Bilbao is a fantastic place for lunch— not just because of its lively pintxos bars and gourmet restaurants, but also because of the region’s proximity to some of Spain’s top wine regions. Whether you’re after a relaxing day of wine tasting in Rioja or want an intimate private tour of local wineries, Bilbao offers a variety of options. We’re especially fond of the small-group Rioja tours, which combine authentic wine, local food, and gorgeous scenery. For example, the La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch stands out for its personalized approach and in-depth tastings, making it perfect for wine lovers seeking a memorable experience.
If you’re after a more private, tailored outing, the From Bilbao: Private Winery Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch offers an exclusive look into La Rioja’s scenic vineyards. Either way, Bilbao’s location makes it ideal for combining cultural exploration with exceptional food and drink.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a mix of small-group guided tours, boutique winery visits, and private experiences. All feature local wines, regional lunches, and visits to charming villages like Laguardia. Whether you prefer a casual day with a picnic or an intimate private tour, these options deliver a taste of Spain’s finest wines and local flavors. Now, let’s explore each of these top lunch experiences.
1. La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch
This full-day small-group tour is a top choice for those who want an immersive Rioja experience. The tour takes you to carefully selected wineries, including a traditional one where you’ll learn about classic Rioja styles, and a more modern winery for a taste of innovative winemaking. The tour limits groups to just seven people, ensuring a personal experience, and includes tastings of up to seven wines.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of wine, regional scenery, and a generous picnic lunch in Laguardia, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. The walk through Laguardia’s medieval walls adds a historical touch, complementing the wine tastings perfectly. The host guides you through each step, sharing insights into Rioja’s winemaking traditions. The reviews are glowing, praising the knowledgeable guide Marina and the intimate, friendly atmosphere. One guest mentioned, “It felt like a private tour,” which sums up the personal touch here.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want in-depth wine experiences, a relaxed pace, and a strong sense of place. It’s a bit pricier but offers excellent value for the quality and personal attention.
2. Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch
This guided day trip takes you to two family-run boutique wineries, where you’ll taste at least six wines paired with local cheeses, cold meats, and Spanish products. The tour emphasizes small-scale, artisanal wineries, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at Rioja’s craft winemaking. Besides the tastings, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amid vineyards, which many travelers find magical.
The highlight is the visit to Laguardia, a medieval hilltop town surrounded by vineyards. The guide’s friendly, knowledgeable approach makes it easy to absorb Rioja’s wine culture. Guests rave about the friendly guide Irene and the beautiful scenery, calling it a “great experience” and “wonderfully explained.” The tour offers excellent value, with ample tastings and a hearty picnic included.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, intimate wine day with local food, this tour combines authentic winery visits and a scenic village stroll. It’s especially suitable for foodies and wine enthusiasts wanting a taste of Rioja’s boutique charm.
3. Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao Private Tour
For a more private, personalized experience, this full-day private tour visits three top Rioja wineries, with tastings at each. The highlight is the chance to see the winemaking process and explore different types of grapes. The tour includes a traditional lunch in Laguardia, a medieval village perched above the vineyards, and offers a more flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.
This tour is praised for its comfort and exclusivity. The private guide shares detailed insights into Rioja’s wines and landscape, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke experience. The reviews mention the knowledgeable guide Mateo and the exceptional quality of the wineries visited.
Bottom Line: This is the best choice for travelers who want a luxurious, customized day in Rioja. It’s pricier but offers the most in-depth understanding of the region’s wines and culture, plus the comfort of privacy.
4. Private La Rioja Day: Visit 2 Premium Wineries with Lunch
This private day trip focuses on visiting two premium wineries in La Rioja, with tastings of eight wines and a light pintxos lunch. The experience is designed for those wanting to explore top-tier wineries without the crowds. The tour includes a scroll through scenic vineyards and charming villages, with a relaxed pace.
The tour’s standout feature is the exclusive access to high-end wineries and a chance to taste rare or limited-edition wines. The light lunch of pintxos complements the wines without overwhelming your palate. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the quality of the wines. It’s well-suited for serious wine collectors or those wanting a more refined experience.
Bottom Line: Best for wine connoisseurs seeking exclusivity and top-quality tastings, this tour combines private visits with a laid-back, authentic lunch.
5. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Bilbao
This moderately priced full-day tour introduces you to Rioja’s main wine villages. It includes a guided tour and wine tasting at a local winery, plus a traditional Spanish lunch in Laguardia. The emphasis is on learning about Rioja’s winemaking and its cultural surroundings.
Guests appreciate the balanced itinerary and the opportunity to explore underground cellars and local villages. The guide Pillar earns praise for her friendly, knowledgeable approach, making complex wine topics approachable. The reviews mention the delicious lunch, which pairs perfectly with the wines tasted during the day.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Rioja’s wines and villages without the full private experience, offering solid value and a taste of regional culture.
6. From Bilbao: Private Winery Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch
The most exclusive on our list, this private tour offers a personalized exploration of La Rioja’s vineyards. It includes a curated wine tasting at a family-owned winery and a traditional Rioja lunch, all with flexible scheduling. The tour also includes a scenic drive through vineyards and visits to charming medieval villages like Laguardia.
While the review data is limited, the focus on customization and intimate visits makes it perfect for travelers seeking a bespoke experience. The private guide ensures your interests shape the day, ideal for special occasions or serious wine aficionados.
Bottom Line: For those desiring complete exclusivity and a tailor-made day, this private tour offers a luxurious way to enjoy Rioja’s wines and scenery.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch & Wine Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, time, and what kind of experience you want. If you prefer a small-group and immersive experience with a picnic lunch, Tour 1 is excellent. For a more private, luxurious day, consider the Tour 3.
If boutique wineries and artisanal food are your focus, the Tour 2 is a great pick. For a high-end experience, the Tour 4 offers exclusive access. Budget travelers may find the Tour 5 provides excellent value, combining wine and cultural exploration.
Remember, booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and group size.
Final Thoughts
All these tours showcase the richness of Rioja’s wine and culinary scene, just a short trip from Bilbao. For a relaxed, social experience, the small-group tours with picnic lunches are ideal. If you prefer luxury and privacy, the private tours deliver a tailored, memorable day. And for those who want to dive deep into wine knowledge, the detailed winery visits with expert guides are unbeatable.
Whether you’re a casual wine lover or a serious connoisseur, there’s a lunch experience in Rioja that’s perfect for you. Book early, plan your day, and enjoy the delicious wines and regional flavors that make this part of Spain so special.