A day trip to Tarragona from Barcelona
If you only have one free day to visit the historic city of Tarragona from Barcelona, you definitely can do this and travel by bus or train to the capital city of the Costa Dourada region of Spain. Filled with amazing Roman ruins that designated this as a Unesco World Heritage Site along with Medieval architecture in the Old Town and then a newer section that is also wonderful to explore with lovely squares, a central market and lots of shopping venues to explore.
Less than an hour and a few minutes by bus or train from Barcelona, an early start will get you to the heart of Tarragona and explore all these historic treasures, beaches and cool places to visit in this amazing city. I love visiting this ancient and elegant city, its a great combination of Roman, medieval and modern monuments and architecture all rolled into one beautiful city.
Why visit Tarragona, Spain?
Tarragona, located on Spain’s Costa Daurada, offers a unique blend of Roman history, charming old town streets, and beautiful beaches. The city’s Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater and ancient city walls, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Wandering through the medieval old town reveals picturesque streets, vibrant squares, and a mix of local shops and cafes, while nearby Playa del Miracle and Playa de la Arrabassada offer relaxing beach experiences.
Beyond its historical and coastal attractions, Tarragona features a lively cultural scene with traditional festivals and a diverse gastronomic landscape. Visitors can enjoy local Catalan dishes and fresh seafood, explore the maritime heritage of the Port of Tarragona, and take advantage of nearby natural attractions like the Ebro Delta. With its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and scenic beauty, Tarragona is a destination that offers something for everyone.
How to get to Tarragona from Barcelona
By Train
One of the easiest and most popular ways to get to Tarragona is by train. From Barcelona Sants station, you can catch a high-speed AVE or Avant train that reaches Tarragona in approximately 35 to 45 minutes. For a more economical option, regional Rodalies trains take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. With frequent departures throughout the day, this mode of transportation offers both speed and flexibility.
By Bus
Another choice is to take a bus from Barcelona to Tarragona. Buses leave from Barcelona’s Estació del Nord and usually take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to arrive in Tarragona. This option is convenient if you’re staying near the bus station or prefer a direct route. For details on routes and fares, you can check bus services here to and from Tarragona.
Depending on transport method you choose, it will bring you downtown to the bus station or the train station close to the harbor area. You can easily walk around the city or catch a taxi to get to the starting point of our day tour.
Spend a day in Tarragona, Spain
You can enjoy most of the attractions of the city starting with visiting the Roman Unesco sites and then the Old Town and medieval section. Later go to the more modern areas of the city to visit the squares, main shopping venues and the central market of the city. Here’s how to enjoy a day in Tarragona.
Check out my one day guide below to see all the fantastic highlights and must visit attractions in the city.
Visit the Roman Amphitheater
Located just outside of the Old Town and facing a panoramic ocean view, the Roman Amphitheater of Tarragona, built in the 2nd century AD, is a key testament to the city’s ancient Roman heritage. Perched on a hillside with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, it once hosted gladiator contests, animal hunts, and public executions, accommodating up to 15,000 spectators. Despite the ages, much of the amphitheater, including its seating, arena, and underground passages, remains remarkably well-preserved, offering a vivid glimpse into the splendor of *Tarraco* during Roman times.
The amphitheater’s historical significance extends beyond its Roman origins. In the 6th century, a Visigoth church was erected within the amphitheater, followed by a Romanesque church in the 12th century, reflecting its ongoing use over the centuries. Today, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the amphitheater draws visitors from around the world who come to admire its ancient architecture and delve into the rich history of Tarragona.
Visit the Old Medieval Town of Tarragona
Close by the Roman Amphitheater is the Old Town walls and medieval area of the city with narrow streets that wind through historic buildings and landmarks around this area. You can easily get a map in the tourist office or find many of these important sites to visit in the Old Town:
Tarragona Cathedral
The Tarragona Cathedral, also known as the *Cathedral of Saint Thecla*, is a remarkable blend of Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements. Constructed on the site of a former Roman temple, the cathedral features an impressive façade, a richly decorated interior, and a charming cloister with Romanesque columns. The bell tower provides sweeping views of the city and its surroundings.
Plaça del Rei
This historic square is widely regarded as the heart of the medieval district. It is flanked by notable buildings, including the old Royal Palace. The square also hosts the *Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona* (National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona), which houses an impressive collection of Roman artifacts. It’s an ideal spot to admire medieval architecture and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of nearby cafes and shops.
Roman Walls
I loved exploring the old Roman walls and ramparts of the Old Town, this historic exterior walls were constructed during the Roman Empire to include a few original towers and gates such as the Porta de les Comtes and the Port de San Antonio. There’s a nomimal fee to walk around the groomed and well maintain walkway with placards, beautiful gardens and vista points that make this a fun and memorable walk. You can also take some great photos of the views and surrounding area and gardens.
Plaça de la Font
Plaça de la Font is a lively and colorful square in the Old Town known for its historic charm and bustling energy. Lined with restaurants and bars, it’s the perfect place to hang out and unwind and enjoy the vibe of the local atmosphere. The square also features the *Font del Centenari*, a decorative fountain commemorating Tarragona’s centenary.
Bishop’s Palace
Situated beside the cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace once served as the residence of Tarragona’s bishop. Its architecture showcases a blend of historical styles, reflecting the city’s rich medieval church history. While the interior isn’t always accessible to the public, the exterior is well worth admiring for its historical importance.
Circus of Tarragona
The Circus of Tarragona, or *Circ Romà de Tarragona*, was a prominent Roman venue for chariot races and public events, built in the 1st century AD when *Tarraco* was the capital of the Roman province of Hispania Citerior. Constructed in the traditional Roman style, it featured a long, rectangular track surrounded by tiered seating that accommodated around 25,000 spectators. The arena included a central barrier for chariot races, with seating arranged by social class, offering the best views to the elite.
What makes the Circus of Tarragona unique is its integration into the modern city. Unlike many ancient ruins, the remnants of the circus are woven into Tarragona’s historic quarter, with original tunnels and vaults still accessible. Visitors can explore these features and delve into the city’s Roman heritage through access points like the Praetorian Tower, which offers views of the ruins and the surrounding area. As part of Tarragona’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the circus highlights its importance in Roman history and architectural heritage.
Enjoy the new parts of the city
Visiting the new or modern parts of Tarragona is where you will find all the shopping, dining and typical services in the central business district. you can find lovely squares, walking promenades and large boulevards to shop and see what’s the local markets like especially in the central market where you can find the local specialty items and foods made in the area along with produce and locally made goods.
Central Market of Tarragona
Located in the heart of the downtown business district, the Tarragona Central Market is the vibrant hub of the city’s newer area. This lively market, held both indoors and outdoors, is a popular spot where locals come to shop and catch up on the day’s events and conversations.
Roman Forum of Tarragona
An easy walk from the central market, the *Fòrum Colonial de Tarraco* was the heart of ancient *Tarraco* (now Tarragona) during the Roman era, established in the 1st century BC. It served as the city’s political, commercial, and social hub, surrounded by essential structures such as temples, basilicas, and administrative buildings. The forum was divided into two main sections: the *Fòrum Provincial* for provincial administration and the *Fòrum Colonial* for local civic life, featuring a rectangular plaza lined with porticos, shops, and public gathering spaces.
Today, the *Fòrum Colonial de Tarraco* is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses Tarragona’s Roman ruins. Visitors can explore the site, where remnants of original paving stones, building foundations, and fragments of columns and statues offer a glimpse into the grandeur and daily life of Roman *Tarraco*. Although only partially preserved, the forum provides valuable insights into the city’s significance in the Roman Empire and its architectural heritage.
Plazas of Tarragona
The modern section of Tarragona features several vibrant plazas that serve as lively social and commercial hubs. These plazas blend contemporary life with a touch of the city’s rich history.
Plaça de la Font: This bustling square is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Lined with cafes and restaurants, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. The square is also home to the Font del Centenari, a decorative fountain celebrating Tarragona’s centenary.
Plaça Imperial Tarraco: A more modern plaza that serves as a focal point for shopping and social activities. It features contemporary architecture and is surrounded by various shops, eateries, and public spaces.
Plaça de la Escudero: Known for its picturesque setting, this square is a peaceful retreat in the city. It’s surrounded by green spaces and offers a quiet place to unwind, away from the more bustling areas.
Rambla Nova
The main shopping boulevard of Tarragona is grand, busy and filled with specialty shops, restaurants and typical provisions you’ll find in the business district of the city that’s fun to see and walk around. Rambla Nova does feel grand even for such a small city experience that showcases the newer sections of the city.
Mediterranean Balcony
A gorgeous mirador or viewpoint with gorgeous views of the coastline, beaches and scenery below. The Mediterranean Balcony is located close to the Tarragona Amphitheater and easy walk to get to.
Port of Tarragona
The Port of Tarragona is a bustling hub that showcases the city’s modern maritime and commercial life. Stroll along the waterfront, explore the marina, or visit the *Museu del Port* to learn about the port’s history and its role in the city’s growth.
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Conclusion to visiting Tarragona, Spain
Tarrragona makes a fascinating day tour or longer visit to this region just south of Barcelona with so much history and culture combined. It’s relatively easy to get to by bus or train service and you’ll be right in the heart of all the ancient monuments, landmarks and magnificent architecture from past to present. Not to mention the spectacular beaches, port and amazing views you can see from above different vantage points from the city to the coastlines below.
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