Family Adventure in Tarragona: History and Culture Unveiled

Finding Beauty in the Everyday

Today was a beautiful blend of tranquility and cultural immersion here in Tarragona. While James and Eglė were keen on sleeping in a bit, I decided to embrace the early morning and venture out to explore the city on my own. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the quiet moments of discovery, the unexpected encounters, and the chance to simply be present in a new place.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at EL VERGEL VEGGIE RESTAURANT. Being vegan, it's always a joy to find a place that caters so well to my dietary preferences. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the food was fresh and flavorful. I opted for a hearty vegan breakfast, which gave me the energy I needed for the day’s adventures. It's comforting to know that even thousands of miles from Toronto, I can still find delicious and healthy vegan options. It reminded me of some of the vegan spots we frequent back home, like Kupfert & Kim. After breakfast, I met up with James and Eglė, ready to start our day as a family.


Discover the vibrant vegan delights at El Vergel Veggie Restaurant in Tarragona - where fresh flavors meet sustainable dining.

Our first stop was the Parc de la Ciutat. This park is a green oasis in the middle of the city. As we strolled through the park, I couldn't help but appreciate the blend of nature and history. The air was crisp, and the sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical atmosphere. Eglė, always the curious one, was fascinated by the various sculptures scattered throughout the park. We even stumbled upon a poetic trail with riddles, which added an element of fun to our walk. It reminded me of the trails we sometimes explore in High Park back in Toronto, although those don't usually involve deciphering poetry! The park’s serene environment was a welcome escape from the bustling city streets.


Discover the beauty of Parc de la Ciutat, a lush urban park in Tarragona perfect for relaxation, recreation, and family fun amidst nature.

“Travel is about the small moments, the quiet discoveries, and the connections we make along the way.”

Next on our itinerary was the Monument to the Castellers. This monument is a tribute to the Catalan tradition of building human towers, and it was truly awe-inspiring. The intricate details of the sculpture, with its 222 life-sized figures, captured the energy and spirit of this unique cultural practice. Eglė was particularly impressed by the monument, and we spent a good amount of time discussing the history and significance of castellers in Catalan culture. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding – sharing new experiences and learning together.


Discover the Monument to the Castellers in Tarragona, a captivating tribute to Catalonia's human tower tradition, rich in history and cultural significance.

Our exploration continued at Plaça de les Cols. This historic square is one of Tarragona's most enchanting landmarks. Surrounded by charming buildings and a vibrant atmosphere, it was the perfect place to soak in the local culture. We wandered through the square, admiring the architecture and observing the daily life of the city. I imagined what it must have been like 147 years ago when the square witnessed the unloading of the pilar de 8 amb folre i manilles, a significant event in casteller history.


Discover the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere of Plaça de les Cols in Tarragona, a historical landmark that encapsulates the city's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurant Casa Balcells. The restaurant had a lovely setting, and we were looking forward to trying some traditional Tarragonese cuisine. While the atmosphere was pleasant, the service was a bit chaotic. However, we did manage to sample some local dishes, including the coca de recapte, which was quite interesting. It reminded me of a pizza, but with a unique Catalan twist. Despite the mixed experience with the service, the food was decent, and we enjoyed the overall ambiance of the restaurant.


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

After a day filled with sightseeing, we decided to unwind at Pub Highland. This Irish pub offered a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink and reflecting on the day’s adventures. James, being of Irish descent, felt right at home, and we all enjoyed the lively ambiance of the pub. It was a great way to relax and recharge before heading back to the hotel.


Discover the lively nightlife of Tarragona at Pub Highland, where Irish charm meets a vibrant disco atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Barhaus, a restaurant known for its Mediterranean cuisine and charming setting amidst Roman ruins. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and we were excited to try their seasonal menu. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. We savored every bite, enjoying the flavors of the region and the company of each other. It was the perfect ending to a wonderful day.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Barhaus in Tarragona – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore Tarragona with my family. Tomorrow, we’re planning a trip to the Santa María de Poblet Monastery and Montblanc. I’m excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through Spain.

Even though I missed packing my raincoat and portable phone charger, the weather cooperated, and we managed to capture some beautiful photos and memories. It’s these little moments that make traveling so special, and I’m looking forward to sharing more of our experiences with you all.

The Christmas spirit is definitely starting to show here. Tarragona is already decked out in festive lights, with its annual Christmas fair to start soon. I am very excited to see the Christmas celebrations in full swing! I think Eglė will be very excited to see the Christmas traditions of Spain as well.

Until tomorrow!

Monastery and Medieval Marvels Await

Tomorrow promises a blend of spiritual reflection and historical exploration. We're venturing to the Santa María de Poblet Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to immerse ourselves in its serene atmosphere and rich history. Following this, we will be traveling to Montblanc, a medieval town known for its well-preserved walls and charming streets. I am looking forward to sharing this experience with you!