This capital of La Rioja region is known for its wine production and as a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Its old town has tapas bars and medieval churches.
Logroño, the capital of Spain's La Rioja region, is known for its wine production and tapas culture. As a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, the city has a long religious history. In Logroño, you can visit the Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda, taste Rioja wines at Bodegas Franco-Españolas, and sample pintxos along the lively Calle Laurel.
Exploring Logroño's Wine Culture
La Rioja is a major Spanish wine region, and Logroño is at its center. You can visit several wineries within the city limits, such as Bodegas Franco-Españolas, where you'll learn about wine production and taste different varieties. For a more immersive experience, take a short trip outside the city to vineyards like Marqués de Riscal or Bodegas Muga. These estates give tours of their facilities, including underground cellars and modern tasting rooms. Many tours conclude with wine tastings paired with local cheeses and cured meats.
Calle Laurel: A Tapas Hub
Calle Laurel, often called "the path of the elephants," is central to Logroño's food culture. This narrow street and its surrounding alleys have over 50 tapas bars, each specializing in one or two signature dishes. You'll find locals and visitors alike hopping from bar to bar, sampling small plates called pintxos. Try the mushroom tapas at Bar Soriano, known for its champiñones al ajillo (garlic mushrooms). At Bar Lorenzo, order the patatas bravas, crispy potatoes topped with spicy tomato sauce. The street is particularly active in the evenings, with crowds filling the sidewalks, wine glasses in hand.
Historical Sites and Religious Buildings
Logroño's old town has several significant religious buildings. The Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda, with its twin baroque towers, is visible from many parts of the city. Inside, you'll find an altarpiece attributed to Michelangelo. The Church of Santiago el Real, built in the 16th century, is an example of Renaissance architecture. Its façade features a statue of Saint James the Moor-slayer, a nod to the city's position on the Camino de Santiago. For a panoramic view of Logroño, climb the bell tower of the Church of San Bartolomé, the oldest church in the city.
Green Spaces and Riverside Walks
Logroño has several parks and green areas. The Ebro Park stretches along the banks of the Ebro River. You can walk or cycle along the riverside paths, seeing views of the old stone bridge, Puente de Piedra. The Parque del Espolón, in the heart of the city, is a manicured garden with fountains and sculptures. Many locals gather here, especially on warm evenings.
Festivals and Events
Logroño hosts several annual festivals. The San Mateo festival, held in September, celebrates the grape harvest. For a week, the city has parades, concerts, and wine tastings. In June, the San Bernabé festival commemorates the city's victory against French invaders in 1521. Locals dress in period costumes and reenact historical events. If you visit in January, you might catch ACTUAL, a cultural festival featuring music, theater, and art exhibitions.
Getting There and Where to Stay
You can reach Logroño by train from Madrid (about 3.5 hours) or Barcelona (about 4 hours). The city also has a small airport with connections to Madrid. For accommodation, consider staying in the old town to be close to the main attractions. The Hotel Calle Mayor is in a restored 16th-century palace. If you prefer a more contemporary option, the NH Logroño Herencia Rioja has modern rooms and is near Calle Laurel.
