Things To Do
in Reus

Reus is a historic city in Catalonia, just inland from Tarragona. It blends a well-preserved medieval core with strong modernist architecture and a lively culinary scene. The city serves as a gateway to the Costa Dorada's beaches, wine country, and Roman sites.

Visitors can expect a friendly, walkable center with a rich Catalan heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Reus, where you can admire the stunning modernist architecture. Stop by the iconic Gaudí Centre to learn about the famous architect's early life and influences in the town. Enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast of tostada and café con leche at a local café.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the beautiful Plaza del Mercadal, where you can explore local shops and artisan boutiques. Head to the nearby Church of Sant Pere to appreciate its intricate interiors and take in the local atmosphere. Conclude your afternoon with a guided walking tour that reveals the stories behind Reus' rich history.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant specializing in Catalan cuisine, tasting dishes like calçots and romesco sauce. After dinner, take a relaxed walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for a drink at a terrace bar. Finally, enjoy some live music at a local venue to end your day on a high note.

day 2
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, where you can explore a vast collection of Catalan art spanning centuries. Afterward, visit the nearby Museu de Reus to discover the city's cultural heritage and artistic contributions. Take a moment to enjoy a coffee at a nearby café while reflecting on the morning's artistic inspiration.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant street art scene in Reus, with a self-guided tour of notable murals and installations. Visit the Reus Market, where you can sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce, immersing yourself in the lively market atmosphere. Engage with local artisans showcasing their crafts, learning about traditional techniques and modern innovations.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a charming restaurant that features a tasting menu of local wines paired with seasonal dishes. After your meal, attend a performance at the Teatre Fortuny, known for its stunning architecture and diverse programming, from plays to concerts. Wrap up the night with a stroll along the picturesque streets, marveling at the illuminated facades of Reus’ historic buildings.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee and pastry$3-5
🥗Three-course meal for two$28-50
🚆One-way ticket (local transport)$1.5-2.5
🏨One night in a mid-range hotel$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact city easy to explore on foot
  • Rich Catalan culture and gastronomy
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • English may be less common in some areas
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Bon dia" - Good morning
  • "Gràcies" - Thank you
  • "Si us plau" - Please
  • "Parleu anglès?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Quant costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Reus

Visit one of these nice places.

Casa Navàs

A premier modernist building by Lluís Domènech i Montaner with ornate façade and interior details.

Plaça del Mercadal

Arcaded square with historic balconies, ideal for architecture and street photography.

Passeig Prim

A broad avenue with plane trees and elegant façades, perfect for wide-angle shots.

Mercat Central de Reus

Historic market building featuring colorful stalls and ironwork.

Eixample Modernista streets

Quarters full of art nouveau-inspired houses and decorative tiles.

Culinary Guide

Food in Reus

Reus's cuisine reflects Catalan traditions with a coastal influence; expect fresh seafood, vegetables, romesco sauce, and simple, tasty fare.

Reus Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Calçot de Reus

A seasonal spring dish of grilled green onions served with romesco sauce; often enjoyed during calçotada events in nearby towns.

Must-Try!

Xató

Catalan endive salad with tuna, anchovies, olives and romesco sauce; a regional favorite best enjoyed in local taverns.

Pa amb tomàquet

Toasted bread rubbed with tomato and olive oil; a staple starter in most meals.

Crema Catalana

A vanilla custard dessert with a caramelized sugar crust.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat Central de Reus

Historic market offering fresh seafood, produce, and Catalan specialties.

Tapas and street stalls around Plaça Prim

Casual bites, sandwiches, churros, and local snacks near the main square.

Climate Guide

Weather

Reus has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters; spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor activities; bring sun protection in summer and a light jacket in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is standard; among friends, a light kiss on both cheeks is common in Catalonia.

Meal Etiquette

Meals start later in the day by European norms; waiting for everyone to be served is polite; saying bon profit before meals is customary.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good; watch for petty theft in crowded areas and on beaches; keep valuables secure and use common sense in nightlife areas.

Tipping in Reus

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or adding 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in markets and small eateries; some places may add a small card-processing fee.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.

Summer

Warm to hot days with strong sun; plan early mornings or late afternoons and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures; grape harvests and wine events in nearby DO regions.

Winter

Cool but usually mild; rain is possible; ideal for city sights and gastronomy.

Nightlife Guide

Reus at Night

Reus offers a relaxed nightlife with bars and cafes mainly in the city center around Plaça Mercadal and Plaça Prim; expect wine bars, tapas, and casual venues rather than late-night clubs.

Hiking in Reus

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montsant Natural Park trails

Rugged canyon trails and scenic viewpoints near Falset; popular for day hikes.

Siurana village viewpoints

Steep limestone cliffs with dramatic river valley views; various loops available.

Airports

How to reach Reus by plane.

Reus Airport (REU)

Domestic and international low-cost flights; accessible by bus and train connections to Tarragona and Barcelona.

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)

Major international hub about 100 km away; excellent rail and road connections to Reus and the Costa Dorada.

Getting Around

Walkability

Reus is highly walkable in the city center; most attractions are within a 20–30 minute stroll; some sites require bus or taxi to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Catalan and Spanish communities; mix of families and retirees; growing international presence in hospitality and academia.

Students

Nearby universities and vocational programs contribute a youthful culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in the region; matches and local clubs are common.

Cycling

Popular for road and mountain biking in the surrounding hills and coast.

Water sports

Sea kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing along the Costa Dorada.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport includes trains and buses; the city is compact and easy to navigate on foot; traffic around the coast is heavier in peak summer; parking in the center can be challenging.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Reus.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted; look for vegetarian stews, grilled vegetables, salads, and romesco sauce without anchovies; ask for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Spain provides universal healthcare; travelers should have travel insurance; local hospitals and clinics offer emergency and primary care; EU visitors can use EHIC arrangements.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide