3 Days in Tarragona: Beaches, Ruins, and Wine!

Experience the charm of Tarragona without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Tarragona, Spain is a charming coastal town filled with ancient Roman ruins, stunning beaches, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Despite being a popular tourist destination, there are plenty of affordable accommodations and activities for those on a limited budget. From admiring the stunning views of the sea from the Tarragona Cathedral to exploring the ancient Amphitheatre, Tarragona is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich history and stunning beauty of Spain.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check in at Hotel SB Ciutat de Tarragona, a budget-friendly hotel with great amenities
  • Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, admiring the Roman ruins and medieval architecture
  • Visit the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria, a Gothic masterpiece
  • Take in the stunning views over the city from the Balcony of the Mediterranean
  • Enjoy traditional Spanish tapas at La Cuineta Taberna, a cozy restaurant with a great atmosphere
Day 2

Beach Day and Wine Tasting

  • Start off the day with a relaxing stroll along the beautiful Platja del Miracle, one of Tarragona's best beaches
  • Visit the Bodegas Avgvstvs Forvm winery for a guided tour and wine tasting session
  • Sample some of the delicious local Catalonian wines and learn about the wine making process
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view at the Parc del Delta del Ebro
  • Spend the afternoon sunbathing and swimming at La Pineda Beach, another fantastic option for beach lovers
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Head to the Amphitheatre of Tarragona, where gladiatorial contests and other spectacles were held
  • Visit the Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona, which has a fascinating collection of Roman artifacts
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Jardins del Mediterrani, a park with stunning views over the sea
  • Learn about the city's medieval past at the lovely Palau Firal i de Congressos
  • Indulge in some amazing seafood at the El Llagut restaurant, where the seafood is brought fresh from the harbor daily
  • Tarragona is an amazing city with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine, making it the perfect destination for a budget-friendly holiday getaway. With amazing sights to see, great wine to sample and fantastic food to enjoy, you are guaranteed a memorable trip to Tarragona.

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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