Free walking tours in Tortosa and what to see

Must-sees

Tortosa sits beside the Ebro and keeps an old town steeped in history. At the top is the Suda castle, of Andalusi origin, now a parador, with sweeping views over the river and the city. Below it is the Gothic cathedral of Santa María, with a cloister and a Baroque façade that deserve an unhurried visit.

Very close are the Reials Col·legis, a Renaissance complex with a courtyard decorated with reliefs of the kings of the Crown of Aragon. It is worth strolling through the old Jewish quarter, seeing the Modernista municipal market by the river and finishing in the Prince’s Gardens, a park with sculptures by Josep Viladomat.

Free tours and guided visits

There are occasional pay-what-you-like free walking tours of Tortosa’s old town. They usually take in the outside of the cathedral, the Reials Col·legis, the Jewish quarter and the Suda area, explaining the city’s history as a frontier between cultures. Among paid visits, the guided tour of the cathedral and the Reials Col·legis is worthwhile. Tortosa is also a good base for trips to the Ebro Delta and the Els Ports natural park.

How long to spend

One day is enough to get to know the city. In the morning climb to the Suda and visit the cathedral; in the afternoon explore the Reials Col·legis, the Jewish quarter and the Prince’s Gardens. With two or three days you can add a day in the delta and another hiking in Els Ports or cycling the greenway.

Where to stay

The old town, between the cathedral and the river, is the best area for walking between the monuments. Sleeping in the castle parador is an experience in itself. The Eixample, on the other side of the historic centre, has wider streets, shops and good road access, useful if you plan excursions.