If you’re looking for a European city with a similar vibe to Barcelona but fewer crowds, the capital of La Rioja, Logroño, is one of the best places to visit.
As Spain’s tourism continues to grow at alarming rates, many holidaymakers are seeking alternative destinations where they can avoid overcrowded streets. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza, Tenerife and Granada tend to get quite busy during the peak months. So, where’s the best place to go?
After months of freezing weather and the days being shorter, the warmer temperatures have finally arrived. This means that a lot of holidaymakers are already planning their next holiday destination. Thinking about where to go can be quite overwhelming, and there’s nothing worse than overcrowded streets, long queues and sightseeing attractions being all cramped up. However, there’s a city in Spain that has a lot to promise with the weather and the food being just as good.
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Located in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, Logroño has been ranked as Time Out’s most underrated city in Spain. It has a total population of almost 152,000 habitants, representing half of the region’s population. Though the city is small, it offers a lot, including historic landmarks and picturesque landscapes. Logroño is also known for its exceptional gastronomy and wine culture.
The city is famous for its ‘pintxos,’ which are similar to tapas. These flavorful snacks are typically served on sticks or skewers. Other traditional dishes include ‘patatas a la riojana,’ ‘patorrilo,’ and ‘fardalejos.’ Logroño has a lively atmosphere, welcoming all tourists and visitors. Although public transport is efficient and reliable, visitors get to know better about the city when explored on foot.
Things to do in Logroño
Logroño is also part of the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James), a network of ancient pilgrimage routes across Spain. The main goal for pilgrims is to reach the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, where it’s believed the remains of the Apostle James are buried.
For those who want to take on the challenge, the Camino de Santiago offers a rewarding experience that includes spiritual reflection, a deep dive into local culture, and a test of fitness. Depending on the pace, the walk typically takes around four to six weeks to complete.
Other activities in Logroño include visiting its many wineries, such as Bodegas Campo Viejo, Bodega Viña Ijalba, and Arizcuren Bodega & Viñedos, as well as exploring historical sites like the Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda and the Church of San Bartolomé. There are also interesting places like the Museum of La Rioja, Casa de las Ciencias, and Sala Amós Salvador. Logroño offers a wide range of activities for all ages, ensuring you’ll never run out of things to do.
How to get to Logroño
Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to Logroño from London. Visitors will need to take a connecting flight to cities such as Madrid, Bilbao, or Biarritz. But who says you can’t enjoy two holidays in one?
The best time to visit Logroño is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-October), when the weather remains pleasant and the city is not overcrowded. However, for wine lovers, September is the ideal time to visit, coinciding with the grape harvest.