Tarragona on a budget: A 2-day coastal adventure

Experience the beauty of Tarragona without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Tarragona, Spain is an ideal destination for those on a tight budget. This beautiful coastal city boasts stunning beaches, ancient Roman ruins, and delicious food at affordable prices. With a variety of budget-friendly accommodations and free or low-cost attractions, a trip to Tarragona is both enjoyable and economical.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Tarragona

  • Check into Hotel Lauria, a charming budget hotel in the heart of Tarragona.
  • Visit the Roman Amphitheatre, a magnificent outdoor arena that once hosted gladiator fights and chariot races.
  • Wander through the Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, stopping at the Cathedral of Tarragona and the Plaça del Fòrum.
  • Head to the Mediterranean Balcony for breathtaking views of the sea.
  • Finish the day with dinner at La Cuina d'en Carlos, a cozy restaurant that serves up classic Spanish dishes with a twist.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Spend the morning at Playa del Miracle, a popular beach just a short walk from Hotel Lauria.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch on the sand or at one of the beachside restaurants.
  • Take a stroll along the Passeig Marítim, a palm-lined promenade with stunning views of the coastline and historic landmarks.
  • Visit the Roman Aqueduct, one of Tarragona's most impressive engineering feats.
  • End the day with a sunset drink at the Balcony of the Mediterranean, watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange over the sea.
  • Tarragona is a city of beauty, history and charm that makes you feel like you've gone back in time. With the perfect mix of beach and culture, it's an ideal destination for a short break.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tarragona by plane is to fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport and take a transfer to Tarragona. Flights from all over the world land here, and the airport is only a 45-minute drive or train ride from Tarragona.

Car

If you are driving from Barcelona, take the AP-7 highway south to Tarragona. The journey takes about 1 hour without traffic, and the roads are generally in good condition. Parking in the city center can be challenging, so it's best to look for a parking lot outside the city center if possible.

Train

There are several high-speed trains that depart from Madrid to Tarragona, and the journey usually takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. You can also take a train from Barcelona Sants train station if you are coming from other parts of Spain. The train station in Tarragona is a short walk from the city center.

Boat

There are no direct ferries that go to Tarragona, but you can take a ferry to Barcelona and then travel overland to Tarragona. The closest port to Tarragona is Port Tarraco, which is a 20-minute drive from the city center. From there, you can take a taxi or rental car to your destination.

Bus

Taking a bus is the cheapest way to get to Tarragona from Barcelona. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and buses leave frequently from Barcelona Nord bus station. Once you arrive at Tarragona Bus station, you can walk or take a taxi to your destination.

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