From Bilbao: La Rioja a journey to the vineyards & tradition

Travelers seeking a taste of Spain’s celebrated wine culture will find this full-day tour from Bilbao to La Rioja a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and authentic wine experiences. With visits to traditional wineries and the medieval village of Laguardia, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Spain’s most famous wine region without the hassle of planning every detail.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to see picturesque vineyards stretching endlessly, taste wines directly from the land, and wander through ancient streets in Laguardia. Plus, the inclusion of two carefully selected wineries ensures quality and authenticity. However, be aware that the journey involves a fair amount of driving, which might not suit those with limited mobility or who prefer more leisurely, walking-oriented trips. This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for a full immersion into La Rioja’s traditions—all in one day.

Good To Know

• Authentic Wineries: Visit two unique, traditional wineries with in-depth tastings.
• Medieval Charm: Explore Laguardia’s historic streets and underground wine cellars.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of vineyards that seem to go on forever.
• Expert Guide: Benefit from bilingual guides who share insights into the winemaking process.
• Flexible Planning: Includes transportation, tickets, and tastings, offering good value in a day-long package.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or slow walking pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Journey Begins: From Bilbao to La Rioja

The tour kicks off at Meliá Bilbao, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The initial 75-minute bus ride whisks you out of the city and into the rolling hills of Rioja Alavesa. During this drive, you’ll get a sneak peek of what’s to come — endless vineyards, quaint villages, and a taste of Spain’s wine-soaked landscape.

Traveling by minivan or bus depending on group size, the journey is smooth and comfortable, with the well-organized company ensuring everyone stays on schedule. The scenic drive provides ample opportunity to relax and get excited for the day ahead, with some travelers mentioning that the views are truly breathtaking, even passing through charming rural areas.

First Stop: A Traditional Winery in Rioja Alavesa

The first winery visit is a highlight, offering an up-close look at the winemaking process. This isn’t a glossy tourist trap but a true place full of character, where you’ll learn about the craftsmanship behind each bottle. The vineyard’s owners or staff will guide you through the production stages, explaining their methods and the land’s influence on the wines.

Guests consistently praise the personalized approach and the chance to taste wines directly from the barrel or bottle, giving a real sense of authenticity. One reviewer mentioned that the tasting was “exquisite,” with the wines truly reflecting the region’s terroir. You’ll enjoy an appetizer alongside your tastings, which enhances the flavors and makes the experience more engaging.

This stop demonstrates the importance of tradition and small-scale craftsmanship in La Rioja’s wine scene, contrasting with larger commercial wineries. It’s ideal for those craving a genuine, uncommercialized experience.

Exploring Laguardia: A Medieval Village

After the winery, the bus takes you to Laguardia, an ancient walled town that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Its cobbled streets, old stone buildings, and coats of arms tell stories of centuries past. Walking through Laguardia feels like stepping back in time, with every turn revealing a new architectural gem.

A guided tour of the village’s most iconic spots is included, where your guide will share fascinating stories about its history and architecture. One highlight is the underground wineries carved beneath the streets, more than 300 in number, which offer a glimpse into the traditional winemaking methods that have persisted for generations. Visiting one of these underground cellars adds a unique layer to the experience, combining history with taste as you sample regional wines amid the cool, dark tunnels.

Many reviewers highlight how Laguardia’s charm makes this part of the tour special. Its atmosphere is lively yet intimate, perfect for strolling, shopping for local crafts, or simply soaking in the medieval ambiance.

More Wine and Local Flavors

Your visit to Laguardia includes a second winery experience with tastings of local wines and some regional snacks. This is an inviting opportunity to compare different wine styles and deepen your appreciation of La Rioja’s terroir. Guests often comment that the wines are “delicious” and the guide’s explanations help make sense of the complex flavor profiles.

You’ll also have about two hours of free time in the village, giving you the flexibility to enjoy lunch (not included), explore further, or relax in a local café. Many find this free period a great chance to buy souvenirs or take in the scenery at their own pace.

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Practicalities and Logistics

The tour lasts around 9 hours, including travel, visits, and free time, making it a full but manageable day. The group size varies, but transportation is comfortable and well-organized, with tickets and entry fees all covered in the price. The guide is bilingual, fluent in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

While the tour is designed for a broad audience, it’s worth noting that it’s not accessible for mobility-impaired travelers or those with difficulty walking, given the cobbled streets and underground winery visits. The times are approximate; delays can occur, so travelers should be prepared for a schedule that’s flexible but generally punctual.

The cost includes all wine tastings and guided tours but excludes lunch and hotel pickup, which isn’t offered. Meeting points are clearly specified, with two options to accommodate different locations in Bilbao.

What to Bring and What to Know

Comfortable shoes are essential since there’s some walking involved, especially in Laguardia. A passport or ID might be useful for the winery visits, and dressing in layers is advisable, as the underground cellars can be cool. The tour runs rain or shine, so an umbrella or raincoat might be helpful, depending on the weather.

Restrictions are in place to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment: no pets (except assistance animals), no smoking or vaping, and no glass objects on the bus or in the vehicle. Children under 5 are not suitable for this tour, given the walking pace and the nature of the visits.

This guided day trip from Bilbao to La Rioja offers a well-rounded experience for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The combination of personalized winery visits, medieval charm, and spectacular vineyard views provides a compelling reason to escape the city and indulge in Spain’s wine traditions. The included tastings and expert guidance ensure you leave with a deeper understanding of what makes La Rioja wines so renowned.

While it’s a full day and involves some walking and traveling, the value of visiting authentic wineries and exploring Laguardia’s historic streets makes it worthwhile. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to enjoy Spain’s wine culture, appreciate scenic countryside, and enjoy a taste of medieval Spain—all in one convenient package.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided by comfortable minivan or bus depending on group size, with all tickets and entry fees covered.

What are the meeting points and times?
You can choose between two meeting points: outside Meliá Bilbao at 09:20 or outside Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao at 09:30. It’s important to arrive on time to avoid missing the tour.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including travel, visits, and free time, making it a full but comfortably paced day.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The tour is not suitable for clients with mobility problems, wheelchair users, or those who prefer slow walking, as some sites involve walking on cobbled streets or underground tunnels.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers bilingual guides, transportation, necessary tickets, entry fees, wine tastings, and some snacks. Lunch and hotel pickup are not included.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, you have free time in Laguardia to explore or get lunch at your own pace during the two-hour window.

This day trip offers a blend of scenic beauty, history, and authentic wine experiences that will leave any traveler with lasting memories of La Rioja. Perfect for those wanting a structured yet immersive glimpse into Spain’s finest wine traditions, it promises both education and enjoyment along the way.

You can check if your dates are available here: