If you’re planning a trip to Spain, Logroño needs to be high up on your itinerary. It may not have the fame of Madrid or Barcelona, but this charming city has a lot to offer for those looking to explore something a little bit different.
As the capital of the La Rioja province, Logroño is home to Spain’s most prestigious wine area, with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Exploring the region’s wineries is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Spain if you’re an avid oenophile.
But, believe it or not, there’s more to Logroño than just wine. With plenty of stunning landmarks and tapas bars to boot, this city may be small, but it’s big on personality and charm.
Let’s discover the secrets of Logroño.
Looking for a place to stay in Logroño? I recommend the stunning Áurea Palacio de Correos.
Top 5 Things to Do in Logroño, Spain
Go Tapas Bar Hopping on Calle del Laurel
Known as the “street of the hundred taverns,” Calle del Laurel (Laurel Street) offers a unique tapas experience. Rather than providing a mixed menu of tapas, many of the 50 or so bars on Calle del Laurel specialise in one particular tapa.
This means you can bar hop and try different dishes from each bar, just like the locals.
Be sure to try local delicacies like pig nose (the one from Ribera is divine), various croquetas and patatas bravas from La Taberna del Laurel — all washed down with a delicious glass of Rioja wine from each place, of course.
Wine Tasting at Bodegas Ysios
If there’s one thing you need to do in Logroño, it’s paying a visit to Bodega Ysios. I’m not kidding when I say that no trip to La Rioja’s capital is complete without visiting one of the region’s award-winning wineries – it was the highlight of my trip.
First up, there’s that architecture – a stunning building that reflects the shape and movements of the surrounding mountains.
Then there’s the wine… the winery allows you to taste a selection of wines while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. Be sure to try their delicious classic red wine, Ysios Selecciόn — you’ll want to take a bottle or two home.
Fancy a full wine tasting day trip? You can book a tour from Logroño here.
Explore the Region’s History at Museo de la Rioja
Fancy delving deeper into Logroño’s history and culture? Be sure to add Museo de la Rioja to your itinerary.
It might sound like a little bit of a snoozefest, but it’s actually surprisingly interesting – this charming museum showcases the country’s rich history through a collection of artefacts from different periods.
And the best part? Admission is free, though you must present your passport at the entrance. Also, don’t worry about getting lost in translation — the museum provides information in both Spanish and English.
Admire Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda
It’s pretty impossible not to visit the Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda when in Logroño – the imposing site stands in the city’s main square. Built in the 16th century, the cathedral’s impressive façade features intricate stonework and beautiful stained glass windows.
The cathedral’s two magnificent towers, Las Gemelas (The Twins), look out over Plaza del Mercado and are a great example of baroque architecture. Inside, it’s equally stunning, with soaring vaulted ceilings, numerous artworks and ornate altarpieces. I highly recommend stepping inside to admire it in its full glory.
Take a Tranquil Stroll Through Parque del Ebro
So much of Logroño’s beauty can be found in its quaint cobbled streets, but head to Parque del Ebro for something a little more peaceful. This green space runs along the right bank of the Ebro River, offering wooded areas and parkland for serene riverside walks.
The park has two bridges that cross the river and provide easy access to different city areas. In addition to the natural beauty, there are also several well-preserved industrial relics incorporated into the landscape, adding to its charm.
Brilliant Things to See & Do in Logroño, Spain
See Logroño’s Stunning Street Art
If you know me, you know I love street art – and Logroño is home to a thriving street art scene. The city has become something of an open-air gallery, with colourful murals and striking graffiti adorning many of the buildings.
The street art is diverse and ranges from abstract pieces to detailed portraits and political statements. A noteworthy mural is “The Cat” by Sergio Muro, a colourful depiction of a giant, bright-eyed cat in Calle San Agustin, right next to the Museo de La Rioja.
Cross the Bridges of Logroño
Logroño owes much of its beauty and charm to the Ebro River that runs through it. Visiting the bridges of Logroño is a great way to admire its architecture while enjoying breathtaking river views.
One of the most famous bridges is the Puente de Piedra, or “Stone Bridge,” which dates back to the 11th century. The bridge has undergone many restorations but retains its original Romanesque arches, making it perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
Must-Try Bars & Restaurants in Logroño
Restaurante Iruña
Whew! This city is a real treat for foodies. And, if you’re in the mood for something other than tapas, Restaurante Iruña is a top choice.
From red meat and fish to mouthwatering desserts and wines, their ample menu has something for every taste. The restaurant’s friendly service also pairs well with the wide variety of Rioja wines on the menu.
La Tavina
La Tavina, with its lively atmosphere, impressive wine selection, top-notch service, and fantastic food, feels like a home away from home.
Located in a three-story building, you can relax at the ground floor bar, indulge in wine tasting on the first floor, or dine in style at the restaurant upstairs. The menu offers unique starters and local cuisine.
But take note; there’s no English version of the menu available. So you may have to brush up on your Spanish vocabulary. Or, make sure Google Translate is available offline.
Bar Soriano
When it comes to tapas in Calle del Laurel, Bar Soriano has been a local favourite for over 40 years. Like many tapas bars, they specialise in one dish, stacked mushrooms and garlic bread topped with shrimp. Trust me; you’ll want to order more than one.
Best Hotels in Logroño, Spain
Eurostars Fuerte Ruavieja
Eurostars Fuerte Ruavieja is a gorgeous 4-star hotel offering everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay. Rooms feature huge, fluffy beds and exposed brick walls add a touch of cool.
When it’s time to relax, you can take advantage of the hotel’s sauna, Turkish baths and gym, or grab a drink at the bar if that’s more your style (it’s certainly mine).
F&G Logroño
F&G Logroño is a 3-star hotel situated a few steps from Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda in a quiet yet central location. The staff is friendly, the breakfast buffet is excellent and the rooms are comfortable, making it a great choice for mid-range accommodation in Logroño, Spain.
Hotel Sercotel Portales
If you want to stretch your travel budget, Hotel Sercotel Portales is an excellent option. The major draw is that it’s in the city centre, close to Calle del Laurel and the major attractions in Logroño. But the bonus is that the rooms are comfortable and feature private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
Logroño: Practical Tips for Your Trip
How Long to Visit in Logroño?
To make the most of your Logroño getaway, I recommend spending two to three days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore its main attractions, enjoy its food and wine, and get a taste of its culture.
Best Time to Visit Logroño
Plan your trip between May and September if you’re looking for the best weather. These months offer mild temperatures and low rainfall, making it the perfect time to explore the city on foot or by bike.
Where Should I Stay in Logroño?
The area around Calle del Laurel has many hotels to choose from and a great place to stay during your visit. It is centrally located, safe and within walking distance of popular attractions, restaurants and shops.
How to Get to Logroño?
Logroño has its own small airport, so you can easily fly there from other major cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Bilbao. If you prefer to travel by train or bus, the city is well-connected, with a central train station and convenient bus routes, making it easy to get around once you arrive.
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