Things To Do
in Logroño
Logroño is the capital of La Rioja, set along the Ebro River in northern Spain. Its historic old town brims with tavern-lined streets, Baroque churches, and intimate wine bars. The city is renowned for its vibrant tapas culture and as the gateway to Rioja wine country.
Surrounding vineyards, hill towns, and scenic riverwalks complete a picture of a welcoming, food- and wine-focused escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the cobbled streets of Logroño’s historic center, where every corner reveals a piece of history. Visit the majestic Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda, admiring its impressive baroque façade and beautiful interior. Don’t forget to stop by the Plaza del Mercado to sample fresh local pastries and coffee at a charming café.
After lunch, explore the lively Calle Laurel, renowned for its tapas bars and vibrant atmosphere. Try some delicious pintxos, such as chorizo or mushrooms, paired with a glass of local wine from the La Rioja region. Take a moment to relax at the nearby Parque del Espolón, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and watch local life unfold.
As the sun begins to set, head to a traditional tavern for a taste of authentic Rioja cuisine, featuring dishes like lamb chops and artichokes. After dinner, stroll along the Ebro River, where you can catch a stunning view of the illuminated city and its bridges. End your night with a glass of wine at a cozy wine bar, savoring the rich flavors of the local varietals.
Set out early for a guided tour of the vineyards surrounding Logroño, where you will learn about the winemaking process from grape to glass. Visit renowned wineries such as Bodegas Campo Viejo, where you can enjoy a tasting session of their acclaimed Rioja wines. Take in the picturesque landscapes of rolling hills covered with vineyards, a sight that is quintessential to this region.
After your wine tastings, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, sampling local dishes paired with the wines you just tried. Spend the afternoon visiting smaller, family-owned wineries, where you’ll get a more intimate understanding of their traditions and methods. Engage with the winemakers and perhaps even participate in a blending workshop to create your own unique wine.
Return to Logroño for dinner at a restaurant known for its innovative takes on traditional Spanish dishes. As the evening progresses, explore the vibrant nightlife, perhaps catching a live flamenco performance in one of the local bars. Conclude your day with a nightcap, reflecting on the wonderful flavors and experiences you’ve had.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of Rioja wine | $3-6 |
| 🧀Tapas plate at a mid-range bar | $8-15 |
| 🚶Public transport ride | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant tapas culture and renowned Rioja wines
- Compact, walkable historic center with well-preserved architecture
- Can be very crowded with both locals and tourists, especially on weekends
- Summer heat can be intense and crowds in outdoor venues may be heavy
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Logroño
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic and Baroque façades with atmospheric interiors and a terrace overlooking the Ebro valley.
Ancient stone bridge across the Ebro; stunning at sunrise or sunset with the old town as a backdrop.
Lush riverside promenade with statues, plane trees, and seasonal blossoms.
Historic lanes and arches offering classic Rioja townscape photography.
Food in Logroño
Logroño Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potatoes cooked with chorizo, smoked paprika, and onions in a comforting, fiery stew.
Must-Try!
Cod simmered with peppers, onions, tomatoes, and garlic in a rich tomato base.
Roast lamb seasoned with herbs, traditionally cooked slowly until tender.
White bean stew with chorizo and greens, a regional winter staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling central market offering fresh produce, seafood, meats, and regional products.
A string of pintxos bars along a famous tapas street where you can sample small bites and Rioja wines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A cordial greeting like 'hola' or 'buenos días' goes a long way in shops and bars.
Tapas are typically shared; expect to order multiple small dishes and pair with wine or beer.
Many shops close for a siesta in early afternoon; meals are typically later, around 1-3pm for lunch and 8-10pm for dinner.
Safety
Tipping in Logroño
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Spain is optional; you can round up for casual service or leave about 5-10% in nicer restaurants if service is good. In bars, small change or a token tip is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, dry days with strong sun. Seek shade, stay hydrated, and enjoy al fresco meals and river breezes.
The harvest season brings wine festivals and colorful vineyards; perfect for photography and vineyard tours.
Cold with occasional rain or frost; great for cozy tavern evenings and seasonal market visits.
Mild temperatures and blooming fruit trees; ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Logroño at Night
Hiking in Logroño
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
City-adjacent hill with a short, rewarding climb and city views.
Easy loops around the Grajera reservoir and nature preserve.
Rugged vineyard landscapes with moderate hikes through the surrounding hills.
Scenic day hikes through olive groves and vineyards along the Najerilla river.
Airports
How to reach Logroño by plane.
A small regional airport about 12-15 km from Logroño with flights mainly to Madrid and Barcelona.
Major international hub ~150 km away with frequent connections.
Spain’s main international gateway about 350 km away.
Regional airport around 150-160 km away for shorter trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Visitors and locals deeply engaged in Rioja wine culture, tours, and tastings.
The University of La Rioja brings students and researchers to the city.
Residents who enjoy family life, street markets, and the tapas circuit.
Domestic and international travelers exploring food, history, and wine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport with local clubs and matches.
The Rioja countryside is a popular setting for cycling events and training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Logroño.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options like grilled vegetables, pisto, and goat cheese plates; tapas bars can adapt by substituting vegetables or cheese for meat. If unsure, ask for the vegetarian “opción” or “opción vegetariana”.