Cruise stopover in Tarragona. Your complete detailed guide🤩

Welcome aboard this complete guide for “Cruise Stopover in Tarragona”.

Cruise stopover in Tarragona

Tarragona, located on the Costa Dorada in Spain, is a newly popular cruise stopover for its historical and cultural riches. Former capital of the Roman province of Tarraco, this city is a real treasure for lovers of history and discovery. In this article, we will guide you to fully enjoy your stopover in Tarragona.

How to get from the port of Tarragona to the city center?

Shuttle vs taxi vs walking

What is the best way to get to Tarragona city centre from the cruise port? Here are several options.

→ Cruise line shuttle

Benefits

Fast and convenient . The shuttle drops you off 5 minutes walk from the city center (so allow 10 minutes by bus).
No waiting . You don’t have to look for a taxi or walk there.
Comfortable . The shuttle is usually air-conditioned and has comfortable seats.

Disadvantages

Expensive . The price is usually 10-12 euros per person, which can be high for a short trip.
Fixed route . The shuttle follows a predefined route, which does not allow you to stop at specific locations along the way.

→ Taxi

Benefits

Fast and convenient . The taxi takes you directly to your destination.
Flexibility . You can ask the driver to drop you off at the exact location you want.
Comfortable . Taxis in Tarragona are clean and comfortable.
Correct price if you are traveling with 2 (or more), it is more advantageous to take a taxi compared to the shuttle!
17 euros from the port (where the free shuttle drops you off) to the city center.

Disadvantages

Availability . It can be difficult to find a taxi, especially during peak season or when 2,000 passengers want a taxi at the same time.

→ Walk

Benefits

Free . This is the most economical way to get to the city center.
Good for your health . Walking is a great way to exercise and stay in shape. Granted, we already walk 10 km a day: 3 km to the buffet, 2 to the theater, 3 to the cabin 🤣🤣.
Discover the city . You can discover the city at your own pace and admire the landscapes.

Disadvantages

Long (for some). The walk lasts about 25 minutes but the view is magnificent (when you love the sea..)
Weather . The weather can affect your walking experience, especially if it is hot or rainy.
Luggage . If you have bulky luggage, it may be difficult to transport it on foot, in which case opt for a taxi.

If you like walking, Tarragona city centre is within walking distance from the port. A pleasant 20-30 minute walk will allow you to discover the city at your own pace and enjoy the magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea. We went down with about twenty cruise passengers, and it is easy to do, without requiring any particular physical condition. Ideal to avoid paying for a shuttle when you are a family, you might as well keep that money to enjoy a good ice cream for 2 euros!

What to do in Tarragona on a cruise stopover?

Discovering Roman heritage

Roman Amphitheatre . Located near the sea, this 2nd century amphitheatre is an impressive relic from the Roman era. It offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean.
Roman Forum . Explore the ruins of this political and social center of ancient Tarraco. You will find remains of temples, columns and public squares.
Roman Circus . This well-preserved site was used for chariot racing. The underground tunnels and stands give an idea of the atmosphere of the time.

Walks and panoramic views

Balcon del Mediterráneo . Stroll along this promenade and enjoy stunning views of the sea and the city. It is a great place to relax and take photos.
Rambla Nova . Stroll along this wide avenue lined with boutiques, cafes and sculptures. It’s the perfect place to shop and sample the local cuisine. Let’s be honest, it’s not Barcelona but it’s cute all the same.

Beaches and water activities

Arrabassada Beach . Spend some time on this beautiful sandy beach, ideal for swimming and relaxing or snorkeling. If, like me, you are a fan of snorkeling and always have your mask and snorkel in your suitcase, I recommend it as well as the “Platja” El Miracle beach accessible from the center on foot (wait until you are in the water to put on your fins 😂).
Water sports . Enjoy the various water activities on offer, such as paddle boarding, jet skiing or scuba diving.

Explore the historic center

Tarragona Cathedral . Visit this magnificent Gothic cathedral, home to artistic treasures and panoramic views from its bell tower.

Admire the sacred art of Tarragona Cathedral
Enter one of the oldest basilicas in Spain
Visit the chapel of Saint Thecla
Discover the history of the cathedral and its chapels
Price – 11 euros

Book your ticket here 👈

Medieval Quarter . Lose yourself in the cobbled streets of the medieval quarter, where you’ll discover charming squares, artisan shops and tapas bars.

Wine tasting and gastronomy

Cruise stopover in Tarragona

Priorat Wine Route . If time permits, take a trip to the Priorat vineyards, renowned for their exceptional wines.

If you want to visit Priorat during your stopover in Tarragona, a half-day excursion is the best option. Most excursions last longer, which will not leave you enough time to return to the ship.

Here is a half-day excursion that suits your needs

Hiking and Wine in Priorat . This 5-hour tour takes you to the heart of Priorat, a spectacular wine region located near Tarragona. You will start with a guided hike through the vineyards, followed by a wine tasting at a local winery. It is a great way to discover the region’s stunning landscapes and sample its world-renowned wines.

This tour is perfect for travelers who:

Have limited time in Tarragona
Want to discover the Priorat wine region
Enjoy hiking and wine tasting

Here are some additional details about the excursion

Duration – 5 hours
Transport . Included from and to Tarragona
Activity level . Moderate
Price → 90 euros / p

Advice

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather.
Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
Taste the local wines! This is one of the best ways to discover the region but be careful because the day is not over it would be a shame to crawl back to the boat.

Book your ticket here 👈

Local cuisine . Be sure to try local specialties, such as fideuà (vermicelli paella), calçots (grilled onions) and fresh seafood.

Museums and culture

Archaeological Museum . Delve into the history of Tarragona by visiting this museum which houses an extensive collection of Roman artifacts.
Museum of Modern Art . Discover contemporary art and temporary exhibitions in this museum located in the historic center.

PortAventura visit

Cruise stopover in Tarragona

Discover PortAventura during your stopover in Tarragona

For those looking for an exciting adventure during their stopover in Tarragona, PortAventura is a perfect choice. I personally lived this experience with my children, and it was simply crazy!!!

A spectacular theme park

PortAventura is one of Europe’s most renowned theme parks, offering an incredible variety of attractions for all ages and tastes. From thrilling roller coasters to captivating shows and immersive themed areas, the park promises a day full of excitement and fun.

Easy access from the port

From the port of Tarragona, you can reach PortAventura in just 17 minutes by taxi (13 km). Taxis are readily available near the port, and the round trip cost for up to 4 people is around 50 euros (27 euros one way with Uber), making it a convenient and affordable option for your excursion.

Plan your day

Cruise ships typically call from 9am to 6pm, giving you plenty of time to fully enjoy the park. Start your day early to maximize your time on the attractions and discover the park’s different themed areas.

An unforgettable experience

PortAventura is not just a theme park, it offers a complete experience with restaurants, shops and shows that add to the festive atmosphere. It is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with family or friends during your stopover in Tarragona.