Port Guide | Spain | Dive Deep
Tarragona
Michael States | Editor
Published on 2025-12-18
Congratulations-you've just cruised into Tarragona, a quietly spectacular Spanish port city where ancient Roman emperors once lounged and gladiators fought furiously (but with exceptional Mediterranean views). Sure, everyone's seen Rome, but Tarragona offers ruins that feel like Italy minus the selfie sticks-like its stunning seaside amphitheater where gladiatorial drama once unfolded, and nowadays might inspire nothing deadlier than a spirited debate about dinner reservations. After days at sea, you're probably craving real culture, real tapas, and frankly, real solid ground beneath your feet. So do yourself a favor: swap the onboard buffet for a leisurely ramble through Tarragona's winding medieval old town, sip a glass of local vermut, and nibble patatas bravas at a shady plaza cafe. You've got only a handful of days to scratch beneath the pretty surface-make sure they're memorable (and delicious).
Spain has 8 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Tarragona is known for its Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater. Visitors should explore the old town and enjoy the local cuisine.
Where do cruise ships dock in Tarragona?
Port Name Tarragona
Country Spain
Region Mediterranean
Ship Terminal Port of Tarragona (Muelle de Costa)
Port Type Commercial port, with dedicated cruise facilities
Accessibility The terminal is approximately 2 km from the city center, accessible via taxi, shuttle bus, or on foot.
What's the weather like in Tarragona?
Best Season to Visit Spring and early Fall
Climate Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot dry summers and mild wet winters.
Weather Notes Generally pleasant weather in spring and fall; summers can be hot, reaching high temperatures.
Temperature Range 60F to 80F (15C to 27C)
High Temp 95F
Low Temp 33F
Average Temp 63F
What do I need to know about Tarragona?
Language Spanish
Currency Euro (EUR)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 132,000
Timezone CET (UTC+1)
How do I get around Tarragona?
Taxis, local buses, rental cars, and walking are available for transit options.
What are The Best Things to do in Tarragona?
Discover what you should do while you're in Tarragona.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Walk the Roman Walls (Murallas de Tarragona)
Passeig Arqueologic, Tarragona
Tour beautifully preserved Roman walls with stunning panoramic views.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Roman Amphitheatre Visit
Parc de l'Amfiteatre, Tarragona
Discover Tarragona's ancient Roman amphitheater overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Distance from Terminal: 0.9 miles
Roman Aqueduct Pont del Diable
Carretera N-240, Tarragona
Visit impressive Roman aqueduct nestled in nature.
Distance from Terminal: 3.7 miles
Exploring Tarragona Cathedral
Placa de la Seu, Tarragona
Majestic cathedral blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Distance from Terminal: 1.1 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Mediterranean Sailing Experience
Port de Tarragona
Enjoy leisurely sailing on crystal waters off Tarragona.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Mediterranean Coastal Trail Hike
Cami de Ronda, Tarragona
Hiking trail along Tarragona's coastline featuring cliff-side paths and scenic views.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Underwater Archaeology Exploration
N/A
Dive into Tarragona's ancient underwater archaeological sites.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Kayaking in Cala Romana
Cala Romana Beach, Tarragona
Kayak along Tarragona's beautiful coastline bays sheltering hidden coves.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Human Tower (Castells) Workshop
Placa de la Font, Tarragona
Learn about Tarragona's unique tradition of building human towers.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Culinary Cooking Class - Tarragona Market Tour
Mercat Central de Tarragona, Placa Corsini
Explore local flavors with a cooking class and market tour in Tarragona's bustling central market.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Local Olive Oil Tasting
Carrer Major, Tarragona
Taste world-renowned olive oils from small local producers.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Tarraco Viva Festival
Various Locations, Tarragona
Attend Tarragona's festival that reenacts Roman life vividly each Spring.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Overnight Trips
Priorat Vineyards Overnight Visit
DOQ Priorat Region
Stay overnight in the famous wine region, experience wine tasting and stargazing.
Distance from Terminal: 30 miles
Delta de l'Ebre Bird Watching Overnight Trip
Parc Natural del Delta de l'Ebre
Overnight trip to one of Europe's largest wetlands and bird sanctuaries.
Distance from Terminal: 50 miles
Siurana Village Overnight Stay
Siurana, Tarragona
Spend a night in picturesque medieval village Siurana perched on scenic cliffs.
Distance from Terminal: 35 miles
A Little Extra
Sunset from Balco del Mediterrani
Passeig de les Palmeres, Tarragona
Enjoy a memorable sunset view famous among locals from the iconic Mediterranean balcony.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Mediterranean Seafood Feast
El Serrallo Fisherman's District, Tarragona
Taste fresh seafood dishes in the authentic fisherman's quarter.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Spain Regional Tip
Direct and animated communication Conversations may involve expressive gestures and passionate debates, which signify engagement and interest, rather than aggression.