Summary
A provincial capital in southern Catalonia, Tarragona embodies everything that attracts visitors to Spain’s Mediterranean coast.
For ancient culture, it ranks among the finest destinations in the country, showcasing a UNESCO-listed collection of Roman archaeological sites that dates back to when it served as the most significant city in Iberia.
A visit requires significantly more than a day to fully appreciate, and what is remarkable is the manner in which these historical ruins are interwoven with the streets of the city’s historic district.
Golden Blue Flag beaches are just minutes from the city center, and PortAventura, Spain’s premier theme park, is conveniently located nearby.
1. Tarragona Amphitheatre
The amphitheatre of Tarraco is situated in an exquisite location, carved into a steep slope between the Roman walls and the Mediterranean Sea.
Upon exiting the Part Alta, this elliptical arena comes into view, beautifully framed by the azure waters.
Constructed in the late 100s, it had the capacity to accommodate 15,000 spectators, who were entertained by events that included gruesome exhibitions, such as the execution of the city’s early Christian bishop, Fructoso, during the reign of the 3rd-century Emperor Valeriano.
The lower basement of the amphitheatre is still distinguishable, from which gladiators and wild animals would have been raised to the arena floor.
2. Tarragona Cathedral
The remarkable aspect of Tarragona’s Romanesque and Gothic cathedral is its subtle approach.
The surrounding streets, such as Carrer de la Merceria and Carrer Major, are narrow alleys lined with traditional shops, antiques, and restaurants.
Upon reaching Plaça de Santiago Rossinyol, the space opens up, showcasing the grand Gothic facade.
A place of worship has existed here since Roman times, through the Visigothic and Moorish eras, culminating in the construction of the cathedral in the 12th century.
Visit the Diocesan museum to view Renaissance tapestries as well as Roman artifacts discovered during excavations at the cathedral between 1999 and 2001.
3. Les Ferreres Aqueduct (Pont del diable)
Located just five minutes north of Tarragona, this 250-meter section of an aqueduct crosses a pine-clad valley and transported water from the Francolí River to ancient Tarraco.
The structure features 36 arches, soaring to 27 meters above the valley floor.
If heights do not concern you, it is possible to walk along the specus, the channel where the water flowed, despite the walls being relatively low.
This visit can be combined with a trip to El Médol, the limestone quarry that served the construction of Roman Tarraco.
The quarry is rich with plant life, as its high walls create a unique microclimate with elevated humidity.
4. Roman Walls
On the western side of the Part Alta, you can ascend the original Roman walls and explore the ramparts, where a fascinating blend of history awaits.
Medieval coats of arms and 18th-century fortifications coexist with ancient Roman towers and stones marked with 2,000-year-old inscriptions.
These fortifications have been established since the 3rd century BC, when Tarraco emerged as a strategic base for Roman forces during the Second Punic War.
Of particular interest are the rugged lower sections of the walls, which are clearly much older and composed of megalithic stones providing support for more refined defenses.
5. National Archaeological Museum
It was not until the mid-19th century that the city recognized its archaeological wealth, leading to excavations at various sites around the Part Alta.
Most of the artifacts unearthed during these digs are displayed in this museum, encompassing an extensive collection of Roman sculptures, ceramics, clothing, coins, and domestic items.
Notably, a 2,000-year-old fresco depicting a peacock discovered at the amphitheatre has been remarkably preserved.
Particularly captivating is the mosaic room, which features stunning representations of Medusa and the muse Euterpe.
The museum includes the Roman Praetorian Tower and grants access to the adjacent necropolis and circus.
6. Part Alta
The highest area of Tarragona is also its oldest, serving as the location of Tarraco’s ancient provincial forum.
For centuries, up until the late Middle Ages, the entire population resided here, separated from El Serrallo, Tarragona’s coastal community.
Presently, this district invites exploration, featuring narrow streets beneath houses that occasionally incorporate Roman walls and stonework.
Some buildings are preserved as museums, such as Casa Castellarnau, a 15th-century Catalan Gothic manor with a beautiful patio.
Throughout the year, squares are lively with people dining and socializing at outdoor tables.
7. Mediterranean Balcony
Families and couples can be seen strolling along the Rambla Nova towards this lookout, which offers uninterrupted views of the sea.
The iron railings are part of a local custom, where it is considered good luck to “tocar ferro,” or touch the iron.
Bars, restaurants, and cafes line the rambla behind this lookout.
If visiting during late June or early July, be sure to experience the nightly displays of the International Fireworks Competition, launched from Platja del Miracle at the foot of the cliffs.
Moreover, on clear winter mornings, this is an excellent location to witness the sunrise.
8. Outside the Walls
The Rambla Nova, established as an elegant pedestrian boulevard in the 19th century, has been highlighted.
Restaurants and numerous high-street brands can be found on either side.
From here, visitors can navigate up or down the hill to explore more of the city.
To experience Tarragona’s historical fishing district, descend towards El Serrallo, a modest neighborhood facing the port, known for its exceptional fish restaurants.
Midway down the hill lies the recently renovated Mercat Central, a crucial aspect of daily life housed in a century-old modernist building.
9. Platja del Miracle
At the base of the cliffs, on the opposite side of the train tracks, is Tarragona’s main beach.
Access the beach via the tunnel near the amphitheatre or the level crossing just past the station.
This beach features an inviting stretch of golden sand, a short promenade on its eastern side, along with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs near the nautical club on the western end.
The waters have moderate currents, which may not always be suitable for younger swimmers depending on weather conditions.
10. Tamarit-Punta de la Móra
Minutes away from Tarragona is an idyllic coastal stretch beginning at Platja Llarga.
This expansive golden beach seems endless, bordered by low-impact holiday communities and campgrounds featuring chalets.
The beach transitions into Tamarit-Punta de la Móra, a natural park situated on a wooded headland rich in pine trees.
On the fragrant trails, visitors may discover wild herbs, mushrooms, and asparagus in their respective seasons, with paths leading to secluded coves like Cala Becs and Cala Fonda, largely untouched by mass tourism.
11. PortAventura World
Undoubtedly, this is one of the best family outings in Spain, as PortAventura stands out as one of the most frequented theme parks in Europe, located only a ten-minute train ride from Tarragona’s Renfe station.
Your day can be tailored according to your preferences and the ages of any children accompanying you.
A dedicated Sesame Street zone, for example, features eleven rides for younger guests.
For older children and adults, adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like Dragon Khan, which boasts eight inversions, and the Hurakan Condor, which plunges riders from 100 meters, offer thrilling entertainment.
Additionally, there are shows catering to audiences of all ages, alongside a water park and golf courses within the expansive resort.
12. El Poblet Monastery
A 30-minute drive into the Catalonian countryside will lead you to El Poblet Monastery, a medieval UNESCO site situated at the foot of a mountain range and surrounded by vineyards.
This magnificent Gothic complex was established in the 12th century by French Cistercian monks following the retreat of the Moors.
It played a pivotal role in consolidating power in newly Christian Catalonia.
The most significant feature is the Gothic Royal Chapel, where several Kings of Aragón were entombed, from Alfonso II in the 12th century to Juan II in the late 15th century.
On your way to El Poblet, consider stopping in the town of Montblanc, which is entirely encircled by medieval walls and offers a labyrinth of charming old stone streets.
13. Cuisine
If your visit occurs during the winter, be sure to sample calçots.
These are sizable green onions roasted in their skins over wood fires and served with a delightful romesco sauce made from nuts, garlic, and olive oil.
Calçotadas are social gatherings where groups enjoy these delicacies in a communal setting, often while sipping wine from porrons, traditional pitchers with a spout intended for pouring over one’s head.
Tarragona’s hinterland is rich in vineyards (many producing cava), olive groves, and hazelnut orchards, offering numerous excellent restaurants in the Part Alta that specialize in seafood rice dishes such as arròs negre.
14. Human Towers
While you may have witnessed castells in other areas of Catalonia, this tradition originates in Tarragona and has been practiced for over 300 years.
Teams compete in a spectacular event known as the Concurs de Castells, held in the Plaza de Toros every other October, along with annual summer events and exhibitions.
Participants don matching outfits with sashes that aid those at the top (typically smaller and younger) in their ascent.
Then, they are heralded by the sound of the gralla, a traditional woodwind instrument, as the tower begins to form.
These towers often reach six to ten levels high, with children as young as five perched at the top, wearing helmets for safety.
A monument celebrating this unique art form can be found along the lush Rambla Nova walkway.
15. Santa Tecla
Each year, from mid to late September, Tarragona bursts into a celebration adorned with fun, dance, and a fair share of fireworks.
Experience the Correfoc, a traditional Catalan ritual where participants, often dressed as mythical creatures like dragons, make their way through the streets surrounded by fireworks and noise.
Sardanas, a traditional circle dance, are also performed at this festival, where men and women join hands to dance.
Moreover, reflections of Tarragona’s Roman heritage are present through the city’s gegants and capgrossos (tall ceremonial figures) and the lively Castells.
