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.

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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.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Tarragona

Looking for a city with a name that sounds like a fancy herb? Look no further than Tarragona, where the only thing spicier than the food is the ancient Roman history.

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