Tarragona

Long before Barcelona rose to prominence, Tarragona was the imperial capital of the Roman province Hispania, a heritage that still defines the city today. Its rich Roman past is unmistakable, with some of the most remarkable ruins in all of Spain. From the amphitheater that stands proudly by the sea, to the Circus, the impressive aqueduct, and the extensive remnants of its Roman walls, Tarragona’s archaeological sites are a testament to its ancient grandeur.

The modern city is perched on a hill, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches along the Catalonian coast, including my personal favorite, Cala Fonda, popularly known as Waikiki for its turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere. Tarragona makes for an ideal weekend getaway, especially in the summer months. It’s just under two hours by train from Barcelona, making it easy to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in a combination of sun, sand, and history.

Tarragona is also a cornerstone of Catalan identity, particularly as the heart of the castellers tradition. This ancient custom of building human towers—known as “castells”—is an impressive display of strength, balance, and community spirit. Each year, in September, the city hosts the annual human tower competition in honor of its patron saint, Santa Tecla. During this festive event, the streets come alive with excitement and pride, as teams from across Catalonia compete to build the tallest and most intricate towers.

Tarragona also offers an impressive gastronomic scene, with fresh seafood and local specialties like “romesco” sauce, often served with “calçots” (grilled spring onions). Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, Tarragona has something for everyone, all within easy reach from Barcelona.

View of the Cathedral

Where is Tarragona?

Positioned about 100 kilometers southwest of Barcelona, Tarragona sits along the Mediterranean Sea. Its strategic location has made it an important historical crossroads throughout the centuries. Tarragona’s proximity to the Costa Daurada also makes it a popular destination for travelers seeking both rich history and natural beauty. Tarragona is also located near PortAventura, a large theme park located offering a variety of rides, attractions, and themed areas based on different cultures and historical periods. It’s a popular destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

The history of Tarragona

Tarragona’s origins trace back to the Iberian period, with the settlement of Kesse, the capital of the Cossetani tribe. In 218 BC, during the Second Punic War, Roman forces established a military camp in the area, marking the beginning of Roman influence. Known as Tarraco, the city flourished under Roman rule, eventually becoming the capital of the province of Hispania Citerior and later Hispania Tarraconensis. It served as a significant military and administrative center, with monumental structures like the amphitheater, circus, and aqueduct reflecting its importance during the classical era.

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Tarragona fell under Vandal and Visigothic control. In 714 AD, it was captured by the Moors and became a key border city of the Caliphate of Córdoba. Following the Christian Reconquista, Tarragona was integrated into the Kingdom of Aragon. The city played a pivotal role during the Reapers’ War in the 17th century and later endured sieges during the Peninsular War in the early 19th century. Throughout its long history, Tarragona has been a crossroads of cultures, with its rich past preserved in its well-maintained Roman ruins and medieval architecture.

El Pont del Diable

Where to eat in Tarragona

El Pòsit del Serrallo is a charming, family-owned restaurant located in the historic fishermen’s district of Tarragona. Known for its exceptional seafood, it offers a menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced fish and traditional Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on Tarragona’s coastal culinary heritage. The warm, rustic ambiance combined with attentive service creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Filosofía Restaurante is a contemporary dining spot that combines innovative culinary techniques with Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant offers a refined yet unpretentious dining experience, featuring a seasonal menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and artistic presentation. With its elegant atmosphere and commitment to creativity, Filosofía Restaurante is a standout choice for those seeking a modern twist on traditional Catalan cuisine.

El Terrat Restaurant is a Michelin-starred establishment renowned for its innovative approach to Catalan cuisine. The menu features a blend of traditional flavors and modern techniques, using high-quality, seasonal ingredients to create refined dishes. With its cozy, modern ambiance and impeccable service, El Terrat offers an exceptional dining experience that has earned it a well-deserved spot among the city’s top restaurant.

What to eat in Tarragona

Fideus espetegats
A unique Tarragona dish made with thin noodles that are roasted or “toasted” before being cooked in a rich broth, often with seafood or meat, similar to a fideuà.

Groguillo de rajada
A fish stew made with skate (rajada) and a variety of spices, including saffron, which gives it a distinct golden color and complex flavor profile.

Guatlles a la tarragonina
Quail prepared Tarragona-style, typically cooked with local herbs and spices, often served with a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the tender meat.

Romesco dels pescadors de Torredemarra
A fish stew variation of the famous Romesco sauce combined with fish stock. Made by fishermen in neighboring Torredemarra, it features roasted peppers, tomatoes, almonds, and garlic.

How to get to Tarragona

Tarragona is easily accessible from Barcelona and other nearby cities. By train, you can reach it in about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Barcelona’s Sants Station, with frequent services including high-speed AVE trains and regional options. Alternatively, you can drive from Barcelona via the AP-7 highway, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Buses from Barcelona Nord station also serve the route, typically taking between 1.5 and 2 hours.

For air travel, Reus Airport (about 15 km from Tarragona) is the closest, with flights from various European cities. From Reus, you can take a bus or taxi to Tarragona. If you’re flying into Barcelona El Prat Airport, you can take a train or drive to the city. These transport options make getting to Tarragona convenient and straightforward.