Unveiling Tarragona's Hidden Treasures: A Family Adventure

Discover family fun in Tarragona, where history and joy blend together!

19 July 2023

Tarragona, Spain offers a perfect family-friendly vacation with its rich history, stunning beaches, and numerous attractions. Explore the ancient Roman ruins such as the imposing Tarragona Amphitheater and the impressive Roman walls. Dolphin shows at the Aquopolis water park, golden sandy beaches like Playa del Miracle, and a lively city center with vibrant shops and restaurants are just a few highlights that will make your trip to Tarragona unforgettable for the whole family.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Ancient Marvels:

  • Start your day at the Roman Amphitheatre, where gladiators once fought and now hosts mesmerizing summer shows.
  • Wander through Plaça de la Font, a buzzing square with lively cafes and the stunning Vermell Tower.
  • Visit the National Archaeological Museum, to unravel the city's history through incredible artifacts.
  • Stroll along the Rambla Nova, a lively boulevard lined with shops, where locals gather for a leisurely promenade.
  • Take the little ones to PortAventura World, a thrilling theme park with heart-stopping roller coasters and splashy water rides.
  • End the day at Els Tallers, a family-friendly restaurant serving mouthwatering Catalan dishes like paella and patatas bravas.

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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