Tarragona

Tarragona (Catalan: Tarragona, Spanish: Tarragona) is a city in northeastern Spain, located in Catalonia. It’s one of the country’s oldest cities and a major seaport. Tarragona features an ensemble of Roman ruins included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list, dating back to when Tarraco (its ancient name) was one of the most important cities in Iberia.

Tarragona (Spain)

This sun-drenched city embraces the golden shores of Costa Dorada. Tarragona represents several millennia of history frozen right on its streets: ancient Roman ruins, a medieval Gothic cathedral, and historic cobblestone alleys.

Geography and Climate

Tarragona is situated on the Balearic Sea coast in northeastern Spain. The city lies in southern Catalonia, 100 km south of Barcelona. The climate is typically Mediterranean with very warm, dry summers and mild winters. Average annual rainfall is 500 mm, most of which falls between September and November. Snow and frost are rare.

Essential Information

• Population: 131,500 people
• Area: 63 square kilometers
• Languages: Spanish and Catalan
• Currency: Euro
• Visa: Schengen
• Time Zone: Central European Time (UTC+1, UTC+2 in summer)
• Tourist Information Center: C/Fortuny, 4

Beaches in Tarragona

Tarragona is one of the largest cities on Costa Dorada. This Balearic Sea coast (part of the Mediterranean) is famous for its sandy beaches, which have been awarded the Blue Flag certification.

Notable Beaches

• CALA TOBER A – A small secluded cove surrounded by pine trees, accessible by foot or car. The beach is located at the foot of Tamarit Castle.
• L’ARRABASSADA – Blue Flag beach with excellent infrastructure.
• EL MILAGRO – Located in central Tarragona with beautiful views of the Roman amphitheater.
• LA MORA – Well-equipped beach with showers, restaurants, and small beach houses.
• LA SAVINOSA – Small beach close to the city.
• LOS CAPELLANES – Small rocky cove.
• TAMARIT – Situated in a beautiful location, surrounded by a large pine grove with stunning views of the namesake castle.
• PLATJA FONDA – Naturist beach located behind a forest area.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tarragona is from May to October.

History

The first settlement was founded by the Iberians in the 5th century BC and was called Kesse. In 218 BC, the area was conquered by the Romans, who established the city of Tarraco, considered the oldest Roman colony on the Iberian Peninsula. Until the decline of the Roman Empire, Tarragona served as the provincial capital.

Emperor Octavian Augustus spent an entire winter in Tarraco after the Cantabrian Wars, ordering the construction of numerous buildings. Future Roman Emperor Septimius Severus also lived here for several years.

After the Roman Empire’s fall, Tarragona was conquered by the Visigoths. In the early 8th century, the Arabs took control of the city and ruled for four centuries. The city was recaptured by the Kings of Aragon only in the 12th century and briefly served as the kingdom’s capital.

Starting from the 16th century, new fortifications were built to protect Tarragona and its surroundings from continuous wars and pirate raids. The city suffered significant damage during the War of Spanish Succession and the Napoleonic Wars.

How to Get There

The major international airport is located in Barcelona, Catalonia’s capital. Tarragona is situated on the Barcelona – Alicante railway line, with night trains from Granada and Madrid. High-speed trains connect to Madrid, Zaragoza, Malaga, Seville, Bilbao, and Vigo. The railway station is located in the city center.

Shopping

There are many interesting shops in the Rambla Nova area and throughout the old town. Visitors can purchase numerous typical Catalan items here.

Cuisine

Tarragona is famous for its typical Catalan gastronomy, fish dishes, and seafood. Here you can try excellent tapas, paella, langoustines, vegetables with romesco sauce, stewed meat, cod balls, and rice with squid ink.

Where to Eat

Numerous restaurants and cafes can be found from Plaça de la Font to the cathedral, around Carrer Nau and the squares of Plaça del Rei and Plaça del Fòrum. In the Serrallo district, near the fishing harbor, you’ll find excellent seafood restaurants.

Attractions

The historic center is located between the coast and medieval walls. Roman ruins, the Gothic cathedral, and Romanesque monasteries – history and architecture blend on the streets of ancient Tarraco.

Roman Heritage

Roman heritage can be found on almost every corner of Tarragona. The old town is one of Spain’s most important archaeological sites. The Roman amphitheater is the most impressive of the ancient structures. Built on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it dates back to the 2nd century AD and Emperor Octavian Augustus’s reign. The amphitheater is a huge elliptical stadium for gladiatorial games that could accommodate about 12,000 spectators. Under the arena were pits and other auxiliary rooms. Several Christian martyrs were executed here in the 3rd century. In the center of the amphitheater are the remains of a 6th-century ancient basilica and a 12th-century Romanesque-Gothic church.

Les Ferreres Aqueduct

Les Ferreres is an ancient Roman aqueduct often called the Devil’s Bridge. Built about two thousand years ago, it’s an outstanding example of ancient engineering. The aqueduct directed water from the Francolí River to ancient Tarraco. Located north of Tarragona and crossing a wooded valley, it’s 250 meters long, 57 meters high, and consists of 36 arches.

Tarragona Cathedral

Tarragona Cathedral, a 12th-century church built on the site of a Moorish mosque, exemplifies the evolution from Romanesque to Gothic styles. The main facade features two Romanesque portals from the 12th century and a stunning rose window with intricate tracery. The austere three-nave interior boasts beautiful stained glass in the transepts. Medieval chapels contain precious artworks. The Gothic tomb of the archbishop is located above the altar.

Through the Romanesque doors on the left, visitors can access the 13th-century monastery, considered one of Spain’s finest. Beautifully crafted large Gothic arches, each comprising three smaller rounded arches, adjoin the central courtyard. The western wing of the monastery contains the Mihrab (prayer niche) from the mosque that once stood here. The Diocesan Museum, housing a collection of religious art, is located in the monastery’s northeastern corner.

The Ancient Walls

Walls have surrounded Tarragona since antiquity. A small section from the Vía del Imperio to the Rosario Gate, dating to the 5th century, remains today. Part of the ancient fortifications has remained virtually untouched, including a one-kilometer section with walls ranging from 3-10 meters in height. This remarkable ancient defensive structure is distinguished by its monumental stonework and consists of massive irregular blocks. Three towers have also survived: Cabiscol, Arzobispo, and Minerva. The Minerva Tower is an excellent example of Roman defensive architecture. Arzobispo was rebuilt during the Middle Ages.

Mediterranean Balcony

The Mediterráneo is a terrace offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, Roman amphitheater, and El Milagro beach. It marks the endpoint of Rambla Nova street and serves as one of the city’s most popular viewpoints.

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum consists of monumental ancient ruins located west of Rambla Nova street. It contains fragments of numerous Roman buildings from the period when Tarraco served as the capital of the Roman province, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s ancient grandeur.

Serrallo District

El Serrallo is an ancient fishing village practically in the city center that has preserved its provincial charm. The picturesque waterfront is the highlight of this district and provides an excellent location for leisurely walks. Here, visitors can also sample the most delicious and fresh seafood in authentic local establishments.

Casa Castellarnau

Castellarnau is an elegant Gothic building constructed in the 15th century. Notable architectural features include the courtyard and staircase with Gothic columns and capitals. The rooms are decorated with impressive paintings and contain original furniture, archaeological findings, and ethnographic exhibits.

PortAventura World

Located near Tarragona is one of Europe’s premier theme parks – PortAventura World. The complex features numerous attractions, a water park, and golf courses, making it an ideal destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Most shops close for siesta between 2 PM and 5 PM
• The best restaurants in El Serrallo district serve lunch between 1 PM and 4 PM
• Many historic sites offer combined tickets for better value
• Free walking tours start from Plaça de la Font daily
• Local buses connect all major beaches during summer months
• The Tourist Card offers free public transport and museum access

Events and Festivals

• Santa Tecla Festival (September) – The city’s main cultural celebration
• Tarraco Viva (May) – Roman history reenactment festival
• Carnival (February/March) – Colorful parades and celebrations
• International Fireworks Competition (July)
• Festival of Sant Magí (August) – Traditional religious festivities

Day Trips from Tarragona

• Reus – Modernist architecture and birthplace of Gaudí
• Montblanc – Medieval walled town
• Poblet Monastery – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Salou – Popular beach resort
• Priorat Wine Region – Famous for its vineyards

Summary

Tarragona offers a unique blend of ancient Roman history, medieval architecture, beautiful beaches, and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, beach lover, or foodie, the city provides numerous experiences for every type of traveler. Its convenient location and excellent transport connections make it an ideal destination for both extended stays and day trips from Barcelona.