Tarragona, located 100 km and one-hour drive from Barcelona, Spain is a cool place to escape the tourist traps of Barcelona. Or a cool retreat to explore the southern part of Cataluyna. I stayed in the city for a few days and found these 9 cool things to do in Tarragona if you’re visiting for the first time.
Are you thinking of going to Tarragona? But you don’t know exactly what you’ll do when you get there. I share my easy but cool and unique things to see and do in Tarragona. You can easily explore on your own and you don’t need a guide.
Let’s conquer the city of Tarragona and the things to do!
Note about the blog: I paid for everything in full myself. I was not paid or sponsored. All my opinions and experiences are my own.
Probe around the Globe does use affiliate links. If you decide to follow one of my links and make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you.
Best Things To Do In Tarragona
Tarragona is a hidden gem that offers a perfect escape from the bustling tourist spots of its more famous neighbor Barcelona.
The charming coastal city in Catalonia is ideal for a day trip from Barcelona but also has enough to keep first-time visitors entertained for 2-3 days.
Tarragona has something unique and exciting to offer, from ancient Roman ruins to picturesque beaches and lively festivals.
I recently spent a few days in Tarragona and discovered nine cool things to do that you won’t want to miss.
I found the city so easy to explore on my own and I didn’t require a guide. This makes the city accessible for all ages and novice but also seasoned travelers.
So, let’s dive in and conquer the city of Tarragona with these fantastic experiences!
Find the Roman history in Tarragona
My top reason for visiting Tarragona, because it has such a rich Roman history. Ancient Tarraco was one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire on the Iberian Peninsula.
I started my journey at the Tarragona Amphitheater, a stunning Roman structure dating back to the 2nd century AD, located near the Mediterranean Sea. This ancient gladiator arena provides a fascinating glimpse into the past.
I absolutely loved the views of the sea, while I admired a 6th-century church, inside the Roman amphitheater!
Next, I visited the Roman Circus, where chariot races once thrilled the crowds. The underground passages are particularly intriguing, and you’ll feel the weight of history all around you. Don’t miss the Roman Forum, a central public space that was the heart of ancient Tarragona.
If you have time, you can include the Tarragona Archaeological Museum in your itinerary of Tarragona. It houses a wealth of artifacts and shows a nice glimpse into the daily life of the Romans. You can really feel ancient Tarraco come to life!
Discover the best sides of Tarragona with this self-guided audio tour
Enjoy a cloister garden
For a moment of peace and reflection, I visited the cloister garden of Tarragona Cathedral. This tranquil spot offers a respite from the bustling city streets.
The cathedral itself, with its blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, is also worth exploring.
I love cloister gardens and visited many in Rome and Portugal. The cloister garden makes for a perfect quiet break during your Tarragona sightseeing.
You can sit on a bench in the shade of the orange trees, enjoying the fragrance of the orange blossoms and admiring the light flowing through the beautiful arches.
Buy your Tarragona Cathedral tickets with entry to the cloister garden here.
Drink vermouth at one of the plaças
When I first discovered Vermouth on a food tour in Seville, I was completely sold and it has been my favorite (alcoholic) drink since then.
No visit to Tarragona is complete without experiencing the local culture, and what better way to do this than by sipping vermouth at one of the city’s charming plazas?
Plaça de la Font and Plaça del Fòrum are popular spots where you can enjoy a glass of this traditional Catalan drink. Especially after dark, and before dinner, the squares come to life!
Vermouth culture is strong in Tarragona, and you’ll find numerous bars offering their own versions.
Order a glass, sit back, and watch the world go by. It’s a delightful way to soak in the local atmosphere and perhaps strike up a conversation with a friendly local.
Wander around the old town
Tarragona’s old town, known as Part Alta, is a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and hidden corners.
I took my time to explore this area, where every turn reveals a new discovery. The medieval charm of Part Alta is perfect to fill your Instagram feed with. And it’s not hard to imagine life here centuries ago.
Key sites in the old town include the Plaça del Rei, with its beautiful fountain, and the Plaça del Pallol, home to the impressive Roman gates.
Don’t forget to look up and admire the well-preserved architecture that tells the story of Tarragona’s rich history.
Walk on top of a Roman Aquaduct
Just outside the city lies the Pont del Diable, or Devil’s Bridge, the impressive Roman aqueduct of ancient Tarraco.
You can walk across the top of this ancient structure before descending and walking underneath the arches of the aqueduct.
The aqueduct, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, spans a deep valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside (and the nearby highway).
As you walk along the top, you get a real sense of the scale and ingenuity of Roman engineering. It’s a must-do for history buffs and anyone who likes to be out in nature as there are many hiking trails nearby.
Book your car rental to explore Tarragona here
Enjoy some beach time in Tarragona
Tarragona is blessed with beautiful beaches, and no trip here would be complete without some beach time.
Platja del Miracle, located near the city center, is a convenient and picturesque spot to relax by the sea. The soft golden sands and clear waters make it a perfect place for sunbathing and swimming.
For a quieter beach experience, head to Platja de l’Arrabassada. This beach is slightly further from the city center but offers a more serene atmosphere. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply stroll along the shore, Tarragona’s beaches provide the perfect escape.
Take a day trip into the mountains or by the sea
Tarragona’s location makes it an ideal base for day trips into the surrounding areas. Head to the nearby Montsant Mountains for hiking and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. The village of Siurana offers sweeping views, ancient streets, and a few very popular tavernas that offer great lunches for tired hikers or day-trippers.
Alternatively, take a trip along the Costa Daurada and discover charming seaside towns like Altafulla and Torredembarra north of Tarragona or Salou and Cambrils south of Tarragona.
These coastal towns offer beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere. Head further south to the Parc Natural del Delta de l’Ebre, for stunning birdwatching, kayaking on the river Ebro, or amazing sunsets.
Whether you prefer the mountains or the sea, Tarragona’s surroundings have something for everyone.
Discover ancient Rome in modern shops and houses
One of the unique aspects of Tarragona is how ancient history is seamlessly integrated into modern life.
As you wander the city, you’ll notice remnants of Roman walls incorporated into modern buildings and shops. This blend of old and new gives Tarragona its distinctive character.
Visit the Plaça dels Sedassos, where you can see a beautifully preserved Roman wall forming part of the modern architecture. Or take your money from the ATM at La Caixa Bank at Plaça de La Font and see the amazing Roman arches in the interior of the bank.
This contrast between ancient and modern-day elements is fascinating and illustrates how Tarragona has evolved over the centuries while preserving its history.
Experience a fiesta like the Human Towers and Santa Tecla
Tarragona is known for its vibrant festivals, and experiencing one of these events is a highlight of any visit, whether it is your first visit or you keep coming back over and over again.
The Human Towers, or Castells, is a traditional Catalan activity where teams build human towers several stories high. It’s a thrilling spectacle and a testament to teamwork and community spirit. The tradition is on the Unesco Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
You can see them at the major event of Tarragona: the Santa Tecla Festival, held in September. This week-long celebration includes parades, fireworks, concerts, and traditional dances.
The energy and enthusiasm of the locals during these festivals are infectious, making it a memorable experience for visitors.
Tarragona is flooded with visitors during these events, so make sure to book your stay as far in advance as possible.
How to get to Tarragona
Tarragona is easily accessible from Barcelona, making it a convenient day trip or a longer stay.
The fastest way to get there is by train, with frequent services from Barcelona Sants Station to Tarragona’s main train station. The journey takes about one hour, and trains are comfortable and efficient. Search for rail itineraries and buy your train tickets in advance online here.
If you prefer to drive, Tarragona is well-connected by road, and the drive from Barcelona takes about an hour via the AP-7 motorway.
You can find bigger parking lots around the old town, for example, the city’s parking garage Saavedra. Or the more expensive Tarragona Circo Park underneath the Plaça de La Font.
Find your best and cheapest car rental from Barcelona or Reus Airport here
How to get around in Tarragona
Once in Tarragona, getting around is straightforward. The city center is compact and walkable, with most major attractions within easy reach of each other.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the streets, especially in the old town, can be uneven. Where the broader Rambla Nova offers perfect opportunities for those late-night strolls.
For longer distances, Tarragona has a reliable public transport system, including buses that connect different parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available and can be a convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or visiting attractions outside the city center.
Where to stay in Tarragona
Of course, you can visit Tarragona on a day trip from Barcelona, but you will not be able to see and experience everything the city has to offer. I highly recommend to stay overnight for 1 or 2 nights. That way, you can include a few vermouths at cocktail hours, some nice dinners, and a day trip to see more of the area.
Here are my recommendations for hotels in Tarragona:
B&B HOTEL Tarragona Centro Urbis: Modern, clean, and sleek designed rooms for a very fair price. Some rooms have a balcony overlooking the city for a splash of color.
Plaça De La Font Hotel: Conveniently located in the heart of the old city, everything is within walking distance. The rooms are decorated with warm tones. Request a quiet room if you’re a light sleeper.
H10 Imperial Tarraco: 4-star hotel with sweeping views of the Tarragona amphitheater and the Mediterranean Sea. They have a splendid rooftop with a rooftop pool and striking views.
Tarragona Things To Do
Tarragona charmed my socks off as it beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring Roman ruins and walking across the Roman aqueduct, to enjoying local flavors in its signature vermouths and fiestas, there’s something for everyone.
The city’s accessibility and compact size make it an ideal destination for first-time visitors looking for a unique and enriching experience.
Whether you’re visiting on a day trip from Barcelona, or staying for a few days, Tarragona offers a diverse range of activities that can be easily enjoyed on your own.
So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to conquer the city of Tarragona with these cool things to do!
- Learn a few Spanish phrases with this easy Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary with Audio. Purchase your copy here.
- Book your hotels in Barcelona and Cataluyna via Booking.com or Hotels.com
- Find your direct flights to Barcelona here
- Book your tours and activities direct with GetYourGuide or Tiquets
- Book your train tickets in and around Spain direct here or find the cheapest car rentals here
- I love to design travel themed items and I made several vibrant Spain inspired travel themed patterns. Check my own designs here!
- Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel in Spain. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
- Get your E-sim for Spain ahead of time with Knowroaming
Let me know if you have any specific questions or need help planning your own trip. If you thought this post was helpful or fun to read, let me know in the comment section below. Or share it with your friends or on social media! And make sure to come back for more travel stories next time.
