Tarragona (province) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tarragona Province with our comprehensive travel guide, including information on top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province is one of the provinces of Catalonia, located in eastern Spain. The province is known for its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and beautiful beaches.

Tarragona is a city and the capital of the province, but there are also many other small towns and villages worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor adventures, or just soaking up the Mediterranean sun, Tarragona Province has something to offer.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the top attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, transportation options, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Tarragona Province

Here are some of the top places to visit in Tarragona Province:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tarragona Amphitheater: This ancient Roman amphitheater is a must-visit attraction in the city of Tarragona and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Roman Circus: This is the best-preserved Roman circus in the world, and it can be found in Tarragona.
  • National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona: This museum features artifacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
  • Poblet Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this monastery was founded in the 12th century and is still an active religious center.

Natural Attractions of Tarragona Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ebro Delta Natural Park: This park is a biosphere reserve that is home to numerous species of birds.
  • Montsant Natural Park: With its stunning mountain scenery, this park is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing.
  • Tarragona Beaches: Tarragona Province is home to many beautiful beaches, including Playa de la Arrabassada and Playa de la Llarga.
  • Terres de l’Ebre: This region is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the picturesque villages of Miravet, Benifallet, and Tortosa.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province offers many hiking and biking routes that provide the opportunity to explore its stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • Ruta del Cister: This route takes hikers and bikers through the Poblet Monastery, the Santes Creus Monastery, and the Vallbona de les Monges Monastery.
  • Via Augusta: This ancient Roman road stretches from Cadiz to the Pyrenees and passes through Tarragona Province.
  • Gr-92: This long-distance trail follows the coastline of Catalonia and passes through many beautiful beaches and fishing villages.

Best Things to Do in Tarragona Province: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Tarragona Province:

  • Explore the Roman ruins in Tarragona: The city is home to the best-preserved Ancient Roman ruins in Spain.
  • Enjoy the beaches: Tarragona Province has many beautiful beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
  • Visit Sitges: This charming seaside town is known for its colorful houses, modernist architecture, and lively nightlife scene.
  • Try the local wine: Tarragona Province is a wine-producing region, so be sure to sample some of the local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tarragona Province

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Tarragona Province:

Day 1: Tarragona City Tour: Explore the Roman ruins, Gothic Quarter, and Gothic cathedral of Tarragona.

Day 2: Montsant Natural Park: Hike the trails on this stunning park, and visit the picturesque mountain villages of Siurana and Cornudella de Montsant.

Day 3: Ebro Delta Natural Park: Visit the Biosphere Reserve, and go bird watching, or relax at one of the park’s many beaches.

Day 4: Poblet Monastery: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the monastery.

Day 5: Sitges: Spend the day in this charming town, explore the beaches, and enjoy the nightlife.

Day 6: Wine Tasting Tour: Visit the wineries of Priorat and Penedes, and sample the delicious wines.

Day 7: Beach Day: Relax and unwind on one of the stunning beaches in Tarragona Province.

Food and Drink Scene of Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province is home to many delicious dishes and local products. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paella: A traditional rice dish that originated in Valencia but is popular all over Spain, including Tarragona Province.
  • Escudella i carn d’olla: A hearty meat stew with vegetables that is typically served during Christmas.
  • Crema Catalana: A dessert similar to crème brûlée that is flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest.

Local Beverages

  • Red Wine: Tarragona Province is a wine-producing region that produces many excellent red wines, including those from the Priorat and Penedes regions.
  • Cava: A sparkling wine that is similar to champagne and is produced in the Penedes region.
  • Vermouth: A popular drink in Tarragona Province, vermouth can be found in many bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Tarragona Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tarragona Province has many options when it comes to accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Monument Mas Passamaner: This beautiful hotel is located in a former modernist house and offers excellent amenities, including an outdoor pool and spa.
  • Parador de Tortosa: This hotel is located in a historic castle and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Hostal Sport: This popular hostel is located in the charming town of Falset and offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Tarragona Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Tarragona Province:

  • Olive Oil: Tarragona Province is known for its high-quality olive oil, which is produced in many small farms and mills.
  • Wine: The province produces many excellent wines, including those from the Priorat and Penedes regions.
  • Ceramics: Many small towns and villages in Tarragona Province have a long tradition of producing beautiful ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province has a rich and diverse culture, shaped by its history, geography, and language. Catalan is the official language of the province, although Spanish is also widely spoken.

One of the most important cultural events in Tarragona Province is the human towers competition, called Castells, which takes place every two years. This tradition dates back to the 18th century and has been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Best Time to Visit Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are in full swing. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of the year, and some attractions may be crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tarragona Province

Do:

  • Try the local wine and cuisine
  • Visit the local markets and farmers’ markets
  • Respect the local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Walk on the beaches without shoes, as some are rocky
  • Forget to bring sunscreen and a hat if visiting in the summer
  • Use flash photography in museums and religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province is a safe place for tourists, although it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Tarragona Province

Tarragona has a good healthcare system, with many hospitals and clinics. Visitors from the EU can get medical treatment with their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). It’s also important to ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Tarragona Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tarragona Province

  • Reus Airport (REU): Located 9 km from Tarragona, it offers flights to destinations in Europe.
  • Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN): Located 90 km from Tarragona, it offers flights to destinations worldwide.

Bus Stations Near Tarragona Province

  • Tarragona Bus Station: Located in the city center, it offers services to destinations throughout Catalonia and the rest of Spain.
  • Reus Bus Station: Located in Reus, it offers services to destinations within the province.

Other Options

  • Train: Tarragona has a train station that offers services to Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid.
  • Car Rental: It’s possible to rent a car and explore Tarragona Province at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Tarragona Province

Tarragona Province has a good public transportation system, with buses and trains connecting the major towns and cities. It’s also possible to rent a car or bike and explore the region at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Tarragona Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions that are worth visiting from Tarragona Province. Here are some of the best:

  • Barcelona: The capital of Catalonia and one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, Barcelona is located just a short train ride away from Tarragona.
  • Valencia: Another major city in Spain, Valencia is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.
  • PortAventura World: This theme park is located in Salou, near Tarragona, and offers rides and attractions for all ages.

Conclusion

Tarragona Province is a beautiful and diverse region of Catalonia, with something to offer for every type of traveler. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural scenery and beautiful beaches, Tarragona Province is sure to impress. Plan your trip today and discover all that this wonderful region has to offer.



    Amposta
    Reus
    Salou
    Sant Carles de la Ràpita
    Tarragona
    Terres de l'Ebre
    Ulldecona