Pontevedra offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that go beyond its charming old town. This city in Galicia is a hub for authentic, hands-on activities such as wine tastings, gourmet gastronomy, and street food adventures. We’re particularly fond of the Albariño wine tour because it combines vineyard visits, cellar strolls, and a delicious paella session, offering a full sensory experience []. If you’re a food lover, the “El Mar Escondido” gastronomic experience stands out with its six-course tasting menu showcasing local ingredients, making it perfect for those wanting a refined culinary journey [].
Beyond wine and fine dining, Pontevedra also shines in street food culture with options like “El Mar va de Calle”—a lively street food tour that highlights regional flavors in a casual, family-friendly setting []. Plus, wine lovers will appreciate the [Rías Baixas winery visit with spectacular Salnés Valley views](), which combines scenic beauty with expert tastings of Albariño, the region’s star wine.
Quick Overview
This guide covers wine tours, gourmet gastronomy, and street food experiences. Whether you want a hands-on wine tasting in Rías Baixas, a multi-course gourmet meal in a refined setting, or a lively street food crawl in Pontevedra, there’s an option here suited to your tastes and schedule. Each experience offers a chance to enjoy local ingredients, learn about regional traditions, and dive into Galicia’s culinary scene.
1. Albariño Wine Tour: Taste, Learn & Take Home a Special Gift
At number 1 on our list, the Albariño Wine Tour combines a vineyard visit, cellar walk, and tasting of three fine wines, all under the guidance of a knowledgeable expert. This 1.5-hour experience in Galicia offers a chance to see how Albariño grapes are cultivated and transformed into the region’s best-known wine. The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to work alongside a chef in preparing a traditional paella, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a hands-on culinary adventure.
The winery itself is located in the heart of Galicia’s Rías Baixas, famed for its lush vineyards and coastal influence. The friendly staff will walk you through the entire process, from grape to bottle, and your tasting includes a local appetizer. The experience concludes with you sitting down to enjoy the paella you helped prepare, paired with the wines you just learned about. Visitors often comment on the warm atmosphere and the chance to take home a special gift—your own bottle of Albariño.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a full immersion into Galicia’s most famous wine while enjoying a lively, interactive cooking session.
2. Pontevedra: “El Mar Escondido” Gastronomic Experience
For lovers of haute cuisine, the “El Mar Escondido” Gastronomic Experience is a standout. Priced at around $194 per person, this full-day tour offers a six-course tasting menu featuring local ingredients—seafood and fish from the Galician Rías are at the core. It’s an elegant way to savor Galicia’s culinary craftsmanship.
The experience takes place in a welcoming and surprising space where you’ll be guided through each course, gaining insight into how regional flavors are combined and elevated. This tour is ideal for those wanting a more refined, sit-down meal that emphasizes quality over quantity. The chef’s skill in blending traditional ingredients with contemporary techniques makes each dish memorable. Reviews highlight the personal touch and the exceptional quality of the ingredients, which include fresh seafood and seasonal produce.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies eager to explore Galicia’s haute cuisine in a relaxed setting. Ideal for those seeking a special, well-curated culinary experience.
3. Pontevedra: “El Mar va de Calle” Gastronomic Experience
If street food is more your style, the “El Mar va de Calle” tour offers a lively, family-friendly glimpse into Galicia’s casual culinary scene. Priced at around $94 per person, this experience includes five savory dishes, one sweet dish, and a drink, all served in a cozy space that invites sharing.
This tour emphasizes local flavors in a relaxed atmosphere, reviving traditional street food with a modern touch. It’s perfect for travelers who want to taste authentic Galicia without the formality of a fine dining setting. The guide shares stories behind each dish, connecting diners with local culinary heritage. Reviewers note the welcoming environment and the opportunity to rediscover flavors in a fun, informal way.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a relaxed, family-friendly setting and want to enjoy Galicia’s street food culture firsthand.
4. Winery in Rías Baixas with the best views of the Salnés Valley
At number 4, the Winery in Rías Baixas offers a scenic yet educational experience just between Sanxenxo and Cambados. Visiting Bodegas Vionta, you’ll explore the full Albariño-making process amid stunning surroundings. The tour lasts around 1.5 hours and features a welcome drink and a tasting of three wines complemented by a local appetizer.
This winery’s location in the heart of Rías Baixas offers unmatched views of the Salnés Valley, making the experience both scenic and informative. The guide explains every step of the winemaking process, from vineyard to bottle, making it a great option for those curious about Galicia’s signature wine. The tasting includes a commentary on each wine, which allows you to better appreciate its unique qualities.
Review: Visitors note the “magical surroundings” and the chance to enjoy excellent Albariños while soaking in spectacular scenery. The combination of wine and landscape makes this a memorable outing.
Bottom Line: This tour suits wine enthusiasts who want to learn about Albariño in a beautiful setting, ideal for relaxing and soaking up regional charm.
5. Pontevedra: “Los Arroces del Mar” Gastronomic Experience
For a more casual, hearty meal, the “Los Arroces del Mar” tour offers a traditional menu for around $70. It includes an appetizer, two shared dishes, your choice of rice (with two options available), and dessert. This experience emphasizes authentic regional rice dishes, often made with seafood and local ingredients.
It’s a cozy, family-friendly space where you can enjoy a relaxed afternoon, ideal for travelers wanting to try Galicia’s famous rice dishes in a comfortable setting. The focus on high-quality ingredients ensures a satisfying meal. The simplicity of the menu belies the complexity of flavors achieved by skilled local cooks, making it perfect for those interested in regional staples.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving a hearty, traditional meal with a focus on rice and seafood in a welcoming atmosphere.
6. Pontevedra: “Un Mar de Tapas” Gastronomic Experience
Finally, “Un Mar de Tapas” offers a lively, interactive tapas experience priced at $94. It features live preparation of 8 savory tapas, 3 sweet tapas, and a drink, all in a cozy, family-friendly space. This experience provides a taste of Galicia’s small bites with the added bonus of learning about each dish’s story and ingredients.
The dynamic, informal setting makes it perfect for travelers who want to engage with local cuisine directly from the chefs. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere and the chance to try a variety of flavors without committing to a full meal at each stop. It’s a fun, social way to experience regional gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a fun, interactive culinary adventure that highlights regional flavors in a relaxed environment.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Pontevedra
Choosing the best experience depends on your interests, budget, and the time you have. If you’re passionate about wine, the Albariño Wine Tour (see details) offers a hands-on journey from vineyard to table. For food lovers wanting a more refined experience, the “El Mar Escondido” gastronomic tour (more info) delivers a multi-course tasting. If casual, local flavors are your thing, the street food tour (check it out) is a fantastic pick.
Consider your budget and interest level: wine aficionados and gourmet travelers will appreciate the more curated, higher-end tours, while families or casual travelers might enjoy the lively street food or hearty rice meals. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred times.
Pontevedra offers a rich array of tours and experiences that showcase its culinary and viticultural treasures. Whether you want to sip fine Albariño while enjoying stunning views, indulge in a sophisticated tasting menu, or sample regional street food, the options listed here will help you savor Galicia in authentic, memorable ways. For a well-rounded trip, consider combining a wine tour with a gastronomic experience—just be sure to book in advance and plan your days accordingly.