This region, so closely linked to the famous Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela and wine tourism, also awaits you with its cultural attractions. In addition to its capital, Logroño, you can discover other towns such as Santo Domingo de la Calzada and its Cathedral or San Millán de la Cogolla and its Suso and Yuso Monasteries, declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO and known because the first words written in Spanish were born there.
Logroño, the capital of the region
Logroño is a city full of life and color. Its historic quarter has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and has numerous monuments, such as the Santa María la Redonda co-cathedral, the Stone Bridge, and Calle del Laurel, famous for its tapas bars.
- The co-cathedral of Santa María la Redonda is a Gothic building from the 16th century. Its interior is decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows.
- The Puente de Piedra is a medieval bridge that crosses the river Ebro. It is one of the symbols of Logroño.
- Calle del Laurel is a pedestrian street full of tapas bars. It is a perfect place to enjoy the gastronomy of La Rioja.
The wineries in La Rioja
The vineyards of La Rioja are one of the region’s main tourist attractions. The landscapes of the wineries and vineyards are impressive and offer the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process up close.
- La Rioja Alta is the most important wine production area in the region. Some of the most prestigious wineries in Spain are located here.
- The Rioja Baja is a more mountainous area, with more rugged landscapes. Here a lighter and fresher wine is produced.
- Rioja Oriental is a warmer area, with more Mediterranean landscapes. Here a fruitier and fuller-bodied wine is produced.
The cultural heritage of La Rioja
La Rioja also has a rich cultural heritage. Among the most outstanding places are the monasteries of Suso and Yuso, declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, and the Pilgrims’ Route to Santiago de Compostela, which crosses the region.
Places of interest in La Rioja
La Rioja is a region with much to offer to visitors. If you are looking for a destination to enjoy nature, gastronomy, and culture, La Rioja is an excellent choice. Additionally, La Rioja has other places of interest, such as:
- La Sierra de Cebollera, a protected natural area with forests, rivers, and waterfalls.
- The historic center of Labastida, declared a Cultural Heritage site.
- Arnedo, a city with thermal waters and a significant footwear industry.
- Santo Domingo de la Calzada, a city known for its Romanesque bridge and the legend of Santo Domingo.
- The historic center of Haro is a place full of charm. Its narrow, cobbled streets are lined with stone houses with arcades. In the historic center, you will find several monuments of interest, such as the Church of San Martín, the Town Hall and the Bendaña Palace.
Here are some tips for planning your trip to La Rioja:
- The best time to visit La Rioja is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
- If you want to visit the wineries of La Rioja, it’s best to book in advance.
- La Rioja is a region with a great gastronomic tradition. Don’t miss the opportunity to try its typical dishes, such as rioja, Rioja chorizo, or riojana-style potatoes.
We hope you enjoy your visit to La Rioja!
