2025 Tarragona Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Spain is famous by its many beaches of pristine clear blue water and white fine sand. Yet, there are a few places that are still magical discoveries, so they combine perfect features of a beach vacation with cultural and historical heritage. This is the case for the beach at Castell de Tamarit. A small secluded access to the sea from behind a historical castle that nowadays serves as event and wedding venue. Castell de Tamarit is a short drive away from the town of Altafulla, a bit over 1 hour south of Barcelona. Yet, to get there you would need to drive your car and then walk up and down the cliff, or access it by boat directly from the sea. Whatever way you get there, this is a beautiful beach and if you get to visit the castle besides it the experience will be complete. #beachvacation

Mediterranean Coast Tour of Spain ~ Tarragona (Region) Once serving the southern areas of the Ebro Delta, it is now located in Tarragona's Moll. The popular trail along the route stretches nearly 5 kilometers, making it a beautiful spot for jogging, walking, skating, or cycling from start to finish. Far de la Banya is 3.3 kilometers away. A delightful surprise is the discovery of a modern, clean, automatic restroom next to the lighthouse, available for free use. From Far de la Banya, you can enjoy stunning views of the port. From one vantage point, you can see the harbor, and from another, the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea. Cats act as guardians of the lighthouse, though they are quite shy.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The Tinglados area of ​​the port of Tarragona is the perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor walking and running. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the harbor and sea, creating a relaxing yet vibrant atmosphere. The area is well maintained and safe, with plenty of space for uninterrupted walking and running. Additionally, there are benches and rest areas along the way, perfect for resting and enjoying the scenery. During the tour you can discover several historical and cultural attractions, which add a special touch to your experience. There are also cafes and restaurants nearby (not cheap) where you can have a refreshing drink or a post-workout meal. In short, the Tinglados area is a great place to stay active and enjoy the views of Tarragona Harbour. #AprilDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) Portal del Roser is one of the ancient gates into the walls of Tarragona and is part of the Roman wall that surrounds the old town. Located on the north side of the city, its history dates back to Roman times, although it has undergone some modifications over the centuries, especially in the Middle Ages. The portal is notable not only for its architectural and historical value, but also for its picturesque setting, since nearby there is the Tarragona History Museum and other well-preserved sections of the city walls. One of the best preserved city gates, the Portal del Roser is an impressive entrance to the historic center of Tarragona, striking for its defensive features and pointed arches. Its design includes the Rose Window, a circular window that brings light into the interior. Entering here before entering the city walls, you can see the Plaza del Pallol. #AprilDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

A Journey Along Spain's Mediterranean Coast ~ Tarragona (Region) The Queen's Fortress in Tarragona is a historical gem that combines well-preserved architecture with stunning Mediterranean vistas. Its strategic location offers a journey through time, allowing visitors to explore the area's rich cultural heritage. This tranquil spot is perfect for leisurely strolls and capturing breathtaking photos, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the serenity of the sea. Undoubtedly, it is a must-visit destination on any trip to Tarragona.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The city excels at historical re-enactments, hosting shows at key attractions such as the Amphitheatre and the Roman Circus, which bring the Roman Empire to life. Add to that a prime location on the Mediterranean Sea, delicious local cuisine, festive celebrations and popular traditions, and you have the capital of the Costa del Sol: Tarragona. Tarragona faces the Mediterranean Sea, with the beach just a short walk from the old town. The coastline is 15 kilometers long, with fine sand and a shallow sea. June to September has mild weather, which is almost always perfect for bathing. The city has retained the seaside atmosphere of the Serralo fishermen's district. This is a great place to enjoy local fish and seafood. You can even see fish auctions at the market every afternoon. #AprilDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The church is a small late 14th century Romanesque church with a nave covered with barrel vaults that has been renovated several times. The most interesting element is the collection of Baroque glazed tiles, both for their quality and their themes. There are 2,538 pieces in total, located on three soffits. The two sides are larger and depict moments from the Battle of Lepanto (1571) between the Holy League and the Ottoman Empire. One shows the beginning of the battle, when the two squadrons come face to face. Another shows Pope Pius V handing the flag of the Holy League to Prince John of Austria. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia #ChurchVisit

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) You can visit the Absinthe House, a new center inspired by wine tourism that gives visitors a closer look at the history of the building and explains why Reus is considered the capital of absinthe. Sadly I would have expected a longer visit, there were only two or three rooms to visit and you could barely see the building from the inside, but the vermouth was very good and they also serve hazelnuts from Reus and oil bread, so if you're looking for a good place for wine tasting this is it! #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) Font Major is considered the great source of the Francoli River, although the river already originates from a higher place. It is located behind the l'Espluga cave, so it is well worth visiting this very quiet idyllic space and cool spot once you exit the cave. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) Its exterior resembles the Cistercian style, possibly influenced by the nearby Monastery of Poblet. Made of smooth blocks of pale ochre limestone ashlar, its simple lines, solid exterior buttresses, and lack of moldings and other decorative elements give it a stately and solid look. It has a basic plan with a nave divided into three sections, roofed with simple cross vaults, and it has a polygonal sanctuary with five radial chapels built between the buttresses. The bell tower is high on the main facade. The doorway has a pointed arch with several arches resting on slender columns with capitals carved with historical motifs and dust covers on the cantilevers. The side door is the old door into the cemetery, a semicircular arch over a portico with a reduced arch above. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia #ChurchVisit

Mediterranean Coast Tour of Spain ~ Tarragona (Region) Located in the charming main square of the city center of Prades. It is a small and ancient, well-preserved church that highlights the typical reddish stone of the area. It consists of a main altar and several small chapels on the sides, as well as several rows of 'old-fashioned' benches, bringing together different architectural elements such as Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. It is very beautiful and worth seeing when visiting Prades. It is a beautiful place surrounded by old buildings, with residences, bars, restaurants, and a great bakery inside.

A trip along the Spanish Mediterranean coast ~ Tarragona (region) You can see magnificent views of the castle, with fine golden sand, flat and shallow shores, and usually calm, clean, and clear waters. It is very suitable for children and the elderly to play and swim. It connects with Altafulla Beach through the Gaià River. It is usually a bit crowded because there are campsites around with direct access. It offers all services such as lifeguards, showers, and public restrooms.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The well-preserved historic center is worth a visit, with houses from the 1700s and a 10th-century castle. It’s a very short vacation because you can see it in a very short time. The castle is privately owned and visits to the castle are restricted as it is private property. These visits are on the first Tuesday and last Saturday of each month. It is closed to the public in July and August as the owner and family use it as a vacation home during these months. Although admission is free, you must make a reservation at the Information and Tourism Office. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia #Castle

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The medieval part of the town is surrounded by a wall - the Vila Closa - which has been declared a National Heritage Site. Its artistic heritage also includes the medieval castle, the Church of St. Martí, the remains of the city walls and the town hall. Also worth mentioning is the Abbey of Saint-Antoine and the fishing community of Les Botigues de Mar, which, facing the sea, had a row of small warehouses built for fishermen; these were later converted into residences. It is highly recommended that you visit Vila Romana de Els Munts, part of the Tarraco Romana archaeological complex, declared a World Heritage Site. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) There is an area on the outskirts of Amposta that is worth spending a few minutes exploring, it is accessible by foot from the suspension bridge but you have to walk along the roadside to the top of the hill which is a great experience and the views of the city are impressive. The tower is very well preserved and the atmosphere is very pleasant. I recommend bringing a camera to capture the moments! #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) Completed in 1921, it is a landmark building across the Ebro River in Amposta, Catalonia, Spain. Designed by engineer José Eugenio Ribera, it stands out for its elegant civil engineering style and the innovative technology of steel cables that support the central slab, creating a light, suspended appearance. It was one of the first large suspension bridges in Spain and is currently an architectural and cultural symbol of the region, with a design that blends history and modernity. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The Royal Academy's architectural complex is the most important work of the civil Renaissance in the city and in all of Catalonia. In the 16th century, Tortosa experienced a period of socio-economic prosperity, but also a cultural one. Initially, its original function was to provide education for the Moriscos and later for children from poor families. The complex consists of three buildings with extraordinary portals, which have the same architectural plan. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) I love this bridge for the best panoramic views of Tortosa and the Ebro River, its solid metal structure and its intense red color, this cold red iron structure hides an emotional and vibrant background full of life, the wooden walkways invite you to stroll along the greenway and immerse yourself in nature. Stand out in this panoramic view of the Ebro River that passes through the city of Tortosa. Originally an old railway bridge, it is now protected as a local cultural asset. The original site was the site of the first substantial bridge across the Ebro River near Tortosa, which was built between 1865 and 1868. It was later rebuilt in its original form. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Mediterranean Coast of Spain Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) The cave painting sites in the Mediterranean basin of the Iberian Peninsula have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A short walk through the bushes reveals only one painting and a few caves, but they are not extraordinary. The paintings have high historical value, and the lower area of the caves is very interesting. From above, you can see an impressive view of the entire area, making it undoubtedly a great place for a morning hike. You might try climbing to the top at the end of the path, but be sure to allow enough time for a fairly steep climb, especially in summer. The weather in May is not too hot.

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) A bridge connecting the two main towns of the Ebro Delta, until the construction of this spectacular bridge in 2010, they communicated via ferry, a memory that Deltebre partially preserves. With its ultra-modern and spectacular structure, the bridge is clearly different when compared to the Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon or the Constitution Bridge in Cadiz, and is unforgettable for its pocket-sized size. Its location is magical, especially during the golden afternoons when the sunrises are full of promise and the sunsets are filled with warm colors. For photography enthusiasts, the bridge becomes the perfect canvas to capture beautiful long exposure images, with the lights dancing on the water. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Tarragona (Region) It’s less than 40 km from the city of Tarragona to Santa Coloma de Quiralte on the Costa Dorada. Its historic district has been declared a cultural property. The historic part of Santa Coloma de Quiralte is the medieval city center with striking monuments. The ancient walled complex retains four gates and two arcaded squares: the Main Square and the Church Square. Notable sights include Comtes Castle with its magnificent keep and entrance hall; the Casa de la Villa, now the town hall; the Jewish Quarter and the Gothic Parish Church of Santa María, which features a massive 17th-century bell tower and a beautiful 14th-century alabaster altarpiece. Also made of alabaster is the impressive tomb of Count Quiralte, dating from 1370, located in the church of Santa María de Berlo, whose architectural style shows the transition from Romanesque to Gothic. Near this monument is the Fountain of les Canelles, which has eight spouts and dates from the 17th century. Next to it, you can also see a Gothic cross. The town is also a good starting point for excursions, such as visits to the wonders of Conca de Barberà, and different themed routes such as the Cistercian Route. #FebruaryDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia

#0yentravelJanuary2025 Las Falleras Aqueduct is an aqueduct built in ancient Roman times that crosses the Strait of Gibraltar, and its remains remain today. Location: Located in a key position on the strait connecting Spain and Morocco, this bridge is an iconic ruin that shows the technology and construction power of the Roman Empire. Las Falleras Aqueduct was built in Roman times to supply the city with local water sources, and showed off the high level of engineering technology of the Romans at that time. The ruins of the aqueduct are scattered around the strait, and in particular the stone arches and foundations to support the waterway have been confirmed 🏛️ Currently, much of the ruins are submerged and not completely preserved, but excavations and investigations are underway. As a tourist destination, it is a valuable spot where you can experience Roman technology and history while touring the ruins. For history buffs and archaeologists, it is a place worth visiting 📜

Didn’t realise Spain had nuclear power!

For a unique slice of history and a deeper look into the agricultural roots of Cambrils, don’t miss the Museu Agrícola. This fascinating museum showcases the tools, machinery, and traditions that shaped the region's farming life. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike! 🏺🌾 Explore exhibits detailing the evolution of farming in Cambrils, from early hand tools to more modern machinery. The museum also highlights the local agricultural customs, giving you an insight into how the land and people have worked together for centuries. 🚜🌱 Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the area’s agricultural past, the Museu Agrícola de Cambrils offers a charming and educational experience. #voyagevibes

#salou

Located near the historic coastal city of Tarragona, PortAventura is the largest theme park in Spain. The park usually operates from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with varying seasonal hours, and admission costs around €50 for an adult day ticket. However, prices may vary for multi-day or multi-park passes. Overview PortAventura World is divided into six distinct thematic areas: Mediterrània, Polynesia, China, Mexico, Far West, and SésamoAventura. A visit to PortAventura starts in Mediterrània as it captures the essence of a Mediterranean fishing village. It's known for the Furius Baco, one of Europe's fastest roller coasters. From there, visitors can wander into Polynesia for family-friendly fun amidst lush landscapes. The heart of the park lies in China, home to the awe-inspiring Dragon Khan and Shambhala roller coasters, the latter being Europe's tallest. The Wild West-themed area brings adventurous rides and entertaining shows, while SesamoAventura, a Sesame Street-themed zone, delights the younger crowd. The experience Visitors often tout the exhilarating experience of riding Shambhala, with its breathtaking views and heart-racing drops. Each themed area of the park offers a unique, immersive experience complete with attractions representing different world cultures. Visiting PortAventura is highly recommended since it offers diverse attractions suitable for all ages, exceptional thematic design, and the unforgettable thrill of its roller coasters. It perfectly combines fun, adventure, and cultural exploration. Things to consider before visiting While planning a visit, it's advisable to book tickets online in advance for possible discounts and queue avoidance. Make sure you’re on comfortable footwear to navigate the expansive park. Check the schedule for shows and parades in advance to make the most out of your experience. More importantly, consider fast-track passes during peak seasons to minimize waiting times. #PortAventura #ThemeParkFun #SpainAdventures #Salou #RollerCoasters #FamilyHoliday #Catalonia #AmusementPark #SpanishHolidays #FerrariLand

The walled enclosure of Montblanc, from the 14th century, has a perimeter of 1,500 meters with thirty towers. The site is made up of four sections and in the past there were only four entrance portals: the portal of Sant Antoni, the portal of Sant Francesc, the tower-portal of Sant Jordi and the tower-portal of Bové. Currently, you can walk a stretch of about 300 meters and 5 towers, 3 of which you can go to the roof and contemplate the panoramic views of the town. Access to the site is through the tower next to the Sant Francesc portal where there is the ticket counter and the very kind stuff will help by providing a map of the wall as well the town of Montblanc and recommend the worth visiting attractions. 📍 Plaça Sant Francesc, 43400 Montblanc, Tarragona 🕜Mon - Sat 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-18:00 / Sunday 10:00-14:00 🎟️3€ #fallingseason