the same name in Barcelona, this Rambla is still the main artery in the city and it is very much worth wandering down.

Cutting the city down the middle, this is also where Tarragona’s main Christmas market is set up during the holiday season (which is when we visited) and the centre of the avenue is lined with many benches and trees.

There is also an interesting sculpture called the Fuente de Centenario that depicts a Catalonian human tower.

Roman Wall of Tarragona

Follow La Rambla into the Old Town area to the lovely City Walls. These walls were originally constructed by the Romans in the second century BCE and you can walk along the base of them and admire their beauty and antiquity. The pathways at the base of the walls is referred to as the Archaeological Promenade.

You can enter the promenade at varying hours depending on the season. The entry price is €5 for adults, however, there are concession prices for students, seniors etc.

If you intend to visit the majority of the archaeological sites and the noble houses, you can also purchase a combined ticket that will give you entry into all the attractions rather than having to pay more for an individual ticket for each museum or archaeological site.

Tarragona Cathedral

From the walls, wander into the Old Town a bit and make sure to visit the incredible Tarragona Cathedral.

No visit to any Spanish city is complete without taking in its main cathedral and Tarragona is no different. This building is particularly impressive, with a beautiful spire and arched entryway that is truly breathtaking.

The history surrounding this building is fascinating. Originally a Roman temple, it then became a Visigothic church, then a Moorish mosque before becoming the Catholic cathedral it is today after the Reconquista.

Noble Houses

After taking in the cathedral, you may be interested in visiting a few house museums in the heart of Tarragona. There are a few noble houses to visit in the Old Town that were once home to Spanish nobility.

The Casa Castellarnau Museum is located inside a home that was originally constructed in the 15th Century and today contains furnishings of its 18th and 19th Century inhabitants.

The Casa Canals, also located in the Old Town, is of a similar ilk and is very much worth visiting if you’re interested in this particular era of history and they both make for excellent things to do in Tarragona.

Circ Romano

Now that you’ve had some 18th and 19th Century history to take in at the Noble Houses, it’s time to head back to Ancient Roman times and visit the Circ Romano.

This museum houses a Roman circus – a facility that was once used to hold chariot races. It is a well-curated museum that will take you to a number of interesting points of the circus.

It is also very much worth climbing to the top of the observation deck of the museum to get incredible views of Tarragona — including the iconic Roman Amphitheatre — and the Mediterranean.

Roman Amphitheatre

Meander down the hill from the Roman circus toward the sea and you won’t miss one of Tarragona’s most iconic sites — the Roman Amphitheatre or Tarraco. This incredible structure overlooking the Mediterranean was constructed in the 2nd Century BCE and originally held over 14,000 spectators.

You can tour the theatre today (hours will vary by season) and see everything up close. You can also get a great view of the amphitheatre from the hill above the theatre, as well, along with a great view of the sea beyond it.

If you want a guide to see all of these Roman sites in Tarragona, consider booking this guided Roman Heritage walking tour of Tarragona .

If you’re visiting Tarragona in the warmer months, you would be missing out if you didn’t hit the beach.

Whether you want to spend the day lounging on the sand or simply want to take a stroll and dip your toes in the water before you continue onto all of the other places to visit in Tarragona, the beach is definitely an essential stop on any itinerary in the warm season.

Tarragona has many kilometres of coastline so if you’re looking for something a bit more quiet, you may need to venture a bit further from the city centre but you’re sure to find something that suits your fancy.

If you don’t want to go to the beach, wander back into the city centre and consider eating at the tavern Can Xiulet which has a fantastic (and massive) set lunch menu for €14 per person.

Puente del Diablo

If you have a car, then another fantastic place to visit on your Tarragona itinerary would have to be the Puenete del Diablo — the Devil’s Bridge — an ancient Roman aqueduct located a few kilometres outside of the Tarragona centre.

There is a small car park close to the aqueduct and then you need to walk about five minutes on a well-marked trail before reaching the aqueduct.

Constructed during the reign of Augustus and of the same antiquity as the other Roman artefacts found in the city, you can even walk across this fascinating structure should you choose to visit. Entry is free.

El Serralló

End your day in Tarragon in the fishing district along the water of the city, El Serralló. This area is packed with waterfront cafes, beautiful murals and fantastic restauants. In fact, if you’re looking for a great place to grab a fresh seafood meal, then make sure to head to El Serralló.

I would recommend spending the beginning of your evening having a drink or a small snack at one of the waterfront cafes before heading a street or two behind the waterfront to find a restaurant to have a meal at.

There are countless great restaurants in this area. We had a great meal at El Crank , which is a bit more upmarket, but there are plenty of great options no matter what you’re after.

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend in Tarragona, then you can certainly spread the activities listed above over two full days and spend more time in each place or simply go at a slower pace. This would be particularly helpful if you’re visiting in the summer and you want to spend a good amount of time on the beach.

Planning for more than a day trip to Tarragona will also give you time to explore areas of the city a bit away from the main tourist attractions. While there aren’t necessarily a ton of great sites, there are fantastic restaurants only about a 10-minute walk from the Old Town.

Spending a few more days in Tarragona is also a great opportunity to explore the surrounding area. For instance, you can head to some other seaside towns in the region, such as Sitges. You could also opt to go on a day trip to places like Montserrat or Reus which isn’t located too far from Tarragona.

Where to Stay in Tarragona

B&B Hotel Tarragona – If you’re looking for a plush, boutique hotel that is located in the centre of Tarragona, then this is a great choice for you. They have wonderful rooms available, a fantastic location, an on-site bar and breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Placa de la Font – If you’re looking for a more budget to mid-range accommodation option, then this hotel is a great choice. Located in the Old Town of Tarragona, they have a range of basic yet clean and comfortable rooms available (all ensuite), a restaurant and bar on site and even a terrace to enjoy the warm evenings on!

Apartamentos Astoria – If you’d rather have your own apartment in Tarragona than stay in a hotel, then these apartments are an excellent choice. There are numerous different options to choose from that can suit any budget in a central location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tarragona hotels!

There are so many things to do in Tarragona that you’re sure not to get bored. Whether you choose to visit as a day trip or as part of a longer holiday, Tarragona is an excellent city to explore on the Catalonian coast.

Are you wondering what to do in Tarragona? Have any questions about planning your visit? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Maggie, Just at Tarragona today . . . needed a break from Barcelona. LOVED IT!

Happy you enjoyed it!

Awesome article

tarragona tourist information

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A Short History of Tarragona

Best Things to Do in Tarragona, Spain

2. Wander around the Old Town of Tarragona

3. Visit Tarragona Cathedral and take time out in its cloisters

Tarragona Cathedral cloister

4. Pick up a present in one of the oldest candle shops in Europe

5. Check out Tarragona’s street art

6. Walk along ‘Pilon Street’

7. Stroll along the Rambla Nova

8. Take in the view from the Mediterranean Balcony (Balcó del Mediterrani)

9. Stop for lunch at the Central Market of Tarragona (Mercat Central)

10. Gawp at the superyachts in Tarragona’s port

11. Chill out on Tarragona’s beaches

More Things to Do in Tarragona, Spain

Visit Tarragona’s Aqueduct

Visit Tarragona’s Paleochristian Necropolis

When is the Best Time to visit Tarragona in Spain?

How Long Do You Need in Tarragona?

Getting from Barcelona to Tarragona by train

Getting Around Tarragona

Where to Stay in Tarragona

Is Tarragona Safe for Female Solo Travellers?

Enjoy exploring Tarragona’s Roman Ruins (& the rest!)

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Tarragona (Province)

Tortosa Cathedral

Delta de l'Ebre Nature Reserve

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In the footsteps of Miró

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