10 amazing things to do in Reus

Impressive Modernist architecture, charming squares, lively markets, and a rich cultural heritage. Reus is often overshadowed by nearby Barcelona, but that comparison doesn’t do the city justice. During my visit, I was particularly impressed by its stunning Catalan Modernist architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and strong connection to architect Antoni Gaudí. From masterpieces like Casa Navàs and the Gaudí Centre to picturesque streets, local boutiques, and excellent gastronomy, Reus has far more to offer than you might expect at first glance. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do in Reus, sharing the places that surprised me the most. Like me, you may discover that Reus is one of the most underrated cities in Catalonia in Spain.

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About reus

Reus is located in southern Catalonia, about 15 kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea and just a 90-minute drive from Barcelona. Thanks to its central location, it makes the perfect day trip from both Barcelona and Tarragona. Yet many travellers still overlook Reus, which is a real shame.

This charming city is the birthplace of Antoni Gaudí and one of the best places to discover Catalan Modernism. Although Gaudí himself didn’t design any buildings in his hometown, you’ll find impressive masterpieces by renowned architects such as Lluís Domènech i Montaner, with Casa Navàs being the city’s architectural highlight. At the interactive Gaudí Centre, you can also learn more about the life and inspiration of the world-famous architect.

But Reus is much more than its architecture. What surprised me most was its welcoming and authentic atmosphere. Stroll through elegant shopping streets, enjoy an aperitif on a sunny square, and sample the vermouth for which the city is famous around the world. Everything feels just a little more relaxed than in Barcelona, without sacrificing any of its charm or culture.

For me, it’s this combination of beautiful architecture, rich history, excellent gastronomy, and a laid-back Catalan atmosphere that makes Reus one of the most underrated cities in Catalonia. After spending just one day here, you’ll wonder why it doesn’t appear on more travel itineraries.

How to travel to Reus?

Reus is surprisingly easy to reach from Belgium. During the summer season, you can even fly directly from Brussels South Charleroi Airport to Reus Airport. However, for most travellers, Reus is part of a larger road trip through Catalonia, making Barcelona the most convenient and popular airport to fly into.

From Barcelona, you can easily reach Reus by public transport. The fastest option is the train from Barcelona Sants, which takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the service. Several trains run daily, making Reus an ideal destination for a day trip. There are also regular bus connections between Barcelona and Reus.

If you’re planning to explore more of Catalonia, renting a car is by far the most flexible option. The drive from Barcelona to Reus takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing you to create your own itinerary and easily combine Reus with other highlights across the region.

If you’re travelling by car, parking is straightforward. There are several spacious paid car parks close to the historic centre, including Aparcament La Fira, Aparcament Baluard, and Aparcament Carrilet. From there, it’s just a short walk to the city’s main attractions. If you prefer free parking, you’ll also find a number of free parking areas on the outskirts of the city, although these require a slightly longer walk to the centre.

Planning a trip soon? Be sure to check out my article, “10 Catalonia travel tips you need to know before you go.” In it, I share practical advice on toll roads, parking, the best time to visit, local customs and much more, so you can start your Catalan adventure fully prepared.

How much time do you need to visit Reus?

I spent one full day in Reus, and it turned out to be the perfect amount of time to really get to know the city. There was plenty of time to admire its impressive Modernist architecture, visit the Gaudí Centre, wander through the charming shopping streets, and enjoy a leisurely lunch with a glass of the city’s famous local vermouth on a sunny square.

If you have a little more time, staying overnight is definitely worth considering. That way, you can experience the city’s relaxed atmosphere in the evening as well, without having to rush. Thanks to its central location, Reus also makes an excellent stopover or base during a road trip through Catalonia. It’s the kind of place where you can simply wander without a plan and keep discovering beautiful corners along the way.

Where to stay in Reus?

If you want to be within walking distance of everything, Hotel Centre Reusis an excellent choice. Thanks to its central location, you’ll be just a few minutes away from the city’s main attractions, lively squares, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect base for exploring Reus at your own pace.

By now, you probably know that I have a soft spot for unique places to stay. If you’re travelling by car or spending a few extra days in the region, it’s also worth looking just outside the city. Hotel Mas La Boella, only 6 kilometres from Reus, and Hotel Boutique Mas Passamaner are two of the most beautiful places to stay in the area. Think historic buildings, stunning gardens, stylish rooms, and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. They’re perfect if you want to combine your visit to Reus with a stay that’s just as memorable as the city itself.

Still looking for accommodation? Be sure to check out the map below to compare hotels, apartments, and B&Bs, and easily find a place that suits your budget and travel plans.

10 amazing things to do in Reus

1 – Admire Catalan Modernism at Casa Navàs

No visit to Reus is complete without seeing Casa Navàs. Designed by the renowned architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this magnificent townhouse is considered one of the finest and best-preserved examples of Catalan Modernism. It was built between 1901 and 1907 for textile merchant Joaquim Navàs and is especially remarkable because not only its façade, but also much of its original interior has been preserved.

I had seen plenty of beautiful photos beforehand, but nothing prepared me for how breathtaking the interior is in real life. Behind every door, you’ll discover stunning stained-glass windows, intricate wood carvings, colourful mosaics, elegant wrought ironwork, and floral motifs crafted down to the finest detail. It’s one of those places where you constantly find yourself looking up and noticing something new.

A visit is only possible as part of a guided tour lasting around 55 minutes, and in my opinion, it’s absolutely worth it. The guide not only shares the history of the Navàs family but also explains the symbolism and craftsmanship behind the countless decorative details. Without that context, you would undoubtedly miss many of the building’s hidden gems. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as the guided tours are very popular.

2 – Follow the Modernist Route through Reus

After visiting Casa Navàs, it’s time to explore the rest of Reus. The city is home to more than 80 Modernist buildings, making it one of the most important centres of Catalan Modernism. Although Antoni Gaudí was born here, it was architects such as Lluís Domènech i Montaner and Pere Caselles who truly shaped the city’s architectural landscape.

One of the things I loved most about Reus is that you don’t have to rush from one attraction to the next. Simply wandering through its streets is an experience in itself. Around almost every corner, you’ll find colourful façades, elegant balconies, intricate mosaics, and beautifully crafted wrought ironwork. For anyone who loves architecture and photography, this is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding city walks in Catalonia.

tour modernisme, Reus, Caatalonia, Spain

Besides Casa Navàs, don’t miss Casa Rull and Casa Gasull. These elegant townhouses are among the finest examples of Catalan Modernism in Reus and perfectly illustrate why the city is such a paradise for architecture lovers.

You can easily follow the Modernist Route at your own pace using the signposted trail or a free map available from the tourist information office. If you’d like to learn more about the history of the buildings and the architects behind them, a guided walking tour is highly recommended. Allow around two to three hours to fully appreciate Reus’ most impressive Modernist gems.

3 – Visit the interactive Gaudí Centre

No visit to Reus is complete without a stop at the Gaudí Centre. Although Antoni Gaudí didn’t design any buildings in his hometown, this interactive museum offers a fascinating insight into the life, inspiration, and unique vision of the world-famous architect. Thanks to its hands-on exhibits, it’s an engaging experience for both adults and children.

Through scale models, audiovisual presentations, and interactive displays, you’ll discover how nature inspired Gaudí and how his revolutionary ideas evolved into some of the world’s most iconic buildings. Even if you’re already familiar with his work, you’re likely to learn something new.

For me, it was the perfect introduction before visiting Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona. After exploring the Gaudí Centre, you’ll look at landmarks such as the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Park Güell with completely different eyes. You’ll better understand the inspiration behind his designs and start noticing many more of the remarkable details in his architecture.

Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. If you’re planning to visit both Reus and Barcelona during your trip, I’d definitely recommend visiting the Gaudí Centre first.

4 – Visit the impressive Institut Pere Mata

Just outside the centre of Reus lies one of the finest examples of Catalan Modernist architecture: Institut Pere Mata. This former psychiatric hospital was designed at the end of the 19th century by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the same architect behind Casa Navàs, the Palau de la Música Catalana, and the Hospital de Sant Pau in Barcelona. Institut Pere Mata was his first large pavilion-style hospital and later served as the inspiration for the Hospital de Sant Pau, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Institut Pere Mata, Reus, Catalonia, Spain

What impressed me most was how visionary the design was. Domènech i Montaner believed that light, space, nature, and beauty played an important role in patients’ well-being. He therefore created a campus of separate pavilions surrounded by gardens, where architecture and functionality blend together seamlessly.

The highlight of the visit is the Pavelló dels Distingits, the only pavilion currently open to the public. Inside, you’ll discover a breathtaking interior filled with colourful stained-glass windows, intricate mosaics, ceramics, elegant woodwork, and richly decorated ceilings. It feels far more like a luxurious mansion or palace than a hospital.

Because Institut Pere Mata is located just outside the city centre, it receives far fewer visitors than it deserves. That’s a real shame, as it’s one of the absolute highlights of Reus. If you’re interested in architecture or Catalan Modernism, this hidden gem is not to be missed.

5 – Soak up the atmosphere at Plaça del Mercadal

Plaça del Mercadal is undoubtedly the beating heart of Reus. For centuries, this square has been the city’s social and commercial centre. Today, it’s home to lively cafés, shops, and some of Reus’ most beautiful buildings, making it the perfect place to take a break during your walk through the city.

Plaça del Mercadal, Reus, Catalonia, Spain

One of the first things that caught my eye were the charming covered arcades surrounding part of the square. They give Plaça del Mercadal an elegant character while providing welcome shade on hot days and shelter when it rains. Together with the colourful façades and beautiful Modernist architecture, they create a wonderfully inviting atmosphere.

My favourite way to experience the square? Grab a seat at one of the terraces, order a coffee or a glass of the local vermouth, and simply watch everyday life unfold around you. With Casa Navàs as the square’s architectural centrepiece, this is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and vibrant places in Reus.

6 – Visit the Prioral de Sant Pere and climb the Bell Tower

In the heart of Reus’ historic centre stands the Prioral de Sant Pere, the city’s most important church. This impressive Gothic church was built between the 16th and 17th centuries and is dedicated to Saint Peter, the patron saint of Reus. Its simple interior provides a striking contrast to the richly decorated Modernist architecture found throughout the rest of the city.

Prioral de Sant Pere, Reus, Catalonia, Spain

The highlight of any visit is undoubtedly the bell tower. After climbing the narrow staircase, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views over the rooftops of Reus. On a clear day, you can see not only the city itself but also the surrounding mountains and even the Mediterranean Sea in the distance.

I highly recommend climbing the tower if you’d like to experience Reus from a different perspective. It’s a short climb that’s more than worth the effort and offers one of the finest viewpoints in the city.

7 – Discover the birthplace of Antoni Gaudí

Reus is inseparably linked to Antoni Gaudí, one of the most influential architects in history. He was born here in 1852 and spent his childhood in the city before moving to Barcelona, where he became world-famous for masterpieces such as the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Park Güell. His organic forms, colourful mosaics, and nature-inspired designs made him the leading figure of Catalan Modernism.

Although Gaudí didn’t design any buildings in Reus, his presence can be felt throughout the city. On Plaça del Mercadal, you’ll find a bronze statue of the architect, a popular spot for a photo. You can also follow the Gaudí Route, which takes you past places that played an important role during his childhood and offers a fascinating insight into his early life before he moved to Barcelona.

I found it quite special to realise that one of the world’s greatest architects spent his formative years here. Walking the Gaudí Route adds an extra dimension to a visit to Reus and gives you a much deeper appreciation of his later masterpieces in Barcelona.

8 – Taste Reus’ famous Vermouth

Besides its stunning Modernist architecture, Reus is also known as the vermouth capital of Catalonia. Vermouth has been produced and exported from the city since the 19th century, and today this aromatic aperitif remains an important part of local culture. No visit to Reus is complete without tasting a glass of its famous vermouth.

During my visit, I stopped by Vermuts Rofes, a former vermouth factory dating back to 1890, where you can sample the traditional Rofes vermouth in a beautiful historic setting. Surrounded by old wooden barrels, atmospheric cellars, and authentic interiors, it feels as though you’ve stepped back in time. It’s also the perfect place to experience the hora del vermut, a beloved Catalan tradition where friends and family gather before lunch to enjoy a glass of vermouth, often accompanied by olives, crisps, anchovies, or other small bites. It’s not just about the drink. It’s about slowing down, socialising, and enjoying the moment.

My tip? Stay for lunch. The restaurant at Vermuts Rofes serves delicious Catalan and Mediterranean dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. For me, the combination of an excellent meal, a glass of house-made vermouth, and the historic surroundings made this one of the most enjoyable culinary experiences in Reus.

If you’d like to learn even more about vermouth, be sure to visit the Museu del Vermut. Here you can discover the history of this iconic drink, admire an impressive collection of historic bottles and vintage advertising signs, and even join a tasting featuring a selection of local vermouth brands.

9 – Explore Reus’ local markets

If you want to experience the authentic atmosphere of Reus, be sure to visit one of its local markets. The Mercat Central is especially worth your time. This covered market hall has been the culinary heart of the city for more than a century and is where locals come to do their daily shopping.

As you wander between the stalls, you’ll discover the rich gastronomy Catalonia is famous for. You’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, cured meats, freshly caught fish, and plenty of local delicacies. It’s also a great place to pick up regional products. Take home a bottle of extra virgin olive oil, sample locally grown nuts, or ask one of the wine merchants to recommend an excellent Catalan wine.

Whenever I travel, I always enjoy visiting local markets. They offer a glimpse into everyday life and are a wonderful place to meet local producers. They’re also perfect for picking up authentic souvenirs and delicious regional specialties to take home.

10 – Spend an afternoon shopping in Reus

Reus is best known for its Modernist architecture and famous vermouth, but did you know it’s also one of the best shopping destinations in Catalonia? The historic centre is largely pedestrianised, making it a pleasure to stroll through its charming streets without having to worry about traffic.

Here, you’ll find a great mix of well-known Spanish high street brands and independent local boutiques selling unique fashion, accessories, homeware, and regional products. It’s this combination that makes shopping in Reus so enjoyable. Instead of large shopping malls, you’ll wander from one charming shop to another, with picturesque squares and inviting cafés along the way.

I loved simply wandering through the shopping streets without a plan. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s a wonderful way to get to know the city and soak up its relaxed Catalan atmosphere. My tip? Save your shopping until the end of your visit, so you can pick up a bottle of local vermouth, some olive oil, or other regional delicacies as a memorable souvenir from Reus.

Want to explore a bit more in the Region?

If you have some extra time, I highly recommend driving to the Priorat, one of Spain’s most prestigious wine regions. A must-visit is Perinet Winery, a contemporary winery surrounded by breathtaking terraced vineyards. During a guided tour, you’ll learn about the entire winemaking process, sample a selection of wines, and enjoy spectacular views over the rolling hills. Don’t miss the impressive wine cellar either. Its elegant, flowing arches were inspired by the organic architecture of Antoni Gaudí, making the experience even more memorable.

If you love art and charming villages, be sure to add Penelles to your itinerary. Located about an hour and a half from Reus, this small village has become one of Catalonia‘s best-known street art destinations. As you wander through Penelles historic streets, you’ll discover dozens of colourful murals created by both national and international artists, giving the village the feel of an open-air museum.

Reus pleasantly surprised me. From its stunning Modernist architecture and Gaudí’s legacy to its lively squares, local markets, and centuries-old vermouth tradition, this city has so much more to offer than you might expect. I hope this guide to the best things to do in Reus helps you plan your visit. Take your time to wander through its charming streets, enjoy a glass of local vermouth, and discover the unique character of one of Catalonia’s most underrated cities.