Tarragona province is one of Catalonia's main tourist destinations. The Costa Dorada's fine sands and the city's Roman atmosphere captivate all who visit but the region has much more to offer beyond its refreshing summer coastline.
What you can find ranges from vibrant Tarragona beach towns to small historic villages, all worth discovering. Here are the 10 best villages near Tarragona that you must visit if you're looking to get to know the surrounding area.
Montblanc
Montblanc is not only known for its imposing walls but also for the legend of Sant Jordi. According to this legend, a dragon terrorised the town and demanded the princess be sacrificed. The saint, however, saved her by stabbing the beast with a lance. From the blood that flowed out came a rosebush of red roses.
The town, closely linked to this legend, has historical monuments such as the Santa Maria church, the Sant Francesc convent and numerous chapels that adorn its narrow streets. Its old quarter, declared a historic and artistic heritage site, is also worth a visit.
Just 40 minutes by car from Tarragona, Montblanc is perfect for a day trip. The proximity allows you to enjoy the trip without needing long hours of driving.
Siurana
Perched on a cliff, Siurana is considered the most beautiful village in Tarragona and is known for being the last Muslim stronghold in Catalonia. This picturesque town has spectacular views spanning miles from the mountains to the Mediterranean Sea.
This town is a favourite destination for outdoor adventure lovers. World-class climbing routes and meandering trails appeal to beginners and experts alike, providing a rewarding challenge with breathtaking panoramas. Also, don't miss the 12th-century Santa Maria church, a silent testimony to the town's medieval period.
Siurana is 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from Tarragona. This route takes you through changing landscapes from the coast to the mountains.
Tamarit
If you don't want to go far and are looking for things to see around Tarragona, Tamarit is a great option because it's so close to the city. With its iconic castle overlooking the sea, it's a living postcard of Catalonia's maritime past. Dating back to medieval times, the fortress is not only an architectural wonder but also the guardian of many stories that have been woven over the centuries.
Together with the nearby town of Altafulla, it offers quiet coastlines such as the beach of Tamarit and trails such as the Camí de Ronda, where you can enjoy relaxing walks overlooking the sea. These places are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and become immersed in a serene environment steeped in history.
Tamarit, considered one of the most beautiful Costa Dorada villages, is only a 15-minute drive from Tarragona, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Prades
Known for the reddish tone of its stones, Prades has a charming main square and is an ideal starting point for hiking routes such as the Roca Foradada. The Gothic Santa Maria church dominates the landscape with its imposing presence. In addition, you can try the local products in the small shops, such as the popular Prades cheese.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the hiking trails in this area are diverse, including trails that take you through pine forests and offer views of the mountains. It's an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity that only nature can offer.
Prades is approximately 1 hour's drive from the city centre of Tarragona.
Capafonts
Surrounded by mountains and natural springs, Capafonts is a haven for those seeking peace and natural beauty, with numerous hiking trails to explore. The springs that give the village its name, such as the Font de la Llúdriga, are perfect for picnics and to enjoy the soothing sound of running water.
Moreover, Capafonts is not only ideal for hikers but also for history and culture buffs. Sant Salvador church, a small architectural gem dating back to the 12th century, contains frescoes and sacred art that are well worth visiting.
Just 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from Tarragona, Capafonts is Prades' neighbouring village, so you can take the opportunity to visit both towns, which are only seven kilometres apart.
Miravet
Miravet is famous for its impressive Templar castle and its deep-rooted pottery tradition. Miravet Castle dominates the landscape, situated on the top of a hill and overlooking the Ebro River. This fortress dates back to the Reconquest period and was crucial in several historical battles. It also boasts great views of the river.
In addition, you can't miss exploring the local workshops where the typical Miravet pottery is created, a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and which today is one of the town's most important tourist attractions.
Miravet is approximately 1.5 hours by car from Tarragona. However, you can use the trip to see Horta de Sant Joan, which is not far away.
Horta de Sant Joan
Horta de Sant Joan captured Pablo Picasso's heart and creativity, and he declared that everything he knew he learned in this town. His legacy in Horta is palpable in the Picasso Centre, a museum dedicated to his works and the time the painter spent here. Exploring this centre allows you to understand how the area influenced some of his most significant works.
Moreover, access to the Ports Natural Park offers an exceptional opportunity for nature lovers and hikers, with trails that cross mountainous landscapes and offer spectacular views. The combination of art, history and nature makes Horta de Sant Joan a place where every visit becomes a source of inspiration.
Close to the border with Aragon, Horta de Sant Joan is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Tarragona.
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Aiguamurcia
This village stands out for the Santes Creus Monastery, one of the most important on the Cistercian Route and a living testimony to the monastic influence in Catalonia since the Middle Ages. It is notable for its Gothic architecture and for being a centre of historical wine-growing activity. The monks who lived here not only devoted themselves to prayer but also to cultivating vineyards.
Furthermore, the natural environment surrounding Aiguamúrcia offers numerous hiking and cycling trails that allow you to discover the wine-growing landscapes and the area's small charming villages.
Aiguamúrcia is only half an hour's drive from Tarragona, which makes for a quick and easy visit to enjoy this historical and natural enclave.
Figuerola del Camp
This small village is located in the Alt Camp region but close to Montblanc in a privileged setting among the Prades mountains. Here you can walk along ancient paths that wind through pine and holm oak forests, discovering a multitude of panoramic views at every turn.
Moreover, this village preserves a rustic charm with its stone houses and its small Romanesque church – Santa Maria de les Tosas. The tranquillity of Figuerola del Camp and its natural surroundings make it a must for those in search of peace and beauty on their visit to the villages near Tarragona.
Figuerola del Camp is half an hour's drive from Tarragona. You can combine your trip with a trip to Montblanc, which is only 20 minutes away.
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La Vilella Baixa
La Vilella Baixa is a perfect destination for lovers of good wine and natural landscapes. This small village is located in the heart of the Priorat region, world famous for its high-quality wines. It is also an ideal starting point for exploring the Serra de Montsant Natural Park.
As well as being the wine lover's paradise, Vilella Baixa offers a rich history and culture. The village's architecture, with stone houses and traditional wine cellars, is a living testimony to its medieval past. Don't miss a visit to one of its family-run wineries, where you can taste some of the best Priorat wines straight from the source.
Vilella Baixa is only an hour's drive away, so it's not far from the city.
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