Logroño: The Complete Guide

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Logrono lies mainly undiscovered among the vineyards of La Rioja. Not only the capital of Rioja, Spain’s wine growing region it is also possibly its gastronomical capital with a great selection of pintxos (Basque tapas) bars.  The town is full of of tree-studded squares, narrow streets and hidden corners.  Logroño is a city rich in history, originally the Roman town of Vareia, it grew during the Middle Ages being an important crossroad on the Way of St. James and strategic point between the kingdoms of Aragon, Castile and Navarra.

The history of Logroño cannot be separated from the Camino de Santiago . So much so, that the city did not gain importance until the height of the Jacobean route, from the eleventh century.

The Codex Calixtinus (12th century), the first guide to the Camino de Santiago, already mentions Logroño in its pages. And it is that the passage of merchants, artists and pilgrims through the cobbled streets of the Riojan capital for centuries have made the city a crossroads of great cultural relevance.

The Ebro river crosses the city and on it there are two bridges that serve to communicate Logroño with Navarra and Álava. The oldest of them is the Puente de Piedra , which allows the Jacobean route to reach the city. Originally (11th century), it was fortified by four arches and three towers. Another bridge, this time made of iron and built in the 19th century, also crosses this river channel.From the old wall that surrounded the city, the Revellín wall and the Carlos I gate remain standing. During the patron saint festivities, events that recall the French siege of the city are held in this place.The most important representations of Jacobean architecture appear around Rúa Vieja , a traditional passage street for pilgrims heading to Compostela, such as the Pilgrims ‘Hostel or the famous Pilgrims’ Fountain .

Nor does the church of Santiago leave any doubt about the importance of this jubilee route. This monumental building, erected in the 16th century, has a single nave and its façade shows a formidable image of Santiago Matamoros. Inside, the image of the Virgen de la Esperanza, patron saint of Logroño, is venerated.The historic center is home to important cultural events, such as the Cathedral of Santa María la Redonda (15th-18th centuries), which raises its imposing Baroque towers in the Market Square. The current cathedral enclosure sits on an old round Romanesque church. Of the important sculptural work present in the building, the carvings of Gregorio Fernández and a representation of Calvary by the Renaissance master Miguel Ángel stand out.There are many temples in Logroño, highlighting among them Santa María de Palacio , the oldest in the Riojan capital, which presides over the Logroño skyline with its Gothic spire. Inside you can admire a magnificent cloister, a Flemish altarpiece and various Romanesque pieces. Nearby is the Mudejar tower of the church of San Bartolomé , dedicated to the patron saint of the city. Built in the 12th century, it preserves an exquisite sculpted façade and constitutes the only example of Romanesque art in the city.

Logroño also has good examples of civil architecture, such as the Palace of the Marqués de Legarda , the Palace of the Chapiteles or the Museum of La Rioja , installed in the Espartero Palace, a baroque construction from the 18th century. The avenues and squares of Logroño are also a good option to enjoy the atmosphere of its streets. The Paseo del Espolón is one of the emblematic centers of the city and the Plaza del Mercado is a meeting place for its inhabitants.

History of Logroño

Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, has a storied past that dates back to Roman times, but it gained prominence in the Middle Ages as a stop on the Camino de Santiago, a major pilgrimage route. This historical significance is reflected in its old town, where medieval structures mix with Renaissance buildings. Logroño was officially founded in 1095 by King Alfonso VI and has since been a vital center of trade, especially known for its wine production. The city’s growth was significantly influenced by its strategic location on the pilgrimage route, which brought economic and cultural exchange.

In the 16th century, Logroño was the site of the “Witches of Zugarramurdi” trial, one of the most notorious witch trials in history, conducted by the Spanish Inquisition. Today, Logroño embraces its rich heritage while being known globally for its Rioja wine, which is celebrated through numerous festivals and events that attract visitors from around the world.

Visiting Logroño for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Logroño on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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This complete guide to Logroño not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Logroño and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

New Logroño City Hall

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

New Logroño City Hall is located just a few minutes walking distance from the old one in city center.  In 1973, the mayor of Logroño, wrote to architect Rafael Moneo to inform him that he had been chosen to build the new Logroño City Hall. Begun in 1976 and completed in 1981, this work was intended to give the people…

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Location: Plaza del Ayuntamiento Av. de la Paz, 11 26001 Logroño La Rioja Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.9km

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Visiting New Logroño City Hall

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Puente de Piedra

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jynus

One of the most recognised symbols of the city is the Puente de Piedra or Stone Bridge, which crosses the River Ebro from the Old Town and dates back to 1884. It is also called Puente de San Juan de Ortega , in reference to the chapel that existed on its left bank It is also the entrance way to…

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Location: Puente de Piedra, Logroño, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.1km

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Visiting Puente de Piedra

Here are all your hotel options in Logroño.

Iglesia de San Bartolomé

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Juanje 2712

The Church of San Bartolomé, constructed in the 12th century, is the oldest church in Logroño. It has an impressive façade, covered in intricate stone carvings; with the scenes of the porch consist in 19 vignettes. Its most remarkable feature is its bell tower, built as part of the old city wall and used for defence purposes, as well as…

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Location: Church of San Bartolomé, Plaza de San Bartolomé, 2, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain, | Distance: 1.2km

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Visiting Iglesia de San Bartolomé

Explore Logroño yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Casa de las Ciencias Logroño

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Zarateman

The Casa de las Ciencias or House of Sciences makes its home in  the old Municipal Slaughterhouse of the city, which is now a striking red and white building next to the River Ebro. Although situated across the river but still close to the city's centre located between the iron bridge and the stone bridge. It’s a great place to…

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Location: Calle del Ebro, 1, 26009 Logroño, La Rioja, Spain | Hours: Winter hours: Tuesday to Friday: from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: from 11 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8:30 pm. Every Monday and January 1 and 6 and December 25: closed.Summer Hours: (July and August) From Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Every Monday: closed. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 1.3km

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Visiting Casa de las Ciencias Logroño

Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Josu Mendicute

The Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Redonda is a co-cathedral located in Logroño, in La Rioja, Spain. Construction on the cathedral began in the 15th century; however, its completion didn’t come until the 18th century. The church has two elaborately decorated towers, each containing a set of bells, nicknamed ‘the twins’, which are Baroque in style.

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Location: Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda, Calle Portales, 14, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain | Distance: 1.3km

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Visiting Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

Puente de Hierro, Logroño

CC BY-SA 32.0 / Tim Tregenza

The Puente de Hierro  or Iron Bridge was built in 1882 and is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Ebro River as it passes through the Rioja capital.  It substantially improved Logroño’s commercial connections with northern Spain. The initiative for its construction must be attributed to Práxedes Mateo Sagasta. The design was the work of engineer Fermín Manso de Zúñiga.…

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Location: Puente de Hierro 26001 Logroño La Rioja Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.4km

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Visiting Puente de Hierro, Logroño

Old Logroño City Hall (Plaza del Mercado)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / comakut

Old City Hall in Logroño is next to Cathedral Santa Maria de la Redonda and Portales street. A beautiful square that you can’t skip. It’s also a few steps of Laurel street and surrondings if you want to go for wine or beer. The old City Hall was located in Plaza del Mercado. In the 16th century, on December 22,…

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Visiting Old Logroño City Hall (Plaza del Mercado)

Parque del Espolón

CC BY-SA 3.0 / jynus

The lovely gardens of the Paseo del Espolón, also known as the Paseo del Príncipe de Vergara lie in the city’s Old Town. It is named Paseo del Espolón because of its resemblance to the celebrated walk within Burgos. It has historical monuments such as the Monument to General Espartero (who lived in Logroño until his death in 1879), walks and garden…

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Location: Parque del Espolón, Calle Miguel Villanueva, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.4km

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Visiting Parque del Espolón

Pintxos at Calle Laurel

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

Pinchos bar hopping is one of the best things you can do in Logroño. Many of the bars in Logroño specialise in one particular product such as mushrooms, served lightly grilled and dripping with garlic butter.   Calle San Juan  and Calle del Laurel, known as "the path of the elephants," are typical streets where various restaurants and tapas bars offer…

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Location: Calle del Laurel, Logroño, Spain | Distance: 1.6km

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Visiting Pintxos at Calle Laurel

Museo de la Rioja

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

The Museo de la Rioja sits the 18th century Palacio de Espartero. The museum is divided into various sections, displays multiple historical objects from pre-history to pre-Roman eras, through to Roman times, the Middle Ages and finally the modern day. Artefacts include the old tablets from the famous San Millán monasteries, ancient arrowheads, and collections of swords and spears, as…

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Location: Museo de La Rioja Calle San Agustín, 23 26001 Logroño La Rioja Spain | Hours: Sun: 10am - 2pm; Tue - Sat: 10am - 2pm, 4pm - 9pm (closed on Mon) | Website | Distance: 1.6km

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Visiting Museo de la Rioja

Fabrica de Tabacos, Logroño

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

The building that houses the Parliament of La Rioja has a historic past.  A former convent of La Merced (14th century), in 1820 it was transformed into a barracks and in 1845 it became a military hospital, warehouse and artillery park. It was also used as a prison for a time. It regained its religious status between 1847 and 1868,…

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| Hours: Parliament of La Rioja C. Marqués de San Nicolás, 111 26001 Logroño La Rioja Spain | Distance: 1.7km

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Visiting Fabrica de Tabacos, Logroño

Muralla del Revellín

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Juanje 2712

The walls of Revellín are the remains of the fortifications that the city of Logroño had, of which the west-facing door has been preserved. The most important fortification process in the city took place between 1498 and 1540 , reinforcing the old medieval wall. After the commune uprising , the troops of Francisco I of France commanded by General Asparrot…

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Visiting Muralla del Revellín

Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Amaya M.G.M.

La Rioja is famous for its wine and while most of the wineries lie in the countryside, Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta sits just on the edge of the city of Logroño. Marqués de Murrieta, brought winemaking techniques from Bordeaux to La Rioja, and founded the winery. He first produced wine here in 1852. You can tour the winery to find…

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Location: Bodega Marqués de Murrieta, Logroño, Spain | Website | Distance: 4.2km

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Visiting Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta

A day trip from Logroño offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Logroño provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Vitoria-Gasteiz

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Vitoria-Gasteiz is the seat of government and the capital city of the Basque Country and the province of Araba/Álava in northern Spain. It hosts the autonomous community's House of Parliament, the Government headquarters, and the Lehendakari's official residence. The municipality, which includes the city and the surrounding 63 agricultural villages, is the largest in the Basque Country, covering a total…

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Visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz

Pamplona

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Pamplona, the capital of Navarra, is by far the largest and most significant city in the region of Navarre and La Rioja. It is best known for the San Fermín Festival, held each July, which attracts thousands of visitors eager to witness the legendary Running of the Bulls (Encierro in Spanish). Pamplona’s reputation as a global destination is partly due…

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Visiting Pamplona

Bilbao

Bilbao is a large city in northern Spain, in the province of Biscay and in the Basque Country. Featuring a striking mix of Gothic and contemporary architecture the city was transformed in 1997 when the glittering Guggenheim was opened making it the Basque Country's artistic center.  The city is located 16 kilometres south of the Bay of Biscay on the…

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Visiting Bilbao

San Sebastián

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Visiting San Sebastián

Burgos

Burgos, a city in northern Spain and the historic capital of Castile, offers a captivating blend of medieval grandeur and vibrant urban life. Nestled at the confluence of the Arlanzón river tributaries on the edge of the Iberian central plateau, Burgos enchants visitors with its well-preserved architecture, inviting plazas, and cultural richness. The Cathedral of Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage…

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Visiting Burgos

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant Basque culture. The town’s picturesque harbor is lined with colorful buildings, and the lively Place Louis XIV offers a perfect spot to enjoy local cafés and restaurants. Whether you're relaxing on the sandy shores, exploring the charming streets, or enjoying the fresh…

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Visiting Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Biarritz

Visiting Biarritz is an unforgettable experience, thanks to its stunning coastal views, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant surf culture. The city is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing or surfing, as well as its impressive cliffs and dramatic coastal landscapes. Whether you're strolling along the wide promenade by the beach, exploring the lively markets, or enjoying the art…

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Visiting Biarritz

Bayonne

Bayonne, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a delightful city that charms visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and picturesque streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses. Strolling through the lively old town, you'll encounter inviting cafés, chocolate shops, and bustling markets, perfect for experiencing authentic Basque culture. The Nive and Adour rivers converge here, creating scenic riverbanks ideal for leisurely walks…

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Visiting Bayonne

Santander

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Santander, located along Spain’s northern coast in Cantabria, is a city that seamlessly blends coastal beauty with urban charm. The city’s El Sardinero Beach is one of its most iconic attractions, offering golden sands, turquoise waters, and a picturesque promenade perfect for leisurely strolls. Along the coastline, visitors can also enjoy the stunning views from the Palacio de la Magdalena,…

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Visiting Santander

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is the capital city of the Zaragoza province and the autonomous community of Aragon, Spain. It is situated by the Ebro River and its tributaries, the Huerva and the Gállego, roughly at the center of both Aragon and the Ebro basin. As of January 1, 2019, the population of Zaragoza was 706,904 within its administrative limits on a land…

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Visiting Zaragoza