Centred around the Roman-era capital of Tarragona, the Province of Tarragona lies in the far south of Catalonia. It is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites and charming villages and produces some of Spain’s most celebrated wines.
Things to do in Tarragona
With ancient Roman ruins, family-friendly theme parks and picturesque wineries, the Province of Tarragona offers plenty to discover on Barcelona’s doorstep.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Tarragona. Founded as the Roman city of Tarraco, Tarragona is dotted with ruins dating from the 5th century BC. Wander between the forum remains and tombs of the Necropolis and visit the 15,000-seat amphitheatre, then browse the archaeological findings on display at the National Archaeological Museum.
Enjoy the rides of PortAventura Park. Just west of Tarragona is this family-friendly theme park where you’ll find rides and restaurants themed around global civilisations. Experience the Furius Baco roller coaster in Mediterrània and the family-friendly shows of Polynesia, then meet your favourite “Sesame Street” characters in SésamoAventura. Recreated temples and pyramids are a feature of the pre-Columbian Mexico zone.
Visit the Poblet Abbey. Nestled at the foot of the Prades Mountains is the Royal Abbey of Santa Maria de Poblet, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery that’s still in operation today. Guided tours access its stunning Gothic cloisters and narrow dining hall, as well as the beautiful church where the tombs of several Aragonese kings and queens are housed.
Drive the Penedès Wine and Cava Route. Renowned for its charming villages and mountain views, the Denominació d'Origen Penedès is considered one of Spain’s best wine-growing regions. This scenic driving route accesses many of its internationally-renowned wineries and cava cellars, where you can taste sparkling whites and roses.
Getting around Tarragona
Reus Airport is a 15-minute drive from the centre of Tarragona and has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. The much larger Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport is an hour away. Trains connect to cities and major towns throughout the Province of Tarragona while buses serve smaller towns and villages.