How to Get to Tarragona
Every way to reach Tarragona from Barcelona and the rest of Spain: regional train, AVE, car and plane. Compare journey times, stations and approximate prices.
Updated: 2026-06-02
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You reach Tarragona by Renfe Rodalies train (lines R14, R15, R16 and R17) from Barcelona-Sants in about an hour to the central station, or by AVE to Camp de Tarragona in 30-35 min, around 10 km from the centre with bus and taxi links. By car via the AP-7, with Reus airport just 15 km away.
The four ways to reach Tarragona
Regional train (Rodalies)
Lines R14, R15, R16 and R17 link Barcelona-Sants with Tarragona station, right in the city centre, in roughly 1h-1h15. The most convenient option if you arrive without a car.
AVE and Avlo
High-speed trains stop at Camp de Tarragona, around 10 km from the centre, in just 30-35 min from Barcelona. You then continue by Plana bus or taxi into the city.
Car
Via the AP-7 motorway, the A-7 or the N-340. From Barcelona it is around 100 km and a little over an hour. The city has car parks close to the old town.
Plane
Reus airport sits around 15 km away and is great for budget flights. Barcelona-El Prat, about 90 km away, offers far more international connections with an onward train link.
Practical guide to reaching Tarragona
From Barcelona by train
From Barcelona-Sants, the Rodalies trains (R14, R15, R16, R17) run frequently and reach Tarragona station in about an hour. The station is central, just a few minutes' walk from the Rambla Nova and the Balcó del Mediterrani. It is the most practical option if you are not driving.
The AVE and Camp de Tarragona station
If speed is your priority, the AVE and Avlo get you to Camp de Tarragona in 30-35 min from Barcelona. Bear in mind that this station is outside the city, around 10 km away, between Perafort and La Secuita. A Plana company bus runs to the central bus station (about 20 min) and taxis are available (15-20 min).
Arriving by car and parking
Tarragona is very well connected by the AP-7, the A-7 and the N-340. From Barcelona the drive is around 100 km. The old town has narrow streets, so it is best to leave the car in one of the car parks near the Rambla Nova or by the amphitheatre and explore on foot.
Practical information
Best option without a car: The Rodalies regional train to the central station is the simplest way to arrive, dropping you in the heart of Tarragona with no changes or extra buses.
Mind the two stations: Tarragona has two train stations: the central one (Rodalies and some Avant services) and Camp de Tarragona (AVE), outside the city. Check carefully which one you arrive at before buying your ticket.
Nearby airports: Reus (around 15 km) is the closest airport, with budget flights. Barcelona-El Prat, about 90 km away, has more connections and links to Tarragona by train via Sants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from Barcelona to Tarragona by train?
By Rodalies regional train from Barcelona-Sants it takes roughly 1h to 1h15 to the central Tarragona station. By AVE to Camp de Tarragona it is only 30-35 min, but you then need to add the transfer into the centre.
What is the difference between Tarragona station and Camp de Tarragona?
Tarragona station is in the city centre and is served by Rodalies trains. Camp de Tarragona is the high-speed (AVE) station, around 10 km away between Perafort and La Secuita, with bus and taxi links into the city.
Which airport is best for Tarragona?
Reus is the closest, around 15 km away, and ideal if you find a budget direct flight. Barcelona-El Prat, about 90 km away, offers far more international routes and connects to Tarragona by train from Sants station.
How do I get from Camp de Tarragona to the centre?
A Plana company bus links Camp de Tarragona station with the central bus station in about 20 minutes. You can also take a taxi, which takes around 15-20 minutes into the city.
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Activities and guided tours
Make the most of your visit with tours of the archaeological ensemble of Tárraco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the year 2000, the Roman amphitheatre and the old town. Book ahead and skip the queues.
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