Logroño: The Complete Guide

Logrono Rio Ebro Scaled
CC BY-SA 4.0 / LBM1948

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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13 Best places to See in Logroño

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

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

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

Here are all your hotel options in Logroño.

Iglesia de San Bartolomé

Iglesia De San Bartolome   Logrono
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…
Location: Church of San Bartolomé, Plaza de San Bartolomé, 2, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain, | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Iglesia de San Bartolomé

Explore Logroño yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Casa de las Ciencias Logroño

Logrono   Casa De Las Ciencias
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…
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
Visiting Casa de las Ciencias Logroño

Catedral de Santa María de la Redonda

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

Puente de Hierro, Logroño

Iron Bridge And Cathedral Logrono
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.…
Location: Puente de Hierro 26001 Logroño La Rioja Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Puente de Hierro, Logroño

Old Logroño City Hall (Plaza del Mercado)

Plaza Del Mercado En Logrono
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,…
Visiting Old Logroño City Hall (Plaza del Mercado)

Parque del Espolón

View Of Paseo Del Principe De Vergara In Logrono
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…
Location: Parque del Espolón, Calle Miguel Villanueva, Logroño, La Rioja, Spain | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Parque del Espolón

Pintxos at Calle Laurel

Calle Del 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…
Location: Calle del Laurel, Logroño, Spain | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Pintxos at Calle Laurel

Museo de la Rioja

Logrono   Museo De La Rioja Palacio De Espartero
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…
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
Visiting Museo de la Rioja

Fabrica de Tabacos, Logroño

Logrono   Antigua Fabrica De Tabacos
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,…
| Hours: Parliament of La Rioja C. Marqués de San Nicolás, 111 26001 Logroño La Rioja Spain | Distance: 1.7km
Visiting Fabrica de Tabacos, Logroño

Muralla del Revellín

Logrono   Arco Del Revellin
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…
Visiting Muralla del Revellín

Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta

Bodegas Marques De Murrieta Logrono
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…
Location: Bodega Marqués de Murrieta, Logroño, Spain | Website | Distance: 4.2km
Visiting Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta

Best Day Trips from Logroño

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

Vitoria   Plaza De La Virgen Blanca
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman
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…
Visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Pamplona

Visiting Pamplona  Place De Castille
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jean-Christophe BENOIST
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…
Visiting Pamplona
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Bilbao

Bilbao Spain E1714477930770
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…
Visiting Bilbao
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San Sebastián

San Sebastian 2000624 1920
San Sebastián, located in Basque Country, is a city renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, world-class cuisine, and elegant charm. One of its most famous attractions is La Concha Beach, a stunning crescent-shaped bay with golden sands and clear waters that make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a relaxing seaside stroll. The beachfront promenade, lined with historic railings…
Visiting San Sebastián
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Burgos

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…
Visiting Burgos
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Saint-Jean-de-Luz

St 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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Biarritz

Biarritz France
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…
Visiting Biarritz
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Bayonne

Bayonne France
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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Santander

Playa El Sardinero Santander E1714477793345
© Pixabay
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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Zaragoza

Mosque 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…
Visiting Zaragoza
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Where to Stay in Logroño

The best area to stay is in the city center, where visitors can explore the famous Calle Laurel, known for its excellent tapas and wine bars. For a more relaxed experience, vineyard hotels in the Rioja countryside offer a peaceful and immersive wine tourism experience.

A 2-day stay is perfect for enjoying Logroño’s food and wine culture. A 3 to 4-day stay allows for wine tours in La Rioja, visiting nearby medieval villages, and exploring more of the region’s natural beauty.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Logroño. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Logroño Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Logroño

Spring (April to June): Spring is an excellent time to visit Logroño, as the vineyards are vibrant, and the weather is mild, perfect for wine tours and outdoor dining. The city hosts the Rioja Wine Harvest Festival in June, a celebration of its viticultural heritage.

Fall (September to November): Autumn is the harvest season, making it a magical time to visit. The vineyards are bustling with activity, and the city celebrates its annual San Mateo festival in September, which features wine tasting, parades, and traditional music.

Summer (July and August): Summers can be warm, but the lively atmosphere, with numerous tapas bars and outdoor events, makes it a fun time to experience the city’s nightlife and cultural offerings.

Winter (December to February): Winter is quieter and cooler, ideal for those looking to explore the city’s historical sites and museums in a more relaxed setting.

Logroño’s rich history, combined with its status as a culinary and wine-making powerhouse, makes it an attractive destination year-round, offering unique experiences in every season.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 10°C
  • February 12°C
  • March 15°C
  • April 19°C
  • May 23°C
  • June 28°C
  • July 31°C
  • August 31°C
  • September 25°C
  • October 23°C
  • November 14°C
  • December 11°C

How to get to Logroño

By Air: The nearest airports to Logroño are Bilbao Airport and Zaragoza Airport, each about 1.5 hours away by car. These airports serve international and domestic flights and offer rental car services for a scenic drive to Logroño.

By Train: Logroño is accessible by train from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. The journey from Madrid takes approximately 3.5 hours, offering a comfortable and scenic route into the heart of La Rioja.

By Bus: Frequent bus services connect Logroño with major Spanish cities. Buses are a cost-effective and convenient travel option, with direct routes from cities like Madrid, Bilbao, and Zaragoza.

By Car: Driving to Logroño allows for a flexible itinerary, ideal for those interested in exploring the beautiful La Rioja region at their own pace. The city is well-connected by major highways, making it easily accessible from any direction.