Family Adventure in Tarragona: History and Culture Unveiled

Echoes of Empires

Today was a day of exploration and discovery in Tarragona, as the family and I delved deeper into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. It’s amazing how much history is packed into this coastal gem. From ancient Roman structures to modern-day shopping streets, Tarragona offers a unique blend of old and new that captivates the senses.

Our morning started with a delightful breakfast at Filosofia. This charming spot, known for its creative cuisine, offered the perfect start to our day. I opted for a strong coffee and a pastry, while James enjoyed a hearty breakfast sandwich. Eglė, ever the adventurous one, tried a local specialty – a delicious pastry filled with cream. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at Filosofia in Tarragona - where culinary tradition meets modern elegance.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Torre de les Monges. The tower, a remnant of Tarragona’s ancient past, offered stunning views of the city and the sea. As I stood there, camera in hand, I couldn't help but imagine what life was like during Roman times. The crisp December air and the gentle Mediterranean breeze added to the magical atmosphere.


Discover the Torre de les Monges in Tarragona, a historical landmark that showcases the city's medieval heritage and stunning architecture.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Next on our itinerary was the Antiga Audiència. This historical building, once the seat of the Provincial Council, is a fascinating blend of Roman and medieval architecture. Eglė was particularly intrigued by the scale model of Roman Tarraco, which gave us a comprehensive overview of the ancient city's layout. James, with his engineering background, was fascinated by the structural elements and the history of the building.


Explore the rich history and dynamic exhibitions of Antiga Audiència, Tarragona's premier museum showcasing the city's cultural heritage.

After immersing ourselves in history, we strolled through the Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco. This bustling square is a hub of activity, connecting the old town with the more modern parts of Tarragona. The square was beautifully decorated with festive Christmas lights, adding a touch of magic to the already vibrant atmosphere. We took some family photos, capturing the joy and excitement of our adventure.


Experience the vibrant heart of Tarragona at Plaça de la Imperial Tàrraco, a blend of history, culture, and local life.

Of course, no trip is complete without a bit of shopping. We ventured into the BOULEVARD SHOPPING OLD TOWN TARRAGONA, a charming area filled with unique boutiques and local shops. I found a beautiful handcrafted ceramic bowl, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time in Tarragona. Eglė picked up some stylish clothes, while James found a quirky souvenir for his office.


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

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at ELIAN RESTAURANT. This cozy restaurant offered a variety of homemade dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options. I savored a delicious paella, while James opted for a hearty stew. Eglė, always eager to try new things, chose a vegan dish that was bursting with flavor. The friendly service and the warm ambiance made it a truly memorable experience.


Savor authentic Mediterranean cuisine at ELIAN RESTAURANT in Tarragona, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Restaurant El Tiberi. Known for its traditional Catalan cuisine, this restaurant offered a buffet-style dining experience with a wide array of dishes to choose from. We sampled a variety of local delicacies, including canelones, paella, and crema catalana. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff added to the overall charm.


Experience authentic Catalonian cuisine at El Tiberi in Tarragona – where traditional flavors meet modern buffet dining.

Before heading back to Hotel SB Ciutat Tarragona, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, admiring the Christmas lights and soaking in the festive atmosphere. The air was filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and the sound of Christmas carols, creating a magical ambiance.


Discover unparalleled comfort and convenience at Hotel SB Ciutat Tarragona, where modern amenities meet rich history in the heart of Tarragona.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Tarragona's historical sites, including Passeig Sant Antoni, Plaça de les Cols, and the Early Christian cemetery of Tàrraco. We're also looking forward to trying some local drinks at Korxo.

Today was a wonderful blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Tarragona has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The blend of ancient history and modern life here is something to behold, and I'm so glad I get to share it with my family. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The weather in Tarragona in December is moderately chilly and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 45–57°F (7–14°C). There are plenty of events and activities to check out in Tarragona during this time. Some top recommendations include taking a scenic drive through the countryside to admire the holiday decorations, exploring the Roman Amphitheatre at night, and taking a stroll along the Tarragona Christmas lights display.

Tarragona is also celebrating Christmas from the end of November with Christmas lights and an annual Christmas fair. Two very rooted traditions are re-enacted: el Tió (log that gives presents) and the nativity scenes exhibited in premises of different associations and in the city's parks. The festivities are completed with different Christmas activities: Performance of the theatre show Els Pastorets (The Little Sheperds), Christmas carol singing, and the children's park, among others.

The city's main traffic hub, Plaça Imperial Tàrraco, connects the main traffic to the Mediterranean Balcony. Visitors can explore an array of fashionable stores featuring various brands, from affordable to high-end. In the Old District (Part Alta), ancient ruins can still be seen inside some of the shops, where visitors can find antiques, high-end designer jewelers, and renowned masters in the art of working precious materials. Boulevard Shopping Old Town Tarragona is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and shopaholics alike. The area boasts an abundance of well-preserved Roman ruins, showcasing the city's former status as the Roman capital of the Iberian Peninsula.

El Tiberi offers traditional Catalan cuisine made with local ingredients. The restaurant serves a buffet-style dining experience with a wide array of dishes to choose from. Diners can sample local delicacies, including canelones, paella, and crema catalana.

The Roman Amphitheater was built at the end of the 1st century AD and the start of the 2nd century AD. In 259, during the persecution of Christians by Emperor Valerian, the city's bishop, Fructuosus, and his deacons, Augurius and Eulogius, were burned alive. The Tarraco Viva Festival is held in Tarragona from May 12 to 25. During this international symposium to raise awareness of ancient Roman history, visitors can experience the Roman Tarraco through historic performances such as gladiator fights, Roman theatre, music and dance, and historical re-enactments of life in Roman times.