Tarragona
Tarragona is a historic city in north east Spain. It has a population of around 135,000 people. Tarragona is in the province of Province of Tarragona, which forms part of Catalonia. The city sits on the Costa Dorada, beside the Mediterranean Sea. Tarragona is best known for its Roman ruins and its beautiful seafront.
Tarragona has a long and rich history. In Roman times it was called Tarraco. It was one of the most important cities in Roman Spain. Today, much of this past can still be seen. The Roman remains are so special that they are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This makes Tarragona a must see place for history lovers.
The city also has lovely beaches, lively squares and great seafood. It offers a mix of culture, sun and sea. That is why Tarragona is a popular stop for visitors exploring Spain.
If you prefer, you can also reach the tower on foot or by bicycle from the city-centre. The most scenic walk is to follow the boardwalk next to Orzan Beach which will take about 35 minutes.
Things to do in Tarragona
There are many things to do in Tarragona for all ages. The most famous sight is the Roman amphitheatre. It stands close to the sea and dates from the 2nd century. In Roman times, crowds gathered here to watch games and fights. Today, you can walk around the arena and imagine the past.
The Roman circus is another key site. It was once used for chariot races. Parts of the old structure run under the modern city. You can explore tunnels and stone walls that are almost 2,000 years old.
Tarragona Cathedral is also worth a visit. The cathedral sits in the old town, known as Part Alta. It was built between the 12th and 14th centuries. The mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles is easy to see. The quiet cloister offers a calm space away from the busy streets.
For sea views, head to the Balcony of the Mediterranean. This viewpoint looks out over the coast and the port. It is a favourite place for locals and visitors. Many people say you should touch the railing for good luck.
If you enjoy beaches, Playa del Miracle is close to the city centre. The sand is golden and clean. The water is clear and calm in summer. Other beaches along the Costa Dorada are easy to reach by car or train.
Tarragona also has lively festivals. The Santa Tecla festival takes place in September. There are parades, music and traditional human towers. These towers are called castells and are part of Catalan culture.
How to get to there
Tarragona is easy to reach from many parts of Spain. The nearest major airport is Reus Airport. It is about 10 kilometres from the city. Buses and taxis connect the airport with the centre.
Many visitors fly into Barcelona–El Prat Airport. This airport is about 80 kilometres north of Tarragona. Regular trains run from Barcelona to Tarragona. The journey takes around one hour.
Tarragona also has a high speed train station. The AVE service links the city with Madrid and other large cities. Roads are good, and the AP-7 motorway runs close by. This makes driving simple if you are touring the Costa Dorada.
Cruise ships sometimes stop at the Port of Tarragona. The port is close to the city centre. From there, many sights are within walking distance.
Tarragona offers history, beaches and culture in one place. Its Roman past makes it unique in Spain. At the same time, it feels relaxed and friendly. Whether you love ancient ruins or sunny days by the sea, Tarragona is a great choice for your next trip.