When it comes to guided tours in Bilbao, several standout options make the most of your time and money. The Guggenheim Museum tour with skip-the-line access is especially smart – you’ll avoid the notorious queues while getting expert insight into this world-class collection. My favorite day trip combines historic Vitoria-Gasteiz with a Rioja winery visit, giving you a perfect taste of both Basque culture and Spain’s premier wine region.
For a memorable coastal experience, the Gaztelugatxe tour (including stops in Bermeo and Gernika) showcases the region’s dramatic scenery and poignant history. Back in town, walking tours efficiently cover both medieval and modern highlights, while food tours introduce you to the city’s incredible pintxos scene and local wines.
Check out these top-rated tours that maximize your Bilbao experience.
Good To Know
- The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao Guided Tour, led by official guides, offers a 2-hour exploration of modern and contemporary art with skip-the-line access.
- The Vitoria Guided Tour with Rioja Winery Visit provides a full-day cultural and wine tasting experience, including visits to historical sites and a renowned winery.
- The Private 4-Hour Walking Tour of Bilbao’s historic center and modern architecture is highly rated for its customizable and intimate experience, led by passionate guides.
- The Bilbao Guided Pintxos Tour offers a walking exploration of the city’s Old Town, sampling local cuisine and drinks in a small-group setting.
- The Small Group Guided Tour to San Juan Gaztelugatxe, led by a knowledgeable guide, offers epic views of the iconic “Dragonstone” location from Game of Thrones.
Guggenheim Museum Guided Tour With Skip the Line Ticket
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao guided tour with skip-the-line ticket offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the museum’s renowned collection of modern and contemporary art.
The 2-hour tour, led by an official guide, provides VIP access and highlights significant artworks and the iconic architectural design by Frank O. Gehry. Accommodating up to 15 travelers, the tour includes personalized itineraries for families and groups.
While the tour receives high praise for the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling, some customers have reported issues with tour organization and customer service.
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Vitoria Guided Tour With Rioja Winery Visit From Bilbao
Frequently, travelers visiting Bilbao take advantage of the Vitoria Guided Tour with Rioja Winery Visit, an excursion that offers a compelling blend of historical exploration and wine tasting.
This full-day tour departs from Bilbao and takes guests to the historic city of Vitoria-Gasteiz, followed by a visit to the charming town of Laguardia and a winery in the renowned Rioja wine region.
Along the way, a multilingual guide provides insights into the region’s rich heritage. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, winery admission, and a wine tasting.
While some guests suggest adding more tastings or towns to visit, the tour generally receives positive reviews for its knowledgeable guides, scenic beauty, and immersive cultural experience.
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Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo and Gernika Guided Tour
Gaztelugatxe, Bermeo and Gernika Guided Tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of the Basque country’s iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage.
The guided tour features the “Dragonstone” filming site from Game of Thrones, the historic town of Bermeo, and the symbolic town of Gernika. Hikers will ascend the narrow steps to the hermitage, while professional bilingual guides provide insights into the region’s history and traditions.
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 81 reviews, the tour provides an efficient and culturally engaging experience, though some guests have noted issues with tour timing and language barriers.
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Guggenheim Museum Bilbao Private Tour With Official Guide
For those seeking an immersive exploration of the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the private tour with an official guide offers an unparalleled experience.
Spanning 2 hours, this highly-rated tour (5 stars from 12 reviews) provides personalized insights into the museum’s highlights and vast collection of contemporary art.
With a maximum group size of 15, guests can customize the tour to their interests while admiring the building’s striking architecture.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, and the tour’s accessibility makes it suitable for all travelers.
Reviewers praise the efficient yet unhurried pace and the opportunity to savor the serene, magnificent views within the museum.
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Private 4-Hour Walking Tour of Bilbao With Local Guide
Bilbao’s historic center comes alive on this private 4-hour walking tour with a local guide. Rated 4.8/5 from 11 reviews and recommended by 91% of travelers, this customizable experience showcases the city’s cathedral, medieval squares, and renowned Basque Museum.
Guests can also explore the modern architecture of the Ensanche neighborhood and visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The tour includes a knowledgeable, passionate guide who provides insightful cultural commentary and adapts the itinerary to participants’ interests.
With a minimum of 2 people per booking, this private tour offers an enriching and personalized introduction to Bilbao’s rich history and vibrant present. Hotel pickup is available for centrally located guests.
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Bilbao: Guided Pintxos Tour
On this immersive walking tour, visitors explore Bilbao’s vibrant Old Town (Casco Viejo), discovering the city’s medieval center and sampling the renowned pintxos, the Basque equivalent of tapas.
The tour includes four drinks and four bite-sized pintxos, as well as a generous meal with a professional local guide.
Transportation to and from the sights is provided, and the small-group format ensures a personalized travel experience.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some issues noted around communication and meeting point instructions, the overall experience promises an engaging exploration of Bilbao’s culinary and historic highlights.
The non-refundable tour starts at $95.00 per person.
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Self Guided Bike Tour in Getxo (Scenic Bilbaos Seaside)
Travelers can explore the scenic seaside of Bilbao through a self-guided bicycle tour in Getxo.
The tour operates from April 5, 2022, to June 30, 2025, with flexible daily hours from 9 AM to 8 PM. Groups of up to 6 riders depart from Kasino Plaza, cycling along the coast and returning to the meeting point.
The tour includes a bicycle, GPS track, and infant seats. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and close to public transportation.
Participants should be in good health, as the tour may not be suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
At $26.73 per person, the tour earns a perfect 5-star rating from previous travelers.
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Bilbao: Museum of Fine Arts Private Guided Tour
The Museum of Fine Arts in Bilbao offers visitors a private guided tour, providing a personalized experience to explore the museum’s impressive collection.
Guests can skip the lines and enjoy a tour led by an expert guide in local art history, who’ll bring the masterpieces to life with compelling stories. The tour covers works by renowned artists like Goya and Ribera.
With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 3 reviews, this non-refundable experience is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, making it an accessible option for most travelers.
The guide can be identified by their green backpack featuring a white clover, and it’s essential to provide contact details for coordination.
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Private Guided Full-Day Walking Tour in Bilbao
This comprehensive private guided tour takes visitors on a personalized exploration of Bilbao’s rich history and vibrant culture. Priced from $90.89 per person, the full-day walking tour offers free hotel pickup and a customizable itinerary catered to the group’s interests.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the experience includes visits to major attractions and hidden gems, with insightful commentary and opportunities for discussion.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s adaptable pace, friendly guides, and valuable local recommendations. With a 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and personalized introduction to the city.
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Guided Tour of Txakoli Wine Tasting and Tasting of Wine and Typical Products
For those seeking a true taste of Bilbao’s local culture, the guided tour of Txakoli wine tasting and traditional products offers an immersive experience.
Led by a private, multilingual guide, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the region’s renowned Txakoli wine and typical local delicacies.
The tasting experience includes sampling the crisp, refreshing Txakoli wine, as well as a variety of traditional products.
Transportation to and from the city center is provided, ensuring a seamless and convenient tour.
Accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, make this experience accessible to all.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Basque cuisine, this tour is an excellent way to learn about Bilbao’s vibrant culinary heritage.
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2 Hours Private Family Guided Walking Tour in Bilbao
Immersing oneself in Bilbao’s vibrant cultural tapestry is the essence of the Hours Private Family Guided Walking Tour. Operated by Opatrip.com Spain, this 2-hour private walking tour provides an intimate glimpse into the city’s rich history and landmarks.
Led by a professional local guide, the tour takes visitors from the Bilbao City Hall to the serene Parque Doña Casilda Iturrizar. Participants will enjoy a personalized experience as their group is the only one involved.
Accessibility is generally not an issue, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to explore Bilbao’s captivating sights.
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Bilbao Private Walking Tour With Professional Guide
Discover Bilbao’s captivating history and landmarks on the Bilbao Private Walking Tour led by a professional guide.
This 3-hour tour offers a personalized experience as you explore the city’s cultural gems. Wander through the charming old town, admire the stunning Catedral de Santiago, and learn about Bilbao’s rich past from your knowledgeable guide.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Public transportation is nearby, making it easy to reach the meeting point in the city center.
With private tour pricing, you’ll enjoy an intimate group experience tailored to your interests. Confirmation is provided upon booking, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
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Private Guided Ancient Charms Tour to Modern Wonders in Bilbao
Set out on a captivating journey through Bilbao’s rich past and vibrant present on the Private Guided Ancient Charms Tour to Modern Wonders.
This non-refundable tour, priced from $1,028.61 per person, offers a professional local guide and transportation.
Pickup service is available from various points in Bilbao, and you’ll need to select a pickup point during booking.
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Confirmation is received at booking, and this tour, operated by Opatrip.com Spain, is likely to sell out, so check availability before booking.
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Bilbao Guggenheim Museum Private Tour With Official Tour Guide 100% Personalised
With a visit to the iconic Bilbao Guggenheim Museum, art enthusiasts can embark on a private tour led by an official guide.
This 4.3-star rated experience offers a personalized exploration of the museum’s architectural marvels and artistic treasures. Operated by Northern Spain Gastronomy, the tour starts at the museum’s entrance, where the guide will provide in-depth insights.
While the tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users or those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate. The experience, priced from $128.31 per person, includes all entrance fees and a flexible cancellation policy.
However, some past guests have expressed concerns about the balance between architectural and artistic information provided during the tour.
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Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum Private Walking Tour With Guide
For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Bilbao, the private walking tour of the city and the iconic Guggenheim Museum offers an unparalleled experience.
Led by a knowledgeable and personable local guide, the 4-hour tour covers the highlights of Bilbao, including a visit to the renowned Guggenheim. Priced from $320.77 per person, the tour provides hotel pickup, museum admission, and expert commentary.
Reviewers praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, making this an excellent choice for those who want to delve deeper into Bilbao’s history and architecture.
With a minimum of 2 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private tour is a convenient and customizable way to discover the city.
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Bilbao : Private Custom Walking Tour With a Local Guide
A private custom walking tour of Bilbao with a local guide offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the city’s rich history, architecture, and cultural gems.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with 2 reviews, this tour provides a flexible and personalized experience at a reasonable price starting from $48.12 per person.
Knowledgeable guides, such as Begoña and Sara, lead the way, tailoring the tour to the interests of the group.
Accessible to most travelers, the tour includes options for drinks or food breaks and is wheelchair and stroller friendly.
With the ability to start from any centrally located hotel, this private tour ensures an educational and immersive exploration of Bilbao.
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Small Group Guided Half Day Tour Visit to San Juan Gaztelugatxe
Bilbao Green Tours offers a captivating Small Group Guided Half Day Tour to the stunning destination of San Juan Gaztelugatxe.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and is priced at $74.85 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Travelers will be picked up from a convenient meeting point near Bilbao’s city hall and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, and participants shouldn’t have any heart problems or serious medical conditions.
Guests can expect an unforgettable experience, with epic views of Gaztelugatxe and a knowledgeable guide, Josè, who enhances the overall experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Most guided tours allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks, though it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some tours may have restrictions or recommendations regarding outside provisions to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Guided Tours?
The cancellation policy for guided tours typically allows for full refunds if canceled up to 24-48 hours in advance. Policies may vary between tour providers, so it’s best to check the specific terms before booking.
Are the Tours Accessible for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tours generally accommodate individuals with disabilities, but it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure they can accommodate your specific needs. Many offer accessible options or can make special arrangements.
Do the Guides Speak Multiple Languages During the Tours?
The guides on these tours often speak multiple languages, allowing them to accommodate visitors from diverse backgrounds. Multilingual guides ensure that all participants can engage fully and understand the information provided during the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for the Private Guided Tours?
Yes, many private guided tours in Bilbao offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests. Clients can work closely with the tour company to design a personalized experience that meets their specific needs and preferences.
The Sum Up
Bilbao offers an array of guided tours that cater to various interests. From exploring the iconic Guggenheim Museum to discovering the picturesque Basque countryside, visitors can choose from a diverse range of options. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s rich history and culture with the guidance of knowledgeable local experts. Whether visitors prefer private or small-group tours, Bilbao’s guided experiences ensure they make the most of their visit to this vibrant Spanish city.