Tarragona
Starting amidst ancient stones
Tarragona, the starting point for the second stage of the 2026 Tour, enchants everyone with its authenticity. It boasts one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Europe, with a historic centre preserving Roman structures such as the amphitheatre, circus and walls, and it’s the only Heritage of Humanity city in Catalonia.
Living history in the Mediterranean
With a history spanning over 2,000 years, Tarragona has preserved some of the most notable Roman-era landmarks in Europe. Its archaeological site, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, includes the amphitheatre, circus, walls and aqueduct, all of which are part of the city centre and can be visited. Visitors can lose themselves in the city’s cobbled streets, admire the cathedral from the Plaça de les Cols and enjoy the sunset from the Balcó del Mediterrani.
Nature and quality of life
Tarragona combines a rich history with 15 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, perfect for active tourism, with nature trails, accessible beaches and green spaces such as the Parc Ecohistòric del Pont del Diable, which connect the city to its coast and inland countryside.
It’s a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly city, with a growing network of cycle paths and a strategic commitment to sustainable mobility. The historic centre can be explored on foot, and the surrounding area offers spectacular routes to the coast or inland.
A taste of the sea
When it comes to food, Tarragona tastes like the sea. Seafood cuisine, romesco sauce, rice dishes and fresh fish define its unique identity. Taking a walk through the fishing neighbourhood of Serrallo or stopping at a winery in the Camp de Tarragona countryside are just a couple of the ways you can discover the essence of a Mediterranean culture with authentic products and flavours.
Experience with major sporting events
Tarragona has established itself as a leading sports capital, welcoming over 4,000 athletes from 26 countries in 33 disciplines at the 2018 Mediterranean Games and boasting a sporting legacy that includes the Anella Mediterrània venue. The city has seen several stages of La Vuelta and will host the Campeonato de España Absoluto de Atletismo athletics championship in 2025 and the Copa de la Reina de Baloncesto basketball championship in 2026. Now, in 2026, it’s adding a new sports event by becoming a starting point for a Tour de France stage.
International destination for sports and culture
In addition to major sporting events, every two years Tarragona hosts the Concurs de Castells, featuring the spectacular Catalan human towers up to 10 storeys tall that have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The event has become an international attraction: in 2024, it drew 400 accredited professionals from 30 different media outlets representing 15 countries around the world.
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