How to Get to Rioja

By Plane: The nearest airport is Logroño–Agoncillo Airport, offering domestic connections. For international travellers, Bilbao Airport and Vitoria Airport are excellent options, both within a two-hour drive of the region.

By Train: Renfe operates regular train services to Logroño from Madrid, Bilbao, and Zaragoza. The scenic ride passes through rolling countryside and picturesque villages, offering a relaxed way to reach Rioja.

By Car: Driving is the most convenient way to explore Rioja’s vineyards and towns. Well-maintained roads connect the region’s highlights, allowing for flexible itineraries through its stunning landscapes.

By Bus: Bus services from major cities like Madrid and Bilbao provide an economical way to access Rioja. Local buses also connect key towns and villages, making exploration easy and accessible.

Rioja’s Highlights

Logroño – The Vibrant Capital: As the capital of La Rioja, Logroño is a lively blend of tradition and modernity. The city’s historic old town is famed for Calle Laurel, a bustling street where tapas bars serve delicious local pairings to complement the region’s wines. Landmarks such as the Co-Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda and the stone bridge over the Ebro River create picture-perfect settings, while the vibrant atmosphere reflects Rioja’s rich cultural heritage.

Haro – The Wine Capital: Known as the heart of Rioja’s winemaking culture, Haro invites visitors to explore its historic bodegas and charming old town. The Barrio de la Estación is home to some of the region’s most iconic wineries, offering tours and tastings that celebrate Rioja’s renowned vintages. Each June, Haro hosts the lively Batalla del Vino (Wine Battle), where the streets come alive with celebrations, making this town an unmissable stop for both wine and culture enthusiasts.

Briones – A Village of Timeless Charm: Perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Ebro River, Briones is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and wine culture. Its winding cobblestone streets lead to the magnificent Ermita del Cristo (18th century), a baroque-style chapel steeped in history. Surrounded by rolling vineyards, this picturesque village is home to the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, offering an immersive journey into Rioja’s winemaking heritage. Briones seamlessly blends history, artistry, and the beauty of the land.

Bodega R. López de Heredia – Viña Tondonia: One of Rioja’s most historic wineries, Bodega R. López de Heredia embodies the art of traditional winemaking. Located in Haro, this family-owned bodega has been crafting exceptional wines for over 140 years. Its iconic underground cellars, designed to age wines to perfection, are a marvel of craftsmanship and dedication. The striking Viña Tondonia tasting room, designed by Zaha Hadid, blends avant-garde architecture with the winery’s timeless legacy, creating a unique space where tradition and innovation harmoniously meet.

Marqués de Riscal Winery – An Architectural Icon: Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Marqués de Riscal Winery is a striking blend of avant-garde design and winemaking tradition. Its undulating titanium façade reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a visual masterpiece. Visitors can enjoy tastings, stay at the luxurious hotel, or explore the vineyard’s cutting-edge facilities, which elevate the winemaking experience to an art form.

Laguardia – A Medieval Gem: Perched atop a hill, this fortified village enchants with its cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. Beneath its charming surface lies a network of underground wine cellars, where traditional winemaking still flourishes. The Gothic Church of Santa María de los Reyes, with its intricately carved portal, and the panoramic Mirador are highlights that showcase Laguardia’s timeless beauty.

San Millán de la Cogolla – The Birthplace of Spanish Language: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the monasteries of Suso and Yuso, widely regarded as the birthplace of the Spanish language. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and quiet countryside, these historic landmarks offer a serene escape steeped in cultural significance. The architectural beauty of the monasteries and their role in Spain’s literary heritage make them a must-visit in Rioja.

Elciego – A Blend of Heritage and Modernity: This picturesque village is known for its charming stone buildings, winding streets, and rich winemaking traditions. Elciego’s modern highlight is the striking Marqués de Riscal Winery, but the village also boasts stunning views of the Cantabrian Mountains and local bodegas offering authentic Rioja experiences. The harmony of heritage and innovation defines this unique destination.

Sierra de Cantabria – A Natural Backdrop: The rugged Sierra de Cantabria mountain range forms a dramatic backdrop to Rioja’s rolling vineyards. This natural border between Rioja and the Basque Country offers breathtaking hiking trails, verdant forests, and secluded lookouts. The peaks also create a unique microclimate, shaping the region’s exceptional wine-growing conditions.