Fun, Sun, and Culture: Tarragona's Best Family Trip!
Discover the magic of Tarragona: Where history, culture, and family fun unite!
19 July 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Tarragona, Spain is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip filled with cultural and historical experiences. The city boasts captivating Roman ruins, such as the ancient amphitheater, which will amaze both kids and adults alike. Furthermore, Tarragona's picturesque beaches offer golden sands, clear waters, and various water activities, ensuring a fun-filled vacation for the entire family.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a visit to the iconic Roman Amphitheatre, transporting you back to the gladiator-filled ancient times.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Rambla Nova, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and charming cafes.
- Head to Playa del Miracle, Tarragona's main beach, and soak up the Spanish sun while building sandcastles with the little ones.
- Cool off your taste buds with a visit to Heladería Roma, an ice cream parlor serving unique flavors like tomato-basil or horchata.
- End the day with a magical walk through the narrow cobblestone streets of Tarragona's historic quarter, El Serrallo, and feast on fresh seafood at a traditional tapas bar.
- Embark on a thrilling adventure at PortAventura World, where adrenaline junkies can conquer roller coasters and families can enjoy shows and attractions.
- After an exciting day, head to Mesón El Cordero for a hearty Spanish meal. Don't miss their succulent lamb dish, slow-cooked to perfection.
- Explore the charming neighborhood of Part Alta, home to the magnificent Cathedral of Tarragona and picturesque plazas lining the medieval streets.
- Stop by Xocoa Tarragona to indulge in their delectable chocolate treats, handmade with love and imaginative flavors.
- Unwind at Parque de la Ciutat, a peaceful green oasis, and let the kids roam freely while you relax under the shade of the trees.
- Spend a thrilling day at Aquopolis Costa Dorada, a water park featuring exciting slides, wave pools, and relaxing areas for the whole family to enjoy.
- Don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Catalan cuisine at Restaurant Els Arcs, known for their mouthwatering paella and grilled seafood.
- Take a stroll along the lively Passeig Marítim, where the scent of saltwater mingles with the laughter of children playing in the sandy playgrounds.
- As the sun sets, capture the mesmerizing colors reflecting on the waters of Platja Llarga, creating a breathtaking backdrop for family photos.
- End your Tarragona adventure with a bang at Torre dels Vents, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.