Tarragona's Coastal Delights: A Day Trip Guide

Experience ancient Roman history and Mediterranean beauty in Tarragona, Spain.

22 April 2023

Tarragona, Spain is a charming coastal city in the Catalonia region that offers a rich mix of ancient history, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine. A must-see attraction is the Roman Amphitheatre, which dates back to the 2nd century and offers stunning views of the sea. Visitors can also explore the beautiful medieval old town, enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters at Cala Fonda beach or try the famous seafood paella dish at one of the many local restaurants.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Coastal City of Tarragona

  • Begin at the Roman Amphitheatre, soaking in the history of Tarragona's past.
  • Bring a picnic to the tranquil Mediterranean Balcony, taking in the sweeping ocean views.
  • Visit the Tarragona Cathedral, admiring its Gothic architecture and ornate chapels.
  • Bask in the beauty of the Les Ferreres Aqueduct, marveling at the engineering feat.
  • Sample traditional Catalan cuisine at Restaurante El Llagut, savoring the seafood paella and cava.
  • End the day with a stroll along Miracle Beach, watching the sun set over the glistening sea.

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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