Embedded in the Mediterranean Sea, the city of Tarragona is a marvelous place to visit on a day trip from Barcelona. Its proximity makes it very convenient to reach by train or car, taking only an hour by car or about an hour and a half by train. Additionally, Tarragona’s rich history makes it a must-see during your stay in Barcelona. The city boasts iconic Roman ruins, such as an aqueduct from the 1st century BC, a Roman amphitheater with stunning sea views, and a Roman circus. All of this is set in a beautiful medieval town crowned by the astonishing Gothic Cathedral of Tarragona. Overall, getting to Tarragona from Barcelona is easy, and it can be well-arranged as a day tour with stops in beautiful places like the coastal town of Sitges, the modernist town of Reus, or the wine region of Priorat.
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What to see in Tarragona in one day from Barcelona
The Circus of Tarragona
The Circus is a must-see when visiting Tarragona from Barcelona. This is where famous chariot races were held, and it also provided access to the old Forum. The best part is that a single ticket gives you access to both the museum, the old Circus, the Forum access tunnels, and the King’s Tower. Some of the best Roman relics include an old sarcophagus with incredible details, two Roman columns from the former Temple of Augustus, and a very well-preserved female statue, among many others. My personal highlight is the long tunnels that once served as access points to the Roman Forum and the Circus seating. Another highlight is the King’s Tower, built during medieval times, which provided a strategic vantage point to control the city. Today, it offers one of the best rooftop views in Tarragona.
The Tarragona Amphitheatre
I have seen many Roman amphitheaters in my life, but none quite like the Tarragona amphitheater. What makes it unique is its proximity to the sea, making it a perfect photo opportunity for visitors. This is where the famous gladiator fights took place, and it was one of the largest in the entire Roman Empire, with a total capacity of 14,000 people.
The Gothic Cathedral of Tarragona
My favorite monument is the Gothic Cathedral of Tarragona. From the outside, you’ll see an exuberant façade built in the XIV-XVth century. Embedded on the wall is a 17th-century old coffin containing a famous biblical passage with Jesus on a mule. Inside the church, bathed in the soft light from the stained-glass windows, you will find a central nave supported by robust pillars, and the cloister looking out onto the Cyprus garden.
The Aqueduct of Tarragona
A few kilometers outside the city, near the highway, stands the Aqueduct of Tarragona, one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in Spain. It was built in the 1st century BC under the reign of Caesar Augustus and transported fresh water from Montblanc to the city of Tarraco, now Tarragona. It earned the nickname “Devil’s Bridge” during the Christian era, as people believed only the devil could have built something so perfect.
Where to stop on the way from Barcelona to Tarragona?
The town of Sitges
The city of Sitges is one of Catalonia’s jewels. Embedded in the Mediterranean Sea, just 50 km from Barcelona, it’s a fantastic stop coming back from Tarragona. Here, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, strolling through the charming old streets, viewing modernist architecture, and shopping. Sitges is also known for its large LGBTQ+ community, offering a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of bars and restaurants serving tapas and seafood. > Here you can get a private tour to Tarragona and Sitges.
The modernist city of Reus
Just a 20-minute drive from Tarragona, the city of Reus is largely unknown to most tourists. Compared to cities like Girona or Tarragona, it doesn’t have the same charm or history. However, it excels in one area—modernist architecture. In my opinion, Casa Navas in Reus is better than any Gaudí house because it remains untouched since its construction. It contains mosaics, sculptures, furniture, and stained glass of immense value. > Book a tour to Tarragona and Reus here.
The wine region of Priorat
Priorat is a little bit far from Tarragona, and it’s certainly not on the way from Barcelona. It takes an hour from Tarragona and it has a very windy road leading there. It’s a must-do for wine lovers, with great Grenache and Carignan red wine. There are more than 100 boutique wineries. My recommendations are Scaladei for its history, Clos Figueras for its good food, Mas Doix for its vine views and Vall Llach for its personalized tours. > More info about wine tours here.
Gratallops, Priorat, Tarragona
Other FAQS about Tarragona
Why is famous Tarragona?
Tarragona offers many features that make it a great destination. To name a few, we have the proximity to Barcelona, its Roman ruins blended into a beautiful medieval town, and its charming old city center perfect for walking tours. Its seaside location and great restaurants make it a must-visit.
How far is Tarragona by car?
Tarragona is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Barcelona by car. You can take the AP-7 highway, which is toll-free, or the Pau Casals highway, which costs €13. The timing is very similar, except Sundays afternoons. In this case, AP-7 can get very busy sometimes.
Should I visit Tarragona or Girona?
Both cities are one hour away from Barcelona and have beautiful medieval towns, but only Tarragona has Roman history, and is close to the beach, offering amazing sea views. Tarragona is also quieter than Girona, making it better to visit all year round. To me, the decision is clear, Tarragona is a better option.
Is it worth to visit the Tarragona Amphitheatre?
Depends on the time you have to visit Tarragona. If you have the whole day, then yes. But if you only have half a day and you want to make the most of your stay in Tarragona, then probably no. As there are many interesting things to do in Tarragona and the amphitheatre can be seen from the outside quite well.
Where to eat in Tarragona?
Tarragona has many places where to find a great spot to eat. Some of them are the Forum Square, where you find «Espai Vi» if you are a wine lover, or «Toful» if you are a traditional food lover; the port of Tarragona is another good place, with some great sea food restaurants; the Central Market has many bars offering tapas and in front the Cathedral you will find my favorite restaurant, casa Balcells.
When is the best moment to visit Tarragona?
Tarragona’s famous Santa Tecla Festival from September 13-24 offers an immersive cultural experience, including human towers and music, expect a lot of people though. If you prefer a quieter visit, April to June or October are ideal.
How to get to Tarragona by train from Barcelona?
The easiest way to get to Tarragona by train is getting the regional Express from Sants station. A one-way ticket costs €11.95 at the time of writing. You can purchase your ticket at the train station. Check the schedule before planning your trip here.
How to get to Tarragona aqueduct?
The Tarragona aqueduct is on the AP-7 highway. Coming from Barcelona, take the exit «Pont del Diable» before Tarragona. You will find a rest area with picnic tables and a viewpoint with views of the aqueduct. A path also goes near the aqueduct where you can walk above it.
