Travel Guide to Reus
Visiting for the first time?
Relax in a plaza: Visit Plaza de Prim in the centre of Reus. A statue of former Prime Minister Juan Prim on horseback stands grandly in the centre, whilst some of the area’s oldest houses line the perimeters. Or unwind with a coffee or cocktail in Plaza del Mercadal. It has an energetic atmosphere and a maze of lively side streets.
Follow the footsteps of Gaudí: Though this famed architect is more often associated with Barcelona, Reus is Gaudí’s home town. Join a tour that drops in on where Gaudí was born and spent his childhood, and ends at the Gaudí Centre – an exhibition dedicated to his majestic works, including multimedia models of his designs, a music shop and a restaurant.
Shop ‘til you drop: While away an afternoon wandering through the city’s main shopping hub, El Tomb de Reus. It offers a wide and varied selection of shops, boutiques, and cafés.
Take in the architecture: Stop by Casa Navàs, one of the most spectacular modernist houses in Europe with its detailed stone carvings and columns.
Feel on top of the world: Visit PortAventura, one of Europe’s most iconic theme parks, offering everything from extreme rides for the thrill-seekers to water-rides for the more faint-hearted. Located just outside the city, this is the place to go for a day’s worth of entertainment.
Delve into the past: Stop off at one of the city’s most esteemed monuments, the gothic Priory of St. Peter. Its impressive 200ft Bell Tower is dedicated to St. Peter, the city’s patron saint.
Looking for something different?
Fiesta time: Reus enjoys its biggest fiesta, ‘Festa Major de Reus’, in June, which is celebrated with live music, fireworks, street performances and parties in the squares. Soak up the atmosphere and let your hair down.
Relax in the park: Escape the hustle and bustle and visit Parc Sant Jordi, one of the largest green spaces in the city. With a climbing wall, fitness centre and outdoor pool, this is a popular area for anyone wanting to chill outside.
Sample the cuisine: Stroll around the city’s lively central market, where you can find local produce including Reus hazelnuts, Siurana olive oil and delicious wines. For the best in seasonal and regional cuisine, stop by the trendy La Presó-Reus and try their acclaimed tapas.
Go coastal: Situated only 10km from the stunning Costa Dorada coastline, Reus is perfect for beach-lovers. Wander down to soak up some vitamin D on the beaches of Salou, La Pineda and Cambrils.
Visit Centre d’Art Cal Masso, the liquor factory turned contemporary art museum on Carrer de Pròsper. You can catch some great live music here and grab a delicious bite.
Sip some vermouth: Sample Reus vermouth, the city’s typical beverage, at El Cafè de Reus, with its traditional décor and friendly atmosphere. If you want to take it a step further, venture to the Vermouth Museum to sample the drink, learn about its history, and even stay for a Mediterranean dining experience in the restaurant.
Want to go further?
Follow the ‘Genius Route’ to discover the towns that famously inspired the works of Picasso, Miró, Casals and Gaudí. The journey through El Vendrell, Reus, Mont-roig del Camp and Horta de Sant Joan gives an insight into the lives and inspirations of all four artists. It also provides a wonderful way to explore the Catalonian landscape and its myriad of charms.
For a unique riding experience, visit the family-run ranch Hipica West Fork in the countryside of Salou. Gallop across grassy fields and sightsee as you go.
Want to know a secret?
Explore the old psychiatric hospital, Institut Pere Mata, with its exquisite mosaic interior, intricate ceramic tiles and painted walls.
Feeling inspired? To book flights to Reus direct from Birmingham Airport click here.