The Ferreres Aqueduct, Tarragona

Aqueduct, Historic Site and Roman Site in Tarragona

The Ferreres Aqueduct
The Ferreres Aqueduct

The Ferreres Aqueduct, also known locally as Pont del Diable, is one of Tarragona's most impressive Roman-era monuments: a soaring double-tiered arcade of stone arches set in a green, walkable park just outside the city. It feels both monumental and surprisingly peaceful, with pine trees, footpaths, and viewpoints that let you appreciate the structure from multiple angles.

It's an easy add-on to a Tarragona walking tour focused on ancient Tarraco: pair it with the amphitheatre, circus, and old town, then head out to the aqueduct for a change of scenery and a short nature walk. The best views are from the paths that run along the valley floor (for the full height) and from the approach where the arches line up in a long, photogenic perspective.

History and Significance of the The Ferreres Aqueduct

Built in the Roman period to supply water to ancient Tarraco, The Ferreres Aqueduct is a vivid reminder that Tarragona was once a major city of the Roman world. Even if you're not a specialist, the scale makes the purpose instantly clear: this was infrastructure designed to last.

What makes the site especially compelling is how readable it still is today. You can see the rhythm of the arches, the careful stonework, and the way the structure bridges a natural dip in the landscape—an elegant solution to a practical problem.

As part of Tarragona’s wider Roman heritage, the aqueduct also helps connect the dots between the city’s monuments and daily life in antiquity. It’s not just a “pretty ruin”; it’s a piece of the system that kept baths, fountains, and households running.

Things to See and Do in the The Ferreres Aqueduct

Start by walking the main path to the base of the aqueduct so you can take in its full height and the symmetry of the two stacked arcades. From below, the engineering feels almost unbelievable, and it’s the best spot for wide-angle photos.

Next, explore the surrounding park trails for different viewpoints. A short loop walk gives you changing perspectives—front-on, side-on, and framed by trees—so the aqueduct never looks quite the same twice.

If you enjoy slow travel, bring water and treat it like a mini-hike rather than a quick stop. The area is ideal for a relaxed stroll, a few quiet minutes in nature, and a reset between Tarragona’s more urban Roman sites.

How to Get to the The Ferreres Aqueduct

The nearest major airports are Barcelona El Prat (BCN) and Reus Airport (REU). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Tarragona on Booking.com.

Tarragona is well connected by rail, and arriving by train is one of the easiest ways to start your trip without a car. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're driving, the aqueduct is straightforward to reach from Tarragona via the N-240, and having a car makes it easy to combine with other nearby Roman and coastal stops. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the The Ferreres Aqueduct

  • Official website: https://www.tarragona.cat/patrimoni/museu-historia/monuments/laqueducte-del-francoli
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people, especially in warmer months.
  • How long to spend: Plan 45–90 minutes for viewpoints and a short loop walk; longer if you want a proper hike.
  • Accessibility: Paths are natural and can be uneven; expect some inclines and dirt/gravel sections that may be challenging for wheelchairs.
  • Facilities: Keep expectations simple—bring water and sun protection, and plan restroom/snack stops back in Tarragona.

Where to Stay Close to the The Ferreres Aqueduct

Base yourself in central Tarragona (Old Town/near the Roman sites) for the easiest sightseeing, dining, and transport connections.

H10 Imperial Tarraco A polished, well-located option near the historic core—great if you want comfort, views, and a walkable base for Roman Tarragona.

AC Hotel Tarragona by Marriott A reliable modern stay with easy access to the station area and main roads—handy if you’re mixing day trips with city time.

Hotel Astari A practical choice near the seafront with a relaxed vibe—nice for travelers who want a quieter feel after busy sightseeing days.

Hotel Lauria Right on Tarragona’s main boulevard, making it convenient for restaurants, shops, and getting around without planning too much.

B&B Hotel Tarragona Valls A budget-friendly, car-friendly pick outside the center—useful if you’re road-tripping and prioritizing easy parking and value.

Is the The Ferreres Aqueduct Worth Visiting?

Yes—The Ferreres Aqueduct is absolutely worth it if you're in Tarragona, especially because it combines a major Roman monument with an easy, scenic walk. It's one of those places where the “wow” factor is immediate, even on a short visit, and it's a refreshing contrast to the city's denser historic streets.

Honest Pivot: if you dislike walking on natural trails, are short on time, or prefer attractions with lots of on-site interpretation and amenities, you might skip it and focus on Tarragona’s in-town Roman sites instead. It’s best enjoyed as a small outdoor excursion rather than a museum-style visit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (8,749)

Google reviewers rate The Ferreres Aqueduct very highly, highlighting how impressive and well-preserved the Roman engineering feels in person. Visitors commonly praise the scenic park setting, easy hiking-style trails, and excellent photo opportunities, with many noting it's a memorable stop even on a short visit. The most frequent drawbacks are that it involves some walking from parking and that the experience is primarily outdoors with limited on-site amenities.

martin de goeij
a week ago
"During my stay in Tarragona, I have already visited many historical landmarks, but the Roman aqueduct had been high on my list for quite some time.Upon arrival, I was once again amazed by the beauty and craftsmanship of thousands of years ago. The architecture is impressive and clearly shows how advanced engineering already was in Roman times. Located just a 10-minute drive from the center of Tarragona, this magnificent aqueduct is beautifully hidden in nature. Walking around the site is a special experience, and you can even cross to the other side via the water cha el itself, knowing that centuries ago water flowed through here — one of the most essential elements of human life. I was truly impressed and found it wonderful that this historical monument has been preserved so well. Highly recommended to visit...."
Paul Vivas
3 months ago
"Superb Roman AqueductnThis is one of the bet preserved aqueduc I have been too. It is great and looks fantastic. You really wonder how on earth didthey build this 2000 years ago? I personally am a bit of a history buff and really enjoy this kind of places. It takes a bit of walking from the parking but is seriously worth it. Highly recommended...."
Chris H
5 months ago
"Pretty nice place, lovely to see how well it's been kept over all these years. Parking nearby is easy and was easy to reach too. The park around theaqueduct is quite nice as well. Had a nice walk. Visit took a little less than an hour overall...."

For Different Travelers

The aqueduct works well as a flexible stop: you can keep it quick for photos or stretch it into a longer nature walk. Because it’s outdoors and spacious, it’s also easier to fit into a busy itinerary than timed-entry attractions.

Families with Kids

Kids usually love the scale of the arches and the feeling of being in a “real” ancient structure rather than looking at artifacts behind glass. The surrounding trails also give them room to move, which can be a lifesaver after more formal sightseeing.

Plan it like a short adventure: comfortable shoes, water, and a simple goal (a loop walk plus a few photo stops). If you’re traveling with very young children, a carrier can be easier than a stroller on uneven paths.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the aqueduct is a low-effort, high-reward outing—beautiful stonework, quiet trails, and plenty of spots to pause together. It’s especially atmospheric in late afternoon when the light warms the stone.

Pair it with a relaxed Tarragona evening: Roman ruins in town, then a sunset stroll and dinner back in the center. It's a great “breather” day activity that still feels meaningful.

Budget Travelers

This is a strong budget-friendly attraction because the experience is about the place itself: views, history, and a walk in nature. You don’t need a long checklist—just time, comfortable footwear, and a phone or camera.

To keep costs down, combine it with other free or low-cost Tarragona highlights and pack snacks and water. If you're staying central, you can also plan your day around public transport and walking.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how the aqueduct fits into the broader story of Roman Tarraco—less spectacle than an amphitheatre, but arguably more revealing about how the city functioned. The structure’s layout makes it easy to imagine water moving toward the ancient urban core.

Use it as a context-builder: visit the in-town Roman sites first, then come here to see the infrastructure that supported them. If you enjoy deeper interpretation, consider adding a guided walk focused on Roman engineering and landscape.

FAQs for Visiting The Ferreres Aqueduct

Getting There

It’s just outside the city, so it’s a short trip rather than an all-day excursion. Plan a little extra time for the final approach and walking to the best viewpoints.
Yes, but it may take more planning depending on where you’re staying and the transport option you choose. If you’re short on time, a taxi/ride option can be the simplest.
Most visitors find it manageable, and the visit is set up like a park stop rather than a dense city-center attraction. Expect a short walk from parking to the main viewpoints.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is typically required for general access, as it’s an open-air monument area. Special guided activities, when offered, may have a separate fee.
Yes, Tarragona sometimes offers organized routes and guided walks that include the aqueduct. These are optional and can add helpful context.
Yes—this is one of the easiest “add-ons” to a Roman Tarragona day. Do the city monuments first, then finish with the aqueduct as a scenic finale.

Visiting Experience

It can be either: a fast photo stop or a longer walk through the surrounding trails. Most travelers are happy with under two hours unless they’re hiking.
The most dramatic perspective is from below, where you see the full height and both tiers of arches. A short walk around the park gives you multiple angles.
It can get busier at peak times, but the outdoor setting helps it feel less congested than many city attractions. Visiting earlier or later in the day usually feels calmer.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

If you enjoy history, a guide can make the visit richer by explaining the water system and the landscape choices. If you prefer independent travel, the monument still impresses on its own.
It’s ideal as a half-day add-on to the Roman core, especially after the amphitheatre and old town. Think of it as “Roman engineering in nature” to balance out the city.
Yes—some itineraries include it, and it also works as a self-guided extension if you’re already exploring Roman Tarragona. Just plan transport and walking time.

Photography

Late afternoon often gives warmer tones and more depth in the arches. Early morning can be quieter and cleaner for wide shots.
Yes, the valley-floor paths let you capture the full span and height. Walk a little to find angles where the arches line up in perspective.
Access rules can change, and some areas may be restricted for preservation or safety. If you see barriers or signage, stick to the designated paths.

Accessibility & Facilities

Some paths are uneven and may be difficult with wheels, especially after rain. If accessibility is a priority, consider scouting the flattest approach and keeping the visit short.
Facilities are limited because it’s a park-like monument area. Plan restroom breaks in Tarragona before or after.
There is some shade from trees, but you’ll still be exposed on open paths and viewpoints. Bring sun protection in warm weather.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Don’t count on on-site food options. It’s best to eat in Tarragona or bring a small snack.
Head back to central Tarragona for the widest choice, from quick bites to sit-down meals. Rambla Nova and the old town are convenient areas.
A casual snack break works well in the park setting if you pack out your trash. Keep it simple and respect the monument area.

Safety & Timing

Generally yes, but treat it like a trail walk: watch your footing and stay on marked paths. Avoid climbing on stonework or entering restricted areas.
Comfortable walking shoes are the main requirement. In summer, add sun protection and extra water.
Yes, but plan around the heat: go earlier or later, and keep the walk shorter. The open viewpoints can feel much hotter than the city streets.

Nearby Attractions to the The Ferreres Aqueduct

The The Ferreres Aqueduct appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Tarragona!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: 43007 Tarragona, Spain
Tarragona: 3 km
Telephone: +34 675 85 37 22
Official Website

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