Things to Do in Logroño
Logroño is a wine lover’s dream with a city attached. As the capital of La Rioja, it sits on the Camino de Santiago and serves some of Spain’s best tapas. Locals call the small plates “pinchos”, and they take the tradition seriously. Add in leafy squares, old churches and easy access to famous wineries, and you’ve got a brilliant city break. Here are the best things to do in Logroño.
Calle Laurel
Start your visit where the locals do. Calle Laurel is the beating heart of Logroño’s food scene, packed with over sixty tapas bars. Many specialise in just one dish, so you’ll find bars serving nothing but grilled mushrooms or garlic prawns. Order a small glass of Rioja alongside each plate, and hop between bars as the evening goes on. Because it’s so central, it’s an easy first stop after checking into your hotel.
Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda
Next, look up at the city’s most recognisable landmark. The Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda stands proudly in Plaza del Mercado, with its distinctive twin baroque towers. Construction began in the 15th century, though the building wasn’t finished until the 18th. Inside, keep an eye out for a small crucifixion painting attributed to Michelangelo. The plaza outside makes a lovely spot for a coffee once you’re done exploring.
Museo de la Rioja
For a deeper dive into the region’s story, head to the Museo de la Rioja. Housed in an 18th-century baroque palace, it covers everything from prehistory to the present day. Highlights include Celtiberian stone carvings and Roman statuary found across the region. Best of all, entry is completely free. Give yourself an hour or two to properly take in the collection.
Iglesia de San Bartolomé
This is Logroño’s oldest church, and it shows. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, the Iglesia de San Bartolomé features a striking Gothic portal. Deeply carved figures fill the entrance, drawing the eye upward toward its Mudejar-style tower. Because it sits just off Calle Laurel, it’s easy to combine with a tapas crawl. Step inside for a quiet moment away from the bustle outside.
Puente de Piedra
Cross the Ebro river the way pilgrims have for centuries. The Puente de Piedra, or stone bridge, marks one of the main entry points for those walking the Camino de Santiago into Logroño. From the middle, you’ll get lovely views along the riverbank in both directions. It’s especially pretty at sunset, when the light hits the water just right. Afterwards, follow the path down to Parque del Ebro for a longer riverside walk.
Parque del Espolón
Once you’ve had your fill of old streets, relax in this leafy square. Parque del Espolón, officially named Paseo del Príncipe de Vergara, sits right in the city centre. Its nickname comes from a resemblance to a similar walk in Burgos. At its centre stands a statue of General Espartero on horseback. Locals use the park for a stroll, a rest on a bench, or simply people-watching.
Rúa Vieja
For a proper feel of old Logroño, wander down Rúa Vieja. This atmospheric street forms part of the Camino de Santiago route through the city. Stone buildings line both sides, many marked with the scallop shell that guides pilgrims onward. It’s quieter than Calle Laurel, so it makes a nice contrast if you fancy a peaceful walk. Look out for small squares branching off along the way.
Muralla del Revellín
History fans should seek out this surviving fragment of the city’s old defences. The Muralla del Revellín is one of the last remaining sections of Logroño’s medieval walls. Once, these fortifications protected the city from repeated sieges during border disputes with Navarre and Castile. Today, the remaining stonework offers a glimpse into that turbulent past. It sits close to the old town, so it’s easy to fold into a walking route.
Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta
No trip to Logroño is complete without a proper wine visit. Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta is one of Rioja’s oldest and most respected wineries, founded in 1852. Tours take you through historic cellars before finishing with a tasting of their celebrated reds. Because tours are popular, especially in summer, it’s worth booking your winery visit in advance. If you want to compare Rioja against other Spanish wine regions before you go, our Rioja vs Ribera wine guide is a handy read.
Plaza del Mercado
This lively square doubles as one of the city’s social hubs. Plaza del Mercado sits right beside the cathedral and hosts markets, festivals and everyday gatherings. Historic buildings frame the space, including the old city hall. Grab a table at one of the surrounding cafés and watch daily life unfold around you. It’s a natural meeting point if you’re exploring the old town with friends.
Casa de las Ciencias
If you’re travelling with curious kids, or just fancy something different, this science museum delivers. Casa de las Ciencias belongs to Spain’s National Research Council and features hands-on exhibits across several floors. Interactive displays cover everything from astronomy to the human body. It sits just across the Puente de Piedra, making it an easy add-on to a riverside walk. Rainy afternoons are a perfect time to duck inside.
San Bartolomé Tapas Trail
Beyond Calle Laurel, the streets around Calle San Bartolomé hide their own excellent bars. This quieter tapas trail rewards a bit of wandering, with fewer crowds than the main strip. Try local specialities like patatas bravas or grilled chorizo, paired with a glass of Rioja crianza. Because Logroño takes its food seriously, even the smallest bars often punch well above their weight. It’s a great way to end an evening exploring the city.
Final Thoughts
Logroño proves that great things come in small packages. Between historic churches, riverside walks and some of Spain’s finest tapas bars, you’ll never run short of things to do. Better still, world-class wineries sit just a short drive away. So bring your appetite, pace yourself with the wine, and let Logroño’s easy charm do the rest.