Tarragona on the Costa Dorada is the capital of the province of the same name and has ancient sites, good beaches and some fine museums. Central Tarragona can be divided into 3 distinct areas, the Old Town or Parte Alta, is located within the old walls with the cathedral, further west is the newer part with the Rambla Nova running through its heart, and lastly the marina district which has many bars, music clubs and good restaurants.

Tarragona was one of the important Roman settlements in Spain and the city has some good ruins, most well known is the Roman Amphitheatre near the coast. This ancient arena could seat about 14,000 of the spectators that would watch the executions and gladiator battles. The Santa Maria del Miracle church was constructed over the area during the early sixth century. Nearby is the Romanitat Museum that incorporates the remnants of the old Roman Circus, as well as the Pretori or House of the Governo, that some believe to be the actual birthplace of Pontius Pilate.

Linked to the Pretori is the Archaeological Museum whic contains a display of Roman relics such as pottery, old sculptures, tools and even ceramics. The museum also has a fine mosaic of the head of Medusa, that has become a symbol of Tarragona. The cathedral was constructed in the early 12th century on the site of a previous Roman temple and is noted for the wonderful Gothic rose window and intricately decorated altar piece from the late 15th century. The massive walls that surround the old quarter originally date from early Roman times but were significantly extended over many centuries.

The Balco del Mediterrani (on the Rambla Nova), from has superb views over the Mediterranean. The Rambla Nova is the main shopping area with famous Spanish chains located there, plus fountains, statues and various monuments. Below the Balco del Mediterrani are the Tarragona beaches of Platja del Miracle, with two more to the north, the Arrabasada and the Llarga, the second often regarded as the best on this part of the coast.

Tarragona has a good selection of music bars and fine restaurants especially around the Placa del Font in the Old quarter, where ther are numerous tapas bars and top restaurants, or the Rambla Nova area which has plentiful bars and cafes. For fish restaurants the best establishments are in the port or by the Platja Llarga just outside the city limits. For lively nightlife, the music bars and dance clubs near the Tarragona marina are usually busy, especially with a young generation.

Tarragona has several good local markets during the week, including the bric-a-brac or antiques market every Sunday next to the cathedral, and the flea market each Tuesday and Thursday indoors at the Placa Corsini in the Old quarter.

For plenty more advice or tourist information on Tarragona please visit Tarragona