Tarragona, a province in the south of Catalonia, known for its Roman heritage, beautiful Mediterranean beaches, vibrant festivals, and renowned vineyards. It is a region whose colours and climate draw in thousands of visitors each year, and part of fiercely independent Catalonia, a province with a strong sense of identity through its dialect, cuisine and rich traditions.
But what makes it so unique, so special to visit? Join us on a journey through Tarragona to find out.
Tarragona's Roman heritage is among the most significant in Spain, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Rome's influence. The city of Tarraco, established as a Roman colony in the 3rd century BC, was a vital administrative and commercial hub of the Roman Empire.
Amphitheatre: This ancient structure, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is perched on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It hosted gladiatorial combats, animal fights, and public spectacles.
Roman Circus: Used for chariot races and other public games, the Roman Circus of Tarraco is one of the best-preserved in Europe. Its impressive length, partly hidden beneath modern buildings, demonstrates the scale of entertainment venues in ancient Rome. Visitors can explore its subterranean passages and marvel at its architectural ingenuity.
City Walls: The Roman walls of Tarragona, some sections of which date back to the 3rd century BC, encircle the city's historic core. These fortifications, made of large stone blocks, highlight Roman engineering skills and offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The Archaeological Ensemble of Tarraco: Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this ensemble includes various Roman ruins spread throughout the city. Key sites within this ensemble are the Provincial Forum, the Colonial Forum, and the Necropolis, each providing insights into the Romans' political, social, and funerary practices.
The Aqueduct: Known as the Pont del Diable or Devil's Bridge, this impressive aqueduct was built to supply water to the ancient city of Tarraco. Standing 27 metres high and spanning 249 metres, the aqueduct is an enduring testament to Roman engineering prowess.
Coastal Tarragona is a picture of soft sandy shores punctuated by rocky outcrops and caressed by the crystalline Mediterranean Sea. Between June and September, when the water is at its warmest and the bright sun heats the beaches, children can be found playing with beach balls, scouring rock pools for marine life and skipping through the surf while their parents enjoy a couple of lazy hours on the sand at the end of a hard week’s work. Here are some of the best coastal resorts:
Platja Llarga: This expansive, sandy beach is one of the longest in Tarragona, offering ample space for sunbathing and beach sports. Its gentle slope and clear, shallow waters make it ideal for families with children.
La Mora Beach: Nestled in a picturesque bay, La Mora Beach is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. It offers a serene escape from busier tourist spots. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying scenic coastal trails.
Cala Fonda (Waikiki Beach): For those seeking a more secluded experience, Cala Fonda, also known as Waikiki Beach, is a hidden gem. Accessible via a scenic hike through the forest, this unspoiled cove offers pristine sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a favourite spot for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Altafulla Beach: Just a short drive from Tarragona, Altafulla Beach is a charming seaside spot with a quaint village feel. The beach is wide and sandy, with clear waters and gentle waves. It is flanked by a promenade of historic buildings and eateries.
One of the most popular locations for water sports is Salou, the tourist capital of the region and a classic family holiday destination. There are several aquatic centres that introduce beginners to a huge array of activities, and help seasoned enthusiasts hone their skills. Conventional sports such as diving, snorkelling, sailing and windsurfing are all offered, as well as waterskiing, jet skiing and wakeboarding. Thrill-seekers can opt for parasailing or kite surfing.
The ancient city of Tarraco was the first town outside the Italian peninsula to be constructed by the Romans. Even back then it held considerable appeal, becoming a favourite seaside resort of Emperors Augustus and Hadrian. Remains of Roman buildings can still be seen: the amphitheatre, circus, forum and city walls all remind visitors of the might of the Empire in its prime.
Tarragona’s inhabitants celebrate their rich history at the Tarraco Viva festival, held in May, and the Tarragona Historia Viva, which takes place during the summer months. It’s not just their Roman heritage that is honoured, however – the tradition of building castells, human towers, has been alive since the 18th century and was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010.
Asides from the city's historical significance, here are some other compelling reasons to visit:
Stunning Architecture: Beyond its Roman ruins, Tarragona boasts a wealth of architectural treasures, including the Gothic Tarragona Cathedral, located on the city's highest point. Its cloisters and intricate façade are marvels of medieval architecture.
Mediterranean Charm: With its beautiful beaches along the Costa Daurada, Tarragona offers a perfect blend of historical exploration and seaside relaxation. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports or simply unwind with a walk along the picturesque coastline.
Culinary Delights: Tarragona's gastronomy is a highlight, featuring fresh seafood, traditional Catalan dishes, and locally produced wines. The city's many restaurants and tapas bars provide a delightful culinary journey, from bustling markets to elegant dining experiences.
Natural Beauty: The surrounding natural parks, such as the Montsant and Els Ports, offer more than just stunning landscapes. They provide a tranquil escape for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring rugged terrain. These parks are a serene oasis, highlighting the region's ecological diversity and offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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A family holiday to Tarragona is hardly complete without a trip to Port Aventura, the biggest theme park in the Mediterranean. The park features more than 30 rides, an aquatic park, six hotels, and performances from Cirque du Soleil. Ferrari Land opened in 2016, the only Ferrari themed attraction park in Europe.
The area borders the Catalan provinces of Lleida and Barcelona, Castellón in the Valencian Community, and Teruel and Zaragoza of the region of Aragon. Discover what to do in the neighbouring regions:
La Seu Vella: An impressive cathedral-fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Segre River.
Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park:A stunning national park ideal for hiking, featuring beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Vall de Boí: Famous for its collection of Romanesque churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in a picturesque valley.
Sagrada Família: Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece, an iconic and still unfinished basilica, known for its unique architecture and intricate facades.
Park Güell: Another Gaudí creation, this public park features whimsical structures, vibrant mosaics, and stunning city views.
La Rambla: A bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Peñíscola: This picturesque coastal town features a stunning medieval castle, once the home of Pope Benedict XIII. Its charming old town and beautiful beaches make it a delightful destination.
Desert de les Palmes: A natural park perfect for hiking, offering scenic views, rich biodiversity, and historic hermitages.
Morella: A historic town known for its impressive castle and well-preserved medieval walls. The Gothic architecture and quaint streets provide a step back in time.
Mudejar Architecture: Teruel is famous for its Mudejar architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral and the towers of El Salvador, San Martín, and San Pedro are prime examples.
Albarracín: A stunning medieval town surrounded by hills, known for its narrow streets, red-roofed houses, and historic walls.
Sierra de Albarracín: A natural area perfect for hiking, offering breathtaking landscapes, rivers, and diverse wildlife.
Zaragoza Basilica del Pilar: One of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites, this stunning basilica is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
Aljafería Palace: A magnificent example of Moorish architecture, now housing the Aragonese parliament.
Goya Museum: Dedicated to the works of Francisco Goya, one of Spain's most renowned painters, featuring many of his masterpieces.
Tarragona’s popularity as a holiday destination has led to the development of some excellent campsites in the region. The best of the coastal resorts can all be found within easy reach of the cities of Tarragona and Barcelona, and offer a warm welcome, great facilities and good food.
Russell Wheldon
Content Writer
Russell has worked in the camping industry for over 28 years and was a director at Alan Rogers for many of them.
He now works for various tourism organisations as a marketing consultant but continues to write top-quality content for us. His content often covers European and worldwide travel, arts and culture, and history.
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