Things to See and Do in Tarragona
Ancient Roman Tárraco facing the Mediterranean: an amphitheatre right on the beach, a circus, city walls and an aqueduct straight out of legend. This is your guide to the very best of it.
Updated: 2026-06-02
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Tarragona holds the largest Roman ensemble in the Iberian Peninsula: the seaside amphitheatre, the circus, the Praetorium, the forum, the walls and the Ferreres aqueduct (Pont del Diable), all UNESCO World Heritage since 2000. Add the Gothic cathedral, the Old Town, the Balcó del Mediterrani and the Serrallo fishing quarter.
Tarragona's essentials
Roman amphitheatre
The city's icon: a 2nd-century AD amphitheatre carved into the cliff right by the sea, with room for around 15,000 spectators. The views over the beach from its tiers are unlike anywhere else in Spain.
Old Town and cathedral
The Part Alta, a maze of medieval lanes crowned by the Gothic cathedral, built over the former imperial temple. Taverns, squares and stretches of Roman wall greet you at every turn.
Balcó del Mediterrani
Tarragona's most famous lookout, at the end of the Rambla Nova. Touching its iron railing is said to bring luck, and the views over the sea and amphitheatre are the city's best photo.
Ferreres Aqueduct
Also known as the Pont del Diable (Devil's Bridge), this two-tier Roman aqueduct survives almost intact about 4 km from the centre, ringed by pine woods. You can even walk across the top.
Tárraco in detail: the Roman heritage
The circus and the Praetorium Tower
The Roman Circus, where chariots once raced, still hides vaulted galleries beneath the modern streets. Beside it, you can climb the Praetorium Tower (Pretori) for a sweeping view of the provincial forum and the sea. A combined ticket usually covers several monuments in the ensemble.
Walls, forum and archaeological promenade
The Passeig Arqueològic follows the outside of the Roman walls, the oldest beyond Italy. Inside, the Colonial Forum preserves columns and remains of Tárraco's civic heart. It's an easy stroll, best in the early morning or at sunset.
El Serrallo and the Central Market
For a great meal, head to the Serrallo fishing quarter: fresh-fish restaurants beside the port, with a fish market dating to 1928. In the centre, the modernista Mercat Central is perfect for tapas and local produce on a weekday morning.
Practical information
When to go: Spring and autumn are ideal: mild weather and monuments without queues. Summer brings the city beach and a lively buzz, but warmer middays. The Festes de Santa Tecla (September) fill the Old Town with human towers and fire runs.
Getting there: From Barcelona, the Rodalies R14, R15 and R16 trains reach Tarragona in just over an hour from Sants or Estació de França. By car, the AP-7 and N-340 drop you near the centre. The station is steps from the Balcó del Mediterrani.
Budget tip: A combined ticket to the Roman monuments (Tarragona Card or joint pass) works out cheaper than paying separately. Many viewpoints, the outer walls and the Serrallo are free. Book guided tours ahead in high season.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Tarragona?
One full day covers the essentials: amphitheatre, Old Town, cathedral and Balcó del Mediterrani. With two days you add the circus, the Praetorium, the Ferreres aqueduct and a relaxed lunch in the Serrallo, plus time at the beach.
Is PortAventura near Tarragona?
Yes. PortAventura World, in Salou and Vila-seca, sits about 13 km (a 15-minute drive or train ride) from Tarragona. It makes a great day trip, especially if you're travelling with children.
Can you see the Roman amphitheatre for free?
The interior needs a ticket, but you get a fine view from the Balcó del Mediterrani and the Passeig Arqueològic for nothing. Even so, descending to the arena and walking among the tiers is well worth it.
Is the Ferreres Aqueduct worth the trip?
Yes, if you have half a day. The Pont del Diable is about 4 km from the centre, in a pine-shaded park, and you can cross along the top channel. A city bus runs there and parking is free.
Keep planning your trip with our guides to hotels in Tarragona , Tarragona beaches , things to do in Tarragona and Tarragona restaurants.
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Guided tours and experiences
Make the most of Tárraco with a guided tour of the Roman monuments, a PortAventura ticket or a free walking tour of the Old Town. Book online with free cancellation.
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