In Bilbao, food tours reveal the heart of Basque cuisine. The best experiences pack maximum tastings into efficient 3-hour walks – look for tours offering at least 8 pintxos (Basque tapas) and multiple drink pairings. Our favorite is the Original Bilbao Food Tour, which hits five different bars and delivers great value with 8-9 pintxos plus drinks. The Basque Food Tour matches this quality but focuses more on traditional recipes. For something special, consider the High End Food Tour, where you’ll taste premium versions of classic dishes in a more intimate setting. Let’s explore these top food tours in detail.
Key Points
- Guided food tours in Bilbao offer extensive culinary experiences, with options ranging from original to high-end and Basque-focused tours.
- The Original Bilbao Food Tour provides a 3-hour experience with 8-9 pintxos and 5 drinks, rated 4.9/5 stars.
- The Basque Food Tour features 9 pintxos and 5 drinks, with wheelchair accessibility and a 4.9/5 star rating.
- The High End Food Tour offers a premium 3-4 hour experience, focusing on traditional Basque dishes and local drinks, with a 5-star rating.
- Unique culinary combinations, such as a Pintxo and Tapas Tour or a Guggenheim Museum Visit with a private food tour, are also available.
The Original Bilbao Food Tour With Wine Pairing
The Original Bilbao Food Tour With Wine Pairing offers visitors a guided walking exploration of Bilbao’s thriving pintxos scene.
Guests can sample 1-2 pintxos at each of 5 different bars, paired with a choice of red wine, white wine, beer, water, or cider.
The tour provides insight into the history of Bilbao’s old town, established in 1300, and the local culinary culture.
A full dinner is included, and the tour is led by an English-speaking local guide.
Travelers are encouraged to book early to revisit their favorite spots.
The tour is highly rated, with an average of 5.0 stars from 733 reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and delicious food experiences.
Read our full review: The Original Bilbao Food Tour With Wine Pairing Review
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Bilbao: Basque Food Tour With Guide
Set out on a culinary journey through the vibrant streets of Bilbao with the Basque Food Tour guided experience. Priced at €78.65 per person, this 3-hour tour offers an in-depth exploration of the region’s renowned cuisine and culture.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit authentic pintxos bars and restaurants, sampling a wide range of bite-sized dishes and local wines. The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes 9 pintxos and 5 drinks, ensuring a satisfying gastronomic experience.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 400 reviews, this tour promises to immerse you in the Basque Country’s rich culinary heritage. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Basque Food Tour With Guide Review
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The High End Food Tour of Bilbao With a Local
Stepping up from the Basque Food Tour, the High End Food Tour of Bilbao With a Local offers an elevated gastronomic experience.
Led by a local culinary expert, this 3-4 hour walking tour immerses guests in Northern Spain’s renowned cuisine. Highlights include sampling traditional Basque dishes, pintxos, and local drinks.
Visitors explore local markets and eateries, gaining insights into the region’s culinary traditions and history. With a maximum group size for personalized attention, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Bilbao’s vibrant food scene.
Priced at $107.71 per person, the tour is available through Viator and boasts an impressive 5-star rating based on over 200 reviews.
Travelers can expect a high-quality, immersive experience that showcases the best of Bilbao’s gastronomy.
Read our full review: The High End Food Tour of Bilbao With a Local Review
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The Original Bilbao Food Tour With Wine Pairings
Priced at $100.42 per person, the Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings offers a comprehensive 3-hour guided bar hopping experience through the city’s vibrant food scene.
You’ll visit 5 unique bars, sampling 8-9 pintxos and 5 drinks, while learning how to order the traditional and award-winning varieties.
The tour explores the oldest parts of Bilbao, dating back to 1300, and provides insider tips on the best lesser-known establishments.
Enjoy special pintxos paired with suitable wines for an enhanced tasting experience.
The tour is led by a local English-speaking guide, born and raised in Bilbao, who shares their expertise and knowledge of Basque culture and history.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 54 reviews, this tour is a must-do for food and wine enthusiasts.
Read our full review: The Original Bilbao Food Tour With Wine Pairings Review
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The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour With a Local
While the Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings offers an immersive experience through the city’s vibrant culinary scene, the Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour With a Local provides a more intimate and comprehensive exploration of the local food culture.
This small-group tour focuses on Bilbao’s renowned pintxos, with a guided tasting of various local bites paired with drinks. Guests will discover hidden gems and learn about Basque culinary traditions from an expert guide.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience. Wheelchair users and those with limited mobility can participate, as the tour is accessible and provides nearby public transportation options.
Cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.
Read our full review: The Authentic Bilbao Pintxos, Food & History Tour With a Local Review
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The High End Bilbao Food Tour for Foodies
Discerning foodies seeking an immersive culinary experience in Bilbao will find the High End Bilbao Food Tour a remarkable opportunity. Priced from $105.71 per person, this 3-hour tour limited to just 10 participants provides an in-depth exploration of authentic Basque flavors.
Guests will savor 6-8 pintxos, traditional Basque small plates, paired with at least 4 local drinks. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour immerses participants in local dining culture while teaching essential ordering rules.
Non-alcoholic options are available, though the tour isn’t suitable for those under 18, vegans, or vegetarians. Highly rated by past guests, the tour offers flexibility to accommodate dietary needs communicated in advance.
Read our full review: The High End Bilbao Food Tour for Foodies Review
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Pintxo and Tapas Tour With Local Food Expert
Guests exploring the culinary delights of Bilbao will find the Pintxo and Tapas Tour With Local Food Expert an immersive experience showcasing the region’s gastronomic heritage.
Guided by the passionate Oihana, the tour includes five stops to sample diverse pintxos, from Iberico ham to mushroom dishes, paired with Txakoli wine and local cider.
Participants also visit the Guggenheim Museum and historic sites, while Oihana shares insights into Basque culture and traditions.
With a focus on the best of Bilbao’s gastronomy, the tour receives exceptional reviews for its knowledgeable guide, personalized attention, and overall satisfaction.
Meeting logistics and cancellation policies ensure a seamless planning experience.
Read our full review: Pintxo and Tapas Tour With Local Food Expert Review
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Bilbao: Guggenheim Museum Visit & Private Walking Food Tour
Visitors can enjoy Bilbao’s cultural and culinary delights on the Guggenheim Museum Visit & Private Walking Food Tour. This 5-hour experience offers a chance to explore the museum’s modern masterpieces and the city’s lively food scene.
Guests will admire the Guggenheim’s unique titanium structure, then discover local ingredients and cuisine at Europe’s largest covered market. The tour includes tastings of traditional pintxos and craft beers at popular bars, as well as a leisurely stroll through the Old Town to learn about Bilbao’s history.
With a private guide, complimentary museum entry, and lunch included, this tour provides an engaging and well-rounded introduction to the city.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Guggenheim Museum Visit & Private Walking Food Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Gluten-Free or Vegetarian Options Available?
Many food tours in Bilbao offer gluten-free and vegetarian options to accommodate dietary needs. Guests should check with tour operators about the availability of such options when booking to ensure their preferences are met.
What Is the Average Duration of the Food Tours?
The average duration of the food tours is typically 2-3 hours. Many tours offer a variety of options to accommodate dietary needs, such as gluten-free and vegetarian selections, ensuring all participants can enjoy the culinary experience.
Do the Tours Cater to Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Many food tours in Bilbao accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests should inform the tour operators of any special needs when booking, and the guides will ensure they visit suitable establishments that can cater to those requirements.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers for Group Bookings?
Many food tour companies offer group discounts, with savings up to 10-20% for bookings of 4 or more. Some also provide special offers for families, students, or seniors. It’s worth inquiring about any group pricing or promotional deals when booking.
Can the Food Tours Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?
Many Bilbao food tour companies offer customizable tours that can accommodate individual preferences. Guests can often request specific cuisines, dietary needs, or tour lengths to suit their tastes and interests.
The Sum Up
Bilbao offers a range of food tours catering to various interests and budgets. From exploring the city’s pintxos and tapas culture to indulging in high-end culinary experiences, these tours provide an immersive and delicious way to discover the flavors of the Basque region. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to experience the local cuisine, Bilbao has a food tour to suit your preferences.