It’s already Day 3 of my trip—we’re at the halfway mark! After several early mornings, I started the day much more relaxed—the housekeeping staff woke me up around 10 a.m., and I happily lingered over a leisurely, all-you-can-eat breakfast. Simply taking things slow can totally change how you experience a city.
This day’s destination? Tarragona, a UNESCO World Heritage site about an hour south of Barcelona by train. I’d first seen the name in my high school world-history textbook, and when a travel magazine feature suddenly inspired me mid-flight from London to Barcelona—I knew I had to go. The distance is perfect for a day trip.
I bought my ticket at Barcelona-Sants Station, then settled into the train for a scenic ride—mediterranean coastal views gliding by, heightening the day’s excitement.
***When I trip in Barcelona, Agoda helped me to find out the best hotel!***
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1. Amfiteatre Romà — Echoes of Roman Grandeur
First stop: the Roman amphitheater, just a 5–10 minute walk from the station. Standing against the Mediterranean backdrop, it looked exactly like the postcards—my excitement soared. I always thought arenas like this were exclusive to Rome, so seeing one in Spain was surreal.
Its preservation is incredible: you can clearly make out the seating tiers and stage layout. Imagining gladiator battles here left me in awe of Rome’s vast influence. Spain isn’t just Gaudí and Sagrada Família—it holds layers of deep history.
2. Tarragona Cathedral — A Moment of Quiet Reflection
Next, I found myself at Tarragona Cathedral. Yes, another church—though I couldn’t help smiling at myself for thinking, “Oh great, another one.”
But the experience was beautiful: less flamboyantly Gothic than Barcelona, more medieval and solemn—the stone cloisters, the hush, the sunbeams filtering through stained glass—it felt like time stopped. Instead of sightseeing, it became a place for pause and introspection. “This city preserves both Roman and medieval layers,” I thought deeply.
3. Les Ferreres Aqueduct (Roman Aqueduct) — Where History Meets Legend
Then, I headed a bit outside the city to the Roman aqueduct, also known locally as the “Devil’s Bridge” (Pont del Diable).
Since it’s harder to access, I hailed a taxi from the station, said in Spanish, “I’d like to go to the Roman aqueduct and return in about 30 minutes,” and—luckily—got back and forth for around €35. Standing before it, I was floored by its massive scale and 2,000-year endurance.
I found myself speechless: “How on earth did they build this?” From the viewing platform, the arches blend into the forest as if reaching out into time. Visiting this site alone made me realize how much more there is to see beyond Barcelona.
4. Reunion with a Spanish Friend
In the evening, I returned to Barcelona—and experienced the highlight of the trip: reuniting with a Spanish friend I met during my study abroad! We hadn’t been sure if our schedules would align, but she messaged that morning: “I’m free today!” The joy was unreal.
Meeting her was the real reason I came on this trip. As we walked from the old town to Barceloneta, just talking and laughing, nostalgia hit me hard. It felt like old times. The neighborhood’s dents in the walls—silent marks of the Spanish Civil War—were moments of shared significance. Barceloneta’s vibe? Kind of reminded me of Yokohama. This night renewed in me a deep sense of connection and reminded me why travel is about people, not just places.
Summary: A Day Defined by History and Heart
Day 3 exceeded all expectations. Wandering through a UNESCO World Heritage city and reuniting with a friend—it’s the kind of memory that moves you to tears. The moment we met, I teared up and we shared a warm hug. Her presence fuelled memories of study abroad that shaped who I am today. It was unforgettable. She’ll be back home in Madrid in September, so next up: Madrid awaits!
My London–Barcelona solo adventure is in its final stretch. Stay tuned—I’ll be returning to the UK leg of the journey next!
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