Explore Logroño and La Rioja by Car: Your Perfect Itinerary

Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, is an ideal starting point for exploring one of Spain’s most famous wine regions. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover its landscapes, wineries (bodegas), and charming villages at your own pace. In this article, we offer an itinerary designed to make the most of Logroño and its surroundings, highlighting how mobility is key to an unforgettable experience.

Why Logroño is Your Next Destination 

Logroño, bathed by the Ebro River, is known for its vibrant gastronomic culture, world-renowned wines, and rich history. It is the heart of the Rioja Wine Route and a place where tradition blends with modernity.

Gastronomy and Wines of La Rioja 

Calle Laurel is the epicentre of Logroño’s tapas scene, offering a unique culinary experience. Each bar has its speciality, paired with the region’s excellent wines. We encourage you to try the different wines that characterise La Rioja, from robust reds to crisp whites.

History and Culture of Logroño 

Stroll through the old town and discover the Co-Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda, the Stone Bridge over the Ebro, and the fountain in the Plaza del Mercado. These places tell the story of a city that has been a crossroads and a key point on the Camino de Santiago.

Your Car Itinerary through Logroño and La Rioja

To make the most of your visit, we have designed a 3-day itinerary that will allow you to explore the region’s charms.

Day 1: Discovering Logroño and its Surroundings

Start your journey in the centre of Logroño. Spend the morning exploring the old town, visiting historical points and enjoying the local atmosphere.

• 09:00 – 10:00: Breakfast at a local café in Logroño.
• 10:00 – 12:00: Walking tour of Logroño’s Old Town.
• 12:00 – 14:00: Visit the Co-Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda in the Plaza del Mercado, Logroño.
• 14:00 – 15:30: Lunch and tapas on Calle Laurel, Logroño.

In the afternoon,pick up your rental car from the Logroño Train Station and head towards Viana, a nearby medieval town with an impressive Gothic church and panoramic views. The distance is short, and the drive will give you a first impression of the Riojan landscape.

Day 2: Wine Route and Charming Villages 

Today, the itinerary focuses on the wineries (bodegas) and picturesque villages dotted around the region.

• 09:30 – 11:30: Visit and wine tasting at a local winery.
• 11:30 – 13:00: Drive to Laguardia, Álava.
• 13:00 – 14:30: Stroll through Laguardia and lunch in Laguardia, Álava.
• 14:30 – 16:30: Visit Bodegas Ysios or Marqués de Riscal in Elciego or Laguardia.

A car will allow you to move comfortably between wineries and villages like Haro, known for its “Batalla del Vino” (Wine Battle), or Ezcaray, with its traditional architecture and surrounded by mountains. The flexibility of having your own transport is essential for exploring these areas.

Day 3: Nature and Return 

The last day can be dedicated to Riojan nature or to exploring a lesser-known place before heading back.

• 10:00 – 12:00: Visit the Monasteries of Suso and Yuso in San Millán de la Cogolla.
• 12:00 – 14:00: Lunch in San Millán de la Cogolla.
• 14:00 – 16:00: Drive and return the car.

The Monasteries of San Millán de la Cogolla, a World Heritage Site, are a perfect example of how a vehicle makes it easy to access places of great cultural and scenic value that are not connected by public transport.

Tips for Your Road Trip in La Rioja

To ensure your trip is as pleasant as possible, keep these tips in mind:

• Book in advance: Especially during high season, rental cars can be limited.
• Driving licence: Make sure you bring a valid driving licence.
• Navigation: A GPS or a map app on your phone will be very helpful for navigating the rural roads.

Exploring Logroño and La Rioja by car is an experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the culture, gastronomy, and landscapes of this wonderful region. Pack your bags and your adventurous spirit!

Need more inspiration for your trip to Logroño?

For more information about Logroño and other fascinating destinations, don’t hesitate to check out our blog.