Bilbao’s reputation as a city of contrasts and surprises makes it a fantastic place for curated tours. Whether you’re captivated by the iconic Guggenheim Museum, eager to taste authentic Basque pintxos, or want to explore the rugged Biscay coast, Bilbao offers something for every traveler. We love how many of these tours balance culture, scenery, and local flavor—like the From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Gernika, and Mundaka Guided Tour which combines a scenic hike, history, and nature, or the Basque Food Tour and Wine Tasting that dives into local gastronomy. Whether you’re interested in a quick city overview or a full-day adventure, Bilbao’s tours make exploring easy and memorable.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of experiences, from half-day city highlights, bike tours, and private walks, to full-day scenic trips and wine tastings. You’ll find options that cater to your interests and pace—whether that’s enjoying Basque cuisine, marveling at modern architecture, or walking along the coast. All tours are designed to provide authentic insights, practical details, and a chance to see parts of Bilbao that are hard to access on your own.
1. From Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Gernika, and Mundaka Guided Tour
This 6-hour trip takes you to some of the most striking spots along the Biscay Coast. Starting from Bilbao, you’ll explore the quaint village of Mundaka, known for world-class surfing, and Gernika, famous for its symbolic history. The highlight is visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a tiny island with a hermitage perched atop rugged cliffs, offering panoramic views and a memorable hike. The tour is run in a private air-conditioned vehicle, led by a professional guide, ensuring a smooth and informative experience. Reviewers often mention the brilliant guide Eduardo and the spectacular views as major highlights. This trip balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of adventure, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive coastal day.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a full taste of Biscay’s best towns and natural sights without renting a car. The small group size and expert guidance make it a well-organized, memorable outing.
2. Bilbao: Basque Food Tour and Wine Tasting with Guide
In just 3 hours, this food-focused walking tour immerses you in Bilbao’s culinary traditions. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll sample an array of pintxos, learn about the city’s vibrant food scene, and enjoy wine tastings, including local Txakoli. This tour is ideal for curious eaters who want to understand the roots of Basque cuisine and experience the city’s lively food scene firsthand. Visitors praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the variety of dishes, with comments like, “delicious food and drinks,” and “a wonderful guide!” It’s a fantastic way to meet fellow food lovers, explore charming neighborhoods, and pick up tips for eating on your own later.
Bottom line: Best suited for foodies or travelers with a short window—this tour delivers a lot of flavor and insight in just a few hours, with a personal touch.
3. Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Mundaka, Gernika, & Wine Tour
For around 10 hours, this extensive tour covers scenic coastal towns, iconic views, and a visit to a winery for Txakoli tasting. Starting with a panoramic view of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the trip includes guided visits in Bermeo, Mundaka, and Gernika. The tour also features a stop at Berroja Winery for wine tasting, making the experience rich in both cultural and culinary highlights. Reviewers highlight the well-paced itinerary and the enthusiastic guide Pedro, who keeps the group engaged. This full-day option is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Biscay with in-depth sightseeing and local wine.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to see a wide variety of coastal towns, enjoy scenic hikes, and sample regional wine—all in one day.
4. The High End Food Tour of Bilbao with a Local
Spending about 3 hours, this small-group tour ($115.86 per person) offers an upscale look at Bilbao’s gastronomy. Led by a local chef, you’ll indulge in seafood, pintxos, and miniature dishes, all paired with local ciders, txakoli, and Rioja wines. Unlike larger, more generic tours, this one emphasizes insider tips and recreates the Basque experience—walking along the Nervion River, sitting in terraces, and hopping between bars. Reviewers describe it as “a wonderful evening,” with guides sharing authentic stories behind each dish. Perfect for food lovers seeking an intimate, high-quality culinary experience that also presents the city’s atmosphere.
Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting a personal, gourmet food adventure with top-tier drinks and local stories.
5. Bilbao Highlights Half Day EBike Small Group or Private Tour
This 3-hour cycling tour at $56.98 per person offers a lively way to see Bilbao’s highlights. With your bike and helmet included, you’ll visit landmarks like the Guggenheim, City Hall, and La Ribera Market, plus iconic Puente Zubizuri and the Uribitarte area. The small group size or private option makes it flexible, and guides are eager to share local insights. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide Oskar and how the tour is “smooth and perfectly timed.” It’s well-suited for those who want a quick, active overview of the city’s modern architecture and historic sites.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want to cover a lot of ground efficiently, with the bonus of good exercise.
6. Bilbao: Guggenheim Museum Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
This 2-hour tour with skip-the-line tickets provides a focused, expert-guided exploration of Bilbao’s most famous landmark. You’ll learn about the architecture of Frank Gehry’s design and see key works from the modern and contemporary art collections. The small group and expert guide ensure more personal questions and detailed insights. Reviewers rave about how the guide “brought the building and art to life,” and the skip-the-line access makes it a practical choice. This experience suits those who want to maximize their time and get an in-depth understanding of the museum’s significance.
Bottom line: Ideal for art lovers and first-time visitors eager to skip lines and learn from knowledgeable guides.
7. Bilbao: Private Walking Tour with a Local
For a personalized experience, this 2-6 hour private walking tour ($56 per person) allows you to explore Bilbao at your own pace with a passionate local guide. You’ll uncover hidden corners, local favorites, and gain insider tips for the rest of your stay. This tour is perfect if you prefer flexibility or want to focus on specific interests like architecture, gastronomy, or history. Reviewers appreciate the private, customizable approach, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a tailored experience.
Bottom line: Best for independent-minded visitors wanting a flexible, intimate tour focused on their personal interests.
8. BILBAO: City Highlights Bike Tour
This 2-hour bike tour ($41.47 per person) offers a swift, engaging way to see Bilbao’s key sights. Highlights include the Guggenheim, the Puppy sculpture, Euskalduna Palace, and Old Town. Designed for architecture buffs, the tour offers an accessible intro to Bilbao’s recent transformation. Reviewers point out the enthusiastic guide Gari and the well-organized route. With a maximum of 10 people, it balances pace and personal interaction, making it suitable for active travelers who want a broad overview with minimal fuss.
Bottom line: Great for those who want to cover ground quickly and enjoy a relaxed ride through Bilbao’s highlights.
9. From Bilbao: Loyola, Getaria, Zarautz and San Sebastian Tour
This 8-hour full-day trip explores the inner Basque Country, with visits to the Sanctuary of Loyola, the fishing village of Getaria, and San Sebastian with a guided tour and free time. Reviewers mention the enthusiastic guide Stefan, who shares local tips and stories about the region. You’ll experience scenic drives, walks in charming towns, and a panoramic view of San Sebastian. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day outside Bilbao with a mix of culture, nature, and gastronomy.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a full-day, multi-town experience, especially for those interested in Basque culture and coastal scenery.
10. La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)
This 8-hour, small-group wine tour ($267.46 per person) visits boutique wineries in Rioja, with tastings of up to seven wines. You’ll explore Laguardia, sample traditional Rioja wines, and enjoy a medieval-inspired lunch amid vineyards. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide Marina and the personalized experience at family-run wineries. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts looking for an in-depth wine and culinary immersion with a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: A superb choice for wine lovers wanting a private, tasting-rich day with excellent regional food.
11. Pintxo and Tapas tour with local Food Expert
This 3-hour culinary walk ($168.36 per person) takes you through Bilbao’s best pintxo bars and markets, stopping at five spots to sample anchovies, squid, foie gras, and more. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn stories behind each dish, and match them with local wines, cider, and vermouth. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide Usoa and the chance to taste authentic flavors in lively settings. The tour also includes a stop at the Guggenheim Museum for a cultural touch.
Bottom line: Perfect for food travelers who want to taste local specialties while hearing personal stories and enjoying lively venues.
12. From Bilbao: Excursion to San Sebastián, Hondarribia, and Getaria
A 10-hour adventure, this trip visits three coastal towns with guided walks and free time. Reviewers mention the excellent guide Wallace, who shares local tips and history. Highlights include San Sebastián’s famous La Concha beach, Hondarribia’s colorful Old Town, and the charming streets of Getaria. It’s ideal for those wanting a full but balanced day along the coast, mingling culture, scenery, and gastronomy.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers looking for a comprehensive coastal excursion with expert guides and varied experiences.
13. Bilbao: Biarritz, Saint Jean de Luz, and San Sebastian Tour
This 9.5-hour tour covers three French and Spanish coastal towns, including Biarritz and San Sebastián. Highlights include a guided tour of Biarritz, a walk through Saint Jean de Luz, and a San Sebastián city tour with free time. Reviewers mention the great guides and the well-organized logistics. Perfect for travelers interested in both French and Spanish coastlines without the hassle of independent travel.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a taste of both sides of the border, with scenic drives and cultural experiences.
14. Bilbao: Historical Tour in Small Group
This 2-hour walking tour ($23 per person) offers a concise overview of Bilbao’s historic landmarks, markets, and old town. It’s great for first-timers who want a quick, authentic introduction. Reviewers say it’s informative and well-paced, with a focus on local architecture and traditions.
Bottom line: Ideal if you’re short on time but want a knowledgeable guide to introduce you to Bilbao’s roots.
How to Choose
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and the time you have available. If your priority is art, the Guggenheim Museum Tour is hard to beat for its skip-the-line access and expert guide. For those passionate about food and wine, the Basque Food Tour and Rioja Wine Tour provide immersive tasting experiences. Active travelers might prefer the Bike Tours or Ebike Highlights, offering a fun way to see the city without missing a detail.
For full-day explorations, the Coastal Towns Trip or the Bay of Biscay coast tours bring scenic beauty and cultural richness. Private options like the Personalized Walking Tour are perfect if you seek a flexible, intimate experience.
In summary, Bilbao’s diverse tours cater to a range of interests—from art lovers and foodies to outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. If you’re pressed for time, the Guggenheim Tour or Food Tour are excellent picks. For more comprehensive explorations, consider the Scenic Coast Trip or Rioja Wine Experience. Whichever you choose, booking early is wise—these tours fill fast!
Remember, the best tour depends on your interests and travel style. Whether you want an active bike ride, a cultural walk, or an indulgent food tasting, Bilbao’s tours make it easy to learn about this vibrant Basque city.