La Rioja tours

Things to do in La Rioja

In La Rioja, the landscape unfolds like a patchwork quilt of vineyards and rolling hills, where every sip of wine tells a tale of the earth and its people. As you explore this enchanting region, your local guide unlocks the door to experiences that transcend the typical: private tours in La Rioja invite you to wander through rustic cellars and taste the fruits of centuries-old winemaking traditions. Whether you're embarking on a food and wine tour that tantalizes your taste buds or a walking tour through charming villages, your guide brings the magic of La Rioja to life. Skip the line and step into a world where time slows down, and every moment is savoured like a fine vintage. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in La Rioja. Explore La Rioja your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every La Rioja tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in La Rioja for every interest, including: Food and Drink tours: Taste your way through Haro’s Barrio de la Estación with guided visits to century‑old bodegas and their underground calados. In Logroño, do a pinchos crawl along Calle Laurel while your guide pairs Rioja Crianza and Reserva with each bite. Nature and Wildlife tours: Stretch your legs in Sierra de Cebollera on beech‑forest trails to waterfalls and viewpoints. Closer to town, circle La Grajera reservoir for easy birdwatching and a picnic among vineyards. History tours: Step into the monasteries of Suso and Yuso at San Millán de la Cogolla to see where early Castilian texts were written. Continue to Santo Domingo de la Calzada to visit the cathedral and hear the tale of the miracle chickens. Villages and wineries are spread out, and public transit is limited. Your guide can arrange chauffeured tours or private transportation so you can reach cellars and nature sites without driving. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows La Rioja inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Embark on a private walking tour of La Rioja and explore its celebrated neighborhoods with insights from a local guide. It’s the perfect way to appreciate the area’s rich culture and traditions. - Logrono: A must-visit for foodies and wine enthusiasts. Famous for its tapas bars on Calle Laurel and its vibrant wine culture. Your guide can help you find the best pintxos and local wines to savor. - Haro: Known as the wine capital of La Rioja, this area is ideal for cultural tourists and wine lovers. Visit historic wineries and learn about the region’s winemaking heritage. Your guide can provide tips on the best tasting experiences. - Santo Domingo de la Calzada: Perfect for history buffs and those on spiritual journeys. Explore the town’s medieval streets and the renowned cathedral. Your guide can delve into the legends and traditions linked to the Camino de Santiago. - Briones: Offers scenic views and a deep dive into local history. Ideal for those who enjoy picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage. Your guide can showcase the town’s museum and historic landmarks. Day trip ideas from La Rioja From La Rioja, you can reach hill towns, working vineyards, and UNESCO monasteries on easy day trips that slot smoothly into your tour. - Laguardia: A walled village with stone lanes and underground wine cellars, great if you enjoy short walks, vineyard views, and tasting rooms; you get history at the gate towers and modern wine culture in compact, easy-to-navigate streets. - Haro and Briones: Classic Rioja wine country where old station wineries sit near the tracks and the Vivanco wine museum adds context, fitting wine lovers who want cellar visits, simple tapas, and a relaxed pace in two close-by towns. - San Millán de la Cogolla and Nájera: Monasteries tied to early Spanish writing and the Camino, appealing if you like manuscripts, cloisters, and cool river valleys; you can pair quiet heritage stops with a short walk to caves and viewpoints. - Ezcaray and the Sierra: A mountain town with craft shops and riverside paths, good for you if markets, wool traditions, and fresh-air hikes call your name; trails in nearby Cebollera park bring forest shade and streams without a long drive. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of La Rioja most travellers miss.