After our tour of Barcelona’s museums, it’s time to explore another fascinating destination: Costa Dorada. This corner of Catalonia is not only known for its golden beaches and privileged climate, but also for hosting a varied offer of museums that capture the essence of this area of the Catalan coast.
From the echoes of the glorious Roman past in ancient Tarraco to the most deeply rooted traditions of Catalan culture, the museums of Costa Dorada invite you to dive into a world where each room tells a chapter of this rich land. Whether you are an archaeology enthusiast, an art lover or simply looking to discover something new, there is something for everyone on this cultural tour.
Get ready to embark on a tour of some of the area’s most iconic exhibits, where each visit promises a unique perspective on this fascinating destination. Arrive at your favorite location with Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
The National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona (MNAT)
The National Archaeological Museum of Tarragona (MNAT) is a gateway to the Roman past of ancient Tarraco, declared a World Heritage Site.
Founded in the 19th century, this museum is not only the oldest of its kind in Catalonia, but also one of the most prominent in the conservation and dissemination of Roman heritage in the region. The MNAT collection houses an impressive array of archaeological pieces that narrate the life, architecture and culture of Tarraco, capital of the Roman province of Hispania Citerior.
The MNAT is composed of four emblematic spaces that broaden its cultural and educational scope. On the one hand, the Tinglado 4, in the old Maritime Station, in the Port of Tarragona, with a representative exhibition of ancient Tarraco.
Also, the Necropolis of Tarraco, a late Roman cemetery that is considered one of the best preserved of the Roman Empire.
On the other hand, the Roman Villa of Els Munts, in Altafulla, an outstanding example of an aristocratic residence of the time. And finally, the Mausoleum of Centcelles, in Constantí, which offers a unique experience with its exceptional early Christian mosaics.
Gaudí Centre of Reus
The Gaudí Centre, located in the heart of Reus, is an interactive space that pays tribute to the life and work of Antoni Gaudí, the universal architect of Catalan modernism. This center not only celebrates Gaudí’s legacy but also offers a unique sensory experience that allows visitors to understand the creative essence of this genius born in Reus in 1852.
Through its exhibitions and activities, the Gaudí Centre offers a journey through the aesthetic and technical principles that defined the architect’s work. The center also devotes special attention to Gaudí’s connection with his hometown. Although his work was developed mainly in Barcelona, the spirit of Reus is present in many aspects of his training and artistic vision.
In addition to being a space of knowledge, the Gaudí Centre is also a gateway to explore modernist Reus. From here, you can embark on tours of the city’s modernist buildings, many of them designed by Gaudí’s disciples and contemporaries.
Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services allow you to reach Costa Dorada from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
The Cambrils History Museum
The Cambrils History Museum, located in the emblematic Torre del Port, is a place where the history, heritage and maritime tradition of this town come together to tell its fascinating evolution.
This tower, built in the seventeenth century as a defense against pirate attacks, stands today as a symbol of the historical legacy of Cambrils, hosting exhibitions inside that connect visitors with its past.
Currently, the museum presents the temporary exhibition “Nansas and fishermen”, a window to the fishing heritage of the region that will be available until next March. The exhibition details traditional artisanal fishing techniques, such as the use of nansas, a trap tool of millenary origin that is still part of the Mediterranean fishing identity.
Other outstanding exhibitions on Costa Dorada
The Museum of Contemporary Enamel of Salou, inside the Torre Vella, is another of the most unique cultural corners of the Costa Dorada.
Within this space of great heritage value, the Museum of Contemporary Enamel presents a unique collection that includes works by renowned national and international artists who explore the possibilities of enamel in their creations.
In San Salvador, the Pau Casals Museum pays tribute to the legendary Catalan cellist Pau Casals, one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Located in the house the artist built facing the sea, this museum allows visitors to explore his life and work through interactive exhibits, personal objects and recordings that reflect his musical legacy and his commitment to peace.
On the other hand, in El Vendrell, the Deu Museum stands as a reference in sacred art and decorative arts. Its collection, donated by the businessman Antoni Deu, includes pieces of incalculable value, ranging from religious sculptures and ancient paintings to furniture and ceramics.
Finally, in Altafulla you will find the Ethnographic Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the region. This small but captivating exhibition space focuses on displaying tools, utensils and objects that illustrate the ways of life in rural areas.
Let yourself be surprised by Costa Dorada beyond its paradisiacal landscapes. Remember that with Shuttle2Sun’s shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, you can reach locations such as Tarragona, Reus and Cambrils, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
