2-Day Romantic Rioja Getaway: Wine, Dine, Sightsee & Experience Nightlife
Rioja, Spain
2 days
About Rioja, Spain
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Rioja, Spain. This region, renowned for its world-class wines, offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, ancient architecture, and gastronomic delights. Visit the vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, and indulge in wine tasting tours at centuries-old wineries. Explore the medieval villages, like Laguardia, and marvel at the stunning monasteries and castles that dot the region. Savor the local cuisine, a delightful fusion of traditional and modern Spanish gastronomy. The annual wine festival, Batalla del Vino, is a must-see, where locals and tourists engage in a friendly wine-throwing battle. With its warm and welcoming locals, Rioja promises an unforgettable Spanish adventure.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Wine Culture and Village Charm in Briones and Haro
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, one of the best wine museums in the world. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of wine-making.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local restaurant in Briones. Try the 'chuletillas al sarmiento', lamb chops grilled over vine shoots, a typical dish of the region.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming village of Briones. Visit the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and enjoy the panoramic views of the Ebro River and the surrounding vineyards from the Plaza de España.
Dinner
For dinner, enjoy a meal in a modern Riojan restaurant in Haro. These restaurants offer a contemporary twist on traditional Riojan cuisine, paired with local wines.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a wine bar in Haro. Sample a variety of Rioja wines, from young 'joven' wines to aged 'gran reserva' wines, in a relaxed and intimate setting.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Ysios Winery
Ysios Winery is a must-visit for wine lovers and architecture enthusiasts. It offers guided tours, wine tastings, and a stunning view of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains.
2Church of Santa Maria de los Reyes
The Church of Santa Maria de los Reyes is a must-visit for its stunning Gothic architecture and beautifully preserved polychrome portal, a true masterpiece of medieval art.
3Calle Laurel
Known as the 'Street of the Elephants', this bustling street is the heart of Logroño's tapas scene. It's lined with bars and restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine, and it's a great place to shop for local products and souvenirs.
4Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture
The Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture offers an in-depth look into the history and culture of wine, featuring exhibits on winemaking tools, art, and more.
5Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is a must-visit for its stunning views of the Rioja region and its beautiful historic architecture.
6Underground cellars of Laguardia
The Underground cellars of Laguardia offer a unique journey into the past. These ancient cellars, used for wine storage, provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich wine-making history. A tour of these cellars is a must for any visitor to Rioja.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Rioja Wine
Rioja is famous for its high-quality wines, particularly red wine. It's a must-try for any wine lover visiting the region.
Chuletillas al Sarmiento
These are lamb chops grilled over vine shoots, a traditional dish in Rioja. The vine shoots give the meat a unique flavor.
Patatas a la Riojana
This is a hearty potato and chorizo stew, a staple in Rioja cuisine. It's a perfect comfort food after a day of sightseeing.
Pimientos Riojanos
These are red peppers stuffed with meat or fish. It's a popular dish in Rioja, showcasing the region's fresh produce.
Menestra de Verduras
This is a vegetable stew made with artichokes, asparagus, and peppers, among other vegetables. It's a testament to Rioja's rich agricultural heritage.
Marmitako
This is a tuna and potato stew, a traditional dish in the Basque Country and Rioja. It's a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for seafood lovers.
Peras al Vino Tinto
This is a dessert made with pears poached in red wine. It's a sweet and fruity end to a meal, showcasing the region's famous wines.
Queso Camerano
This is a traditional goat cheese from the region. It's creamy and flavorful, perfect for cheese lovers.
Alubias con Chorizo
This is a hearty bean and chorizo stew, a staple in Rioja cuisine. It's a perfect comfort food after a day of sightseeing.
Cogollos de Tudela
This is a salad made with lettuce hearts from Tudela, a town in the nearby Navarre region. It's a light and refreshing dish, perfect for a hot day.
Chorizo a la Riojana
This is a dish made with chorizo sausage cooked in red wine. It's a hearty and flavorful dish, showcasing the region's famous wines and sausages.
Rosquillas de San Blas
These are ring-shaped pastries made for the feast of San Blas. They're a sweet treat, perfect for dessert or a snack.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Rioja, Spain largely depends on what you're most interested in experiencing. If you're a wine enthusiast, the best time to visit is during the grape harvest season, which typically occurs from late September to early October. This is when the region is most lively, with numerous wine festivals taking place. However, if you're more interested in comfortable weather for sightseeing, the months of May, June, September, and October offer mild temperatures and less rainfall. These months are also less crowded than the peak summer months of July and August, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. For those interested in skiing, the winter months of December to February in the Sierra de Cantabria mountains would be ideal. Remember, no matter when you decide to visit, Rioja offers a rich blend of culture, cuisine, and world-renowned wines that can be enjoyed year-round.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
February 13 | Tue | Carnival Tuesday (Extremadura) |
February 28 | Wed | Day of Andalucía (Andalusia) |
March 1 | Fri | Day of the Balearic Islands (Balearic Islands) |
March 28 | Thu | Maundy Thursday (regional holiday) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday (regional holiday) |
April 10 | Wed | Eid al-Fitr (Melilla) |
April 23 | Tue | Castile and León Day (Castile-Leon) |
April 23 | Tue | Day of Aragón (Aragon) |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 2 | Thu | Day of Madrid (Madrid) |
May 17 | Fri | Galicia Literature Day (Galicia) |
May 30 | Thu | Day of the Canary Islands (Canary Islands) |
May 31 | Fri | Day of Castile-La Mancha (Castile-La Mancha) |
June 9 | Sun | Day of La Rioja (La Rioja) |
June 10 | Mon | Day off for Day of La Rioja (La Rioja) |
June 13 | Thu | San Antonio (Ceuta) |
June 17 | Mon | Eid al-Adha (regional holiday) |
June 24 | Mon | Saint John the Baptist Day (regional holiday) |
July 25 | Thu | Feast of Saint James the Apostle (regional holiday) |
August 5 | Mon | The Day of Our Lady of Africa (Ceuta) |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
September 2 | Mon | Day of the Independent City of Ceuta (Ceuta) |
September 8 | Sun | Virgin of the Victory (Melilla) |
September 8 | Sun | Day of Asturias (Asturias) |
September 9 | Mon | Virgin of the Victory observed (Melilla) |
September 9 | Mon | Day off for Day of Asturias (Asturias) |
September 11 | Wed | National Day of Catalonia (Catalonia) |
September 15 | Sun | Nuestra Señora de la Bien Aparecida (Cantabria) |
September 17 | Tue | Day of Melilla (Melilla) |
October 9 | Wed | Day of the Valencian Community (Valencia) |
October 12 | Sat | Hispanic Day |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
December 3 | Tue | Day of Navarre (Navarre) |
December 6 | Fri | Constitution Day |
December 9 | Mon | Immaculate Conception observed (regional holiday) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | St Stephen's Day (Catalonia) |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around in Rioja. This gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the city. Remember to have your international driver's license.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Rioja, especially in the city areas. They are metered and can be hailed from the street, taxi ranks, or booked in advance. They provide a convenient way to get around, especially if you're carrying luggage or traveling in a group.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Rioja. This can be a cost-effective and convenient way to travel, especially for shorter distances. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.
Public Bus
Public buses are a common and affordable way to get around in Rioja. They cover routes within the city as well as to the surrounding towns and villages. Timetables can be found at bus stations and online.
Bicycle
Cycling is a popular way to explore Rioja, especially the vineyards and countryside. There are several places where you can rent bicycles, including e-bikes. Some areas also have dedicated cycling paths.
Walking
Walking is a great way to explore the city areas of Rioja, especially the historic centers. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Remember to wear comfortable shoes.
Train
Trains connect Rioja with other major cities in Spain. The region's main train station is in Logroño. This can be a convenient and scenic way to travel, especially for longer distances.
Private Tour
Private tours, often with a driver and guide, are a popular way to explore Rioja, especially for wine tasting tours. This can be a convenient and informative way to travel, especially if you're new to the region.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Rioja, Spain as a first time visitor
1
Rioja is a region in northern Spain, renowned for its production of high-quality wines.
2
The official language in Rioja is Spanish, so it would be beneficial to learn a few basic phrases.
3
The currency used in Rioja, like the rest of Spain, is the Euro (€).
4
Credit cards are widely accepted in Rioja, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.
5
The climate in Rioja is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75-85°F (24-29°C), while winter temperatures range from 45-55°F (7-13°C).
6
Tipping in Rioja is not mandatory but is appreciated. A tip of 10% is considered generous.
7
The region is divided into three parts: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. Each has its own unique characteristics and wine styles.
8
Rioja is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).
9
The region is known for its wine festivals, particularly the Haro Wine Festival in June and the San Mateo Festival in September.
10
Rioja's cuisine is a blend of traditional Spanish dishes and local specialties. Don't miss out on trying the local lamb, chorizo, and of course, the wine.
11
Public transportation in Rioja is reliable and affordable. Buses are the main form of public transport, but renting a car can give you more flexibility to explore the region.
12
The region is safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
13
The drinking age in Spain, including Rioja, is 18 years old.
14
Many businesses in Rioja observe a 'siesta' in the afternoon, typically from 2pm to 5pm, during which they close.
15
The region is home to several vineyards and wineries, many of which offer tours and tastings. It's recommended to book these in advance.
16
Tap water is safe to drink in Rioja, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.
17
The region has a mix of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during the wine festival season.
18
Electricity in Spain, including Rioja, is 230 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F.
19
Healthcare in Spain is of a high standard. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
20
Rioja is not just about wine. The region also offers beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites. It's worth taking the time to explore beyond the vineyards.
Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | A-dee-os | Leaving someone |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | Making a request |
Thank you | Gracias | Gra-see-as | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Sí | See | Agreeing with someone |
No | No | No | Disagreeing with someone |
Excuse me | Perdón | Per-don | Getting someone's attention |
I'm sorry | Lo siento | Lo see-en-to | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | Ab-las in-gles | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | No entiendo | No en-tee-en-do | Expressing confusion |
Where is...? | ¿Dónde está...? | Don-de es-ta | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Baño | Ban-yo | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Ayuda | A-yu-da | In case of emergency |
Food | Comida | Co-mee-da | Looking for a place to eat |
Water | Agua | A-gua | Asking for water |
Beer | Cerveza | Ser-ve-za | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vino | Vee-no | Ordering wine |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | Kwan-to kwes-ta | Asking for the price |
Can I have the bill, please? | ¿Puedo tener la cuenta, por favor? | Pwe-do te-ner la kwen-ta, por fa-vor | Asking for the bill |
Good night | Buenas noches | Bwe-nas no-ches | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Hat
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Travel-size body wash or soap
Makeup and makeup remover
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash, particularly in small denominations
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Travel guidebook for Rioja, Spain
Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook
Wine opener for sampling local wines
Weather Conditions
Visiting Rioja, Spain, is a delightful experience, but it's essential to consider the weather conditions to make the most of your trip. Rioja experiences a Mediterranean climate, which means it has hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C). It's the perfect time for wine lovers to visit as the vineyards are in full bloom. However, it's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and use sun protection due to the high temperatures. In contrast, winter, from December to February, is quite mild with temperatures ranging from 32°F (0°C) to 59°F (15°C). If you're planning a winter visit, pack warm clothing, including a jacket or coat. This time of year is less crowded, making it ideal for tourists who prefer a quieter travel experience. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Rioja. The weather during these periods is quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 77°F (25°C). These seasons provide a comfortable climate for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Also, pack a versatile wardrobe that can accommodate sudden weather changes. Enjoy your trip to Rioja!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 15° / 1° | January in Rioja, Spain, is quite cold with temperatures ranging from 1 to 15 degrees Celsius. It's the coldest month, so pack warm clothes. |
February | 16° / 2° | February is still chilly, but temperatures start to rise slightly, ranging from 2 to 16 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places. |
March | 18° / 4° | March sees a further increase in temperature, ranging from 4 to 18 degrees Celsius. The weather is pleasant, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
April | 20° / 6° | April in Rioja, Spain, is mild with temperatures ranging from 6 to 20 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit vineyards and enjoy the local wine. |
May | 23° / 9° | May is warm with temperatures ranging from 9 to 23 degrees Celsius. It's an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Rioja. |
June | 27° / 13° | June is the start of summer in Rioja, Spain, with temperatures ranging from 13 to 27 degrees Celsius. It's a perfect time for beach activities and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. |
July | 30° / 16° | July is the hottest month in Rioja, Spain, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to enjoy the sun and visit the beautiful beaches. |
August | 30° / 16° | August is equally hot as July with temperatures ranging from 16 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the local culture. |
September | 27° / 13° | September in Rioja, Spain, is slightly cooler with temperatures ranging from 13 to 27 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a less crowded and cooler environment. |
October | 23° / 9° | October sees a drop in temperature, ranging from 9 to 23 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to explore the city's architecture and enjoy the local cuisine. |
November | 18° / 5° | November in Rioja, Spain, is quite cool with temperatures ranging from 5 to 18 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy the cool weather. |
December | 15° / 2° | December is cold with temperatures ranging from 2 to 15 degrees Celsius. It's a festive time in Rioja, Spain, making it a great time to experience the local culture and traditions. |
Did you know?
Places near by Rioja, Spain
Bilbao
Known for its modern architecture, including the Guggenheim Museum.
San Sebastian
Famous for its beaches and culinary scene.
Pamplona
Known for the Running of the Bulls festival.
Vitoria-Gasteiz
The capital city of the Basque Country, known for its medieval old town.
Zaragoza
Known for its baroque Nuestra Señora del Pilar basilica.
Santander
A port city known for its Sardinero beach and the nearby Cantabrian mountains.
Burgos
Known for its Gothic-style cathedral and the historic Las Huelgas Reales Monastery.
Logroño
The capital of La Rioja region, known for its rich wine culture.
Soria
Known for its historic architecture, including the 12th-century Monastery of San Juan de Duero.
Segovia
Famous for its Roman aqueduct, Gothic cathedral, and Alcázar castle.
