Bilbao, in the heart of the Basque Country, is an ideal base for exploring Spain’s wine culture. While the city itself boasts fantastic culinary delights, the surrounding region offers some of the country’s best wines and most memorable tasting experiences. Whether you’re after a short, lively pintxo crawl with local wines or an in-depth exploration of Rioja’s vineyards, Bilbao has options to suit all tastes. We especially like the Bilbao: Basque Food Tour and Wine Tasting (see details here) for its lively atmosphere and diverse pintxos.
For those wanting a comprehensive day in the Rioja wine country, the Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch (see here) offers a private, personalized experience. And if a scenic, full-day trip with stops at iconic towns like Laguardia and Gernika appeals, the Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Mundaka, Gernika & Wine Tour (see here) combines breathtaking coastal views with top regional wines. Below, we break down each of these top-rated tours so you can find one that matches your interests, schedule, and budget.
1. Bilbao: Basque Food Tour and Wine Tasting with Guide
At number 1, this popular 3-hour guided walking tour offers an immersive dive into Basque cuisine and culture. You’ll sample mouthwatering pintxos, sip local wines, and stroll through Bilbao’s charming streets while learning about the city’s rich gastronomy. The tour’s highlight is its variety—you’ll taste a wide range of pintxos, each with unique flavors and presentation, making it perfect for food lovers eager to understand what makes the Basque Country so special. The guide, Kaya, receives rave reviews for her friendly, bubbly personality and her ability to weave local traditions into the experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the balanced mix of tasting, storytelling, and socializing. It’s suited for travelers who want a lively, interactive experience and enjoy meeting people from around the world. The tour’s reviews show consistent praise, with many noting how full and satisfying the tasting experience is within just three hours. It’s excellent value for those who want a taste of Bilbao’s culinary scene without a long day out. Perfect for first-timers keen on local food culture.
Bottom Line: A fun, flavorful introduction to Bilbao’s pintxos and wine scene, led by an engaging guide. Ideal if you want a sociable, short tour that hits all the tasting highlights.
2. Bilbao: Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo, Mundaka, Gernika, & Wine Tour
This 10-hour scenic trip is a full-day adventure that takes you beyond Bilbao’s city limits to explore the rugged Basque coast and its iconic towns. Start with the breathtaking views of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the dragon-shaped islet made famous by Game of Thrones. You’ll also visit Bermeo, Mundaka, and Gernika, each with their own stories—whether it’s the dramatic cliffs, surf culture, or the historic significance of Gernika’s bombing.
The trip also includes a visit to Berroja Winery, where you’ll taste authentic txakoli, a regional sparkling white wine. The carefully planned itinerary incorporates guided tours, photo stops, and free time to stroll or take in the views. Reviewers rave about how well-organized and full of variety this tour is, with some mentioning how the guide, Pedro, kept the group engaged and well-informed.
This tour suits travelers who want a mix of coastal scenery, history, and wine tasting in one day. The 10-hour commitment delivers a comprehensive picture of Basque coastal towns and wine culture, making it perfect for those with limited time but high curiosity.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those eager to see the coast and learn about Basque history alongside tasting txakoli, all in one long but rewarding day.
3. La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)
This 8-hour small-group tour takes you to the famed Rioja wine region, renowned for its traditional and modern wines. You’ll visit two excellent wineries—one old and boutique, the other modern—and sample up to seven wines in total. The tour also includes a delicious picnic lunch amidst vineyards and a walk through the medieval city of Laguardia, with its cobbled streets and ancient walls.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on personalized attention—capped at just seven people—and the chance to compare traditional versus modern Rioja styles. The wineries are carefully selected, and reviewers highlight the warmth and knowledge of the guide, Irene. Guests love the relaxed pace, the quality of wines, and the tasty picnic, which feels like a true local experience.
This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a deep dive into Rioja’s bi-directional styles while enjoying a peaceful, scenic setting. The reviews confirm it’s a worthwhile investment for serious wine lovers who appreciate personable guides and quality tastings.
Bottom Line: A thoughtfully curated Rioja experience blending wine, scenery, and local flavor, especially suited for those looking for a smaller, more intimate group.
4. Bilbao’s #1 Food & Wine Experience
For around $117, this 3-hour walking tour provides a concentrated dose of Bilbao’s authentic flavors and cultural insights. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit up to eight pintxos venues, tasting a variety of local bites paired with four regional drinks. It’s a lively, social experience that combines cultural storytelling with culinary sampling in a small group of no more than ten.
Guests rave about the friendly guides and the chance to learn about Bilbao’s history and gastronomy firsthand. It’s a perfect fit for travelers who want to explore the city’s food scene in a compact, engaging format, especially if they’re short on time but eager for authentic tastes.
Bottom Line: A lively, well-organized introduction to Bilbao’s pintxo scene, great for travelers who want a social, educational bite-sized experience.
5. From Bilbao: La Rioja Wineries Day Trip with Wine Tastings
This 9-hour full-day tour is a fantastic way to visit Rioja’s top wineries without the hassle of driving. The itinerary includes guided tours and tastings at two of Rioja’s best wineries, giving you insight into both traditional and modern wine styles. You’ll also see Laguardia, a scenic medieval village, with free time to explore local shops and cafes.
The reviews highlight the professionalism and enthusiasm of the guide, who shares detailed insights about the wine-making process. Guests appreciate the value of seeing multiple wineries and the flexibility of the itinerary, with some noting how well-paced and comprehensive the experience is. The tour is particularly suited for wine lovers eager to taste high-quality Rioja wines and learn about the elaboration process.
This option is best for those who want a full, immersive wine day and don’t mind a longer day trip winding through picturesque countryside. It offers excellent value for the price considering the number of wineries and towns visited.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking multiple tastings, scenic villages, and a full introduction to Rioja’s wines in one day.
6. Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)
This 9-hour guided day trip focuses on two family-run Rioja wineries. It includes tasting at least six wines, paired with local cheeses and meats, and a picnic lunch amid vineyard views. Visitors also explore the medieval town of Laguardia, enjoying its streets and underground cellars.
The standout feature is the personalized experience—small groups ensure intimate tastings and interaction with winemakers. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the quality of wines, with many remarking on the delightful picnic and the charm of Laguardia. It’s a great choice for those who want a relaxed, authentic Rioja experience with a focus on boutique wineries.
If you prefer a cozy, more personal tour that combines wine tasting with local food and scenery, this is a top pick. It offers excellent value for those wanting to avoid crowded commercial wineries.
Bottom Line: For lovers of boutique wineries, local food, and small-group intimacy, this tour hits all the right notes.
7. Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao Private Tour
At number 7, this private tour offers a tailored, exclusive experience of three winery visits, complete with personalized guidance. It includes a charming lunch in Laguardia, and the itinerary can be customized to your interests. The luxurious transport and a dedicated guide make this ideal for travelers wanting a premium experience.
Guests rave about the flexibility and the quality of the wineries visited, often mentioning their guide’s extensive knowledge. The private nature allows for in-depth conversations and extra attention. It’s best suited for those who want a more luxurious, customizable Rioja day, particularly if celebrating a special occasion or traveling in a small group.
The higher price reflects its exclusivity, but many reviewers feel it’s worth the investment for a personalized, memorable day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking privacy, customization, and a high-end Rioja experience.
8. From Bilbao: Rioja Wine Region with Winery & Vitoria-Gasteiz
This 9-hour tour combines a scenic drive through Rioja with visits to Laguardia and Vitoria-Gasteiz. It includes guided walks, wine tastings at a traditional winery, and a taste of local chocolates. It’s a good choice for those who want a balanced day of wine, sightseeing, and city exploration.
While it has a slightly lower review score, it offers a comprehensive view of both Rioja and Basque culture. The guide’s enthusiasm and the mix of activities are often praised, though some travelers find the pace a little rushed. Best for those who want a mix of wine and local city highlights.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for those interested in both wine and regional city culture, ideal if you want to see a bit of everything.
9. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Bilbao
This 8-hour tour emphasizes learning about Rioja’s winemaking process with visits to underground family wineries. The included local lunch is paired with wines, giving you a taste of rural Rioja life. Guests enjoy exploring the medieval Laguardia and tasting wines directly from local producers.
Reviews commend the small group setting and in-depth winery visits. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, educational experience paired with authentic local cuisine. The focus on family-run wineries also appeals to those seeking a more traditional flavor.
Bottom Line: A solid pick for wine lovers interested in traditional Rioja methods and local cuisine.
10. From Bilbao: Private Winery Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch
Finally, this exclusive private tour offers a tailored visit to a family-owned winery. It includes curated wine tastings, a traditional Rioja lunch, and scenic vineyard views. The personalized transport and guide ensure a smooth, intimate experience.
Guests highlight the personalized attention and the opportunity to sample fine wines in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, private experience—ideal for special occasions or those seeking a stress-free, customized day.
While the price is higher, many reviewers feel the experience offers excellent value for the exclusivity and quality.
Bottom Line: The ultimate choice for those wanting a private, high-end Rioja journey with personalized service.
How to Choose Your Ideal Wine Tour in Bilbao
Choosing the right wine tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a short, lively introduction to Bilbao’s local wines and pintxos, the Bilbao Food & Wine Tour is perfect. For a full-day coastal adventure combining scenery and wine, consider the Gaztelugatxe and coastal towns tour. If your focus is on deep wine education and small-group intimacy, the Boutique Rioja Wine Tour excels.
Travelers on a budget might prefer the Basque Food Tour or the Food & Wine Experience, while those seeking luxury or exclusivity should consider the Private Rioja Tour.
Timing is also key—full-day trips like the Rioja wine tours are best for those with a flexible schedule and plenty of daylight, while shorter tours fit well into a busy itinerary. Always check availability and book early, especially for popular experiences during peak travel seasons.
Final Thoughts
From the vibrant pintxo bars of Bilbao to the rolling vineyards of Rioja, these tours offer a wide range of ways to experience Basque and Rioja wines. For a lively, social start, the food and wine tasting in Bilbao is unmatched. If you want a full-day immersion, the coastal adventures and Rioja tours are excellent choices, with options tailored to small groups, private journeys, or classic guided experiences.
Whether you’re after a quick taste or a deep dive into winemaking, these tours promise memorable moments and delicious wines. Book early to secure your spot, and prepare for a flavorful journey through Spain’s premier wine regions.