Cultural Activities on the Costa Dorada

The Costa Dorada is world-renowned for its beaches and enviable climate, but when the hustle and bustle of summer subsides, its most fascinating side emerges: a historical and cultural heritage spanning more than two thousand years. From the splendour of the Roman Empire to the genius of Modernism, the towns we connect offer a range of experiences that are well worth discovering at your leisure.

If you love history, art and traditions, join us on this tour of the cultural treasures of our main towns.

We are the official airport transport provider, so if you are arriving by plane, you can purchase official tickets online for your transfer from Barcelona Airport to Tarragona, Salou, PortAventura World, Cambrils, La Pineda and Reus.

Tarragona, the mirror of ancient Rome

To talk about culture on the Costa Dorada is to talk about Tarragona. Ancient Tarraco is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also an open-air museum that you can visit at any time of the year.

The Amphitheatre and the Circus: Sitting in the stands of the amphitheatre with the Mediterranean in the background is an experience that transports you back to the 2nd century.

The Part Alta: Wandering through the streets of the old town will take you to the impressive Cathedral of Santa Tecla, a jewel that combines Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Centcelles (Constantí): A stone's throw from the city is the Roman villa of Centcelles, famous for its dome mosaics, considered among the most important in the Christian Roman world.

Reus: The epicentre of Modernism

A few kilometres from the coast, Reus is an elegant and vibrant city, renowned for being the birthplace of Antoni Gaudí. Culture permeates every façade and every square here.

The Modernism Route: A stroll through the city centre will allow you to admire spectacular façades such as those of Casa Navàs (a unique gem in Europe for preserving its original interior) and Casa Rull.

Gaudí Centre: This is the only interpretation centre dedicated exclusively to the life and work of the architect. An interactive space ideal for all ages, it helps us understand how nature inspired his impossible forms.

Vila-seca and La Pineda: History and avant-garde

Vila-seca is a municipality that has managed to preserve its historical identity while embracing modernity. Its cultural centre is a must-see for the curious.

Vila-seca Castle: Following its restoration, this imposing building has become a leading exhibition centre, hosting contemporary art exhibitions in collaboration with the Vila Casas Foundation.

The ‘Pineda’ sculpture group: On the seafront promenade of La Pineda, the iconic eight-tonne pine trees designed by Javier Mariscal represent the union between modern art and the coastal landscape, becoming a symbol of local identity.

Salou: Much more than just the sea

Although it is the tourist hub of the area, Salou has hidden corners of great heritage value that often go unnoticed.

Torre Vella: This 16th-century defence tower, built to protect the population from pirate attacks, is now a cultural centre dedicated to art exhibitions and the Museum of Contemporary Enamel.

Modernist villas: A stroll along the Paseo Jaume I allows you to admire villas such as Casa Bonet, which showcase the stately architecture of the early 20th century and the historical importance of Salou as a holiday destination for decades.

Cambrils: Seafaring tradition and agricultural heritage

Cambrils offers a culture closely linked to its fishing roots and agricultural past, providing a comprehensive insight into Mediterranean life.

Cambrils History Museum: It has several locations, including the Villa Romana de la Llosa, an archaeological site that shows what life was like in the 1st century BC.

Parc Samà: Located between Cambrils and Vinyols, this historic romantic-style garden is a living work of art. Created by Salvador Samà (Marquis of Marianao), it is a perfect blend of botany, colonial architecture and lakes that transports you to another era.

Culture as the driving force of the Costa Dorada

Exploring these towns allows you to understand that this territory is a mosaic of civilisations. The ease of travelling between them with BusPlana will help you discover places you never imagined.  You can check our transport timetables on our website and plan your visit in advance.

At BusPlana, we invite you to let your curiosity guide you. The Costa Dorada is not just a place to visit, it is a place to be read through its monuments and art.