Pamplona isn’t just about running with bulls; it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Rioja’s wine scene. The region’s vineyards stretch across dramatic landscapes, with a variety of wineries offering everything from historic cellars to cutting-edge modern facilities. Among these, a couple of tours stand out for their personal touches—like visiting a winery owner or enjoying a private driver—making your experience more authentic and memorable. One of our favorites is the Rioja Wine Route with winery owner—offering an insider’s look at Rioja wines with a personal guide, plus a traditional lunch at an 1881 winery. It’s a great way to combine scenic vistas, genuine expertise, and a chance to taste some of Spain’s most renowned reds.
Whether you’re after an in-depth day discovering Rioja’s vineyards, a shorter guided tour of Pamplona’s wine scene, or a mix of wine and local food, Pamplona offers options for all tastes. Let’s explore the top wine experiences you can enjoy during your visit.
1. Rioja Wine Route with winery owner
At number 1, the Rioja Wine Route with winery owner offers a truly immersive experience. The tour is hosted by the owner of a Rioja winery, providing a behind-the-scenes look that few tours can match. Over approximately 6 to 7 hours, you’ll visit three different wineries—each with its own character, from historic cellars to modern facilities—tasting wines in each location. The highlight is the visit to the winery La Bodega del Tesoro, established in 1881, where you’ll enjoy a tasting and a traditional lunch in a setting that feels more like dining in a family’s home than a commercial operation. The tour begins with a private visit to La Bodega del Tesoro, where you can learn about the wine-making process directly from the owner himself.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal connection — the guide, Pepe, has received perfect ratings (5.0/5 from 50 reviews), with many travelers praising his knowledge, hospitality, and storytelling. One reviewer called it “a complete dive into Rioja wines and its history,” and the lunch was described as “spectacular.” The value here is high, given the inclusion of three winery visits, a traditional meal, and dedicated attention from someone who lives and breathes Rioja wine.
Bottom line: If you want an authentic, all-encompassing Rioja experience with a personal guide and great reviews, this tour is a top pick. It’s especially good for those who want to learn directly from a winery owner and enjoy a memorable meal.
2. The Authentic Rioja Alavesa wine experiences
For a full day of exploring both traditional and modern wineries in Rioja’s Alavesa region, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours and includes visits to Bodegas Baigorri, El Fabulista, Marques de Riscal, and Ysios. All visits are conducted in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, removing any hassle and letting you sit back while someone else handles the logistics. The tour begins with a scenic drive through vineyards, then visits two wineries, each representing different approaches to wine-making—one traditional, the other modern—giving insight into Rioja’s diversity.
After tasting at each winery, you’ll stroll through Laguardia, a charming medieval village, and finish with a stop at the iconic Marques de Riscal and Ysios wineries, both celebrated for their architecture and innovative styles. The tour includes two tastings, giving plenty of opportunity to compare flavors and styles. The highlight for many is the combination of tasting and sightseeing, with some reviewers mentioning how this tour expanded their understanding of La Rioja’s wine production.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, stress-free day visiting several key wineries, finishing with a scenic village walk. It offers good value, especially for travelers keen to explore multiple styles of Rioja wine in one day.
3. Rioja Winery & Traditional Lunch From Pamplona or Logroño
If you prefer a more intimate, small-group experience with a focus on tasting and local cuisine, this Rioja Winery & Traditional Lunch tour ticks all the boxes. It lasts around 6.5 to 7.5 hours and includes a visit to a working winery for tastings, plus a sit-down traditional Spanish meal at a nearby winery. The group size is limited to 8 people, which means more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine wine, food, and culture in one seamless experience. The winery visits include tastings of Rioja wines, and the lunch features regional specialties, making the day both flavorful and educational. The tour is highly rated (5/5 from 1 review), and the small group setting makes it easy to ask questions and engage with the guide. It’s particularly suitable for solo travelers or couples looking for a cozy, authentic experience without the crowds.
Bottom line: For those seeking a manageable, friendly day of wine and food, this tour offers good value and a chance to experience Rioja’s culinary side along with its wines.
Finally, for a shorter, city-based experience, this Visit Pamplona and enjoy a tasting of four Navarran wines is perfect. Starting at the historic Gran Hotel La Perla, the guided tour lasts about 2.5 hours, ending with a tasting guided by a local sommelier. It’s ideal for travelers who want an introduction to Navarran wines without leaving the city.
The small-group format (with tickets included) ensures a personalized tasting experience, with the guide sharing insights about local wines and the region’s viniculture. It’s a practical choice if you’re tight on time but still want an authentic taste of Navarran wine culture. The reviews highlight how this is regarded as the best wine tour in Pamplona, with experienced guides making the stories behind the wines come alive.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a quick yet informative city-centered wine experience, especially if you’re also exploring Pamplona’s sights.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Pamplona
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For an in-depth journey with a personal touch, the Rioja Wine Route with winery owner offers unmatched insight and a traditional lunch. If you’d prefer to cover multiple wineries efficiently, the Authentic Rioja Alavesa experience provides a comprehensive day of tastings and sightseeing. For a more intimate, food-focused experience, the Rioja Winery & Traditional Lunch is ideal, especially for small groups or solo travelers. And if you’re short on time but want a city-based tasting, the Pamplona city tour is a great way to sample Navarran wines without leaving town.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, as these tours fill quickly. Think about what kind of experience suits your style—whether that’s learning from a winery owner, exploring multiple wineries, enjoying regional food, or just getting a quick taste in the city.
Final Thoughts
Pamplona offers a surprising variety of wine experiences beyond its famous festivals. Whether you want a full-day deep dive into Rioja wines, a scenic tour of vineyards with a private driver, or a short city-based tasting, there’s something for every wine lover. The top choices like the Rioja Wine Route with winery owner and Authentic Rioja Alavesa experiences stand out for their combination of quality, authenticity, and reviews.
If you’re eager to add a memorable wine tour to your Spain itinerary, plan ahead and book early. These tours fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to walk away with new insights, a few bottles, and perhaps even a new favorite wine.