Things to do in 

La Rioja

Uncovering the true spirit of La Rioja means venturing beyond the famed wineries that dot the fertile landscape. The pulse of this city extends into its rustic hamlets, verdant valleys, and ancient monasteries, making 'things to do in La Rioja' a treasure hunt for those who love authentic experiences. As the seasons roll by, shifting vines frame the city in a diverse palette of colors, whilst cultural festivities breathe local flavors into each day. La Rioja never stops painting its own picture, all you have to do is step inside it.

Explore La Rioja off the beaten path

If you're curious about alternative things to do, step off the main wine route and follow these low-key stops where locals linger, taste, watch, and chat.

Cultural experiences:. Duck into the Frontón Municipal in Ezcaray to watch a fast pelota match, then wander San Asensio for a tour at Bodegas Lecea’s old underground cellars. Around midday, squeeze into Bar Soriano on Logroño’s Calle Laurel for a vermouth and those smoky mushroom skewers.

Small museums and galleries:. In Haro, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo “El Torreón” shows thoughtful exhibitions inside a stone tower. Drive to Torrecilla en Cameros for the Centro de la Emigración Riojana and stories of locals who left and returned. Back in Logroño, the Bodega-Museo Ontañón pairs wine with mythic sculptures in a compact, curious space.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints:. Hike up to the Ermita de San Felices de Bilibio near Haro for golden-hour views over the Ebro and patchwork vines. For big skies without the bustle, catch sunrise at Peña Bajenza above Islallana or late light from Castillo de Davalillo near San Asensio.

Shop for local products & souvenirs:. Browse the Mercado de San Blas in Logroño in the morning for Camerano cheese, chorizo, and beans to take home. In Ezcaray, step into Mantas Ezcaray to feel the soft wool throws being finished right in the workshop. Late afternoon, pick up small-producer bottles at La Tavina’s wine shop on Calle Laurel before your evening bite.

Popular neighbourhoods

Get to know La Rioja's unique character through intimate explorations of its charming neighbourhoods. Offering vibrant atmospheres, each neighbourhood tells a tale of its own, inviting travellers to soak it all up.

Logroño: Start your journey in the heartland of wine-making where brimming bodegas stand tall and proud. Saunter through the lively streets, absorb the architectural charm, and don't miss the chance for a glass of exquisite local wine.

Haro: Discover the rich wine-making tradition while meandering through Haro's compelling streets. Spectacular vineyards paint the landscape here, presenting an undeniable invitation to savour a sip or two.

Laguardia: Embark on a historical journey through Laguardia's cobblestone streets. You're in for a treat of medieval walls, ancient cellars, and elegant palaces that have silently narrated thousands of centuries.

Briones: Step back in time as you uncover Briones' rich past through the Museum of Wine Culture. This quaint neighbourhood is picture-perfect with tranquil streets and striking views.

San Vicente de la Sonsierra: Admire grandiose structures nestled high in the hills. With its towering castle and beautiful churches, San Vicente de la Sonsierra offers a picturesque scene right out of a storybook.

Things to do in La Rioja by season

Spring: Watch vineyards wake with bright budburst, walk Camino de Santiago stretches through Nájera or Logroño, and cycle family-friendly greenways by the Ebro. Picnic among almond blossoms in the foothills.

Summer: Linger on warm evenings for tapas crawls along Calle Laurel, then escape to beech forests around Ezcaray for shaded hikes and river dips. Outdoor concerts and village fiestas animate plazas late into the night.

Fall: Arrive for the vendimia grape harvest, photograph golden hillsides, and join relaxed tastings as presses run. Seniors and slow travellers savour market mornings and short winery walks between medieval villages.

Winter: Slip into quiet cellars for barrel tastings, order hearty stews like patatas a la riojana, and plan a ski day at Valdezcaray when snow falls. Museums and wineries welcome unhurried visits in the off-season.

Calendar fixtures include Haro’s Batalla del Vino on 29 June, a joyful wine-soaked morning on the cliffs of San Felices, and Logroño’s San Mateo Harvest Festival each September with grape treading, parades, and fireworks. Smaller village fiestas dot the map all summer.