From Bilbao: Rioja Wine Region with Winery & Vitoria-Gasteiz

Traveling from Bilbao to discover the flavors and sights of Spain’s renowned Rioja wine region can be a rewarding adventure. This full-day tour offers a glimpse into the region’s picturesque vineyards, historic villages, and vibrant city life, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of Basque culture, or simply seeking a scenic escape, this trip promises a mix of history, gastronomy, and stunning views.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to visit Laguardia, a beautifully preserved medieval town, and to explore a traditional Rioja winery with exclusive tasting opportunities. Plus, the guided tour of Vitoria-Gasteiz—the Basque Country’s capital—adds an urban cultural dimension that complements the rural vineyard scenery. The highlight? Tasting some of the finest Rioja wines and Basque chocolates, all in one day.

On the flip side, the tour’s duration and structure mean a fair amount of travel time—about 4.5 hours on the bus—and some walking involved. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a very relaxed pace. But for most active visitors eager to experience a slice of Spain’s wine culture and Basque charm, this tour hits the right notes.

If you enjoy guided experiences that combine scenery, culture, and local flavors, this trip is likely to suit you well. It’s especially good for those who value knowledgeable guides and the chance to sample authentic wines and sweets without the hassle of organizing transportation or reservations.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of vineyards and scenic countryside.
• Authentic Villages: Walk through Laguardia’s medieval streets and soak in Basque architecture.
• Wine Tasting: Sample Rioja wines at a traditional cellar, with insights from knowledgeable guides.
• Cultural Blend: Discover Vitoria-Gasteiz’s mix of old and new, with a guided city tour.
• Gastronomic Delights: Taste Basque sweets and chocolates at a local artisanal shop.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is included, making the day smooth and hassle-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins in Bilbao

Starting outside the Melia Bilbao hotel or the Sercotel Coliseo, your day kicks off at around 9:20 or 9:30 am. The trip is a comfortable 1.5-hour ride in an air-conditioned minivan or bus, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy your guide’s commentary about Basque and Rioja history, culture, and landscape. We appreciated how the guides shared stories about the region’s wine-making traditions and Basque language, adding layers of context to the day.

Scenic Drive and Vineyard Views

As we headed south, the scenery shifted from urban Bilbao to rolling hills and sprawling vineyards. The panoramic views of the Rioja region are truly breathtaking. We loved the way the landscape stretches out in every direction, dotted with grapevines that whisper the promise of good wine. Several reviews praise the drive, highlighting the “very nice” views and the informative commentary that made the scenery even more enjoyable.

Laguardia: A Charmingly Medieval Town

Our first major stop was Laguardia, a town renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls, cobbled streets, and cozy wine cellars. The guided walk through its historic center revealed a town that feels like stepping back in time. We admired the architecture, with its stone houses and fortified walls, and loved the sense of history at every corner.

One reviewer described Laguardia as “one of the most charming and beautiful towns in La Rioja,” which is easy to see. Its atmosphere makes it perfect for wandering leisurely, exploring boutique wine shops, or simply soaking in the ambiance. The 1-hour guided visit gives a good overview, but with 30 minutes of free time afterward, you can also explore on your own or grab a small snack.

Wine Cellar and Tasting Experience

Next up was the highlight for many—visiting a traditional Rioja winery. We toured the cellar, where the unique geology and age-old techniques create wines that are both distinctive and deeply rooted in tradition. Tour participants often comment on how the visit is “very informative,” with guides explaining how to differentiate between wine ages and flavors, making it a great educational experience.

The tasting session allows you to sample some exceptional Rioja wines, often from tanks or barrels, which adds an unusual element compared to standard tastings. Multiple reviews highlight the value of this experience: “The wine cellar tour was amazing,” and “It’s worth the money alone to visit the totally unique wine caves.” You will likely appreciate the chance to taste different wines, appreciate their nuances, and learn from expert guides.

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Free Time in Laguardia

After the tasting, you’re free to explore Laguardia further for about 1.5 hours. That’s enough time to relax, enjoy a coffee, or pick up a few souvenirs. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience—whether it’s a quick stroll or a sit-down in a local tavern.

From Vineyards to Vitoria-Gasteiz

The bus then takes you on a 1-hour drive to Vitoria-Gasteiz, the Basque Country’s capital. Here, a guided walk takes you through the city’s historic streets, blending modern vitality with centuries-old architecture. You’ll see bustling squares and leafy avenues, appreciating how the city balances old and new.

Participants often comment on how knowledgeable and friendly their guides were, making the city tour engaging and insightful. It’s a good way to appreciate the Basque culture beyond just wine and food. The city’s lively atmosphere and well-preserved historic center are well worth the visit.

Basque Sweets and Final Tastes

To conclude the day, your guide will take you to a renowned artisanal chocolate shop, where you can indulge in Basque sweets. The tasting of local pastries provides a sweet ending to the experience and gives a glimpse into Basque culinary craftsmanship. A reviewer noted that “the chocolate tasting was a highlight,” especially if you’re a fan of confections.

Return to Bilbao

After the city tour and sweets, the bus heads back to Bilbao, arriving roughly around 6:30 pm. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights, with plenty of scenic views along the way.

In terms of value, this tour hits a lot of notes. The inclusion of transportation, guided tours, wine tastings, and local sweets makes it a convenient way to explore a major wine region without the hassle of planning. The price reflects the organized experience and expert guides, who add depth and context that you might miss on your own.

The reviews consistently emphasize the quality of the guides—described as knowledgeable and friendly—and the stunning scenery. The opportunity to visit a traditional winery with unique cellar access is a big plus, especially for wine lovers. And the visit to Vitoria-Gasteiz introduces a cultural dimension that complements the rural vineyard visits nicely.

However, be aware that the tour involves a fair bit of bus travel—around 4.5 hours total—so if you’re not keen on long rides or have mobility issues, this might be challenging. Also, it’s not suitable for very young children or those with physical limitations, as walking and standing are involved during guided walks.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for travelers eager to combine scenic drives, cultural visits, and wine tasting into one day. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights and authentic local experiences, rather than just ticking off sights. If you enjoy learning about winemaking, exploring charming towns, and sampling regional sweets, this tour will deliver.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary, freeing you from logistical worries. Just remember, it’s a full day—so pack comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and be ready for a mix of walking and sitting.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended because spots are limited, and the tour often sells out during peak seasons.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and clothes are advised. Don’t forget your passport or ID, especially if you plan to buy wines or souvenirs.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, the tour involves walking and standing, and it’s not recommended for those with mobility limitations.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during free time.

Can I choose the meeting point? Yes, you can meet at either the Melia Bilbao or Sercotel Coliseo. Just arrive on time at your chosen location.

What happens in case of bad weather? The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Some attractions might be less enjoyable in poor weather, but the experience generally remains worthwhile.

This from Bilbao to Rioja and Vitoria-Gasteiz tour offers a well-rounded taste of northern Spain’s cultural and vinicultural treasures. With stunning vineyard views, an authentic wine cellar visit, and a walk through a medieval town and vibrant city, it balances scenic beauty with cultural insight.

It’s especially valuable if you want a structured, guided experience that takes care of transportation and logistics, while still offering authentic moments like wine tasting and local sweets. Guides earn high marks for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience enjoyable and educational.

While it’s not suited for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a leisurely, less structured day, most active visitors will find it a satisfying way to connect with the Basque and Rioja regions in a single memorable trip.

In the end, this tour provides good value for those interested in wine, history, and local culture—all packed into a thoughtfully organized day that avoids the stress of planning on your own. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply curious about the region’s charm, it’s a solid choice for a full immersion into the essence of Rioja and Basque Country.

You can check availability for your dates here: