Just an hour away from Barcelona, this Mediterranean beachfront metropolis boasts 2,000 years of history, delectable dining and some of the best beaches in Spain. Did someone say ‘day trip’?
It may not be as famous as some of the other day trip destinations surrounding Barcelona, such as Sitges or Girona, but with its awe-inspiring Roman ruins and pristine beaches, Tarragona is definitely one of my favourites. Here’s how to see it all on an action-packed day trip from the Catalan capital.
Roam the Ruins
Founded by the Romans in the 5th Century BC, Tarragona was actually the capital of the Roman Empire for two years. The walls themselves seem to whisper old tales to you as you lose yourself in the winding backstreets.
And then there’s the real ‘Wow!’ moment when you arrive at the UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheatre. Facing the sea, this vast, bronze-hued arena was built in the 2nd Century AD and had space for some 15,000 spectators. Along with the city’s theatre and circus (because the Romans believed these facilities were essential elements for good living), this was the site of all sorts of entertainment and cultural festivities.
There would have been gladiator battles, with warriors fighting to the death against each other and, as we’ve all seen in the films, tigers, lions and horned beasts. But it wasn’t just gladiators and animals that died here; it was also the city’s venue of choice for public executions. Bishop Fructuoso and his deacons Augurio and Eulogio were burned alive here in the year 259 AD.
Tarragona Cathedral — currently a Roman Catholic church — is equally as impressive. Crowning the highest point of the city, it is one of the most pristine examples of architecture linking the Romanesque and Gothic periods. Inside, a collection of Medieval art ensures your jaw remains firmly glued to the floor.
If you have time, the Les Ferreres Aqueduct is another perfectly preserved Roman ruin that’s definitely worth seeing. Built with pink stone, this elegant feat of engineering is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site located 4 km north of the city. Legend has it that it earned its nickname, ‘Pont del Diable’ (Devil’s bridge), because it was built by the devil after he won the soul of a maiden in a bet.
Take Part in the Local Festivities
Frederico works in the tourism department of the Cathedral and had an extra nugget of insider info.
“Tarragona is full of life,” he told me, “and it’s even more alive during the Santa Tecla festival (every September) when the ‘beasts’ of the ‘cercavila’ parade the streets. The day after, on the day of La Mercè, you can see the ‘Human Towers’ walking from the steps of the Cathedral to the door of the Town Hall.”
May also sees the arrival of the spectacular Tarraco Viva Roman history festival, which is a must for culture vultures and history buffs.
Getting Back to Nature
Nicknamed ‘the city of eternal spring’ and often referred to as ‘the gateway to the Costa Daurada’, Tarragona is a real treat for beach lovers. I asked local blogger Gabriella Nonino from Tarragona Blog for the inside scoop.
“The best beaches are Platja Arrabassada, which is the closest to the city centre — a five-minute bus ride or a 30-minute stroll — and Platja Larga, a long sandy stretch where you can enjoy the El Bosque de la Marquesa (forest coastal walk) that leads to secluded beaches such as the famous Waikiki beach.”
I can personally vouch for Waikiki beach. The sand is soft and clean and the water pristine. Its secluded location also makes it popular with naturists — don’t say I didn’t warn you! It’s the perfect spot for evening out your tan lines.
Peruse Modernist Tarragona
I’m not the only one to have been enraptured by Tarragona’s old-world charms and idyllic seafront location. In the late 19th and early 20th century the city became popular with the bourgeoisie, many of whom spent vast sums of money on luxury homes designed by the then up-and-coming Modernist architects such as Josep Maria Jujol, Josep Maria Pujol and Lluis Domenech i Montaner. Explore the Casa Castellarnau museum and Casa Canals for a double dose of decadence.
An added bonus for architecture lovers is that Tarragona is home to the first documented example of work by Antoni Gaudi, which is hidden away in the shrine of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. Modernist Tarragona is remains visible to anyone who strolls the leafy boulevard of Rambla Nova, where you’ll still find many of the city’s best shops, fashion boutiques, cafes and restaurants.
Live the Good Life
As a local blogger, I couldn’t resist the temptation to ask Gabriella for her restaurant recommendations.
“We have some really good eateries!” she proclaimed to my delight. “Three of my favourites are Almosta on Carrer Ventallols with its ecological menu, El Llagut with its fantastic arrosejats (local rice dishes vastly superior to any paella). And if you like your wine, head straight to Lola Tapas in Plaça de la Font!”
Make it Happen
Frederico says that it’s easy to get to Tarragona from Barcelona. “Just take the RENFE train from Barcelona Sants Estacio to Tarragona. It takes about an hour and costs between €10 and €20 depending on what time you travel. Come for the day or, as many people do, stay a night or two and enjoy the city’s delights at a more leisurely pace.”
Keen to experience Tarragona for yourself? Start planning your ultimate day trip by checking out our Barcelona hotel deals.
