Exploring the Historical Charms of Tarragona

Tarragona's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today, Erika and I ventured deeper into the heart of Tarragona, a city that continues to surprise and enchant us at every turn. It's remarkable how each day here unveils a new layer of history, culture, and culinary delight. Today was no exception, as we explored significant landmarks and savored the local flavors, creating memories that I know we will cherish for years to come.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at La Xarxa. This restaurant, known for its seafood and warm atmosphere, was the perfect place to start our day. I savored the experience of trying local flavors while enjoying the ambiance of the restaurant. Erika enjoyed her coffee while planning our itinerary for the day. We enjoyed the friendly and attentive service. After breakfast, we made our way to the Mirador, Tarragona's famed viewpoint.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Tarragona at the Mirador, a picturesque viewpoint blending history and natural beauty.

The Stunning Vista from Mirador

As we strolled along the Rambla Nova, the city's main thoroughfare, the anticipation of reaching the Balcó del Mediterrani, or the Mirador, grew with each step. The Rambla itself is a vibrant tapestry of life, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the shade of the trees and the lively atmosphere of the cafes. Reaching the end of the Rambla, we were greeted by the breathtaking view from the Mirador.

The Mediterranean stretched out before us, an endless expanse of blue meeting the horizon. Below, the beach of El Miracle curved along the coast, and the port bustled with activity. The air was filled with the scent of salt and the cries of gulls, a symphony of the sea that has played here for centuries. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty and history that surrounded us. It was easy to imagine the Roman sentinels who once stood guard here, watching for invaders from the sea.

Erika and I spent a long time at the Mirador, simply soaking in the view and the atmosphere. We took photos, of course, but more importantly, we took mental snapshots, images that I know will stay with us long after we've left Tarragona. I made sure to touch the iron railing, a local tradition said to bring good luck. Whether it works or not, it was a fun way to connect with the city's traditions.

To touch iron at the Balcó del Mediterrani is to embrace the spirit of Tarragona, a blend of history, hope, and the endless allure of the sea.

The Heart of the City: Plaça de la Font

From the Mirador, we walked towards the Plaça de la Font, the main square of Tarragona. This square is the heart of the city, a place where locals gather to celebrate, protest, and simply enjoy life. The Plaça de la Font occupies a quarter of the ancient Roman circus arena, a fact that adds a palpable sense of history to the space. The square is bordered by buildings dating back to the 19th century, their facades reflecting a mix of architectural styles.


Discover the vibrant Plaça de la Font in Tarragona, a lively square brimming with history, culture, and delectable culinary delights.

The most prominent building on the square is the Ajuntament, the City Hall, with its neoclassical facade. The square was bustling with activity, with people chatting, children playing, and vendors selling their wares. We sat at a cafe, enjoying a refreshing drink and watching the world go by. It was a perfect opportunity to observe the rhythm of life in Tarragona, to feel like a part of the community, even if just for a little while.

A Culinary Interlude at Entrecopes

For lunch, we chose Entrecopes, a restaurant known for its Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a menu that featured a variety of local dishes. I opted for the grilled fish, while Erika chose a traditional Catalan salad. Both were delicious, fresh, and full of flavor. It was a satisfying meal that energized us for the afternoon's explorations.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Entrecopes in Tarragona – where every meal is a celebration of local traditions.

Delving into History at Antiga Audiència

After lunch, we visited the Antiga Audiència, the former Provincial Court. This building, located on the Plaça del Pallol, is a fascinating blend of Roman and Neoclassical architecture. It stands on the site of the Roman Forum, and parts of the original Roman tower are still visible within the building.


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

The Antiga Audiència served as the seat of the Provincial Court from the mid-19th century until 1973. Today, it houses a museum that showcases the history of Tarragona and the surrounding region. We explored the exhibits, learning about the Roman, medieval, and modern history of the city. It was particularly moving to learn about the building's role during the Spanish Civil War, when it served as a military court.

The Antiga Audiència provided a tangible connection to Tarragona's past, a reminder of the many layers of history that have shaped this city. The building itself is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire, and the exhibits within offer a comprehensive overview of Tarragona's rich cultural heritage.

An Evening Toast at Mala Bar

As the day drew to a close, we decided to relax at Mala Bar, a local establishment known for its lively atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of glasses of local wine, chatting with the friendly bartenders and soaking in the ambiance. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, to reflect on all that we had seen and learned.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mala Bar in Tarragona, where live music and delightful cocktails create an unforgettable nightlife experience.

A Catalan Farewell Dinner

For our final dinner of the day, we chose Taberna Romero, a restaurant that promised an authentic Catalan dining experience. And it certainly delivered. The restaurant was small and cozy, with a menu that featured traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I ordered the arroz caldoso, a flavorful rice stew with seafood, while Erika opted for the grilled angler. Both were delicious, hearty, and satisfying. We also shared a plate of pan con tomate, a simple but essential Catalan dish of bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled with olive oil.


Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Taberna Romero in Tarragona - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

The meal was a perfect end to a day of exploration, a celebration of Catalan cuisine and culture. As we savored each bite, we talked about our favorite moments of the day, the stunning view from the Mirador, the bustling Plaça de la Font, the historical insights at the Antiga Audiència. We felt grateful for the opportunity to experience Tarragona, to immerse ourselves in its history, culture, and cuisine.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow marks our final day in Tarragona. We plan to visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Tarragona, Camp de Mart, and the St. Anthony Gate. We are also planning on having breakfast at Mas Roselló Restaurant Tarragona, lunch at RESTAURANT BARQUET, and our farewell dinner at Vadegust. Erika also wants to do some shopping at Natura.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Tarragona has been a truly enriching experience, a journey through time and culture that has left a lasting impression on us. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, to discover even more of this fascinating city before we bid it farewell. I am glad that Erika and I decided to spend our holiday here.

I am also grateful that despite forgetting to bring my Spanish phrasebook, we were able to get by with my limited Spanish and Erika's German. Although they are different languages, knowing German helped us communicate with some of the locals who also spoke it.

I am looking forward to sharing our final day in Tarragona with you all. Until then, I bid you goodnight from this beautiful corner of Spain. I hope that our travels inspire you to explore the world and discover the rich tapestry of cultures that it has to offer.