Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, is much more than just tapas and fine wine. This city, bathed by the Ebro River, holds centuries of history, charming corners, and an essence that captivates anyone who strolls through it at a leisurely pace. And if there is one perfect way to start getting to know it, it’s by signing up for one of the best free walking tours in Logroño.
These guided tours operate on a voluntary tip basis at the end, and they allow you to discover the city through the eyes of local experts who know how to blend history, culture, and good humor.
In this article, I’ll tell you which ones are the most highly recommended, what you can expect from each, and some suggestions for continuing to explore the area, including a getaway to Laguardia, a medieval jewel in the heart of the Rioja Alavesa.
💡Glutendtrotter Tip: We recommend reading our guides on what to see in Logroño and Laguardia to get an idea of what you can visit and better organize your trip.
1. Free walking tour of Logroño: a perfect introduction to the city
This walking tour is ideal for starting your discovery of the Riojan capital. It begins next to the equestrian statue of General Espartero, where you will learn about his role in the history of Spain and his connection to Logroño.
The tour continues through the historic center, with stops at the Museum of La Rioja and the Co-Cathedral of Santa María la Redonda, one of the city’s most iconic religious buildings. We will also walk along the Ebro River and see the Church of Santiago el Real, San Bartolomé, and the Revellín wall, witnesses to the city’s fortified past.
In less than two hours, you will have covered the most iconic and well-known spots in Logroño. An essential route for finding your bearings and connecting with its history.
2. Free walking tour of the Witches of Logroño: dark history and spells
This tour shows you the most mysterious side of the city. Starting at the Plaza de la Diversidad, you will travel back to the year 1610, when Logroño was the setting for the largest “auto-da-fé” against witchcraft in Spain.
Throughout the walk, you will discover what happened to the accused, who Alonso Salazar—the “witches’ lawyer”—was, and how the Inquisition marked the city’s past. The tour visits places like the Revellín wall, the co-cathedral, and the tower of Santa María de Palacio.
It ends at the Bosque de la Memoria (Forest of Memory), where a plaque pays tribute to the victims of the persecution. A perfect tour for history buffs with a dark twist.
3. Free walking tour of the medieval quarter of Laguardia
Although it is not in the city of Logroño, this excursion deserves a special mention. Laguardia is just a half-hour drive away and is one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its historic walled center is perfectly preserved, and walking through it with a guide makes it even more special.
Cobbled streets, medieval gates, churches with jaw-dropping altarpieces, underground wine cellars hidden beneath the houses… This free tour will allow you to learn about the history, traditions, and legends of this wine-producing village that looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale. Plus, when you’re finished, you can stay to enjoy a wine tasting, eat at one of its traditional restaurants, or simply let yourself wander at your own pace.
More things to do in Logroño: guided tours and wineries to continue exploring
If, after taking one of the best free tours in Logroño, you find yourself wanting more (which I’m sure you will), here are some guided tours that are well worth it and that you can combine with your getaway:
- Tour of Viña Ijalba Wineries: a tour of one of the best-known wineries in Logroño, with wine tasting included and explanations of the winemaking processes. Ideal for those who want to learn and taste at the same time.
- Visit to Hoplita Winery: for those looking for a more alternative experience, featuring natural wines and a more artisanal philosophy. This visit focuses on local, small-scale, and high-quality production.
- Private tour of Logroño: if you are traveling in a group or want a customized experience, this tour adapts to your schedule and interests. You can focus it on art, gastronomy, the Camino de Santiago, or whatever you feel like most.
- Guided tour of Laguardia with winery and tasting: combine the charm of the village with a wine tasting at one of its traditional wineries. A perfect plan for a relaxing morning or afternoon.
- Visit to the Marqués de Cáceres wineries: this option is in Cenicero, about 20 minutes from Logroño, and allows you to discover one of the most iconic labels in the Rioja D.O.Ca. Tradition and avant-garde in a single experience.
Traveler tip
A good way to organize your trip is to start with the free tour of Logroño, to get your bearings and get to know the city, and then choose between the witch tour or the getaway to Laguardia depending on your tastes. Of course, a visit to a winery to enjoy the local wine culture as it deserves is a must.
💡Glutendtrotter Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, book in advance (especially on weekends and holidays), and let yourself be swept away by the charm of a land that is meant to be savored slowly. If you can, visit in spring or autumn, when the landscape is at its peak and the weather is pleasant.
Are you interested in taking any of these free tours in Logroño? Let me know in the comments or write to me if you have any questions! I would be happy to help you plan your route.
