Tarragona, formerly known as Tarraco, was one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire in Hispania. Today, it boasts one of the best-preserved Roman archaeological sites in the Mediterranean and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in November 2020. The city integrates its Roman remains into the modern urban landscape, allowing you to travel back in time as you stroll through its streets.
At Augustus Hotels, we suggest a two-day itinerary to discover the main remains of Roman Tarraco.
👉Tip: buy tickets for the monuments in advance, especially during the high season.
🎟️ Official tickets:
Day 1:
Early Christian Necropolis
A burial site dating from the mid-3rd century, located outside the town centre near the River Francolí, and in use until the 5th century. It is the most important early Christian cemetery in the western Mediterranean and reflects the transition from the Roman world to Christianity.
Notice: from 23 February 2025, the Necropolis of Tarraco will be closed for restoration.
Roman Walls and Archaeological Walk
A walk along the foot of the Roman wall, which runs alongside modern-era fortifications. Along the way, you can admire the monumental wall up close, enjoy panoramic views of the Camp de Tarragona and explore military sites that have been turned into museums. Highlights include the medieval and Roman towers, such as the Archbishop’s Tower and Minerva’s Tower.
Praetorium and Roman Circus
The Roman Circus, built in the 1st century AD, is one of the best-preserved in the Western world and is notable for being integrated into the city. It was used for horse and chariot races, although part of its structure remains hidden beneath 19th-century buildings.
The Praetorium is a Roman tower that connected the lower town with the Provincial Forum via underground passageways. In the Middle Ages, it served as the palace of the kings of the Crown of Aragon and later as a prison.
Tarragona Cathedral
Built on the site of the ancient Temple of Augustus, it combines Romanesque and Gothic styles. It is notable for its light-filled interior and the spectacular rose window on the main façade, featuring Romanesque, Renaissance and Baroque elements.
☕ Break: Plaça de la Font:
Situated on the site of the ancient Roman circus, this is one of the liveliest squares in the city. Surrounded by bars and restaurants, it is also the main venue for the Santa Tecla festivities.
Mediterranean Balcony
One of Tarragona’s most iconic viewpoints, located near the Amphitheatre. From here, you can see the sea, the beach, and the maritime and industrial ports. Ideal for enjoying the views at any time of day.
Day 2:
Roman Amphitheatre
Built in the late 2nd century AD, it hosted spectacles such as gladiatorial combats (munera), animal fights (venationes), athletic displays and public executions. Its location by the sea facilitated public access and the unloading of animals.
Remains of the north stand, carved into the rock, and part of the south stand, supported by concrete vaults, are still preserved.
Tarragona Archaeological Museum (MNAT)
The MNAT promotes research into and the conservation of the collections in its care and of archaeological sites. It also runs a programme of informative and educational activities which, under the slogan “A journey into Roman culture”, aim to promote understanding and appreciation of the Roman heritage declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Please note: The museum is currently undergoing renovation and is closed to the public. Whilst the works are underway, you can visit the “TARRACO/MNAT” exhibition at Tinglado 4 in the Port of Tarragona.
☕ Break: Serrallo District
A charming old fishing district, with pastel-coloured fishermen’s houses, tapas bars and restaurants serving Mediterranean cuisine. Highlights include the harbour promenade, the Fonts del Serrallo and the church of Sant Pere, ideal for a leisurely stroll by the sea.
Local Forum or Forum of the Colony
Dating from the first half of the 1st century BC, it was the administrative, religious and social centre of the colony of Tarraco.
It also served as a public market open to all the city’s inhabitants. It consisted of a large square with public buildings, temples, a basilica, the curia, commercial premises and statues dedicated to the most important figures of Rome and Tarraco. Notice: From 21 April 2025, the Local Forum is closed for restoration.
Pont del diable (by car)
The Ferreres Aqueduct, also known as the Devil’s Bridge, is a Roman archway that forms part of the aqueduct which supplied water from nearby springs and ran parallel to the River Francolí to the city of Tarraco, a distance of 25 km.
The name derives from the difficulties encountered during its construction, as flooding of the river caused several collapses before it was completed.
Where to stay in Cambrils?
If you haven’t yet booked accommodation for your visit, discover our hotels in Cambrils, located just 20 minutes from Tarragona.
Book directly on our website and enjoy for your stay on the Costa Dorada.
Fancy discovering Roman Tarragona?
Cover photo : laboratoriofriki
