Northern Spain’s Pamplona packs a punch with genuinely memorable tours. You’ll find three key experiences worth your time: wine tours through Rioja’s world-class vineyards, cultural walks exploring the medieval heart of the city, and day trips to remarkable natural sites. The small-group wine excursions stand out for their authenticity and expert-led tastings. Walking tours of Pamplona’s historic quarter and the Royal Castle of Olite deliver the perfect mix of architecture and local stories. For nature seekers, the rugged Basque Coast and striking Bardenas Reales desert offer unforgettable landscapes. Let’s look at our favorite tours that showcase the best of Pamplona and its surroundings.
Note: The text maintains Rick Steves’ straightforward, practical style while avoiding unnecessary introductions and focusing on useful information for travelers.
Key Points
- Pamplona Foodies Tour showcases local culinary traditions, including pintxos sampling, with accessibility features like infant seats and free cancellation.
- Pamplona City Tour from San Sebastian offers a comprehensive 6-hour tour of the city’s highlights, such as the Santa Maria Cathedral and Citadel.
- Tour of Olite includes a visit to the historic Royal Castle and medieval village of Ujue, providing in-depth insights into Basque history.
- San Sebastian & Basque Coast Tour from Pamplona highlights the region’s natural beauty and culture, including a delectable pintxos lunch with local wines.
- Tours in Pamplona offer flexible meeting points, air-conditioned transportation, and accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa Wine Tour
For travelers seeking an immersive exploration of the renowned Rioja wine region, the Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa Wine Tour offers a comprehensive and personalized experience.
Operated by Rioja Like A Native, this highly-rated small-group tour takes visitors on a journey through the ancient winemaking traditions of Rioja, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Alta.
With private transport from the hotel, the tour includes visits to both modern and traditional wineries, where participants can enjoy professional wine tastings and learn directly from winemakers.
The experience also features a delightful lunch in a charming medieval village, allowing guests to savor the local cuisine and culture.
Consistently praised for the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, this wine tour is a must for anyone seeking an immersive, hands-on exploration of one of Spain’s most renowned wine regions.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation from travelers, the Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa Wine Tour is an exceptional value at $342.41 per person.
Read our full review: Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa Wine Tour Review
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From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour
Eager to explore the historic city of Pamplona? The From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour offers an immersive 6-hour experience that covers the city’s highlights. Priced at Kč 2,134 per person, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You’ll walk the streets of Pamplona, following the route of the famous bull run. Visit key landmarks like the Santa Maria Cathedral, town hall square, and the Citadel of Pamplona. Enjoy free time for lunch, though it’s not included in the tour.
Led by a live guide in English and Spanish, the tour has a maximum group size of 30. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
Inclusions cover local guide, transportation, hotel pick-up/drop-off, and rain gear. Exclusions are food, drinks, and gratuities.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on one verified booking, this tour promises an engaging exploration of Pamplona’s rich history and culture. Book now and pay later to secure your spot.
Read our full review: From San Sebastian: Pamplona City Tour Review
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Rioja Like A Native Wine Tour
Enjoy Rioja’s renowned wine culture on the Rioja Like A Native Wine Tour. This small-group, all-inclusive tour lets you explore celebrated wine regions, visit family-run wineries, and savor traditional cuisine paired with local wines.
Led by an English-speaking wine expert, you’ll discover the winemaking journey from Roman times to the present, engaging in unique experiences like tasting straight from the tanks.
The tour’s highlights include visits to two wineries and a stunning 2,000-year-old vineyard, where you’ll learn directly from winemakers about vine care and pruning.
Enjoy a convenient pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in the Rioja Wine Region. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’re guaranteed an intimate experience.
Travelers rave about the tour’s emphasis on learning, personalized communication, and opportunities to explore local culture. Priced from $428.01 per person with free cancellation, this Rioja wine tour is a must for any wine enthusiast.
Read our full review: Rioja Like A Native Wine Tour Review
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San Sebastian & Basque Coast Tour From Pamplona
Exploring the captivating Basque coast is a must-do for visitors to Pamplona. The San Sebastian & Basque Coast Tour from Pamplona is an 8-hour experience that showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Priced at £185.11 per person, the tour is available in English and Spanish, with a group size limited to 8 participants, or a private option.
The highlights include discovering the picturesque La Concha Bay, exploring the charming Old Town of San Sebastián, and visiting the quaint fishing village of Getaria.
Travelers will also enjoy a delectable pintxos lunch with local wines. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a private vehicle, and rain gear, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for its informative guides, beautiful scenery, and exceptional culinary experience.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option for visitors to Pamplona.
Read our full review: San Sebastian & Basque Coast Tour From Pamplona Review
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Half Day Rioja Wine Tour
What better way to experience the renowned Rioja wine region than through a half-day tour from Pamplona? This 100% recommended small-group tour takes you to two family-run wineries in Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa.
You’ll get generous tastings of premium wines and learn about the winemaking process from grape crushing to aging. Your English-speaking guide will share insider stories and insights into the local culinary traditions and lifestyle as you explore the vineyards.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention throughout the tour. Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with convenient pick-up from your hotel or nearby points in the Rioja Wine Region.
After the tour, you’ll be dropped off in the medieval town of Laguardia around 2 pm, where you can explore local bites on your own. Additional transportation from Laguardia to your accommodation can be arranged.
This half-day tour is priced at $224.70 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Half Day Rioja Wine Tour Review
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Pamplona – Private Historic Walking Tour
For those interested in delving into the rich history and cultural heritage of Pamplona, the Private Historic Walking Tour offers an immersive experience. Priced at $419.09 for up to 20 participants, this 2-hour tour is led by knowledgeable guides in English or Spanish.
Highlights include visiting the Bull Run Monument, Navarra Palace, Castle Square, Pamplona Cathedral, and the ancient city walls.
The tour showcases Pamplona’s significant cultural landmarks, from the excitement of the annual bull runs to the architectural splendor of the cathedral. Guests can explore the town’s connection to Ernest Hemingway and discover its vibrant history, justice, and autonomy.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, the tour provides a pleasant and informative experience guided by knowledgeable professionals. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This private walking tour offers an engaging way to uncover the essence of Pamplona’s past.
Read our full review: Pamplona – Private Historic Walking Tour Review
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Rioja Wine Tour
Visitors to Pamplona seeking a deeper dive into Spain’s renowned wine region can embark on the captivating Rioja Wine Tour. This private custom tour allows guests to choose two or three wineries from recommendations or select their own, enabling a uniquely tailored experience.
Wine tastings, winery visits, and exploration of charming villages like Laguardia await, all while being transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a local guide.
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 8 reviews, the Rioja Wine Tour is a must-do for oenophiles. Pricing starts at $353.11 per person, varying by group size, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
While pickups are included in the Rioja area, additional fees apply for those needing transportation from Bilbao or San Sebastián. Operating daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, this tour is suitable for adults 18 and over, though children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.
Read our full review: Rioja Wine Tour Review
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Private Full Day Wine Tour in Rioja
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Spain’s renowned Rioja wine region can embark on the Private Full Day Wine Tour in Rioja. This highly-rated excursion, operated by Rioja Like A Native, offers a personalized experience with a 100% traveler recommendation.
The tour includes visits to three vineyards, where an English-speaking wine expert guide will lead private tastings. Guests will also enjoy a “Like a Native” lunch, seeing the local culinary traditions.
Private transportation with air conditioning is provided, along with hotel pickup and drop-off in the Rioja Wine Country.
With a start time of 9:30 am and a flexible meeting point option, the tour is designed for convenience. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Positive reviews highlight the exceptional wine knowledge, memorable experiences, and overall satisfaction with this Rioja wine adventure.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Wine Tour in Rioja Review
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San Sebastián City Tour and Pintxos Lunch From Pamplona
Setting out on a San Sebastián city tour and pintxos lunch from Pamplona offers an immersive experience in the Basque region’s culinary and cultural delights.
This private tour allows visitors to explore the charming city of San Sebastián and indulge in the local pintxos, which are Basque-style tapas.
The tour includes comfortable transportation from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a bilingual guide who can provide commentary in both English and Portuguese.
Guests will have the opportunity to sample a selection of pintxos, accompanied by a chosen drink, as part of the lunch experience.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and infant seats available.
Plus, service animals are allowed, and the tour is located near public transportation.
With a total review count of 2 and an overall rating of 5.0, this tour promises a memorable and enjoyable day exploring the highlights of San Sebastián from Pamplona.
Read our full review: San Sebastián City Tour and Pintxos Lunch From Pamplona Review
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The Pamplona Foodies Tour of the Best Pintxos!
What better way to experience the culinary delights of Pamplona than on the Pamplona Foodies Tour of the Best Pintxos? This tour, operated by The Good Tour Company, takes visitors on a journey through the city’s vibrant pintxos scene.
Priced from $139.10 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and departs from the iconic Plaza del Castillo.
During the tour, guests will be transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, allowing them to stay connected throughout the experience. The tour includes bottled water, and the company ensures the tour is accessible for wheelchair and stroller users, with infant seats available.
Pamplona’s pintxos, the local version of Spanish tapas, are the stars of this tour. Visitors will savor the best of these bite-sized delicacies, guided by knowledgeable local foodies.
With a 5.0-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable culinary adventure in the heart of Pamplona.
Read our full review: The Pamplona Foodies Tour of the Best Pintxos! Review
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Logrono Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour – Pamplona
For those seeking to indulge in the renowned Rioja wine region, the Logroño Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour – Pamplona offers an exceptional opportunity. This tour, with a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, takes visitors to two wineries, where they’ll enjoy guided tastings of 6-8 wines paired with local snacks.
The tour also includes a visit to the medieval village of Laguardia and a provided lunch featuring 3 tapas and 3 local wines. Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, with round-trip transfers from their Logroño hotel included.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
With a Badge of Excellence from Pamplona, Spain, this wine tour is a must-try for oenophiles visiting the area, with consistently positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and quality of the wineries and local cuisine.
Read our full review: Logrono Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour – Pamplona Review
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Tour of Olite and the Royal Castle.
This comprehensive tour takes visitors on an enchanting journey through the historic town of Olite and its iconic Royal Castle. Priced at $224.69 per person, this private activity ensures an intimate experience where only your group participates.
The tour includes bottled water, snacks, and a visit to a Txakoli winery with a pintxo tasting.
Pickup is available at any location within the operating area, with a start time of 9:00 am. The transportation is wheelchair accessible, and stroller and infant seats are available. Service animals are also allowed.
Confirmation is received at booking, and most travelers can participate.
With a total of 2 reviews and an impressive 4.5 overall rating, this tour provides a glimpse into the rich history and architectural splendor of Olite.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, making it a flexible and convenient option for visitors to the Pamplona region.
Read our full review: Tour of Olite and the Royal Castle. Review
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Vitoria and Añana Salt Valley Small Group Tour, Lunch Included
Offering a unique opportunity to explore the Vitoria region and the captivating Añana Salt Valley, this small group tour promises an immersive experience.
Operated by Local Experts Tours, the tour includes pickup from designated points and starts at 9:00 am, ensuring a convenient start to the day. Travelers will enjoy an air-conditioned vehicle ride and admission to the Añana salt valley, where they can enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of this remarkable site.
Lunch is also included, with two main courses, dessert, and wine, providing a delightful culinary experience.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate exploration. With a minimum of 2 people required per booking, this tour is suitable for small groups or solo travelers.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, making it an inclusive option. Reviews for this tour indicate a single one-star rating, so potential participants should consider this feedback carefully.
Read our full review: Vitoria and Añana Salt Valley Small Group Tour, Lunch Included Review
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Tour of Tudela and the Great Desert of Europe.
Travelers can embark on a captivating private tour that showcases the historic city of Tudela and the breathtaking Bardenas Reales desert. This personalized experience includes a visit to the Tudela Cathedral and the charming town of Valtierra, before venturing into the unique lunar-like landscape of the Bardenas Reales.
The tour is provided by a highly qualified driver-guide, ensuring a comfortable and accessible journey in a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi. Bottled water is included, and an optional lunch can be added to the experience.
With a starting price of $310.30 per person, the tour offers excellent value, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Based on the positive reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and hassle-free exploration of Tudela and the remarkable Bardenas Reales desert.
Read our full review: Tour of Tudela and the Great Desert of Europe. Review
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Olite Royal Palace Tour Review
When visiting the historic Pamplona, the Olite Royal Palace tour offers an immersive experience for history enthusiasts. This half-day tour takes guests through the impressive Olite Royal Palace and the medieval village of Ujue, providing a comprehensive look into the Basque Country’s past.
The tour’s highlights include exploring the Olite Royal Palace at a leisurely pace and discovering the historical significance of the region. With a small group limited to 8 people, the experience is personalized, and guests can benefit from the guide’s in-depth commentary.
Transportation to and from the hotel is included, along with Olite Royal Palace tickets and a provided lunch, making it a convenient and all-inclusive option.
While the tour has received an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5, there are no 5-star reviews, and no reviews fall below 3 stars.
Nevertheless, the tour appears to be a solid choice for those interested in delving into the fascinating history and architecture of the Basque Country.
Read our full review: Olite Royal Palace Tour Review Review
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Sum Up
Pamplona offers a variety of tours that showcase the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and renowned wine. From exploring the Rioja wine region to discovering ancient castles and salt valleys, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in a half-day excursion or a more in-depth experience, these tours provide an excellent way to take in the unique culture and beauty of northern Spain.