Spanish coastal city Brits overlook despite being easy to get to – and is known for its soft sandy beaches
A CITY right on the beach in Spain is rarely visited by Brits despite being so easy to get to.
Tarragona is just 20 minutes from Reus Airport, which has direct Ryanair flights for less than £20.
Or it is less than an hour by train from Barcelona, if you fancied a day trip.
The city is known primarily for two things – it’s beautiful sandy beaches and Roman history.
And being overlooked by Brits, you can expect much fewer crowds and queues compared to the nearby cities.
Rather than tourists, it is often visited by Barcelona locals who want to escape the busy city centre.
One of the main attractions is the ruins of the Roman amphitheater right by the sea, which once had gladiator fights and shows.
There are also ruins of a huge theatre, as well as a chariot racing track.
If you want to see something that’s still intact, then most tourists head to the main Catedral Tarragona, where you can even visit during the evenings for live music and wine tastings.
Beaches to choose from include the main Playa del Miracle right in town, or Platja Arrabassada and Paltja Savinosa.
Talking of Savinosa, one tourist said: “The sand is ultra soft, one of the best I’ve ever seen in my life.”
Just be aware that there is a naturist section, so expect some naked bodies on one side of the beach.
Spanish food isn’t to be missed, so head to the Central Market of Tarragona, built in 1915, for some fresh food.
Along with paella and tapas, a popular snack is clotxa, a hollowed out sandwich stuffed with sardines, tomatoes and onion.
Or there is Calcots, a roasted spring onion with romesco sauce or, due to being a fishing port, any grilled seafood.
Other places to visit include the main La Rambla Nov(similar to Barcelona’s Las Ramblas) a for some retail therapy.
If you fancy staying, there are a number of hotel chains to choose from including H10 and AC Hotel.
Flights to Reus operate from Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, London and Leeds with Ryanair, taking just over two hours.
And Tarragona is also on the high speed rail, if you fancy visiting by train from other Spanish cities.
Go slightly south of Tarragona and you’ll find Salou – home to the huge theme park PortAdventura World.
The Sun’s Caron Curnow recently visited – here’s his verdict on the Spanish theme park.
Everything you need to know about visiting Spain
- Brits must have at least three months left on their passport from the day they plan to leave the country.
- Tourists do not need a visa if visiting for up to 90 days in an 180-day period.
- Make sure your passport is stamped on entry and exit.
- Travellers may be asked to show hotel booking confirmations and that they have enough money for their stay at the border.
- Spain is one hour ahead of the UK.
- The country uses the euro with around €10 working out to £8.55.
- Flights to Spain from the UK take between 2-4 hours depending on the destination.
Or here’s a trendy neighbourhood in the nearby city of Barcelona you need to visit.
And a Brit living in Spain has revealed the little known areas to visit where tourists are still welcome.