Tarragona, Spain

Blessed with sunshine, sand and an astonishing selection of historical sites, Tarragona is a rare combination of natural beauty and rich culture. Vestiges of classical Roman structures dot the length and breadth of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site known in ancient times as Tarraco. The Paseo Arqueológico takes you on a stroll along the Roman walls that encircle the Old Town. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the open-air amphitheater is the most impressive of the Roman remains, although fascinating remnants of the circus, basilica, aqueduct and other landmarks stand throughout the city. To experience Tarragona like a local, head to the fishing district of El Serallo. Pastel-hued homes line a broad waterfront promenade along with tapas bars and restaurants serving the region’s prized seafood. A whole new world of exploration awaits just an hour up the coast in Barcelona, where the streets are filled with Gaudí’s distinctive modern architecture, thriving markets and designer boutiques.