Spain's Oldest Roman City Has More Than Just Ruins (It's A Seaside Paradise)

Spain is one of the most desirable destinations in the world, and it's no wonder why. Whether you love history, architecture, food, or outdoor adventures, there are so many reasons why Spain should be the next destination to add to your travel bucket list. Plus, thanks to its high-quality roads and low travel costs, it's one of the best countries in Europe to take an unforgettable road trip. One of the advantages of road-tripping in a place like Spain is that it can lead you to places in the country that would be overlooked or otherwise difficult to get to.

The stunning seaside city of Tarragona sits on the dreamy Costa Daurada (Catalan for the Golden Coast), a little over an hour from Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport if you're driving. Tarragona features many of the qualities that draw people to the Spanish coast with picture-perfect beaches, fresh seafood, and delicious wine. But it also has the distinction of being the first Roman military stronghold outside of the area that is now modern-day Italy and boasts a wealth of Roman ruins. Whether you make Tarragona a day trip from Barcelona, or you choose to spend the entire weekend there, it's definitely worth your time if you're a history buff.

Although this area has been occupied for thousands of years by various people groups, including the Iberians, Tarraco (what is now Tarragona) was captured by the Romans in 218 BCE and remained under Roman rule until the Moors took over in the 8th century. But the Roman imprint on the city is undeniable. The city achieved UNESCO World Heritage status for its well-preserved ruins in the year 2000. Its long, rich history also makes Tarragona one of the most underrated destinations in Spain.

It can seem a little overwhelming when you're trying to decide where to go or what to see first. But the best way to take in the historic sites is to book a tour. If you're a Spanish or Catalan speaker, take advantage of the Roman Heritage Walking Tour. Starting at around $15 per person (though prices are always subject to change), you'll get a two-hour guided tour with an official city guide. For a more in-depth tour with both English and Spanish options available, don't miss the Tarragona Highlights Private Tour for around $133 per person. This half-day walking tour includes admission to ten different sites, and reviewers on TripAdvisor raved about the guide's knowledgeability and friendliness. Of course, if you happen to be in Tarragona in May, don't miss the Tarraco Viva festival where you can see historical re-enactments, Roman theater, gladiator fights, and you can even sample ancient Roman recipes.

After you've worked up an appetite from absorbing so much of the history of Tarragona, experience authentic Catalan cuisine at one of the many fantastic restaurants near the city center. Travelers on TripAdvisor couldn't say enough about the food and unique ambiance at ARCS Restaurant, a fine dining restaurant nestled in a building that has been in existence since the 14th century. If you're on a mission to find tapas and sangria, stop into Tarakon on the Plaça del Fòrum and enjoy your patatas bravas and croquettes with a side of people watching. 

For the freshest seafood, head to El Serrallo, the harbor district of Tarragona where you'll have plenty of great restaurants at your disposal. But make sure you put El Pòsit Del Serrallo on your list and order the paella. And, of course, make time to soak up the Spanish sunshine on one of Tarragona's ten beautiful golden sand beaches, especially Playa de la Arrabassada, which is well-equipped and close to beach bars if you need a cocktail to cool off. It's easy to incorporate a beach trip with shopping, sightseeing, or dining when some beaches are just a mile and a half from the city center.