Baelo Claudia Archaeological Site, in Bolonia

Baelo Claudia is a Roman city on the shore of the Bolonia cove, in the municipality of Tarifa, with the forum, the temples, the theatre and the fish-salting factories that gave it life. The Junta describes it as the most complete Roman city preserved on the whole peninsula, and few Roman ruins have a beach next door. It is an archaeological site with its own museum, and you should allow an hour and a half to see it in comfort.

Opening hours

From 21 September to 20 March it opens Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 to 18:00; from 21 March to 20 June, until 21:00; from 21 June to 20 September, until 15:00. Sundays and public holidays, from 9:00 to 15:00. It closes on Mondays, except those that are public holidays or the eve of one, and on 1 and 6 January, 1 May and 24, 25 and 31 December. You can enter up to half an hour before closing.

Admission and booking

For citizens of the European Union, on showing proof, admission is free; for everyone else, €1.50. The visit is independent and individual, with no booking. Groups of ten or more people who are not family must book through the Regional Ministry of Culture's platform, and guided visits for groups are not offered. Eating and drinking inside the site is not allowed, except water. Telephone: 956 10 67 93.

Works at the entrance

The site announces refurbishment works in the reception area: while they last, you enter through the south car park, next to the Reginosa track and the beachfront. The museum remains open, but the viewpoint courtyard and the library are closed until they finish. Confirm on arrival, because it may change.

What to see

You visit on your own. By the sea are the fish-salting factories, the industry that gave the city life; inland, the forum with its temples, and the theatre. The museum helps you understand what you are about to see; it has leaflets in Spanish and English. The site has been a Property of Cultural Interest since 1992.

Getting there

From Vejer, take the N-340 towards Tarifa and the Bolonia turn-off, the CA-8202: about 45 minutes. There is parking next to the site. In summer, bring a hat and water.

What to combine it with

The Bolonia beach and dune are next door: ruins in the morning and beach in the afternoon. Back in Vejer, the old town is lovely to stroll around at dusk.