Explorations in Tarragona

Get an early start out of Barcelona, heading southwest out of the city to drive along the coast toward Tarragona. To appreciate the natural beauty on show right on Barcelona's doorstep, make a quick stop at this viewpoint in the Garraf Natural Park, where the impressive mountains meet the sea.

Although it's only around 2 hours from Barcelona to Tarragona, it makes a lot of sense to break up the drive with a stop at the beach - there are countless stretches of enticing coastline after all. The beach at Segur de Calafell is a highlight of this region, where you can throw down your towel with ease and enjoy a dip in the inviting waters.
Parking: There is a paid parking area right at the port, the most convenient option for enjoying the beach and port area.

After your dip in the Mediterranean, it's time to complete the drive to Tarragona. This city contains a beautifully-preserved Medieval center, so it's best to park your car underground at this car park and continue on foot through the city.

After emerging from the underground car park, you'll stroll up Rambla Nova, one of the main thoroughfares in Tarragona. At the very end, the Balcony of the Mediterranean offers stunning views over the beaches below, and you can also see into the impressive Roman Amphitheater which you'll be visiting after lunch.

Follow the route into Tarragona's old town, where the cobbled streets spill over with interesting stores, tapas bars, and restaurants. Turn up Calle Major, which finishes at the steps leading up to the Cathedral of Tarragona, showing off both Romanesque and Gothic details in the impressive facade.

After admiring the city's cathedral, make your way into Plaça del Fòrum, a beautiful city square with the remains of the Forum on display in the center. Scattered around the edge of the square are several fantastic restaurants; for some easy-going tapas and drinks or a great lunch menu, La Vermuteria del Fòrum is hard to beat.
Opening Hours: Sunday – Tuesday & Thursday – Friday: 11:00 – 24:00 Wednesdays & Saturdays: 18:00 – 24:00

After lunch, stroll down to the Amphitheater of Tarragona, the highlight of visits to the city. Once an important city in the Roman Empire, this amphitheater dates to the 2nd century, the site where gladiators once did battle in front of roaring crowds with each other and a host of dangerous animals. Standing inside the theater with the sea breeze washing over you, you'll feel as if you've been transported back in time.
Tickets are purchased at the entrance, and come with an audio guide included to teach you more about this impressive site's history and Tarragona as a part of Ancient Rome.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 09:30 – 21:00 Saturdays: 10:00 – 21:00 Sundays: 10:00 – 15:00

With the big sights of Tarragona done, it's time to pick up your car and head back to the highway to make the drive further along the coast.

But before you strike out towards your hotel for the evening, make a stop at this stunning Roman aqueduct and bridge. Remarkably preserved, you can walk across the top and take in the beautiful views, with the late afternoon sky casting a warm golden glow across the landscape. This aqueduct once carried water north of Tarragona into the city, a classic engineering feat of the Romans.
There's plenty of parking at either end of the aqueduct, and everything is well signed. Make sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes.

For an easy start to the next morning in the Ebro Delta, you'll drive down the coast to the biggest town in the area: L'Ametlla de Mar. For dinner, head to El Balcó de l'Estany, offering a heavenly mix of French and Catalan cuisine. There's of course a beautiful terrace, letting you enjoy an alfresco dinner if the weather is warm enough.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 13:30 – 15:30 & 20:30 – 22:45 Closed on Mondays.

La Cala Beach Deluxe Apartments is a fantastic beachfront property, offering spacious apartments with views over the beach below. It's a great spot to unwind after a long day of traveling, getting a good night's rest for the next day of traveling.