Catalonia, Spain
Tarragona's natural setting and surrounding regions provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Camí de Ronda: Easy to moderate coastal walking paths with scenic views. Parc Natural de la Serra de Montsant: More challenging inland trails, about an hour away, for experienced trekkers.
Swimming at public beaches with clear waters. Paddleboarding (SUP) and Kayaking rentals at Platja de l'Arrabassada and Platja Llarga in warmer months. Organized boat trips from the port.
Explore the coastline from the water. Organized diving tours more common from nearby Salou. The Ebro Delta Natural Park is vast, flat, and for birdwatching.
Always check weather conditions before engaging in outdoor water activities. Some coastal paths have uneven terrain; wear appropriate footwear. For adventure sports, follow all safety instructions.
Deepen your understanding of Catalan heritage through these immersive cultural experiences.
A UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Performances often happen in Plaça de la Font during local festivals like Santa Tecla (September) and Sant Magí (August).
The traditional Catalan folk dance. Performances sometimes occur in public squares, especially on Sundays. Look for groups dancing in a circle.
Community-based tourism initiatives offer simple ways to engage with local life. Tarraco Viva (May) recreates Roman history. Sant Magí (August) has water parades and "casteller" displays. Santa Tecla (September) is the main festival, with parades, traditional dances, and "correfocs" (fire runs). Carnival (Feb/March) brings lively celebrations.
An international festival in May that recreates Roman history through reenactments, workshops, and exhibitions.
A major summer festival in August, including a water parade and "casteller" performances, a lively celebration.
Tarragona's main festival (Festa Major) in September, featuring parades, traditional dances, and "correfocs" (fire runs).
Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation amidst your explorations of Tarragona.
Less common in Tarragona compared to some other Spanish areas. Some beach bars (chiringuitos) do provide loungers and service.
Main option for pool access if your accommodation lacks one. Check hotel amenities when booking.
Tarragona's beaches offer a natural setting for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea. The quieter coves provide secluded spots.
Smaller bars and pubs in Part Alta occasionally host live music. Check local listings. Larger concerts take place at Teatre Tarragona or Palau Firal.
Teatre Tarragona hosts plays, dance, concerts. Check schedules for upcoming shows.
Mainly near the port area or on city outskirts. Salou, a short drive away, presents a more extensive club scene for a bigger party atmosphere.
Tarragona's evenings present choices for entertainment and nightlife, from relaxed settings to lively venues.
Mainly near the port area or on city outskirts. Salou, a short drive away, presents a more extensive club scene for a bigger party atmosphere.
Part Alta features many bars and pubs, from traditional taverns to modern lounge bars, for a relaxed evening.
Bars in Part Alta often remain open until 2 AM or 3 AM on weekends. Clubs open later, staying active into the early morning.
Mercat Central: A must-visit for food lovers. It offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood. The market is closed on Sundays.
Mercadillo de Bonavista: A very large weekly outdoor market held on Tuesdays on the outskirts of the city. It sells everything from clothes to household goods. Access it by bus.
Find small artisan shops selling ceramics, jewelry, and local crafts in the Part Alta. These make for unique souvenirs.
Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for items like alcohol, tobacco, and food products to avoid issues upon return.
Explore local products and souvenirs through Tarragona's diverse shopping scene.
Tarragona has limited luxury shopping options. Rambla Nova and the surrounding streets have typical Spanish and international chain stores.
Support local artisans and businesses; it benefits the local economy. Avoid products from endangered species. Look for fair trade options when available.
Most larger shops can arrange shipping for purchases. Check your home country's customs regulations for items like alcohol, tobacco, and food products to avoid issues upon return.
For authentic local products, Mercat Central is the best starting point. For general items and clothes, the Rambla Nova area serves well. For a truly local market experience, visit Mercadillo de Bonavista on Tuesdays.
