Bilbao’s vibrant food scene is a must-explore for any traveler seeking an authentic taste of Basque culture. The Bilbao Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks promises an immersive 3.5-hour experience, guiding visitors through the historic Casco Viejo district to sample traditional pintxos at local bars. Led by an expert, this culinary adventure not only introduces travelers to Bilbao’s rich gastronomic heritage but also offers a glimpse into the heart of the city’s lively social fabric. Those eager to discover the flavors that define this Basque hub won’t want to miss this opportunity.
Key Points
- Discover Bilbao’s traditional Basque cuisine through a 3.5-hour culinary exploration of the city’s Casco Viejo (Old Town) with a local guide.
- Sample a selection of traditional pintxos (Basque tapas) at 4 or more local bars, accompanied by Spanish wines, sangrias, and beers.
- Gain insights into the unique Basque culinary heritage and the evolution of Bilbao’s food scene from your expert local guide.
- Enjoy a flexible and personalized experience with a group size ranging from a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 12 participants.
- Take advantage of the tour’s accessibility, cancellation policy, and value, with pricing starting from $97.21 per person.
Tour Overview
This Bilbao Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks with a Local is a 3.5-hour activity that takes participants on a culinary exploration through the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town) of Bilbao.
The tour starts at the Church of San Nikolas Eliza and ends at Jardines K. in the Ibaiondo neighborhood.
The tour begins at the Church of San Nikolas Eliza and concludes at Jardines K. in the Ibaiondo neighborhood.
Available in English and Spanish, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Groups range from a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 12 people, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience.
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Pricing and Booking
The Bilbao Food Tour costs from $97.21 per person. Guests can reserve the tour and pay later – no payment is required today.
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 12 people.
This ensures an intimate group size and a personalized experience with the local guide. The pricing and booking options provide flexibility and value for the 3.5-hour culinary exploration of Bilbao’s pintxos and local food culture.
Tour Highlights
The Bilbao Food Tour offers a delightful culinary experience, allowing guests to sample traditional tapas (pintxos) at 4 or more local bars.
Along with the food tastings, the tour includes:
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A selection of Spanish wines, sangrias, beers, and soft drinks to accompany the pintxos.
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Opportunities to savor gourmet dishes such as croquetas, anchovies, codfish, Basque cheese with sweet wine, and the renowned pastelito vasco (Basque dessert).
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Insights from an expert guide on the local food culture and traditions.
Itinerary Details
As part of the Bilbao Food Tour, visitors will visit at least 4 different restaurants or locations throughout the tour.
At each stop, they’ll enjoy at least one serving of traditional Basque pintxos, or tapas. Travelers can expect to sample gourmet dishes like croquetas, anchovies, codfish, Basque cheese with sweet wine, and pastelito vasco, a local dessert.
Water and alcoholic drinks, including Spanish wines, sangrias, and beers, are included.
The meeting point is in front of the main entrance to the Church of San Nikolas Eliza, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
The tour meets at the main entrance to the Church of San Nikolas Eliza, and comfortable shoes are advised for the experience.
Pets, luggage, and large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscover Bilbao’s Culinary Scene
Bilbao’s rich culinary heritage comes alive on this immersive food tour, offering travelers a chance to savor the city’s renowned pintxos culture.
Led by a local expert, the tour takes guests on a delectable journey through the city’s historic Old Town, stopping at 4 or more renowned pintxos bars to sample an array of gourmet small plates.
Highlights include:
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Tasting traditional Basque dishes like croquetas, anchovies, and codfish
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Sipping on regional wines, sangrias, and beers
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Savoring a Basque dessert, the pastelito vasco
Along the way, the guide provides insightful commentary on the local food culture, ensuring an authentic and memorable culinary experience.
Hungry for more Bilbao flavors? We've covered these other food and drink spots
- Bilbao Pintxo Tasting Paired With Spanish Wines
- Private Tour Bilbao to La Rioja a Day of Winery Tours and Tasting
- Pintxos Tasting in Bilbao Small Group or Private Walking Tour
- Guggenheim Museum and Tasting of Traditional Basque Products
- Bilbao Pintxo Tasting Paired With Spanish Wines
- Spanish Wine Tasting With Sommelier (Close to Guggenheim Museum)
Explore the Old Town
Stepping into the picturesque Old Town, tour you will be immersed in the lively heart of Bilbao. The narrow, winding streets are lined with historic buildings, tapas bars, and local shops.
The guide will lead the group through this charming neighborhood, sharing insights into the local culture and architecture. Stops may include a 14th-century church, a traditional cider house, and family-owned pintxos bars.
At each location, guests will savor a variety of regional specialties, from croquetas to Basque cheeses, paired with local wines or ciders.
The Old Town tour offers an authentic taste of Bilbao’s culinary heritage.
Immerse in the Local Culture
While exploring the local culture, the food tour offers an immersive experience that goes beyond just sampling the cuisine.
The expert guide provides insights into the Basque food culture, including:
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Explanations of the unique pintxos tradition and how it differs from traditional Spanish tapas
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Discussions about the importance of locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients in Basque cooking
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Anecdotes about Bilbao’s culinary history and the evolution of the city’s food scene
This culture, coupled with the opportunity to taste a variety of authentic regional dishes, allows participants to truly connect with the local way of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour may accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They can likely make alternative arrangements or substitute dishes to cater to specific dietary needs.
Does the Tour Include Any Visits to Local Food Markets or Specialty Shops?
The tour doesn’t include visits to local food markets or specialty shops. It focuses on sampling traditional tapas (pintxos) and drinks at several bars and restaurants in Bilbao’s historic Casco Viejo neighborhood.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with participants visiting at least 4 different restaurants or locations. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the guide will lead the group through the city’s historic Casco Viejo neighborhood.
Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized to Cater to Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized to an extent based on guests’ interests and dietary needs. The local guide is flexible and open to modifying the itinerary or food selections to suit individual preferences, though the core experience remains the same.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended, and additional stops can be added for an extra fee. Travelers can speak with the tour operator to customize the experience to their specific interests and needs.
The Sum Up
This Bilbao Food Tour with Pintxos & Drinks offers an immersive culinary adventure. Travelers can expect to explore the vibrant Basque food culture, sample traditional pintxos, and enjoy Spanish wines and beers. Led by an expert guide, the tour provides insights into Bilbao’s rich culinary heritage, ensuring a delightful experience filled with local flavors. It’s an excellent way for visitors to discover the city’s Old Town and enjoy the local culture.
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