Tarragona

Tarragona is a mid-sized city on the Costa Daurada in Catalonia, about an hour south of Barcelona. The port is a short taxi ride from the centre. The city was the Roman capital of Hispania, and the ruins from that period are the main reason to visit. The amphitheatre, built into the hillside overlooking the sea, held gladiatorial contests and is well preserved. The Roman walls, aqueduct, and circus (chariot-racing track) are also visible around the old town. The cathedral, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, sits at the highest point of the old town, and its cloister has carved capitals worth a close look. The Rambla Nova is the main pedestrian boulevard, lined with shops and cafés. Tarragona is known for romesco sauce, a red pepper and almond blend that originated here and is served with grilled fish and calçots (spring onions). Beaches are within walking distance of the centre. The currency is the euro.