Free walking tours in Calahorra and what to see

Must-sees

Calahorra is the largest town in the Rioja Baja and one of the oldest in the north, the Roman Calagurris where Quintilian was born. A walk through its old town starts at the cathedral of Santa María, by the river Cidacos, with its diocesan museum. From there narrow streets climb towards the old Jewish quarter and the churches of San Andrés and Santiago.

The Museum of Romanisation helps you understand the city’s Roman past, which can also be seen in remains scattered around the old town. Calahorra’s other great hallmark is its market gardens: it is known as the city of vegetables and holds its gastronomic days in spring. Strolling along the Paseo del Mercadal and eating well are part of the visit.

Free tours and guided visits

Free tours are not frequent in Calahorra, although in season and on special dates there may be walks through the old town. The usual options are guided visits to the cathedral and themed routes on Roman Calahorra and the Jewish quarter. For day trips, a visit to a winery in the Rioja Oriental, an outing to the nearby Bardenas Reales in Navarre, or a drive through the Cidacos and Alhama valleys, with the dinosaur footprints of Enciso, are worthwhile.

How long to spend

A full day is enough for the city. Spend the morning on the cathedral, the diocesan museum and the old town, and the afternoon on the Museum of Romanisation and a stroll along the Mercadal. Leave time for an unhurried meal, because the vegetable cooking is part of the trip. With two days you can add a winery or a trip to the Bardenas or Enciso.

Where to stay

The best area to stay is between the old town and the shopping centre, around the Paseo del Mercadal. From there you can walk to the cathedral, the museums and the restaurants. If you are driving, anywhere central works, and some places on the outskirts have easier parking.