Things to Do in La Rioja
La Rioja might be small, but it punches well above its weight. Rolling vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with medieval towns and striking modern wineries. Naturally, wine takes centre stage here, but there’s far more to discover too. From Roman ruins to mountain villages, this region rewards slow exploration. Here are ten highlights to help you plan the perfect trip.
Wine Tasting in Haro
Haro sits at the heart of Rioja wine country, and its Barrio de la Estación proves it. This historic district holds several famous bodegas, all within walking distance of each other. Consequently, you can hop between cellars and taste decades of vintages in one afternoon. Many wineries here date back over a century, with atmospheric underground cellars. Because tours fill up fast, book your tasting slots ahead of time.
Marqués de Riscal Hotel
In nearby Elciego stands the Marqués de Riscal Hotel, designed by architect Frank Gehry. Ribbons of pink, gold and silver titanium wrap around this striking building. Although it’s a working hotel, visitors can also tour the attached winery and vineyards. Furthermore, the on-site restaurant serves excellent local cuisine paired with the estate’s own wines. Booking a tour in advance is recommended, since spaces are limited.
Calle Laurel Tapas Crawl
Foodies flock to Logroño, and specifically to Calle Laurel, its famous tapas street. Dozens of bars line this short lane, each specialising in just one or two dishes. Therefore, hopping between them lets you sample mushrooms, grilled chorizo and patatas bravas in one evening. Locals call this style of eating “ir de pinchos,” and it’s a proper Rioja tradition. Arrive around 9pm, when the street truly comes alive.
Monasteries of Suso and Yuso
History lovers shouldn’t miss the Monasteries of Suso and Yuso near San Millán de la Cogolla. Monks here wrote the earliest known texts in the Spanish language, making this a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The older Suso monastery sits carved into a hillside, while Yuso holds a grand baroque library below. Because access to Suso is limited daily, book your visit online in advance.
Santo Domingo de la Calzada Cathedral
One of Spain’s quirkiest sights waits inside Santo Domingo de la Calzada‘s cathedral. A live rooster and hen live in a small coop right inside the church. Legend says they commemorate a miracle involving a wrongly hanged pilgrim. Meanwhile, the town itself sits on the Camino de Santiago, giving it a friendly, well-worn charm. Climb the bell tower afterwards for lovely rooftop views.
Briones and the Vivanco Wine Museum
Perched on a hilltop, Briones ranks among Rioja’s prettiest villages. Just outside town sits the Vivanco Wine Museum, one of the world’s best wine museums. Exhibits cover everything from ancient winemaking tools to modern vineyard technology. Afterwards, wander Briones’ cobbled streets for sweeping views over the Ebro Valley. Because the museum is large, allow at least two hours to see it properly.
Ezcaray
For a change of pace, head to Ezcaray, a charming village in the Sierra de la Demanda. In winter, nearby Valdezcaray draws skiers to its slopes. During warmer months, hiking trails wind through forests and past mountain streams. Additionally, the village has become something of a foodie destination, with several acclaimed restaurants. Stop for lunch here before continuing your Rioja road trip.
Santa MarÃa la Real Monastery in Nájera
The town of Nájera holds the striking Santa MarÃa la Real Monastery, carved partly into a cliff face. Inside, a beautiful cloister and royal pantheon hold the tombs of early Navarrese kings. Because the monastery played such an important role in regional history, it’s well worth the stop. Afterwards, cross the river into the old town for a relaxed wander. Nájera also sits along the Camino de Santiago, adding to its pilgrim charm.
Roman Calahorra
History runs deep in Calahorra, one of Spain’s oldest Roman settlements. Remains of a Roman circus and old city walls still dot the town. Meanwhile, the impressive twin-towered cathedral dominates the skyline above the Cidacos River. Calahorra is also known for its sweet, tender peppers, grown in the surrounding fertile valley. A slow wander through the old quarter reveals layers of history at every turn.
San Vicente de la Sonsierra
Overlooking the Ebro River, San Vicente de la Sonsierra is topped by a dramatic hilltop castle. Below the castle, narrow streets wind past a striking Gothic church. Furthermore, the surrounding vineyards produce some excellent, lesser-known Rioja wines. Because the village sits slightly off the main tourist trail, it stays refreshingly quiet. Climb up to the castle ruins for one of the best views in the region.
La Rioja rewards visitors who take their time and explore beyond the vineyards. Whether you fancy tasting world-class wine, wandering medieval monasteries or hiking mountain trails, this region has it all. Best of all, most of these spots sit within a short drive of one another. So plan your route, book any tastings early, and enjoy everything La Rioja has to offer.