Private tour Bilbao to La Rioja A day of Winery Tours and Tasting

If you’re considering a day trip from Bilbao into Spain’s celebrated wine country, this private tour to La Rioja offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s top vineyards, cultural sites, and flavorful wines. For around $287 per person, you get a full 8 to 9-hour experience that’s tailored exclusively for your group—no noisy crowds, just personalized attention, and a real feel for the local wine traditions. Guided by friendly professionals who seem to have personal ties with the wineries, this trip is a perfect choice for wine lovers who crave a more authentic, relaxed outing.

What really makes this experience shine are two elements: first, the presence of a knowledgeable guide—some reviews mention someone named Adrià—who makes learning about wine both educational and fun without feeling like a lecture. Second, the variety of wineries and the chance to taste 8 different wines across two distinct vineyards adds depth—not just your standard tasting, but a curated selection that covers everything from Crianza to Gran Reserva. The inclusion of snacks and food pairings at each stop enhances the tasting and helps reset your palate between sips.

A consideration to keep in mind is the lack of a structured lunch in the main package, though you’ll have the option to book a more casual, flexible meal afterward, either in a local restaurant or perhaps even in the medieval village of Laguardia. This allows you to choose what suits your pace and appetite, but if you’re eager for a set menu or specific dining experience, planning ahead might be necessary.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience with only your group participating, avoiding large tour bus crowds.
• Expert guides who have personal relationships with wineries, enriching the visit with insider knowledge.
• Tasting of 8 wines across two different wineries, showcasing the diversity of La Rioja’s offerings.
• Flexible lunch options in a charming medieval village, allowing for a more tailored dining experience.
• Historic Laguardia visit offers castle, caves, and a walk through a well-preserved medieval village.
• Excellent value, combining high-quality visits, tastings, and a comprehensive cultural experience at a cost comparable to group tours.
• Comfortable transportation included with pickup, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.
• Highly praised reviews, often highlighting the friendliness, professionalism, and local knowledge of guides.
• Booking well in advance—about 46 days on average—ensures securing a spot during peak seasons.

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through lush vineyards, tasting world-class wines, and soaking in medieval charm, this private tour from Bilbao hits all those notes. It’s a carefully curated day that balances wine education with cultural exploration, all within a manageable 8-9 hours.

This isn’t just a bus ride with tastings; it’s a thoughtfully designed experience. You’ll start your day early in Bilbao, with pickup arranged for you—an important convenience that takes the hassle out of transportation. The journey to La Rioja’s famous wine country is scenic, revealing rolling hills and vineyards that seem to stretch endlessly. With only your group and a dedicated guide, the day feels intimate and relaxed, perfect for couples, friends, or small groups eager to savor Spain’s best wines without the rush.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

First stop: a winery in La Rioja proper. Here, you’ll get around an hour and a half to explore the production process, sip tasting samples, and maybe pick up a bottle or two to bring home. Reviewers often mention how guides have personal relationships with the wineries, making the tour feel exclusive and welcoming. You can expect an in-depth tour that covers everything from grape varieties to aging techniques, with plenty of tastings to appreciate the nuances between different styles.

Next, you’ll head to Rioja Alavesa, a distinguished subregion known for its distinctive wines and stunning landscapes. Again, another winery visit with around the same duration—1.5 hours—gives you the chance to compare styles and get an authentic sense of this wine-producing area. Many travelers comment on how the guide’s knowledge makes the experience more engaging—often sharing stories of local traditions and the history of winemaking here.

The final cultural highlight is Laguardia, a medieval village rich in history. You’ll visit the castle tower, caves, and wander through narrow streets filled with shops and cafes. The guided tour here is a highlight—an hour to learn about medieval architecture and local legends. Many reviewers rave about Laguardia’s charm, describing it as a “medieval jewel” that vividly captures the soul of Rioja.

The Wines and Food

This tour includes eight tastings across the two wineries, paired with snacks designed to complement each wine. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the character of each vintage and how food influences the experience. From Crianza to Gran Reserva, the wines showcase the region’s range and depth. Several reviews mention how guides are eager to explain the distinctions, making the tastings educational as well as pleasurable.

While lunch isn’t included as a fixed menu, you do have the option to reserve a meal afterward—either choosing your own dishes or opting for a restaurant in the village. This flexibility allows for a leisurely approach and the chance to savor local specialties, like pintxos or traditional stews, in a genuine setting.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Reviewers universally praise the knowledgeable guides, with some mentioning individuals like Adrià, who seem to make the experience more personal and engaging. They also highlight the stunning scenery and the quality of wines—many say they left with a new appreciation for Spanish reds and whites. The value for money is often cited, as the trip combines multiple visits, tastings, cultural sights, and transport—all at a price that feels reasonable compared to other more commercial options.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that the tour doesn’t include a set lunch, which might be a drawback if you prefer a packaged meal experience. You’ll need to plan for a casual meal or snack afterward, especially if you’re hungry after the tastings. Plus, as with any tour, the quality of the experience depends on the guide—though reviews suggest guides like Adrià excel at making the day memorable.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Spanish wines in an intimate setting. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a mix of cultural sightseeing and wine tasting—Laguardia’s medieval charm perfectly complements the vineyard visits. If you like having a guide who shares stories and insider tips, this is a good fit. Given the private nature, it’s well-suited for small parties, couples, or friends seeking a personalized day out without the chaos of a large group.

Travelers who value quality over quantity—focusing on a few excellent wineries rather than rushing through many—will find this tour very rewarding. It’s also a great choice if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, memorable experience in La Rioja.

In essence, this private tour offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and excellent wine tasting, all delivered with a personal touch. It’s a smart pick for those who want to go beyond the standard bus tour and enjoy a tailored, relaxing day with knowledgeable guides. The visits to La Rioja and Rioja Alavesa’s wineries provide a meaningful look at Spain’s most celebrated wine regions, while Laguardia’s medieval charm adds a delightful historical dimension.

The value for money is evident, especially considering the quality and exclusivity of the experience. Many travelers leave remarking on how much they learned, how welcoming the wineries were, and how the trip exceeded their expectations—all for a price that stands up against larger, less intimate tours. If you’re craving a genuine, scenic, and educational day in Spain’s wine country, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to two wineries, tastings of 8 wines, food pairings at each winery, a guided cultural visit to Laguardia, bottled water, and transportation with pickup.

Can I customize the lunch option?
You can choose to book a lunch afterward, either in a local restaurant or as part of a reservation you make yourself. The main tour does not include a set meal.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, streamlining travel from Bilbao to La Rioja and back.

Who is this tour best for?
Ideal for wine lovers, cultural explorers, small groups, couples, and anyone wanting an intimate wine tasting experience with quality guidance.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 46 days ahead, especially during peak season.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but the tour is primarily focused on wine tasting, so minors should check with the provider about specific policies.

What is the price per person?
The current rate is approximately $286.60, which includes all tastings, tours, and transportation.

This thoughtful, engaging wine trip makes a memorable day for anyone wanting a slice of authentic La Rioja and a taste of Spain’s legendary wine culture.