Although there is so much to see and do in Barcelona, sometimes it’s nice to escape the bigger city and explore a new place even for a day. That’s why doing a day trip to Tarragona is a perfect option. It’s located right on the water about 100 km south of Barcelona.
I’ll always recommend spending more than just a day in any city to get a real feel of the place, but if you’re limited on time then a day is more than enough to see all the main sites.
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Getting to and from Tarragona
One of the easiest and most direct ways of getting to Tarragona is by train. The ride will take you just about an hour from station to station. You’ll want to go to the Sants station in the western part of Barcelona for the train that heads there. The roundtrip ticket will cost you approximately 16€, but this can vary depending if there is a promotion at the moment or if you buy it enough in advance.
If you’re not up for doing the trip on your own, there are lots of trip options you can choose from. This tour is perfect for the solo traveler who wants to meet other people while traveling. If you’re going with a group and want to do the tour with just your friends, then check out this private tour!
Both these tours also include stops in Sitges, so you get to visit two cities instead of just one!
What to do in Tarragona
Free Walking Tour
A free walking tour is a great way to get situated in a new city. This one is in Spanish, but when I find an English one I’ll make sure to add it here as well. It’s the best way to get your bearings in a new place and learn from a local or someone who’s been living in a city for a while and who usually knows the best spots.
Archaeological sites
Tarragona has lots of history which dates back to the Roman Empire so lots of their architecture remains from that time period. Included in this is the Amphitheater overlooking the water, Roman walls, Roman circus, the Temple of Imperial Worship, the Provincial Forum square and more.
One of Tarragona’s main attractions is its historical re-enactments which bring the Roman Empire to life. Walking around the city will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. You just have to let your mind wander to get there. It’s a city of new mixed with ancient.
These archaeological sites are ones that are included in your combined ticket. I only did a day trip to Tarragona and was able to visit 5 during my visit.
Combined Entrance Ticket – Tarragona Pass
Even if just doing a one day trip to Tarragona, I highly recommend purchasing the Combined Entrance Ticket. It’s a card that for a one time purchase you can then enter up to 9 sites included in your ticket price. The cost of this Tarragona card is 5,50€ student or 11,05€ adult. There is an option to get a ticket to only visit 4 sites that costs 7,40€.
Please keep in mind these were prices back in 2022 so they may have increased slightly. You can buy it at any of the entrances to the 9 sites included or at the tourism office.
Sites included:
- Roman Walls
- Casa Castellarnau
- History Museum ofTarragona
- Casa Canals
- Praetorium and Roman Circus
- Amphitheater
- Forum Local
- Pallol Vault
- Modern Art Museum
- Ferreres Aqueduct
Beach
If you find yourself in Tarragona during the summer then definitely head to the beach. The Miracle beach is the one located close to the city center. Expect it to be the most crowded due to its proximity.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want a slightly more secluded beach then head north. Here you’ll find Capellans beach which looks to be a private secluded spot surrounded by greenery that I’m sure only locals know about.
Mediterranean Balcony
This balcony is a bit higher than sea level giving you an amazing view of the sea. You can stroll along here and wander into the shops nearby or have a drink and enjoy the view.
Port Museum of Tarragona
Learn everything about Tarragona’s port to its boats, what usually passes through, and its history. The museum only opened in 2021 so you’ll get to enjoy a very new cultural space that is only a few years old. On their website you can do a virtual tour.
Cathedral
As with most cities in Spain, Tarragona has a cathedral. But there’s something that does make this cathedral slightly different from others. It has an archaeological route that takes visitors back 2,000 years around the perimeter wall of the site. In addition there’s also cloisters, multiple chapels, and a belltower. It is free to enter with the Tarragona pass.
Port Aventura
Okay, so this one is a bit outside of Tarragona, but it’s super popular with Spaniards and foreigners. PortAventura is a huge amusement park that is very fun for both kids and adults. So if adrenaline is your thing then definitely add this to your itinerary. PortAventura deserves a whole day so now your day trip has turned into at least a two day or longer adventure.
Choose your preferred option:
- PortAventura and Ferrari Land 1, 2 or 3 day ticket
- PortAventura, Caribe Park, and Ferrari Land passes
- PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park 1 day ticket
Paraglide
Another adventure for the adrenaline junkies: paragliding. This wouldn’t be paragliding just anywhere though, you’d be flying over the Mussara Mountains. This gives you an epic view of the mountains below you. For 20 minutes you’ll be floating in the sky just like a bird. Make sure to wear close toed shoes and long pants.
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Will you be doing a day trip to Tarragona on your next visit to Barcelona? If so, let me know in the comments along with what you thought about this city!
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