Ancient Roman capital on Spain's Costa Daurada. Mediterranean beaches, archaeological sites, and cultural festivals. Rich history from Roman times to Spanish Civil War.
Tarragona, a coastal city in Catalonia, Spain, is rich in Roman history and Mediterranean beauty. You can explore ancient ruins like the amphitheater overlooking the sea, wander through medieval streets in the old town, relax on golden beaches, and savor local seafood dishes. Located an hour south of Barcelona, Tarragona offers a unique blend of historical sites and coastal charm.
Medieval Old Town
The Part Alta, Tarragona's old town, sits atop a hill on the site of the former Roman provincial forum. As you walk through narrow, winding streets, you'll see buildings that incorporate Roman stonework into their medieval and gothic architecture. The 12th-century Tarragona Cathedral stands where a Roman temple once stood. Inside, you'll find Romanesque and Gothic elements, and a museum displaying Renaissance tapestries and Roman artifacts. On the Rambla Nova, a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard, you can shop, visit cafes, and enjoy the view from the Mediterranean Balcony.
Beaches in Tarragona
Tarragona's coastline has several beaches for sunbathing and swimming. Platja del Miracle, the main city beach, lies below the Roman Amphitheater. Its golden sand and calm waters attract both locals and visitors. For a quieter experience, head to the nearby Tamarit-Punta de la Móra natural park. Here, you'll discover pine-fringed coves like Cala Fonda, known for its clear waters.
Local Food and Drink
Tarragona's cuisine reflects its coastal location and nearby farmlands. At the Mercat Central, housed in a modernist building from 1915, you can buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and seafood. In winter, try calçots, green onions typically grilled and served with romesco sauce. Seafood rice dishes like arròs negre are common year-round. Some restaurants in the Part Alta serve meals in vaulted spaces that were once part of the Roman circus.
Roman Sites in Tarragona
Tarragona's Roman past is visible throughout the city. The UNESCO-listed Archaeological Ensemble of Tarraco includes several well-preserved sites from the 3rd century BC. At the Roman Amphitheater, carved into a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, you can imagine up to 15,000 spectators watching gladiatorial contests and executions. Walk along the ancient city walls, parts of which date back to the 2nd century BC. The lower sections of these walls feature megalithic stonework that predates the Roman era.
Festivals in Tarragona
If you visit Tarragona in September, you might experience the Santa Tecla festival. This 10-day event includes traditional Catalan customs like human towers (castells) and fire runs (correfocs). Throughout the year, you can often watch castells being practiced or performed in the city. These human towers, which originated in Tarragona over 300 years ago, are now recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Day Trips from Tarragona
Tarragona is a good base for exploring the surrounding area. PortAventura World, one of Europe's largest theme parks, is a 10-minute train ride away. For a cultural trip, visit the Poblet Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site about 30 minutes from Tarragona. This 12th-century Cistercian abbey has Gothic architecture and royal tombs. On the way, stop in the medieval walled town of Montblanc to walk through its historic center.
Transportation in Tarragona
You can reach Tarragona by train from Barcelona in about an hour. The city itself is walkable, especially in the old town. Buses are available for longer distances or trips to the beach. To visit nearby sites like the Roman aqueduct (Pont del Diable) or the beaches of Tamarit, you might want to rent a car or join a guided tour.
