Exploring Tarragona: A Family Adventure in Spain's Historical Gem

A Whirlwind of Excitement

Today was a day dedicated to pure, unadulterated fun! We traded ancient ruins for roller coasters and historical sites for high-speed thrills. It was a welcome change of pace, and the entire family was buzzing with excitement from start to finish. From the adrenaline-pumping rides to the delightful culinary experiences, Tarragona continues to surprise and enchant us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Encuentro Asturiano. It’s a cozy spot known for its authentic Asturian dishes. I opted for a strong café con leche and a slice of their homemade cheesecake. It was the perfect fuel for the day ahead. Jana and Maximilian enjoyed some pastries, all of which were delicious. I must admit, sometimes I miss the simple breakfasts back in Brno, but these Spanish flavors are quickly growing on me.


Discover the heart of Asturias at El Encuentro Asturiano – where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in Tarragona.

After breakfast, we drove to PortAventura World, home to both PortAventura Park and Ferrari Land. Maximilian had been looking forward to this day for weeks! As a software engineer, I appreciate the intricate engineering behind these massive structures, but seeing the joy on my son's face as we approached the park was the best part. The park was bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of families, thrill-seekers, and international tourists. August is clearly a popular time to visit, and the energy was infectious.


Discover the excitement of PortAventura World, a top amusement park and resort in Tarragona, Spain, perfect for thrill-seekers and families.

We started our adventure at PortAventura Park, diving straight into the exhilarating rides. Maximilian, fearless as ever, dragged me onto the Dragon Khan, a colossal roller coaster with eight inversions. I must confess, my stomach did a few loops of its own! Jana, ever the sensible one, opted for a slightly tamer ride, but even she admitted to feeling a rush of adrenaline. Maximilian, of course, wanted to go again immediately.

The greatest adventure is what lies ahead.

Next, we ventured into Ferrari Land, a tribute to the iconic Italian brand. The highlight here was undoubtedly the Red Force, Europe's tallest and fastest vertical accelerator. Strapped into our seats, we were launched from 0 to 180 kilometers per hour in just five seconds ! The sheer force of the acceleration was incredible, and the view from the top, before plummeting back down, was breathtaking. Maximilian was in absolute heaven, declaring it the best ride of his life.


Experience the thrill of speed and the legacy of Ferrari at Ferrari Land, a must-visit theme park in Vila-seca near Tarragona, Spain.

After a morning of high-octane thrills, we were ready for a more relaxed pace. We headed to Restaurant Casa Balcells for lunch. Nestled in a beautiful, historic setting near the Tarragona Cathedral, the location was amazing. The food was served quickly and efficiently. I ordered the eggs with ham and caramelized onion, while Jana chose the cheese and ham flatbread. The caramelized onions were a bit too sweet for my taste, but the location more than made up for it. Maximilian enjoyed his paella, devouring every last grain of rice.


Discover the authentic taste of Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Casa Balcells in Tarragona, where every dish is a celebration of Spanish culinary tradition.

With our appetites sated, we decided to explore the BOULEVARD SHOPPING OLD TOWN TARRAGONA. The mix of shops ranging from fashion, leather goods, antiques, and souvenirs was great. Maximilian was thrilled to find a small Ferrari model car, a perfect memento of our day at Ferrari Land. Jana found a beautiful piece of artisan jewelry, a delicate silver necklace. I enjoyed wandering through the beautiful buildings and soaking in the historical charm of the area.


Discover unique boutiques and local delicacies at Boulevard Shopping Old Town Tarragona, the heart of shopping and culture in Tarragona.

As evening approached, we made our way to AQ for dinner. Located near the Museu Biblic de Tarragona, AQ offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Spanish cuisines. We opted for the tasting menu, and each dish was a work of art. The tuna ravioli was a standout, as was the yogurt with fruitcake for dessert. The flavors were strong and direct, a testament to Catalan and Spanish tradition with a touch of Asian flair. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was both comfortable and inviting.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at AQ in Tarragona - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Reflecting on the day, it struck me how perfectly Tarragona balances its ancient heritage with modern attractions. One moment we were immersed in Roman history, and the next we were hurtling through the air on a roller coaster. It’s this blend of experiences that makes Tarragona such a unique and compelling destination.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Tarragona's historical sites, including the Mediterranean Balcony and the Circ Romà. We'll also spend some time relaxing on Platja de la Pineda [the beach]. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the laughter, the thrills, and the delicious flavors that have made this day so special. I am also looking forward to unwinding at Mala Bar tomorrow evening.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach. The Mediterranean air was balmy and refreshing, and the sound of the waves was incredibly soothing. It was the perfect end to an action-packed day.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for these moments with my family. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that tie us together. And Tarragona, with its unique blend of history, culture, and adventure, is proving to be the perfect backdrop for our family adventure.

Goodnight from Tarragona!