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Discover Rioja’s most iconic wineries with this stylish full-day tour from San Sebastián. Taste premium wines amid cutting-edge architecture and savor a traditional Basque lunch for an unforgettable experience.
Discover Rioja’s most iconic wineries with this stylish full-day tour from San Sebastián. Taste premium wines amid cutting-edge architecture and savor a traditional Basque lunch for an unforgettable experience.
Book with Ikusnahi Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ikusnahi Tours · San Sebastián, País Vasco
Nestled in the heart of Spain’s renowned Rioja wine region, this full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of two of the area’s most architecturally striking and world-class wineries. Departing from San Sebastián in the País Vasco, the journey introduces travelers to the cutting-edge design and exceptional viticulture that define Rioja’s modern wine scene. This isn’t just another wine tasting—it’s a vibrant blend of art, culture, and premium wine experiences designed for enthusiasts eager to taste and see the unexpected.
The tour begins at Marqués de Riscal winery, where Frank Gehry’s titanium-clad structure rises dramatically from rolling vineyards. The building’s shimmering, futuristic façade contrasts the centuries-old winemaking traditions carefully preserved inside. Here, guests enjoy a guided tasting showcasing some of the estate’s finest vintages, an occasion to savor rich Tempranillo blends that have helped cement Rioja’s place on the global wine map.
Next, the tour travels to Ysios winery, famous for its wave-inspired roofline harmonizing with the landscape’s gentle slopes. This cutting-edge architectural marvel hosts tastings that reveal the winery’s commitment to balancing innovation with respect for terroir. Between tastings, a traditional Basque lunch accompanies local wines at Restaurant Amelibia in nearby Laguardia, offering a chance to feast on authentic regional dishes amid stunning vineyard views.
What makes this experience unique is not only the wines but the seamless merging of sleek contemporary design with centuries of winemaking heritage. The professional guides provide insight into Rioja’s rich viticultural history, climate influences, and the particular geology of the region’s soils, emphasizing why this zone produces grapes with such distinct character.
For visitors staying in San Sebastián, the tour serves as an accessible yet transformative outing into Spain’s preeminent wine country. The private group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience, while included transport means no need to worry about logistics or navigation.
This tour is a standout choice for those eager to combine eye-catching architecture, a vibrant Basque culinary scene, and a deep dive into one of Europe’s most celebrated wine regions. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual lover of wine and travel, the Wine and Design tour from San Sebastián promises a stylish and unforgettable day in Rioja.
easy.
9 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels as the walking involved is minimal and mostly indoors or on gentle terrain
Yes, transportation from San Sebastián and between wineries is included for a hassle-free experience.
Absolutely, the guided tastings are designed to be welcoming for all levels of wine knowledge.
Yes, if you notify ahead of time, the restaurant can prepare meals accommodating dietary needs.
The tour includes visits to two wineries—Marqués de Riscal and Ysios—each offering multiple tastings.
Young children are welcome but keep in mind the focus is on wine tasting and architectural appreciation.
Professional guides generally provide the tour in English and Spanish; confirm availability when booking.
Rioja was formally established as a Denominación de Origen in 1925, highlighting its long-standing wine tradition.
Wineries in Rioja increasingly implement sustainable viticulture practices to preserve soil health and biodiversity.
Ikusnahi Tours is a Basque Country tour operator featured on The Adventure Collective. The company specializes in private and small-group guided experiences across Spain's Basque region and nearby French Basque country, with curated itineraries focused on culture, cuisine, wine and outdoor exploration. Tours range from short half-day walks along the St. James Way and dramatic cliffs to full-day wine tours in La Rioja and premium winery visits. Food-focused offerings include market visits, hands-on cooking classes in private txokos, tasting menus and pintxo tours in San Sebastián. Wine itineraries highlight Rioja producers, small-family bodegas and tastings of regional wines including white and red Rioja and local txakoli. Coastal and nature trips visit Zumaia, Getaria, Jaizkibel and other Basque coast highlights for hiking, cliff views and grilled-fish lunches. City and culture options cover Bilbao and the Guggenheim, Bayonne, Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Guides can provide private transport and expert local commentary as described in several itineraries. Ikusnahi Tours offers specialized themes such as Basque craft beer walks, Basque gastronomic society dinners, and sanctuary visits to Lourdes. The operator lists diverse small-group departures and tailored private adventures suited to food lovers, wine enthusiasts, hikers and cultural travelers. Ikusnahi Tours' itineraries are detailed and region-specific, combining historic towns, coastal landscapes, mountain treks and artisanal experiences. Travelers can expect curated routes through Basque villages, market-driven cooking, winery tastings and coastal panoramas. For planning, tours specify destinations like San Sebastián, Bilbao, Rioja, Hondarribia, Zumaia and Getaria, and note inclusions such as tastings, guided visits and transport provided.
Book with Ikusnahi Tours