Tarragona Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Tarragona. Plan your perfect week-long itinerary with our guide to this beautiful city in Eastern Spain.


Introduction to Tarragona

Tarragona is a beautiful city located in the Catalonia region of Eastern Spain. It boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with ancient ruins and historical landmarks scattered throughout the city. In addition to its cultural attractions, Tarragona is surrounded by natural beauty, featuring stunning beaches, scenic vistas, and hiking trails. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

List of Places to Visit in Tarragona

If you’re wondering what to see and do in Tarragona, here are the top places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Roman Amphitheatre: This ancient amphitheater is one of Tarragona’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in the 2nd century and could hold over 15,000 spectators. Today, visitors can walk through the ruins and learn about the history of the gladiators who fought here.

  2. Tarragona Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral was built in the 12th century and is one of Tarragona’s most impressive architectural feats.

  3. Roman Circus: This ancient racing track is one of the best-preserved in the world and was used for chariot races during Roman times.

  4. National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona: This museum houses an impressive collection of Roman artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and ancient coins.

Natural Attractions of Tarragona: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Playa del Miracle: This beautiful sandy beach is located in the heart of Tarragona and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

  2. PortAventura World: This massive theme park is located just outside of Tarragona and offers thrilling rides and attractions for visitors of all ages.

  3. El Serrallo: This picturesque fishing district is located on the edge of the city and is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Tarragona.

  4. Parc Natural del Delta de l’Ebre: This nature reserve is located just a short drive from Tarragona and is home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, herons, and otters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tarragona

If you’re looking to explore Tarragona’s natural beauty, there are several hiking and biking routes to choose from. Here are a few of the best options:

  1. Ruta de les Fontetes: This hiking trail takes you through the heart of Tarragona and offers beautiful views of the city’s ancient ruins and historic landmarks.

  2. Ruta del Grau Vell: This scenic trail runs along the coast and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

  3. Biking Along the Via Verde: This former railway line has been converted into a bike path that runs from Tarragona to Benifallet. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque towns and beautiful countryside.

Best Things to Do in Tarragona: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, there are plenty of things to do in Tarragona. Here are some of the best activities and tours to check out while you’re in town:

  1. Tarragona City Tour: This walking tour will take you through the heart of Tarragona’s historic district, where you’ll learn about the city’s rich Roman history and see some of its most impressive landmarks.

  2. Wine Tasting Tour: Tarragona is known for its excellent wine, and a wine tasting tour is a great way to sample some of the region’s best vintages.

  3. Water Sports: From kayaking to windsurfing, there are plenty of water sports to try in Tarragona. The city’s beaches are a great place to start.

  4. Day Trip to Barcelona: While Tarragona is a beautiful city in its own right, it’s also just a short train ride from Barcelona. A day trip to this vibrant city is a great way to explore all that the region has to offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tarragona

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Tarragona, here is one possible itinerary to consider:

Day 1: Explore Tarragona’s Historic District Day 2: Head to the Beach at Playa del Miracle Day 3: Visit the Roman Ruins at Tarraco Day 4: Take a Wine Tasting Tour in the Countryside Day 5: Go Hiking Along the Ruta de les Fontetes Day 6: Spend the Day at PortAventura World Day 7: Take a Day Trip to Barcelona

Food and Drink Scene of Tarragona

If you’re a foodie, Tarragona won’t disappoint. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages to check out while you’re in town:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fideua: This dish is a local specialty and is similar to paella, but made with noodles instead of rice.

  2. Esqueixada: This refreshing salad is made with salt cod, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, and is perfect for a hot summer day.

  3. Xató: This traditional Catalan sauce is made with almonds, garlic, and roasted peppers, and is typically served with grilled vegetables and fish.

Local Beverages

  1. Priorat Wine: This full-bodied red wine is produced in the hills outside of Tarragona and is known for its rich, fruity flavor.

  2. Tarragona Vermouth: This sweet, fortified wine is flavored with herbs and spices and is a classic before-dinner drink in Tarragona.

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

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Tarragona, there are options to suit every budget. Here are a few of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the city:

  1. Hotel SB Express Tarragona: This modern hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

  2. Hostal Noria: This charming guesthouse is located in the historic district and offers cozy rooms with traditional decor.

  3. Youth Hostel Tarragona: This hostel is a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to save money and meet other backpackers.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home from Tarragona, here are a few things to consider:

  1. Handmade Ceramics: Tarragona is known for its beautiful ceramic pottery, which makes a great souvenir or gift.

  2. Olive Oil: The region around Tarragona is known for its high-quality olive oil, which is a great gift for foodies.

  3. Vermouth: Tarragona Vermouth is a local specialty and makes a great gift for anyone who loves a good cocktail.

Local Culture and Customs of Tarragona

While Tarragona is a modern and cosmopolitan city, it also has a rich history and vibrant local culture. Here are a few customs and traditions to be aware of while you’re in town:

  1. Siesta: Like many parts of Spain, Tarragona observes a mid-day siesta when many shops and businesses close for a few hours.

  2. Catalan Language: While most people in Tarragona speak Spanish, Catalan is also a common language in the region.

Best Time to Visit Tarragona

The best time to visit Tarragona is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot and crowded, while winter is often rainy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tarragona

Do:

  1. Take a walking tour of the city to learn about its rich Roman history.
  2. Try the local cuisine, especially the seafood and wine.
  3. Explore the natural beauty of the region by hiking, biking, or spending time on the beach.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  2. Expect dinner to be served before 9 pm.
  3. Drive in the city center, as parking can be difficult and traffic can be heavy.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tarragona

Tarragona is generally a safe city, but as with any urban area, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Health in Tarragona

Tarragona has a modern healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the city. If you need medical assistance while you’re in town, you can contact the emergency services by dialing 112.

Getting to Tarragona: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tarragona is easy to reach by air, train, or car. Here are a few transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Tarragona

The nearest airport to Tarragona is Reus Airport, which is located about 7 miles away. Barcelona El Prat Airport is also an option, as it is located about 50 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Tarragona

Tarragona has a modern bus station with regular connections to other cities throughout Spain and Europe.

Other Options

Tarragona also has a train station, with regular connections to Barcelona, Madrid, and other major cities in Spain. If you’re driving, you can access the city via the AP-7 motorway.

How to Get Around in Tarragona

Tarragona is a walkable city, and most of the top attractions are located within the historic district. If you need to travel further, there are local buses and taxis available.

Where to Go Next from Tarragona: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the region around Tarragona, here are a few nearby destinations to consider:

  1. Barcelona: The vibrant city of Barcelona is just a short train ride away and is known for its art, architecture, and food scene.

  2. Costa Brava: This stunning stretch of coastline is located just north of Tarragona and features crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Tarragona is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, there are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city. With its rich Roman history, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine, Tarragona is the perfect destination for any traveler looking to explore the beauty and culture of Eastern Spain.

Facade of the Tarragona Cathedral Facade of the Tarragona Cathedral Moll de Pescadors and El Serrallo Moll de Pescadors and El Serrallo The Roman amphitheatre The Roman amphitheatre Pont del Diable (Roman aqueduct) Pont del Diable (Roman aqueduct) Miracle Beach Miracle Beach Streetview in the city centre Streetview in the city centre A view over Tarragona A view over Tarragona Poblet Monastery Poblet Monastery