One Day in Tarragona: Day Trip Guide from Barcelona & Sitges (Roman Ruins)

Tarragona has been on my list for absolutely ages! This stunning Roman city sits on the Catalonian coast in northeastern Spain perfectly position for day trips from Barcelona or the charming coastal town of Sitges. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Tarragona deserves a spot at the top of every Spain itinerary.

When researching various posts for Travels Around Spain (including my 12 oldest cities in Spain and how to visit them), Tarragona’s incredible Roman heritage caught my attention immediately. After booking a trip with friends to Sitges in August 2025, I knew I had to experience one day in Tarragona for myself.

What makes Tarragona special? The UNESCO-recognised archaeological ensemble of Tarraco, features some of Europe’s best-preserved Roman ruins, including a spectacular amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean. Add one of Spain’s most impressive cathedrals and a charming old town, and you’ve got the perfect Tarragona day trip destination.

In this complete guide, I’ll take you through the perfect day trip to Tarragona from both Barcelona and Sitges. Whether you’re staying in bustling Barcelona or laid-back Sitges, I’ve got you covered with transport options, unmissable sights, lunch recommendations, and timing tips. Having tested this itinerary myself during my August 2025 visit, every recommendation comes from personal experience.

Ready to discover why Tarragona should be your next Spanish adventure? Keep reading!

How to Get to Tarragona: Complete Transport Guide

Tarragona is well-connected to multiple cities and resorts across Catalonia, making it the ideal place to go on a day trip.

From Barcelona (Most Popular Route)

The most popular route to get to Tarragona is from the Catalan capital, Barcelona. A Tarragona day trip from Barcelona is surprisingly quick and easy despite lying 100km down the coast, thanks to Spain’s excellent high-speed railway network.

Journey times: The fastest AVE and OUIGO trains whisk you there in just 30 minutes, whilst regular services take around 1 hour and 7 minutes. With 34 trains daily running from 5:00 am to 8:30 pm, there’s plenty of flexibility for your day trip to Tarragona.

Station choice matters: All trains depart from Barcelona Sants, but Regional Express services also stop at Passeig de Gràcia. Choose Sants for high-speed trains, or Passeig de Gràcia for easier metro connections and less overwhelming crowds.

Smart booking: Advance tickets start from £6.65 but can jump to £30+ on the day. Book via Trainline or Renfe for the best prices. Fast trains arrive at Camp de Tarragona (20-minute bus to city centre), whilst slower Regional Express trains stop at central Tarragona station.

Return planning: Last trains back run until 8:30 pm, giving you a full day exploring. Tarragona consistently ranks among the best day trips from Barcelona for good reason

From Sitges (The Hidden Gem Route)

For a Tarragona day trip from Sitges, as we did in August 2025, the journey requires one change but offers unique rewards. While there’s no direct connection, the route via Sant Vicenç de Calders is surprisingly straightforward and much quieter than the Barcelona crowds.

From Sitges station (right in the town centre), take the regional train to Sant Vicenç de Calders (30 minutes). The connection to Tarragona is seamless – our return train was waiting directly opposite! The second leg takes another 30 minutes, arriving at Tarragona’s central station within walking distance of the Roman sites.

Why I loved this route: Both Sitges and Sant Vicenç de Calders stations are significantly smaller and easier to navigate than Barcelona Sants. You’ll travel through beautiful Catalan countryside, and the trains are far less crowded. The total journey takes around an hour each way,  just 30 minutes longer than from Barcelona.

Cost: Around €17 return, making it excellent value compared to Barcelona’s high-speed options.

Pro-tip – Use the Rodalies de Catalunya website for accurate regional timetables. Trainline initially showed no afternoon return trains, but the local site revealed plenty of options between 3-5pm.

For those staying in Sitges, this scenic coastal route beats battling Barcelona’s busy stations any day!

From Other Costa Dorada Towns

Tarragona’s perfectly positioned for Costa Dorada day trips (or Costa Daurada in Catalan) from resort towns along this golden coast. From Salou, regular trains run directly to Tarragona in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for families staying at PortAventura. Cambrils offers similar connections via the coastal railway line, whilst Reus provides both train and bus options.

My grandma had a lovely chuckle when I told her about my Tarragona adventure – turns out she and Grandad visited from Pineda de Mar back in the 1980s! It’s amazing how this coast has been drawing visitors for decades.

For resort-based travellers: Check with your hotel reception for local bus timetables, as some coastal towns offer direct coach services during peak season. The regional train network connects most Costa Dorada destinations, with Tarragona as the historical hub. Multiple transport options mean you can easily plan Costa Dorada day trips around your beach holiday schedule.

Morning Itinerary: From Mediterranean Views to Ancient Rome (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

The first part of your Tarragona day trip explores the city’s incredible Roman heritage. Once known as Tarraco and the capital of Roman Hispania, Tarragona boasts some of Europe’s best-preserved ancient sites. This morning itinerary covers the essential things to do in Tarragona – from breathtaking coastal views to walking in gladiators’ footsteps.

Start at Balcó del Mediterrani (10:00-10:30)

After arriving at Tarragona station, head right and up the hill, following the ramp that crosses the train line. This short walk brings you to the Balcó del Mediterrani – the perfect introduction to your Tarragona day trip.

This stunning viewpoint offers panoramic views across the golden Catalonian coastline, making it one of the top things to do in Tarragona. Local legend claims touching the railings brings good luck, so snap that essential photo gazing out to sea!

Why start here: Morning light creates perfect photography conditions, and you’ll avoid the afternoon crowds we encountered on our return journey. When we visited at 10:00 am, we practically had the place to ourselves – by 4:00 pm, it was packed with tourists.

The viewpoint sits just a 5-minute stroll from the Roman amphitheatre, making it an ideal introduction to this stunning coastal city. Trust me, this Mediterranean panorama will set the perfect tone for your historical adventure ahead.

Tarragona Amphitheatre (10:30-11:00)

Your next stop is the iconic Roman amphitheatre, one of the most famous symbols of the city and an unmissable stop on your Tarragona day trip.

The amphitheatre was built in the 2^nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Trajan or Hadrian. Housing 14,000 spectators, it was built to host gladiatorial fights, combats between beasts and public executions. The site is an important place for local Christians as it was the place where the martyrs Bishop Fructuosus and his deacons were burned alive for their Christian faith.

Today, the days of public executions are far behind the amphitheatre, and it is one of the top things to do in Tarragona. It offers an interesting glimpse into the city’s past with the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. For the best photos, stop on your descent from the Balcó del Mediterrani – you’ll get a great photo of the amphitheatre with the sea in the background.

The Roman Amphitheatre costs €5 to enter or €15 as part of the combined pass with other monuments in the city. It is closed on Mondays but open every other day 9 am to 9 pm in the summer and 10 am to 5 pm in the winter months.

Roman Circus & Pretori Tower (11:00-12:00)

After your introduction to Roman-era Tarragona, your next stop delves deeper into this fascinating period in the city’s history. The Roman Circus and Pretori Tower are your next stops and provide further insight into life in Roman Tarraco.

Tarragona’s Roman Circus was built in the 1^st century AD and was even bigger than the amphitheatre, with a capacity of up to 23,000 spectators. The circus was used for chariot races and horse racing and was one of the largest in the entire Roman Empire.

Nowadays, you can visit the site and experience the underground tunnel system that once buzzed with activity. Walking through these atmospheric vaulted corridors, you can imagine horses and chariots preparing for races that entertained thousands of Romans.

The connected Pretori Tower offers some of the best views in Tarragona. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic vistas across the old town and the Mediterranean coast. From up here, you can actually see how the original Roman street layout still influences the modern city, a fascinating example of urban continuity spanning 2,000 years.

Both sites are included in the same €5 individual ticket or €15 combined pass, making this an excellent day trip to Tarragona highlight that showcases Roman engineering at its finest. We particularly enjoyed the videos showing how the Roman town fit into the modern Tarragona. It was great to compare visually how much the city has changed.

Midday Exploration: From Roman Ruins to Medieval Majesty (12:00-2:00 PM)

After exploring some of Tarragona’s top Roman sites, it is now time to explore more of its medieval sites, starting with an exploration of Tarragona’s old town and followed by a visit to the majestic cathedral.

Old Town Wandering (12:00-12:30)

Tarragona’s old town is utterly charming. Narrow medieval streets and hidden squares beg you to explore them at a leisurely pace, offering the perfect transition from Roman ruins to medieval Tarragona.

During our visit, we stumbled upon tiny plazas where locals chatted over morning coffee and discovered traditional Catalan architecture that’s remained unchanged for centuries. The contrast between ancient Roman stones and medieval buildings creates a fascinating timeline you can walk through.

This unplanned wandering became one of our favourite parts of the Tarragona day trip. Unlike the structured Roman sites, the old town reveals its secrets organically, from flower-filled balconies to family-run shops that have served the community for generations. It’s here that you truly feel the living history of this UNESCO World Heritage city, where every corner tells a different story spanning over 2,000 years.

Tarragona Cathedral (12:30-2:00)

Sitting proudly in the middle of the old town is Tarragona’s impressive cathedral. Having been to Girona a few days before, the steps and façade reminded me a lot of Girona but on a smaller scale. It’s a great place for a photograph, especially if you can get there early morning and beat the crowds!

Tarragona Cathedral is one of my favourites in Spain (and believe me I’ve been to a lot!). A fusion of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, construction began in 1154 and was consecrated in 1331. The building couldn’t be finished due to the Black Death which devastated the region.

The cathedral is built on a Roman temple site dating to Emperor Tiberius, dedicated to Emperor Augustus. The Visigoths later built a basilica before the Moors turned it into a mosque.

The cathedral features the largest rose window in Catalonia (11 metres in diameter) and a 70-metre bell tower. The stunning interior has dedicated chapels, a peaceful cloister, and impressive stained glass windows.

What makes it unique is that it contains Roman ruins. Excavated in 2010, the central nave revealed remains of the Roman temple – a big surprise on the audio-guided tour.

The cathedral costs €12 with a free audio guide on your phone. We loved the audio guide as it gave descriptions plus videos. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am, closing between 5:00-7:00 pm depending on the season.

Afternoon: Authentic Dining & Ancient Fortifications (2:00-4:15 PM)

The afternoon will see you experience some of Tarragona’s fantastic cuisine, followed by an exploration of the Roman walls and a coastal walk.

Lunch at Casa Balcells (2:00-3:00)

After exploring Tarragona Cathedral, we were more than ready for lunch – and I’m sure you will be too during your Tarragona itinerary. Spanish people eat lunch later than in the UK and US, so 2:00 pm is perfect timing.

We chose Casa Balcells, directly outside the cathedral. Usually, I’m sceptical about eating so close to major tourist attractions, but with good reviews online and a rumbling stomach, we took the plunge.

The restaurant offers traditional Catalan cuisine with some international elements. We paid around €25 for three courses and a drink – whilst pricey compared to other Spanish cities, the location literally outside the cathedral front door made it worthwhile.

I had pesto pasta, chicken with rice and carrot cake, whilst my partner chose steak and Macedonia fruit cocktail. The quality was excellent and perfectly fuelled our afternoon exploration.

Alternative options: If Casa Balcells is full, try Racó de l’Abat for old-world atmosphere with traditional Catalan cuisine, or Ànima Restaurante for historic interiors and local specialities.

Roman Walls & Passeig Arqueològic (3:00-3:45)

After a relaxing lunch, you’re heading back in time again! The Roman Walls are a short walk from the old town, and this timing couldn’t be more perfect for your Tarragona itinerary.

The Passeig Arqueològic takes you along some of Europe’s most impressive ancient fortifications. These walls date back to the 3rd century BC, making them older than many of Rome’s own defences. What’s remarkable is their incredible preservation. You can still see the massive stone blocks and defensive towers that protected ancient Tarraco for centuries.

On our trip we decided to walk the walls after lunch. We knew it was still going to be hot but by 3 pm, we’d had a proper break from the heat during our cathedral visit and lunch. It was still blazing hot in August (and I mean really hot – we were absolutely melting!), at least we’d recharged with some food and shade. The afternoon light does create beautiful photo opportunities as it hits the ancient stones, but make sure you bring plenty of water and maybe save some energy for this section! There are plenty of rest stops in the shade which are perfect for resting and taking in the surroundings. Despite the heat, there was no way we were going to miss this!

Walking these ramparts, you’ll understand why Tarraco was such a strategic Roman stronghold. The elevated position offers commanding views over the sea and surrounding countryside – perfect for spotting approaching enemies or ships. Today, those same viewpoints provide some of the best photography opportunities in Tarragona.

The circuit takes about 45 minutes and includes information panels explaining the construction techniques and historical significance. It’s the perfect way to appreciate how Roman engineering has shaped this UNESCO World Heritage city right up to the present day.

Final Coastal Walk & Departure (3:45-4:15)

After exploring the Roman Walls, it’s time to head back to the station via the scenic coastal route. This gentle downhill walk offers one last chance to soak up Tarragona’s Mediterranean charm and grab those final photo opportunities of the coastline.

As we strolled back, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible 6 hours of history we’d just experienced – from Roman gladiators to medieval cathedrals, all in one perfect day trip to Tarragona.

Pro tip – Arriving at the station around 4:15 pm gives you plenty of options for return trains to both Barcelona and Sitges. We caught the 4:30 pm service back to Sitges, arriving just in time for sunset drinks by the beach with friends.

Essential Planning Tips for Your Tarragona Day Trip

Having tested this Tarragona day trip myself in August 2025, I’ve learned the insider tricks that make all the difference. From avoiding crowds at Roman sites to timing your cathedral visit perfectly, these practical tips will help you maximise your day trip to Tarragona. Whether you’re planning your Tarragona itinerary from Barcelona or Sitges, these essentials will ensure your ancient city adventure runs smoothly.

Best Time to Visit

Whilst we visited Tarragona in August and had a brilliant day trip to Tarragona, the 30°C heat made exploring uncomfortable, even early morning.

For the best experience, visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for ideal Tarragona day trip conditions. April-May offers pleasant 15-23°C temperatures with minimal rainfall, whilst September-October delivers warmer 19-28°C weather but more rain risk.

If you’re visiting in summer, start your Tarragona itinerary by 9:00am and plan indoor stops like the cathedral during peak heat (12:00-3:00pm). September combines warm weather with fewer crowds than peak summer, making it our top recommendation for things to do in Tarragona. The sea’s still perfect for swimming too!

Money-Saving Tips

Tarragona is a pretty affordable city for your day trip to Tarragona, but there are some money-saving tips which will help you squeeze the most value out of your day.

Each Roman attraction costs €5. If you’re only visiting one or two sights, individual tickets work best. However, if you’re exploring 3 or more sites during your Tarragona day trip, grab the combined ticket for €15. We visited 3 sights but bought individual tickets – whilst we wouldn’t have saved money, we would have saved time queuing at each location! For the most up-to-date opening hours and ticket prices, check the official Tarragona tourism website.

Budget breakdown for your Tarragona itinerary: Expect around €25-35 per person including train tickets (€8-17), Roman site entries (€5-15), and lunch (€10-15).

To save money at lunch, look for local cafés and bakeries in the old town. For a more formal meal, search for Menú del Día options – these famous Spanish lunch deals usually include starter, main, dessert, drink and bread for a set price.

Free highlights: The Balcó del Mediterrani viewpoint and wandering the medieval streets cost nothing but offer some of the best things to do in Tarragona.

For more Spain travel planning tips, check out my complete guide to Spain’s best destinations.

What to Pack

Whilst Tarragona’s main sights on this day trip to Tarragona are fairly compact, you’ll be doing quite a lot of walking throughout the day. Make sure you have comfortable walking shoes – some of the Roman ruins have uneven floors filled with stones, so avoid sandals and opt for trainers instead.

Bring plenty of sunscreen and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours. I always bring a pack of biodegradable baby wipes, as I hate having greasy hands from sunscreen application! Make sure you bring plenty of water too. Whilst there are supermarkets around the old town, it’s best to have your own supply for the start of your Tarragona day trip.

Most people will be using their phone to take photos of the incredible things to do in Tarragona. As this can drain your battery, make sure you bring a portable charger complete with wire so you can boost your battery. There would be nothing worse than your phone dying just before you’re about to snap that incredible photo of Tarragona Cathedral!

Photography & Social Media Tips

Tarragona offers incredible photo opportunities at every turn. With stunning Roman sights, coastal viewpoints and a charming old town, you’ve got the perfect backdrop for unforgettable shots.

The amphitheatre with Mediterranean views offers the most dramatic perspective, whilst the Balcó del Mediterrani at golden hour creates those magical Instagram moments everyone loves. The cathedral’s Gothic facade and intricate rose window provide stunning architectural details that really showcase the city’s medieval heritage.

Morning light between 9-11 am provides ideal conditions before crowds arrive, giving you space to capture those perfect shots. Remember to respect these UNESCO World Heritage sites by staying behind barriers and avoiding flash photography inside the cathedral during your day trip to Tarragona.

Getting Back: Evening Options from Tarragona

Return to Barcelona

Evening trains run regularly from Tarragona back to Barcelona, with services every 30-60 minutes until around 8:30pm. High-speed trains take just 30 minutes to Barcelona Sants but remember that they go from Camp de Tarragona, which is situated outside of the centre.

Regional services take about an hour and go from the more central Tarragona station. Trains go regularly (around 2-3 an hour) and stop at both Barcelona Sants and Estació de França. Book tickets in advance during peak season or simply buy at the station. We found plenty of availability on our August visit and the staff at the station were really friendly.

Return to Sitges

This is the exact journey that we did! The journey back to Sitges takes about an hour with a change at Sant Vicenç de Calders. Upon arrival in Sant Vicenç de Calders, all we had to do was cross the platform and get on the waiting train, making it a seamless journey.

Why Sitges works brilliantly: After 6 hours of walking ancient ruins and climbing cathedral towers, returning to Sitges’ relaxed beach town atmosphere feels like the ultimate reward. We caught the 4:30pm train and arrived just as the golden hour was beginning – perfect timing for sunset beach time with a cold drink in hand.

The train connections are straightforward, and there’s something magical about transitioning from 2,000-year-old Roman stones to soft Mediterranean sand in under an hour.

Alternative: Stay for Tarragona Nightlife

If Tarragona has completely won you over (and trust me, it might!), staying overnight opens up the city’s charming evening scene. The old town comes alive after dark with atmospheric restaurants and cosy wine bars tucked into medieval streets.

Accommodation recommendations: Try H10 Imperial Tarraco for luxury with sea views and prime location facing the Roman amphitheatre, or or Astari for boutique charm with outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and personalized service just 10 minutes from the amphitheatre. Local evening dining highlights include La Xarxa for fine dining seafood in El Serrallo, and 4 Latas Tarragona for highly-rated tapas and local atmosphere. Tarragona by night offers a completely different perspective on this historic city.

Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Day in Tarragona Awaits

Tarragona had been on my bucket list for ages, and it certainly didn’t disappoint! From the Roman Amphitheatre with its stunning sea views to the underground tunnels of the Roman Circus, then wandering the charming old town before exploring the magnificent Tarragona Cathedral – this city is like stepping back in time through 2,000 years of history.

One day in Tarragona proves you don’t need weeks to experience something truly special. Whether you’re taking a day trip to Tarragona from Barcelona or discovering it from Sitges like we did, this coastal gem delivers Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and Mediterranean charm in one perfect package.

Planning your own Tarragona adventure? Feel free to reach out on social media with any questions about your Tarragona itinerary – I love helping fellow travellers discover Spain’s hidden gems!

Don’t forget to check out my guides to Sitges and Barcelona for more Catalonian inspiration.

Found this helpful? Share your Tarragona photos and tag me – I love seeing your Spanish adventures come to life!
Until your next Spanish escape… ¡Buen viaje!