Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao

Bilbao , Spain

Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao

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About this experience

This full-day tour from Bilbao runs in English and includes transport throughout the region. You’ll enjoy a complete guided winery visit at Marqués de Riscal, a tasting experience at the iconic Ysios winery, and a visit to one of Rioja’s beautiful medieval villages, where a tapas lunch is included.

Visit Marqués de Riscal and Ysios, two of Rioja’s most prestigious wineries — celebrated not only for their excellent wines but also for their world-renowned architecture.

If Ysios were closed for visits (we will let you know in advance) — it occasionally is, as it’s a very unique winery — we will still take you there to enjoy pictures from the outside. After that, we will bring you to a different winery with a similar style of wines to ensure you enjoy an equivalent tasting experience.

Available options

Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao

What's included

Bottled water

Wineries Visit

Professional Guide

Lunch (some tapas/traditional food with wine)

Wine Tasting

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts from Bilbao and includes a scenic drive along the dramatic ridge of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains on our way to the Rioja wine region — a beautiful journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Marqués de Riscal is one of Rioja’s most historic and influential wineries, founded in 1858 and known for combining tradition with bold innovation.

Its wines helped put Rioja on the world map, and today the estate is instantly recognisable thanks to the spectacular titanium-and-steel hotel designed by Frank Gehry.

During your complete guided visit, you’ll explore one of the region’s pioneering wineries, learn about its winemaking legacy and enjoy a tasting of some of their emblematic wines.

Our next stop is Ysios Winery, one of the most striking architectural landmarks in the world. Designed by the celebrated Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the building sits dramatically at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria, its long, undulating roof mirroring the mountain range behind it. Calatrava — known for his sculptural, light-filled works across the world — created Ysios as a kind of “temple to wine,” combining engineering precision with graceful, wave-like forms.

Here we will enjoy a tasting of 2 to 3 wines while admiring the winery both inside and outside. The exterior plays with rhythm, curves and changing light, while the interior offers a calm, linear space designed to showcase the winemaking process and the ageing rooms.

We will also visit a medieval village in Rioja, with its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses and quietly charming squares. Here you’ll enjoy a tapas lunch, included in the tour price — a relaxed way to taste regional bites while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic setting.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

52 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

77 reviews

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the Guggenheim museum where the big red stop for the Bilbao city view Hop-on Hop-off bus is located (by the tourist information point). You will see it easy as it is in front of Islares restaurant and very close to the Puppy flower sculpture designed by Jeff Koons.

About Bilbao

Bilbao is a vibrant city in northern Spain, known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and bustling culinary scene. Nestled in the Basque Country, it offers a unique blend of modern innovation and traditional charm, with the iconic Guggenheim Museum and the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town) as its highlights.

Top Attractions

Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is an iconic modern and contemporary art museum designed by architect Frank Gehry. It houses a vast collection of works by renowned artists and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Museum 2-4 hours €20 (general admission)

Casco Viejo (Old Town)

The Casco Viejo is the historic heart of Bilbao, featuring narrow medieval streets, traditional Basque buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere. It is home to numerous shops, bars, and restaurants.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Donaostean Etorbidea (Avenue of Good Weather)

This elegant avenue is lined with beautiful buildings, shops, and cafes. It is one of the main shopping and dining districts in Bilbao and offers a glimpse into the city's modern side.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to explore

Mount Artxanda

Mount Artxanda offers panoramic views of Bilbao and is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities. You can reach the summit by funicular or on foot.

Nature 1-2 hours €3.60 (funicular ride)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pintxos

Small, elaborate snacks served on bread, often with a toothpick. They are a staple of Basque cuisine and can be found in bars throughout Bilbao.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Bacalao al Pil Pil

A traditional Basque dish made with salted cod, garlic, and olive oil. The sauce, known as pil pil, is the highlight of this dish.

Main Course Contains fish

Txuleta

A thick-cut rib steak, often served with a simple pepper sauce. It is a popular dish in Basque Country and a must-try for meat lovers.

Main Course Contains beef

Marmitako

A hearty tuna and potato stew, traditionally made by Basque fishermen. It is a comforting and flavorful dish.

Main Course Contains fish

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Artxanda Surfing in nearby coastal towns Cycling along the Nervión River Beach relaxation in nearby coastal towns Spa treatments at local hotels Strolling along the Nervión River Visiting museums and art galleries Exploring historic neighborhoods

Best Time to Visit

June to September

Summer is the peak tourist season in Bilbao, offering warm weather and a variety of outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this time.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish, Basque
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bilbao is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any city, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Bilbao Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Bilbao-Abando Station

By bus

Termibus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Bilbao Metro is efficient and easy to use, covering most of the city and some suburban areas. It is clean, punctual, and connects to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Abando Casco Viejo (Old Town) Indautxu Deusto

Day trips

San Sebastián

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

San Sebastián is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, world-class gastronomy, and vibrant culture. It is a popular day trip from Bilbao, offering a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Santander

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Santander is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. It is a popular day trip from Bilbao, offering a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Vitoria-Gasteiz

60 km (37 miles) • Half day

Vitoria-Gasteiz is a historic city known for its well-preserved medieval old town, green spaces, and vibrant culture. It is a popular day trip from Bilbao, offering a mix of history and nature.

Festivals

Aste Nagusia (Great Week) • First week of August Bilbao International Film Festival (BIFFF) • October Bilbao Jazz Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Guggenheim Museum early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the outdoor sculptures in the best light
Try pintxos (Basque tapas) at the local bars in the Casco Viejo, and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the bartender
Take a day trip to the nearby coastal towns of San Sebastián or Lekeitio for a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration
Explore the city's green spaces, such as the Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park or the Mount Artxanda, for a break from the urban environment
Visit the La Ribera Market for fresh local produce, seafood, and Basque delicacies, and don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local cheeses and wines