Tarragona's old town is a living palimpsest of 2,000 years of history, where Roman walls prop up medieval houses and Gothic arches frame Renaissance balconies. Just 15 kilometres south of Camping La Noria, it is the most historically dense town centre on the Costa Dorada.
The old town of Tarragona — the Part Alta — sits on the hilltop where the Roman city of Tàrraco was founded. The 3rd-century BC Roman walls, the oldest in the Iberian Peninsula, still encircle much of the quarter, and you can walk atop a restored section known as the Passeig Arqueològic, a tree-shaded promenade between the inner Roman and outer medieval fortifications.
At the summit stands the Cathedral of Santa Maria, begun in the 12th century on the site of the Roman temple and the earlier mosque. Its Romanesque-to-Gothic transition is visible in the façade, and the cloister is considered one of the finest in Catalonia, with intricately carved capitals depicting biblical scenes and fantastical creatures. Inside, the retable by Pere Joan is a masterwork of Catalan Gothic sculpture.
Below the cathedral, the old town unfolds in a warren of narrow streets — Carrer Major, Carrer dels Cavallers, Plaça de la Font — lined with independent shops, galleries and some of Tarragona's best restaurants. The Plaça del Forum preserves remains of the Roman provincial forum, while the Pretori tower offers panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.
Tarragona's food scene deserves special attention. The city is the gastronomic capital of the Costa Dorada, with specialities including romesco sauce (invented here), fresh seafood from the Serrallo fishing quarter, and calçots (flame-grilled spring onions) in winter. The Mercat Central is a great place to pick up local produce, olive oil and artisan cheeses.
Getting to Tarragona from Camping La Noria takes about 15 minutes by car or train. On-street parking in the old town is limited, so the free park-and-ride at the Passeig Marítim is recommended. Alternatively, the train drops you within walking distance of the Rambla Nova.
Why Visit Tarragona Old Town
Tarragona old town offers a rich, walkable concentration of history, architecture and gastronomy without the crowds of Barcelona. Families enjoy the hands-on exploration of Roman ruins that are woven into the living city rather than roped off in museums. The combination of world-class heritage, excellent restaurants and a relaxed Catalan atmosphere makes it one of the Costa Dorada's essential day trips.
How to Get There
Drive 15 km south on the N-340 to Tarragona, or take the Rodalies R17 train from Torredembarra — it is a 12-minute ride. From the station, walk up the Rambla Nova towards the old town. Use the free park-and-ride if driving, as old-town parking is scarce.
Train from Torredembarra to Tarragona (15 min)
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn are perfect for exploring on foot, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer evenings are magical, as locals and visitors fill the terraces on Plaça de la Font and the Rambla Nova. The Tarraco Viva Roman festival in May and the Santa Tecla festival in September bring the old town to life with re-enactments, human towers and fireworks.
Tips
Start at the Balcó del Mediterrani viewpoint at the end of the Rambla Nova, then walk up through the old town to the cathedral.
Visit the Mercat Central (mornings, closed Sundays) for local produce, fresh juice and a taste of daily Catalan life.
The combined Tàrraco monuments ticket covers the Roman sites and saves money compared with individual admission.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Tarragona Old Town from Camping La Noria?
Tarragona Old Town is about 15 km south of Camping La Noria. You can reach it in roughly 15 minutes by car or 12 minutes by Rodalies R17 train from Torredembarra.
Is Tarragona Old Town accessible with a pushchair?
The main streets and plazas are accessible, but some of the narrower medieval lanes and the Passeig Arqueològic have cobblestones and steps. A lightweight, all-terrain pushchair or a baby carrier is recommended for full exploration.
