A walking route around Tarragona
A walk from the Central Market past the Roman monuments and the Balcony of the Mediterranean down to the sea, the marina and the El Serrallo fishing quarter.
Start: Central Market (Mercat Central)
Start your walk at the Central Market — here you can have a coffee or breakfast, or buy fresh fruit and local products.
➡️ 1. Roman Forum (Fòrum de la Colònia)
Just a few minutes’ walk from the market are the ruins of the Roman forum. More than two thousand years ago, this was the administrative and commercial centre of the ancient city of Tarraco.
➡️ 2. Balcony of the Mediterranean
Head to Tarragona’s most famous viewpoint. From here you get a panoramic view of the sea, the port, the beaches and the Roman amphitheatre. Local tradition says you should touch the metal railing — it’s said to bring good luck.
➡️ 3. Roman Circus
Next, head to the Roman circus — one of the best-preserved in the world. If you like, you can go inside and walk through the ancient underground galleries.
💡 It’s better to save the Old Town (Part Alta) for a separate walk. This is a place to take your time: wander the narrow streets, pop into small shops and cafés, and visit the cathedral and the cosy squares.
➡️ 4. Roman Amphitheatre
From the circus you can walk down the stairs to Tarragona’s main symbol — the Roman amphitheatre, right by the sea. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in the city.
➡️ 5. El Miracle Beach
After visiting the amphitheatre, head down to El Miracle beach. You can go for a swim if the weather allows, or simply stroll along the sea.
➡️ 6. Tarragona Marina
Continue your walk along the promenade to the city marina. You’ll often see impressive yachts here, especially in summer. Sometimes yachts belonging to well-known entrepreneurs and members of Middle Eastern royal families call in. In recent years, a confiscated yacht belonging to a Russian oligarch, kept in the port, has also drawn attention.
Tarragona’s marina is one of the best-known superyacht berths in the western Mediterranean. Yachts belonging to some of the wealthiest people in the world regularly winter here or undergo maintenance. Among them are yachts belonging to the Emir of Qatar and the former Emir of Qatar, the ruler of Bahrain, Dyson founder James Dyson, LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault, director Steven Spielberg and Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal. Other megayachts belonging to billionaires from around the world and members of Middle Eastern royal families can sometimes be spotted here as well.
➡️ 7. El Serrallo fishing quarter
End your walk in the old fishing district of El Serrallo. It has kept the atmosphere of an old port quarter, with colourful houses and a cosy waterfront.
This is the best place in the city for a fresh seafood dinner. Even if you’re not planning a full dinner, it’s nice to stop here for a glass of wine or a cocktail while watching port life go by.
🌐 Translated from Russian; the translation hasn't been proofread yet.