4-Day Local Food, Wine, and Outdoor Adventure in Tarragona, Spain
Tarragona, Spain
4 days
About Tarragona, Spain
Discover the historic charm of Tarragona, Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled along the stunning Costa Daurada. This ancient city boasts a rich Roman history, evident in the well-preserved amphitheater, the towering Tarragona Cathedral, and the fascinating National Archaeological Museum. Wander through the winding streets of the Old Town, savoring local cuisine and vibrant culture. Enjoy the golden beaches, perfect for relaxation or water sports. Nearby, visit the renowned PortAventura World for thrilling amusement park rides. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Tarragona offers a unique Spanish getaway.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Roman Ruins and Wine Tasting
Morning
Visit the Roman ruins of Tarraco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the amphitheater, the circus, and the Roman walls.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local tapas bar. Try a variety of small dishes, such as 'patatas bravas', 'pimientos de padrón', and 'gambas al ajillo'.
Afternoon
Take a wine tasting tour in the nearby Priorat region, known for its high-quality red wines.
Dinner
Dine in a traditional Catalan restaurant. Try 'escalivada', a dish made of roasted vegetables, or 'botifarra', a local sausage.
Evening
Enjoy a flamenco show in one of the local theaters. Experience the passion and intensity of this traditional Spanish dance.
Day 3
Hiking and Medieval Villages
Morning
Take a hike in the nearby Prades Mountains. Enjoy the stunning views and the fresh mountain air.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch in the mountains. Enjoy local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread.
Afternoon
Visit the medieval village of Siurana, perched on a cliff with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
Dinner
Enjoy a rustic dinner in a countryside restaurant. Try 'coca', a local flatbread, and 'escudella', a hearty stew.
Evening
Relax in a local pub, enjoying a glass of local wine or beer.
Day 4
Beach Day and Art Museum
Morning
Spend the morning at the beach, swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing by the sea.
Lunch
Have a beachside lunch, enjoying fresh seafood and a glass of 'cava', a local sparkling wine.
Afternoon
Visit the Tarragona Art Museum, home to a collection of modern and contemporary art.
Dinner
Have a farewell dinner in a fine dining restaurant, enjoying the best of Tarragona's cuisine.
Evening
Take a final stroll along the Rambla Nova, soaking in the atmosphere and the memories of your trip.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Tarragona Cathedral
A beautiful cathedral that dates back to the 12th century, showcasing a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles.
2Jewish Quarter
A historic neighborhood that was once the home of Tarragona's Jewish community. It features narrow, winding streets and historic buildings.
3Roman ruins of Tarraco
The Roman ruins of Tarraco are an archaeological site that includes a forum, an amphitheater, and a circus. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4Prades Mountains
The Prades Mountains, also known as the 'red mountains', are a natural paradise perfect for hiking, climbing and other outdoor activities. They are also home to several hermitages and small charming villages.
5Siurana
A picturesque village perched on a cliff with stunning views. It's known for its historic church, rock climbing, and hiking trails.
6Tarragona Art Museum
The Tarragona Art Museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by local artists.
7Priorat wine region
A renowned wine-producing region known for its high-quality red wines. Visitors can tour vineyards, taste wines, and learn about the winemaking process.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Calçots
Calçots are a type of scallion or green onion popular in Tarragona. They are traditionally grilled and served with a romesco sauce.
Escalivada
Escalivada is a traditional Catalan dish from Tarragona made of grilled vegetables, typically eggplant and bell peppers, with olive oil.
Pa amb tomàquet
Pa amb tomàquet is a simple yet delicious dish from Tarragona. It's bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, and sprinkled with salt.
Suquet de peix
Suquet de peix is a popular seafood stew in Tarragona, made with various types of fish and shellfish, potatoes, tomatoes, and saffron.
Botifarra
Botifarra is a type of sausage common in Tarragona and throughout Catalonia. It can be served grilled, in stews, or even raw.
Fideuà
Fideuà is a dish similar to paella, but it's made with noodles instead of rice. It's a popular dish in Tarragona, typically made with seafood.
Crema Catalana
Crema Catalana is a dessert similar to crème brûlée. It's a custard dish topped with caramelized sugar, and it's a must-try in Tarragona.
Cava
Cava is a sparkling wine from Catalonia. It's a popular drink in Tarragona, often enjoyed with meals or as an aperitif.
Ratafia
Ratafia is a homemade liqueur made from green walnuts, herbs, and spices. It's a traditional drink in Tarragona, often enjoyed as a digestif.
Panellets
Panellets are small pastries made of marzipan, covered in pine nuts, and often served with sweet wine. They are a traditional dessert in Tarragona, especially during the All Saints' Day celebrations.
Arrossejat
Arrossejat is a traditional rice dish from Tarragona. It's made by first frying the rice in oil and then cooking it in a rich fish broth.
Xató
Xató is a salad typical of Tarragona, made with endive, cod, tuna, anchovies, and olives, and dressed with a special sauce made from almonds, hazelnuts, bread, tomatoes, vinegar, olive oil, and a variety of spices.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Tarragona, Spain is typically between April and June or between September and October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months of July and August. These times also coincide with local festivals such as the Easter Processions in April and the Santa Tecla Festival in September, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the rich culture of Tarragona.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
February 13 | Tue | Carnival Tuesday (Extremadura) |
February 28 | Wed | Day of Andalucía (Andalusia) |
March 1 | Fri | Day of the Balearic Islands (Balearic Islands) |
March 28 | Thu | Maundy Thursday (regional holiday) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday (regional holiday) |
April 10 | Wed | Eid al-Fitr (Melilla) |
April 23 | Tue | Castile and León Day (Castile-Leon) |
April 23 | Tue | Day of Aragón (Aragon) |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 2 | Thu | Day of Madrid (Madrid) |
May 17 | Fri | Galicia Literature Day (Galicia) |
May 30 | Thu | Day of the Canary Islands (Canary Islands) |
May 31 | Fri | Day of Castile-La Mancha (Castile-La Mancha) |
June 9 | Sun | Day of La Rioja (La Rioja) |
June 10 | Mon | Day off for Day of La Rioja (La Rioja) |
June 13 | Thu | San Antonio (Ceuta) |
June 17 | Mon | Eid al-Adha (regional holiday) |
June 24 | Mon | Saint John the Baptist Day (regional holiday) |
July 25 | Thu | Feast of Saint James the Apostle (regional holiday) |
August 5 | Mon | The Day of Our Lady of Africa (Ceuta) |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
September 2 | Mon | Day of the Independent City of Ceuta (Ceuta) |
September 8 | Sun | Virgin of the Victory (Melilla) |
September 8 | Sun | Day of Asturias (Asturias) |
September 9 | Mon | Virgin of the Victory observed (Melilla) |
September 9 | Mon | Day off for Day of Asturias (Asturias) |
September 11 | Wed | National Day of Catalonia (Catalonia) |
September 15 | Sun | Nuestra Señora de la Bien Aparecida (Cantabria) |
September 17 | Tue | Day of Melilla (Melilla) |
October 9 | Wed | Day of the Valencian Community (Valencia) |
October 12 | Sat | Hispanic Day |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
December 3 | Tue | Day of Navarre (Navarre) |
December 6 | Fri | Constitution Day |
December 9 | Mon | Immaculate Conception observed (regional holiday) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | St Stephen's Day (Catalonia) |
How to get around
Walk
Tarragona is a compact city with many of its attractions located close to each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city, soak in the atmosphere, and discover hidden gems.
Bicycle
Tarragona is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services available. It's a quick and eco-friendly way to get around.
Bus
Tarragona has a comprehensive bus network that covers the city and its outskirts. It's a convenient and affordable way to travel longer distances within the city.
Train
Tarragona is well-connected by train to other cities in Spain. The city's main train station, Tarragona Station, offers regular services to Barcelona, Valencia, and other destinations.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tarragona. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from taxi ranks located around the city.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify operate in Tarragona. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the region around Tarragona. However, parking can be challenging in the city center.
Tourist Bus
The Tarragona Tourist Bus is a hop-on, hop-off service that covers major tourist attractions. It's a convenient way to see the city, especially if you're short on time.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Tarragona, Spain as a first time visitor
1
Tarragona is located in the Catalonia region of Spain, and the official languages are Catalan and Spanish. It's helpful to know a few basic phrases in both languages.
2
The currency used in Tarragona is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.
3
Tarragona is known for its Mediterranean climate, with hot summers (average 75-85°F, 24-29°C) and mild winters (average 45-55°F, 7-13°C).
4
Tipping in Tarragona is not obligatory but is appreciated. A tip of 10% is standard in restaurants.
5
Public transportation in Tarragona includes buses and trains. The city is also very walkable, especially the historic areas.
6
Tarragona is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
7
The city has a rich history dating back to Roman times. While not an attraction, understanding its historical significance can enhance your visit.
8
Tarragona is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).
9
The city is known for its seafood, particularly dishes like 'suquet de peix' (fish stew). Trying local cuisine is a must.
10
Tap water in Tarragona is safe to drink, but many locals and tourists prefer bottled water due to its taste.
11
Pharmacies in Tarragona are marked with a green cross. They are well-stocked and pharmacists often speak English.
12
The emergency number in Spain, including Tarragona, is 112. This number can be dialed for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
13
Tarragona has a siesta culture, with many shops closing in the afternoon (usually between 2pm and 5pm) and reopening in the evening.
14
The city is home to several festivals throughout the year, including Santa Tecla in September and Tarraco Viva in May.
15
Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places and some outdoor areas in Tarragona.
16
Public restrooms are not as common as in some other countries. It's customary to use the restroom in cafes or restaurants, often with the expectation that you'll buy something.
17
Tarragona has a mix of modern and traditional shopping options, from large shopping centers to small local boutiques.
18
The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning.
19
Tarragona is a coastal city, so it's important to pack beach essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit.
20
The city is also a gateway to the Costa Daurada, a beautiful stretch of coastline known for its golden sandy beaches and clear waters.
Basic Catalan to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | A-dee-os | Leaving someone |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | Making a request |
Thank you | Gracias | Gra-see-as | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Sí | See | Agreeing with someone |
No | No | No | Disagreeing with someone |
Excuse me | Perdón | Per-don | Getting someone's attention |
I'm sorry | Lo siento | Lo see-en-to | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | Ab-las in-gles | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | No entiendo | No en-tee-en-do | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is...? | ¿Dónde está...? | Don-de es-ta | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Baño | Ban-yo | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Ayuda | A-yu-da | In case of emergency |
Food | Comida | Co-mi-da | Looking for a place to eat |
Water | Agua | A-gua | Asking for water |
Beer | Cerveza | Ser-ve-za | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vino | Vee-no | Ordering wine |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | Kwan-to kwes-ta | Asking for the price |
I would like... | Me gustaría... | Me gus-ta-ree-a | Making a request |
Good night | Buenas noches | Bwe-nas no-ches | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Long-sleeve shirts
Pants/Jeans
Shorts
Dresses/Skirts (for women)
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimsuit
Pajamas
Light jacket
Hat/Cap
Sunglasses
Scarf (for women)
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body wash
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Makeup (for women)
Makeup remover (for women)
Hairbrush/Comb
Nail clippers
Travel-size first aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit/Debit cards
Cash (Euros)
Guidebook
Map of Tarragona
Spanish phrasebook
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory card for camera
Portable power bank
Travel adapter plug
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books/Magazines
Travel-size laundry detergent
Ziplock bags
Tote bag for shopping
Notebook and pen
Weather Conditions
Tarragona, Spain, is a beautiful city with a Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot summers and mild winters. If you're planning a trip, here are some weather-related tips to consider. During the summer months, from June to August, Tarragona can get quite hot with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Don't forget your swimsuit, as this is the perfect time to enjoy the city's beautiful beaches. In contrast, the winter months, from December to February, are mild with temperatures usually ranging between 41°F (5°C) and 59°F (15°C). It's a good idea to pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, as evenings can be a bit chilly. Rainfall is more common during this period, so an umbrella or raincoat might come in handy. The shoulder seasons, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offer more moderate temperatures. During these periods, temperatures typically range from 59°F (15°C) to 77°F (25°C). These seasons can be an ideal time to visit if you prefer milder weather. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved clothing, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Enjoy your visit to Tarragona!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 17° / 7° | January is the coldest month in Tarragona, but it's still relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 7 to 17 degrees Celsius. |
February | 18° / 8° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
March | 20° / 10° | March marks the beginning of spring, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. |
April | 22° / 12° | April is a pleasant month to visit Tarragona, with temperatures averaging between 12 and 22 degrees Celsius. |
May | 25° / 15° | May is a beautiful month to visit Tarragona, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. |
June | 28° / 18° | June marks the beginning of summer, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. |
July | 31° / 21° | July is the hottest month in Tarragona, with temperatures peaking at 31 degrees Celsius. |
August | 31° / 21° | August is equally hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 31 degrees Celsius. |
September | 28° / 18° | September is a great time to visit Tarragona, with warm temperatures and fewer tourists. |
October | 25° / 15° | October sees a drop in temperature, but it's still a good time to visit Tarragona. |
November | 22° / 12° | November is a bit cooler, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 22 degrees Celsius. |
December | 18° / 8° | December is a cool month in Tarragona, but it's still relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 8 to 18 degrees Celsius. |
Did you know?
Places near by Tarragona, Spain
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Barcelona
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Sitges
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Valencia
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Peniscola
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Girona
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Zaragoza
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Madrid
The capital of Spain, known for its rich repositories of European art, including the Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velázquez and other Spanish masters.
