I'm having a hard time finding specific directions on how to get from Barcelona to Tarragona. All I have so far is 'take the Cataluyna Express from Passage de Gracia'. I know where the station is and how to get there--is there anything else I need to know or look for? I found one person on a (different)helpline saying 'it (catching the right train) is kind of confusing'--but offering no suggestions on how to remedy this. I'm good on how to get to Montserrat--I have details like 'R5 toward Manresa', which is something I think (hope) I can find even with very little Spanish speaking ability (but I can read 'R5' and 'Manresea'!) Thanks in advance. Leaving in less than a week--and so excited!
The "Catalunya Express" is more of a commuter rail network across the region. There are several trains/day that make the run in about 1:20 and cost 6.45 Euro each way. If you want to pay 14 Euro thru advance purchase, you can take one of the AVE trains that stop in Tarragona en route....that journey takes about 30 minutes. Check www.renfe.es for schedules.
And yes, the regional express trains can change platforms at the last minute....but keep a close eye on the board and, if necessary, just ask someone, and you'll be fine.
You won't have trouble with changing platforms at Passeig de Gracia - there are only two: one platform for each direction. The problem is that the trains passing through central Barcelona can get a bit out of order, so the display as to what train will arrive next can change suddenly.
We just traveled from Barcelona to Tarragona about a month ago and found it much easier and less complicated than I had worried it might be. We picked up the train from the Sants station and just asked ... from there, it's the train line that ends in Zaragoza. From what I understand, it runs several times a day. Our train was exceptionally crowded for the first say 20 minutes (standing room only) but calmed down after that. It's also pretty cheap :)
Have fun -- it's a great city!