The Ultimate Vegan Guide to Enjoying Rioja Wine Country

Discover the best vegan-friendly spots in Rioja, Spain, from delicious plant-based tapas in Logroño to vegan-friendly wineries in the heart of wine country. Explore the region’s culinary delights, sustainable dining, and top attractions for an unforgettable vegan Rioja wine tour!

La Rioja is an amazing destination that packs a punch despite its small size. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, world-renowned wines, and vibrant culture, the region promises an unforgettable experience.

However, for vegan travelers, navigating the culinary scene can be a bit of a challenge.

Fear not—this guide will help you explore the top attractions from Logroño to Haro, journey along the Camino de Santiago through San Millán and Santo Domingo de la Calzada, uncover hidden gems like Sajazarra and Cuzcurrita, and finally, dive into the wine country with vegan-friendly gastronomic options.

Exploring La Rioja’s Top Attractions

Let’s start with some of the top attractions that should be part of any holiday or tour in the region.

Logroño: A Tapas Paradise

Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, is celebrated for its dynamic tapas scene. The famous Calle del Laurel, along with nearby streets like Calle San Juan, offers a myriad of tapas bars. But there’s more to enjoy here than just food!

• Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda
  This stunning cathedral, located in the heart of Logroño’s historic center, features impressive twin towers and a beautiful Baroque façade. Inside, you’ll find a small painting attributed to Michelangelo, along with intricate altarpieces and breathtaking religious artwork.
• Parque del Ebro & Puente de Piedra
  Take a scenic stroll along the Ebro River in this peaceful park, which offers great views of the city and the iconic Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge). It’s perfect for a morning walk, a picnic, or simply soaking in Logroño’s relaxed atmosphere.
• Bodegas Franco-Españolas
  One of Logroño’s most historic wineries, Franco-Españolas offers guided wine tours and tastings, providing a deep dive into La Rioja’s wine culture. Even if you’re vegan, you can still enjoy the experience—many wineries now offer vegan-friendly wines that don’t use animal-based fining agents.

Also Read: 6 Tasty Tips to Help You Make Healthy Breakfast Smoothies

Haro: The Wine Capital of La Rioja

No visit to La Rioja is complete without a stop in Haro. As the wine capital of the region, this town blends history, tradition, and world-class wine in an unforgettable setting. Walking through its charming streets, you’ll find grand old buildings, lively plazas, and of course, some of Spain’s most renowned wineries.

• Barrio de la Estación
  This historic district near the train station is home to the highest concentration of century-old wineries in the world. Its origins trace back to the 19th century, when the arrival of the railway helped Rioja wines gain international acclaim. Must-visits include:
  • Bodegas Muga – known for traditional methods and attention to detail.
  • López de Heredia Viña Tondonia – where time stands still and wines are aged for decades in historic cellars.
  Many of these wineries now offer vegan-friendly wine tastings.
• Plaza de la Paz
  Haro’s vibrant central square is the heart of local life. Lined with elegant buildings including the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), it’s a great place to relax and people-watch. From here, wander into the historic center, explore cobblestone streets, mansions, churches, and local artisan shops.
• Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Vega
  A hidden gem dedicated to Haro’s patron saint, this elegant Baroque church offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful interiors.

The Camino de Santiago & Historic Towns

For those drawn to history and spiritual journeys, the Camino de Santiago winds through some of La Rioja’s most meaningful sites.

• San Millán de la Cogolla
  Home to the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Suso and Yuso, this town is often regarded as the birthplace of the Spanish language. With its serene setting and rich history, it’s a must-visit for culture lovers and pilgrims alike.
• Santo Domingo de la Calzada
  This medieval town is steeped in pilgrim traditions, with highlights like its well-preserved cathedral and the ancient pilgrims’ hospital that speaks to centuries of devotion.

Hidden Gems: La Rioja’s Most Charming Villages

Beyond the main attractions, La Rioja’s rural heart reveals some of Spain’s most picturesque and authentic villages.

• Sajazarra
  Often called one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, Sajazarra charms with its medieval castle, flower-adorned stone houses, and peaceful, winding streets.
• Other Notable Villages
  • Cañas and Briones: Known for historic monasteries, vineyard views, and wine museums.
  • Laguardia (in Rioja Alavesa): A walled village with a stunning plaza and portico.
  • San Vicente de la Sonsierra and Labastida: Offering breathtaking landscapes and tranquil village life.

Also Read: Wine Basics For Everyone

Iconic Wineries & Architectural Marvels

No visit to La Rioja is complete without seeing its famous wineries—some housed in striking architectural landmarks.

Marqués de Riscal

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, this winery is as much a visual wonder as it is a destination for wine tasting. The innovative building contrasts beautifully with the traditional wine heritage it holds.

Ysios

Another iconic example of modern architecture, Ysios blends futuristic design with panoramic vineyard backdrops.

Other Noteworthy Wineries

La Rioja is dotted with hundreds of wineries, though not all offer public tours. An increasing number are adapting vegan-friendly, sustainable winemaking practices.

To ensure you find wineries that match your needs—especially if you require English-speaking guides or have dietary restrictions—it’s best to book through a specialized tour operator like Rioja Winery Tours.

They offer a wide range of experiences: traditional, luxury, terroir-focused, and architectural tours, and can also link your La Rioja visit with major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, or San Sebastián.

Vegan Gastronomy in La Rioja

While La Rioja’s culinary roots are traditional, more and more places are catering to vegans. Classic dishes can often be adapted using local, plant-based ingredients:

• Menestra de verduras (vegetable stew)
• Patatas a la riojana – Just omit or replace the chorizo with a vegan version.

Vegan Tapas in Logroño

Tapas culture is alive and well—and increasingly inclusive. Many bars on Calle del Laurel and nearby streets now offer vegan options or are willing to adapt dishes on request.

Some of our favorite vegan-friendly tapas in Logroño:

• Grilled mushrooms at Bar Cid
• Champiñones (without shrimp) at Bar Soriano
• Patatas bravas (without mayo) at Bar Jubera
• Rabas de Río (river-style battered “calamari” made vegan) at Bar Calderas

Don’t hesitate to ask—many chefs are happy to accommodate vegan preferences, especially when you explain your needs kindly and clearly.

Also Read: A Beginner’s Guide to Becoming a Wine Connoisseur

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re here for the wine, the architecture, the spiritual journey, or the food—La Rioja has something for everyone. With a bit of planning and the right local support, vegan travelers can enjoy everything this magical region has to offer, without compromise.