Located in the south of San Sebastian in the Basque country, it was once a walled city and features the famous La Rioja wine. The city has been hailed as Spain’s most underrated city
When it comes to Spanish city breaks, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Valencia are often the first names that pop into people’s minds.
Now that summer has closed its chapter, and the sweater weather is taking over, many of us are already planning next year’s Eurosummer. With Spain being one of the most popular holiday destinations, you might want to visit more than just the typical sun-drenched city break.
As these cities become increasingly crowded due to mass tourism, many holidaymakers are seeking out lesser-known destinations. Well, there’s somewhere you should know: Logroño. It has been hailed by Time Out as Spain’s most underrated city and a hotspot for some of the continent’s best tapas.
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This city is the capital of La Rioja, a renowned wine region nestled south of San Sebastian in the Basque country. One of the top activities here is indulging in the culinary delights offered by the array of restaurants lining Logroño’s quaint streets.
The city’s traditional architecture is a sight to behold, with ancient gateways and a stunning cathedral adding to its charm. In the old town, Plaza del Mercado is touted as one of the best spots to unwind with some food and drink.
History buffs will love Muralla del Revellín, once a walled city, where they can explore the remnants of medieval walls and an ancient archway that served as an entrance to the city, reports the Express.
La Rioja’s Parliament and government office also call the old town home. For architectural marvels, don’t miss the Church of San Bartolomé and Calle Portales, a 15th-century street.
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La Rioja continues to be a top destination for wine tourism, attracting 748,345 visitors in 2022, a whopping 62 percent increase from 2021. Tourism is estimated to inject €155million (£130million) into the local economy each year.
So, if you’re looking for your next summer holiday destination without repeating the same location, this is your place. Perfect for families, couples and even for a solo trip, it has everything you need and crave, plus so much more, including the best wine in the world.
However, it’s important to note that there are no direct flights from the UK to Logroño, and all routes require at least one stop. Visitors can find flights with carriers such as Vueling Airlines and Iberia, with prices varying depending on the season and the time of ticket purchase.