Laguardia Spain - A dog standing in a field next to a fence
1 / 10

Laguardia Spain

4.6
·491k reviews·Logroño, Spain

A perfectly preserved medieval walled town in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, famous for its wine cellars and stunning vineyard landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Laguardia Spain - A dog standing in a field next to a fence

Laguardia Spain

Best Time

Spring & Fall

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A perfectly preserved medieval walled town in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, famous for its wine cellars and stunning vineyard landscapes.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Laguardia is a gem of the Basque Country—where rolling vineyards meet timeworn medieval streets in every direction."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk Everywhere

Laguardia's historic center is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes!

🍷 Book Winery Tours

Popular bodegas fill up fast. Book your wine tasting tours in advance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Walls & Streets

Medieval Walls & Streets

Historic Center

Wander through ancient, pedestrianized streets enclosed by remarkably preserved medieval walls.

Instagram
Underground Wine Cellars (Bodegas)

Underground Wine Cellars (Bodegas)

Throughout the town

Discover a labyrinth of historic wine cellars carved beneath the town, many still in use today.

Instagram
Torre Abacial Views

Torre Abacial Views

Iglesia de Santa María de los Reyes

Climb the tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and Rioja Alavesa.

Instagram
The Dancing Clock

The Dancing Clock

Plaza Mayor

Witness the charming 'dancing clock' that comes alive with figures at specific times.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wine & Medieval Charm

Laguardia, Spain, is a medieval gem in the heart of Rioja Alavesa. Prepare for stunning vineyard views, ancient streets, and a deep dive into Spanish wine culture. Book accommodations and popular winery tours in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Getting Around Laguardia

Laguardia's historic center is largely pedestrianized, making it perfect for exploring on foot. While public transport can get you to the region, a car is recommended for exploring the wider La Rioja area and its numerous wineries. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Fiesta Weekends
Why
Vibrant local celebrations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿Por qué no Logroño? Why not Logroño Spain! Los increíbles paisajes, la gente maravillosa, la comida y el vino… ¡La Rioja no tiene competencia! #logroño #vacationdestination #lariojawine#lovespanishpeople #lovespanishfood #whyspain #lariojaturismo #lariojaspain #españa #americaninspain #americanlivinginspain #welovespain #AmazingPeople
@smithsinspain
56.9K likes • 710.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk Everywhere

Laguardia's historic center is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes! Instagram+1

🍷 Book Winery Tours

Popular bodegas fill up fast. Book your wine tasting tours in advance. Instagram+1

🥰 Acompañadme en mi visita a Logroño! 😍 Os recomiendo que vayáis si podéis, merece mucho la pena 😱 Guardaros el vídeo para tener las recomendaciones! #Comida #tapas #España #Logroño #fyp
@lacocinadesantiaguini
28.1K likes • 627.7K views
📍LAGUARDIA (Álava) Vídeo completo en nuestro canal de YOUTUBE #rioja #riojaalavesa #spain #viajar #escapadas #travel #lospueblosmasbonitosdeespaña #paisvasco #euskadi #laguardia #larioja
jmxelmundo_
8 likes • 517 views

🕰️ Catch the Dancing Clock

Check local times to see the unique 'dancing clock' in the main square. Instagram

🚗 Consider a Car

Essential for exploring surrounding wineries and towns if not using organized tours. Reddit

What a fantastic start to our North Spain tour! Laguardia was alive with fiestas, music, and street celebrations — a truly unforgettable first day! Day one complete - so much more to come this week! If you would like to know more about our food tours head to the website - link in bio . . @losparajes_laguardia
food_i_am
29 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk Everywhere

Laguardia's historic center is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes! Instagram+1

🍷 Book Winery Tours

Popular bodegas fill up fast. Book your wine tasting tours in advance. Instagram+1

🕰️ Catch the Dancing Clock

Check local times to see the unique 'dancing clock' in the main square. Instagram

🚗 Consider a Car

Essential for exploring surrounding wineries and towns if not using organized tours. Reddit

🛌 Stay in a Bodega Hotel

Experience unique stays within historic wineries for an immersive visit. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Laguardia's stunning medieval charm, well-preserved walls, and the unique experience of exploring underground wine cellars. The surrounding vineyards and the quality of Rioja wines are consistently praised, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Some find the town very quiet outside of peak season or specific events.

What People Like

Medieval atmosphere
Underground bodegas
Rioja wine region

What People Dislike

Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Laguardia is accessible by car, offering the most flexibility for exploring the Rioja region. The nearest major airports are Bilbao (BIO) and Vitoria-Gasteiz (VIT). If traveling by public transport, you can take a train to Logroño or Vitoria-Gasteiz and then a bus to Laguardia. Reddit

Yes, it's possible, especially if you focus on Laguardia itself and nearby wineries accessible by taxi or pre-booked tours. However, exploring the wider La Rioja region is significantly easier with a car. Reddit

Laguardia's historic center is compact and best explored on foot. For visiting surrounding wineries, consider booking a guided tour or hiring a taxi. Instagram

Yes, there are bus services connecting Laguardia to nearby cities like Logroño and Vitoria-Gasteiz, making it accessible without a car. Reddit

Laguardia is a short drive from Logroño, approximately 15-20 minutes, making it a popular day trip destination. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Laguardia itself is a town, and there's no general entry fee to walk its streets. However, individual attractions like wineries, museums, and the Torre Abacial may have admission fees. Instagram

Winery tour and tasting prices vary, typically ranging from €15 to €50 per person, depending on the winery and the tasting experience offered. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Instagram

Absolutely! Exploring the medieval streets, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the views are all free. The 'dancing clock' is also a free spectacle. Instagram+1

Opening hours for wineries and attractions can vary. It's best to check the specific website of each place you plan to visit, especially for tasting times and tour availability. Instagram

Most underground cellars (bodegas) require a guided tour for access. These tours often include a wine tasting and provide historical context. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Laguardia is renowned for its traditional Riojan cuisine, featuring roasted meats (especially lamb and suckling pig), hearty stews, and of course, exceptional local wines. TikTok+1

While Logroño's Calle Laurel is famous for tapas, Laguardia also offers excellent options. Look for local taverns serving 'pinchos' (small snacks) paired with regional wines. TikTok+1

Yes, Laguardia boasts several excellent restaurants, from traditional taverns to more upscale dining experiences, many focusing on local produce and wines. Instagram

Don't miss 'chuletón' (ribeye steak), 'cordero asado' (roast lamb), and local cheeses. Pair everything with Rioja Alavesa wines. TikTok

While Laguardia is more known for its wine and dinner scene, you can find cafes offering breakfast, especially if you're staying in a hotel. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the medieval walls, charming cobblestone streets, panoramic vineyard views from Torre Abacial, and the unique underground cellars. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Its well-preserved medieval architecture, rolling vineyards, and atmospheric cellars offer endless photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the town's charm and the surrounding vineyards. Instagram

Most wineries allow photography during tours, but it's always best to ask your guide for permission, especially for professional shoots. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for street scenes and landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the enclosed streets and cellars. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Laguardia offers a unique historical experience that can captivate older children. The medieval walls and streets provide a sense of adventure, and the idea of exploring underground cellars can be exciting. While wine tasting might not be for them, many wineries offer family-friendly tours that focus on the history and process. Instagram

Consider visiting during local festivals if your timing aligns, as these often have activities that appeal to younger visitors. The 'dancing clock' is also a fun, short spectacle for kids. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Instagram

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For wine lovers, Laguardia is a dream destination. As the heart of Rioja Alavesa, it offers access to a high concentration of prestigious wineries and traditional bodegas. You can spend days exploring different estates, from avant-garde architectural wonders to centuries-old underground cellars. Instagram+1

Prioritize booking tours and tastings at renowned wineries like Marqués de Riscal or Bodegas Valdelana. Don't miss the chance to explore the town's own subterranean wine cellars, which offer a unique glimpse into historical winemaking practices. Instagram Consider staying in a hotel that is also a winery for a truly immersive experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Laguardia is a safe and welcoming town, making it ideal for solo travelers. Its compact size means you can easily explore the historic center on foot, soaking in the atmosphere at your own pace. Instagram+1

Joining a guided winery tour is a great way to meet other travelers and learn about the region's wine culture. Many local taverns also offer a friendly environment to enjoy tapas and a glass of wine, allowing for casual interactions. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Medieval Town

Laguardia is a living postcard, a perfectly preserved medieval town nestled atop a hill in the Rioja Alavesa region. Its most striking feature is the imposing medieval wall that encircles the entire historic center, creating a unique, pedestrian-only atmosphere. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. You'll find charming plazas, ancient churches, and a palpable sense of history around every corner. Instagram+2

One of the most fascinating aspects of Laguardia is the network of underground cellars, or 'bodegas', that lie beneath the town. These ancient tunnels were historically used for wine production and storage. Today, many of these bodegas are still operational and offer guided tours, allowing visitors to explore their cool, atmospheric depths and learn about the region's winemaking heritage. Instagram This unique subterranean world is a must-see for any visitor. Instagram

A Wine Lover's Paradise: Rioja Alavesa

Laguardia is the undisputed capital of Rioja Alavesa, a sub-region of the famous Rioja wine country. The landscape surrounding the town is a breathtaking tapestry of rolling vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, dotted with modern and historic wineries. This area is renowned for producing some of Spain's finest red wines, primarily Tempranillo. Instagram+1

Visiting Laguardia offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Rioja wine. You can embark on tours of world-class wineries, some of which are architectural marvels like Marqués de Riscal, while others are more traditional and family-run. Instagram Wine tasting experiences range from casual samplings to in-depth educational sessions, providing a deep appreciation for the craft and the terroir. Instagram+1

Beyond the wineries, the gastronomy of the region perfectly complements the wine. Expect hearty, traditional dishes that highlight local produce. Enjoying a meal with a glass of local Rioja is an essential part of the Laguardia experience. TikTok+1

You may also like

1 of 2