Tarragona is a coastal city, just south of Barcelona featuring a Roman amphitheater overlooking the ocean, beautiful beaches, a charming old town, historic cathedral, and more. It often referred to as the “Rome of Spain” and a visit to the city will show you exactly why. It’s an easy day trip from Barcelona but you can definitely stay longer. Here are some of the best things to do in Tarragona.
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Things to do in Tarragona
Amfiteatre de Tarragona (Tarragona Amphitheater)
The Tarragona Amphitheater is a Roman theatre that was built in the 2nd century and once held gladiator fights and other events. It’s quite a sight to see and as it overlooks the ocean. A visit to these ruins is definitely one of the best things to do in Tarragona. The amphitheater can be viewed without entry from the “Mediterranean Balcony” although it’s definitely worth the visit to tour the grounds.
Entrance Fee: 3.30€ per adult
Free Entry: The last Tuesday of each month, from January to May and from October to December
Open: Tuesday – Sunday
Go To The Beach!
Costa Brava, “The Golden Coast” is known for its beautiful beaches so why not make a visit while you’re there. Platja del Miracle is just on the other side of the train tracks. This beach is easy to get to so it tends to be quite crowded. You can also opt to visit Cala Jovera or Playa Tamarit which are charming and have a view of Tamarit Castle.
And if you’re looking for something more secluded visit La Savinosa or Cala Fonda which are nudist beaches.
Best Beaches in Tarragona
Platja del Miracle
Cala Jovera
Playa Tamarit
La Savinosa
Cala Fonda
Balcón del Mediterráneo (Mediterranean Balcony)
The “Mediterranean Balcony” is where you’ll find some of the best views in Tarragona. You can see the Amphitheater and the sea from a higher vantage point. It’s located at the top of La Rambla Nova. This is a great place to get those postcard-perfect photos.
Tarragona Cathedral
The Tarragona Cathedral is a stunning gothic church founded in 1171 and consecrated in 1331. A visit to the cathedral is much more than just visiting a church. You’ll find art, smaller chapels within the cathedral, a stunning cloister, a beautiful courtyard, and much more.
Entrance Fee: 5€ per adult
Open: see calendar
Eat & Drink
Plaça de la Font is a plaza where you can find many options for food. You’ll see many dining outside when the weather is right to enjoy a meal, tapas, or just a drink. Many of the restaurants have their menu and/or specials on display.
There are a couple of places I recommend that are off the main plaza.
El Vergel
Vegan cuisine, coffee, and tea
Carrer Major, 13, 43003
TecaTÀLEM
Vegetarian and organic takeaway food, artisan ice creams, and more
Calle Mayor 3, 43003
Wander the Streets of the Old Town
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in an old town. Tarragona’s old town is charming and well worth putting down the map just to wander around a but. You won’t get too lost as the Roman walls will always guide you.
La Rambla Nova
La Rambla Nova is the main street in Tarragona and it’s lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and more. At the beginning of La Rambla Nova you’ll have a sweeping view of the sea from the “Mediterranean Balcony.” It’s a great place to people-watch, shop, or enjoy a bite.
Circ Roma (Roman Circus)
The Circ Roma was built at the end of the 1st century AD and was once used for chariot racing. The ruins are open to the public to tour as well as the Pretori Tower which has a 360° view of the city.
Entrance Fee: 3.30€ per adult
Free Entry: The last Tuesday of each month, from January to May and from October to December
Open: Tuesday – Sunday
How To Get To Tarragona from Barcelona
Train
Tarragona is about a 1-hour train ride from Barcelona. you can take the train from the Sants Station and it also stops prior to Estacio de França and Passeig de Gracia. There are trains that can get you there as quickly 30 minutes however it stops at Camp Tarragona which is about about 13 kilometers from the city center. Make sure you take the train to “Tarragona,” you should expect to pay 8-19€ each way. You can purchase tickets on the Renfe website or at the station.
Bus
Alternatively, you can take the bus which departs from Barcelona Nord Station. On average, a one-way fare is 12€ and takes about an hour and a half. However, if you’re going to Tarragona from the Barcelona El Prat Airport then the commute is just over an hour with bus line, Plana.
I hope you enjoyed my guide to some of the best things to do in Tarragona. Enjoy your visit!
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