Reus Travel Guide
Discover the hidden gems of Reus, Spain with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, we've got you covered.
- Introduction to Reus
- List of Places to Visit in Reus
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Reus
- Best Things to Do in Reus: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Reus
- Food and Drink Scene of Reus
- Where to Stay in Reus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Reus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Olive Oil
- Handcrafted Souvenirs
- Local Culture and Customs of Reus
- Best Time to Visit Reus
- Do’s and Don’ts of Reus
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Reus: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Reus
- Where to Go Next from Reus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Tarragona
- Barcelona
- Conclusion
Introduction to Reus
Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Reus is a charming city that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modernity. The city is famous for its association with the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, who was born here. Reus is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors like Tarragona and Barcelona, making it a hidden gem for travelers looking to explore a less touristy destination. In this guide, we’ll help you discover the highlights of Reus, from its rich cultural heritage to breathtaking natural attractions.
List of Places to Visit in Reus
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Gaudi Centre
Located in the heart of the city, the Gaudi Centre is a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts. This iconic museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that offer insights into Gaudi’s creative process.
Casa Navas
One of the most iconic buildings in Reus, Casa Navas is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. The stunning facade features intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows that reflect the architect’s love for nature.
Institute Pere Mata
The Institute Pere Mata is a historic psychiatric hospital that was designed by Lluis Domenech I Montaner. It features beautiful gardens and a stunning modernist building that offers insights into the history of mental healthcare.
Natural Attractions of Reus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Parc Samà
Parc Samà is a beautifully landscaped garden that covers over 14 hectares of land. Visitors can explore the lush gardens and ponds and admire the stunning botanical collection.
Ruta del Cister
For those who love outdoor adventures, the Ruta del Cister is a must-visit. The route covers over 100 kilometers and takes visitors through picturesque landscapes and historic towns.
La Mussara
La Mussara is a small mountain village that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike or bike through the rugged terrain and take in the stunning natural beauty of this hidden gem.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Reus
Reus offers a variety of hiking and biking routes that cater to all skill levels. Some of the must-try routes include the Ruta del Cister, the Ruta del Modernisme, and the Cami de Ronda.
Best Things to Do in Reus: Activities and Tours
Wine Tasting Tour
Reus is located near some of the best wine-producing regions in Spain. Visitors can take a wine-tasting tour and indulge in some of the finest wines in the region.
Gaudi’s Reus Walking Tour
Explore the city’s rich architectural heritage on foot with a walking tour of Gaudi’s Reus. Visitors can admire the stunning modernist buildings and learn about the life and work of Antoni Gaudi.
Week-Long Itinerary for Reus
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore the Gaudi Centre and Casa Navas |
| Day 2 | Visit the Institute Pere Mata and Parc Samà |
| Day 3 | Take a wine tasting tour |
| Day 4 | Explore the hiking trails in the area |
| Day 5 | Take a Gaudi’s Reus walking tour |
| Day 6 | Visit the coastal town of Cambrils |
| Day 7 | Take a day trip to Tarragona |
Food and Drink Scene of Reus
Must-Try Dishes
Arròs negre
Arròs negre is a traditional black rice dish that is popular in Catalonia. It is made with squid ink, rice, and seafood, and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Fricandó
Fricandó is a traditional beef stew that is slow-cooked with mushrooms and served with potatoes. It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly evenings.
Local Beverages
Priorat Wine
Priorat wine is a popular red wine that is produced in the nearby Priorat region. It is known for its rich flavor and fruity aroma.
Vermut
Vermut is a traditional Catalan aperitif that is made from white wine and flavored with herbs and spices.
Where to Stay in Reus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Reus offers a variety of accommodation options for every budget. Some of the best options include Hotel Gaudi, Hotel Centre Reus, and Hostal Santa Teresa.
What to Buy in Reus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Olive Oil
Reus is known for its high-quality olive oil. Visitors can take some of the best varieties of olive oil home as a souvenir or gift.
Handcrafted Souvenirs
The city is home to many talented artisans who create unique handcrafted products ranging from ceramics and textiles to jewelry and leather goods.
Local Culture and Customs of Reus
The people of Reus are proud of their Catalan heritage and culture. Visitors are encouraged to explore the rich cultural traditions of the city, including its music, dance, and festivals.
Best Time to Visit Reus
The best time to visit Reus is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The city can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s best to plan ahead and book accommodation in advance.
Do’s and Don’ts of Reus
Do:
- Respect the local customs and traditions.
- Try the local cuisine and wine.
- Visit the cultural attractions and museums.
- Learn some basic phrases in Catalan and Spanish.
Don’t:
- Disrespect the local culture or customs.
- Litter or leave trash in public places.
- Ignore the safety rules and regulations.
- Be rude or impolite to locals or other travelers.
Safety and Health
Safety in Reus
Reus is a safe city to visit, but visitors are advised to be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.
Health in Reus
Reus has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics that offer high-quality medical care. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Getting to Reus: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Reus
The closest airport to Reus is the Reus Airport, which is located just a few kilometers from the city center. The airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Bus Stations Near Reus
Reus is well-connected by bus services, with the city’s main bus station located in the city center. Visitors can take a bus to nearby towns and cities.
Other Options
Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to explore the city and the surrounding areas.
How to Get Around in Reus
Reus is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also take buses or taxis to get around the city.
Where to Go Next from Reus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Tarragona
Located just 13 kilometers away, Tarragona is a beautiful coastal city that offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions.
Barcelona
Barcelona is just a short drive or train ride away from Reus and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Conclusion
Reus is a hidden gem that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich architectural heritage, indulging in the local cuisine and wine, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, Reus has something for everyone.
