5 Days of Fun in Tarragona, Spain

Explore the ancient Roman ruins and stunning beaches of Tarragona, Spain.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, Tarragona in Spain is a must-see destination that provides a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient Roman ruins, stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town or relax on the city's beautiful beaches. There's plenty of delicious traditional Catalan cuisine to try and an extensive selection of wines from local vineyards to savor.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into the beautiful Hotel SB Ciutat de Tarragona, conveniently located in the heart of the city.
  • Start exploring the city by taking a leisurely stroll along the Rambla Nova, lined with shops, cafes and stunning modernist buildings.
  • Visit the ancient Roman Amphitheatre, one of the most impressive Roman ruins in the city.
  • Take a break and sample some delicious tapas at The Vermuterie, a hidden gem tucked away in a quiet street.
  • Wander around the charming Old Town and admire the medieval architecture, narrow streets and picturesque squares.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Catch a bus to the stunning Tarragona Beaches, including La Larga and El Miracle. Relax in the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Visit the nearby AquaPark Aqualeon, filled with thrilling water slides, wave pools and lazy rivers.
  • Head back to the city for a refreshing drink and some tasty snacks at the lively Bar Allioli, known for its delicious mussels and outstanding sangria.
Day 3

Cultural Discoveries

  • Explore the fascinating National Archaeological Museum, showcasing the rich history of Tarragona and the surrounding region.
  • Visit the impressive Cathedral of Tarragona, a stunning Gothic building with a beautiful cloister and impressive paintings.
  • Head to the outskirts of town to discover the ancient Roman aqueduct, known as the Pont del Diable, a masterpiece of Roman engineering.
  • Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at the renowned Can Bosch restaurant, known for its exquisite Catalan cuisine and excellent wine selection.
Day 4

Wine Tasting and Adventure

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Priorat wine region, known for its outstanding red wines and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Visit some of the region's most renowned wineries, such as Clos Mogador and Mas Martinet, and enjoy their delicious wines and stunning views.
  • Take a break from wine tasting by going on a thrilling rock-climbing adventure in the nearby Siurana Mountains.
  • Stop at the charming little village of Siurana and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at the cozy Taverna del Barret.
Day 5

Souvenir Shopping and Farewells

  • Spend your last day in Tarragona shopping for souvenirs and unique gifts at the bustling Mercado Central, filled with artisanal crafts, jewelry, and handmade products.
  • Visit the nearby town of Reus, the birthplace of Gaudi, and explore its stunning modernist buildings and charming squares.
  • Head back to Tarragona for a farewell dinner at the iconic El Llagut restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and stunning sea views.

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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