Getting ashore
Two cruise ships can moor at the port’s dedicated berth, and smaller ships use the Port Tarraco marina. A new terminal was planned to open in 2024, so check your ship’s notice for the terminal. Shuttles run to the centre, a ride of about 10 minutes.
Watch-outs
Tarragona is small, but the old town is hilly and its lanes are narrow and cobbled. Wear comfortable shoes. The Roman sites are spread out, so choose a route before you set off. Some museums close on Mondays.
Old town and cathedral
The medieval old quarter is a network of lanes that climbs to the honey-coloured Cathedral of Santa Maria. The cloister and the views from the top are worth the climb. The Rambla Nova is the town’s main boulevard, lined with cafés.
Roman Tarraco
Tarragona was the Roman city of Tarraco, and it has the amphitheatre by the sea, the Roman circus and the forum. The amphitheatre is one of the most dramatic Roman sites in Spain. The Archaeological Museum and the Passeig Arqueològic link several sites along the old walls.
Beaches and day trips
The Platja del Miracle is the nearest beach, and the coast offers quiet coves. Barcelona is about an hour away by train, so a day trip is possible but makes a long day. Priorat wine country is a popular day trip by car.
Food & shopping
Catalan food is the speciality, including calçots (spring onions) in winter, fresh seafood and the local wines. Restaurants in the old town are busy at lunch. Shops often close for a long lunch break.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the euro. Cards are accepted in most places, and ATMs are common in the centre.
Accessibility & mobility
The shuttle and the port are flat. The old town is steep, with cobbles and steps, and the cathedral has stairs. The Roman amphitheatre is on a slope with uneven stone. Ask your tour operator for a vehicle with step access to the upper sites.