Free walking tours in Tarragona and what to see

Must-sees

Tarragona was Tarraco, one of the main cities of Roman Hispania, and its archaeological ensemble is a World Heritage Site. The amphitheatre, by the sea, is its best-known image. In the upper town are remains of the circus, whose vaults run under the streets, and the Praetorium tower, whose terrace looks over the whole city. The Archaeological Promenade follows a long stretch of the Roman wall, with parts from even earlier.

At the top of the old town, the Part Alta, stands the cathedral, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic with a peaceful cloister. The surrounding streets have squares with terraces, such as Plaça del Fòrum and Plaça de la Font. Heading down, the Rambla Nova ends at the Balcó del Mediterrani, a viewpoint over the sea. The fishermen’s quarter of El Serrallo is a good place for fish, and on the outskirts is the Roman aqueduct known as the Pont del Diable.

Free tours and guided visits

Tarragona’s free tours, for which you tip what you like, cover the Part Alta and explain the history of Tarraco through the wall, the circus and the amphitheatre seen from outside. They usually also pass the cathedral and the medieval squares. If you’re interested in the Roman period, a paid guided visit with entry to the monuments is worth it, especially the circus, the Praetorium and the amphitheatre. Among the day trips, the most common go to Poblet monastery, the Modernisme route in Reus and the Priorat wineries.

How long to spend

A full day is enough for the essentials: the morning for the amphitheatre, the circus and the Praetorium, and the afternoon for the cathedral, the Archaeological Promenade and the Rambla. With two days, spend the second on El Serrallo, the aqueduct and a beach, or on a trip to Poblet or Reus.

Where to stay

The Part Alta is the most charming area to stay: you’re inside the walls, next to the cathedral and a few minutes from the Roman remains. Bear in mind that many streets are narrow and there are few large hotels. Around the Rambla Nova you’ll find more choice, good connections and easy access to the Part Alta and the station. If you want the beach, the Miracle area is close to the centre, and El Serrallo is a quiet option by the port.