The 11 essential things to do in Salou

Are you in Salou? Discover the 11 must-sees of this Spanish resort!

Salou is a Spanish seaside resort located by the Mediterranean, northeast of the country, more precisely without the Tarragona Province. The city is also the tourist capital of the Costa Daurada (Coté dorée), and thus attracts many visitors throughout the year.

Its beaches, its Mediterranean climate, its numerous centres of interest and its proximity to Barcelona (110 km) make it an ideal place of stay for young and old.

To make the most of your visit to Salou, we have prepared a small selection of 11 must-see activities to do in this Spanish tourist destination. Then follow the guide!

1. Port Aventura World

The incontournable when you visit Salou, is of course the discovery of the amusement park Port Aventura World . This park that spreads over near 120 hectares , is the most visited in Spain and the third in Europe with four million visitors per year. The complex is in the form of three parks:

Port Aventura Park

You will discover it 40 attractions for young and old, as well as many shows. All focused around 6 themes Polynesia, the Far West, Mexico, China, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. A real invitation to the trip that will give you full of strong sensations. Indeed, the park owes its reputation to the various Russian mountains it houses.

Port Aventura Caribe Aquatic Park

It offers an ideal space to cool down, between swimming pools, slides and water park. The ideal place to spend a moment with family or be with friends and recover from his emotions.

Ferrari Land

Opened in 2017, Ferrari Land is the last of the Amusement Park. Everything is turned on the world of the Ferrari brand. There you will find various simulators but also one of the highest roller coasters in the world.

To take full advantage of the park, we recommend that you spend at least one day. For those who have a little more time, you will find 6 hotels within the park, to prolong the adventure.

2. La Promenade du front de mer

If there is a place you can’t miss in Salou, it’s definitely the seafront promenade, also called The Jaume . With majestic palm trees, this is the ideal place to stroll around and enjoy an ice cream in the day.

At nightfall, the Jaume embraces with a series of fountains that light up in the eyes of the young and old. More than 100 jets of water are animated at the rhythm of music and synchronized lights. In high season you can enjoy this show every day.

3. The Church of Santa Maria del Mar

If the small town of Salou is no longer simply a fishermen’s village, it still keeps a strong mark of this past time. L’ church Santa Maria del Mar , which dates back to the 18th century, is proof. She pays tribute to the fishing activity that was at the origin of the city. Discover this building to extend into the Salou d’antan.

4. La Torre Vella

Salou is not just a destination of sun. Book a little time to discover its rich historical heritage such as the Torre Vella . Originally, this tower — built in 1530 - the function of protecting the city from pirate attacks.

Today, she is the landmark of art lovers, who can admire the exhibitions of paintings and sculptures. Cherry on the cake, the entrance is free, so do not deprive yourself of it!

5. The Artisa Catalana Museum

Go to meet the locals and Catalan cultural richness by strolling through the streets of the artisanal market Masia Catalana . This night market offers to discover the work of local artisans while enjoying the cool night. It's open every day from 7:00 to midnight.

6. The Bosc Aventura

If you're looking for a family activity in Salou, go to Salou Bosc Aventura . Located in the heart of the city, this park offers a multitude of activities in the middle of nature, such as zipline, climbing or paintball among others. What to satisfy little and great!

7. Coastal road

In the early morning or at sunset, walk along the river Camí de Ronda . This former coastal round path was built on a hiking trail 6.5 km .

It allows you to discover the coast of Salou without any technical difficulties. You will see breathtaking views of the sea and the entire surrounding coast. Open wide eyes as you can also see many sea birds.

8. A boat ride

Visiting Salou is also enjoying the beauty of its coastline. After the walk on the coastal path, another option is to take the wide!

Indeed, rent a boat will allow you to explore the Mediterranean coast, its coves and beaches. Thus, you will have the opportunity to discover the landscape in another way, seen from the waters. A great experience to live with your loved ones to perfect your stay in Salou!

9. The coast of Salou

You will have understood it well, Salou’s main asset is its superb coastline extending over 14 km. It offers 9 beaches and coves where everyone will find his happiness between swimming, bronze and various nautical activities. So let yourself be tempted by a small ski jet hike, a paddle ride, kayaking or canoeing.

The beaches of Salou

Each beach has its particularity but they all offer the guarantee to find sand and warm sea. The closest to the city centre are the beach of Ponent, where you practice beach volleyball, and the beach of Llevant, a family par excellence. For a little more animation, head to Capellans Beach. For a long walk on the sand, we recommend La Llarga which is the largest of them.

The coves or Cala de Salou

In addition to the beaches, you will also find many coves that are found on both sides of the seaside resort. These are real little corners of paradise! Most are surrounded by rocks like:

• Cala Crancs to the east

• Cala Font, she is very popular with marine diving enthusiasts

• Cala Llenguadets, will offer you a postcard landscape with the most limpid waters

10. Nightlife in Salou

If you ask that you do in Salou during your visit, the answer is undoubtedly to enjoy its festive atmosphere. The station is known throughout Europe for its young and festive atmosphere. This attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to have fun there at night.

With about 15 discotheques, including the huge Pacha la Pineda which hosts international DJs, close to 50 bars and a multitude of restaurants. Everyone will find his account! The most famous place is Carles Buigas, which is full of friendly and festive places to enjoy Salou.

Many festivities animate the city centre during the summer season (walks, fireworks...), giving Salou the reputation of a city that never sleeps!

11. Visit Barcelona

Staying in Salou is an excellent opportunity to visit the city of Barcelona, located only 110 km away. Access by train or by car is easy and you can discover all the cultural richness of the capital of Catalonia.

The city is indeed renowned for its architecture and art of living. You can admire the works of Antoine Gaudi as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell , or stroll over the famous Ramblas . The day will end around good tapas and a glass of sangria.

How to get to Salou?

The city of Salou is easy to reach from France.

• By train

Take the train to the train Barcelona-Sants train station , then go up in a rail connection to Salou. Find more information on the company’s website RENFE .

• By plane

From France

You can reach Salou by air in less than two hours from Paris. To find tickets at the best prices, don’t hesitate to take them in advance and compare flights with the help of Ulysses .

From Barcelona

Many companies serve it airport El Prat Barcelona. From there you can reach Salou by taking a bus from the company Plana that passes through Terminal 2 of the airport.

Note : Salou also has its own airport, the Salou Reus , located only 8 km downtown. The latter, however, only hosts 5 airlines.

• By bus

Many bus lines serve the seaside resort like Flexibus, Eurolines or Ouibus. More information on these companies’ website.

• By car

Whether you're coming with your own vehicle or opting for the car rental , you can also reach Salou through Highway A7 or by the AP7 . Take it exit 35 .

Where to stay in Salou?

Salou being a particularly tourist destination, you will have no difficulty finding accommodation. Between hotels, apartment rental and camping, all budgets will find their account.

For a lively stay, we recommend you to stay in the city centre of Salou where you will find many choices of accommodation type airbnb.

Bronze enthusiasts will be able to opt for beachfront accommodation, while adventurers will choose directly for a hotel close to the famous Port Aventura World amusement park. Think of using a hotel comparison to find the one that best fits your expectations.

The editor also gives you a boost, through a selection of places to sleep in Salou: then go read our article In which quarter house in Salou (PortAventura)?

All you have to do is pack your bags!