Is there transportation included?

Yes, transportation from Bilbao to Rioja and back is arranged as part of the tour package.

Can diets or allergies be accommodated?

Absolutely, just notify us in advance, and we can tailor the gourmet lunch accordingly.

How many wineries are visited?

Two prestigious wineries offer tastings and private tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?

This experience is tailored for adult guests; children under 18 are not recommended.

Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Do I need prior wine knowledge?

No prior experience is required; guides provide engaging insights suitable for all levels.

Wine & Gastronomy Tour in Rioja with Bilbao Business | Guided Tour | Food Tour

Nestled in the renowned wine region of Rioja, this exclusive tour offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich vinicultural heritage of Northern Spain. Starting from Bilbao, travelers are whisked away to discover the essence of Rioja through private visits to two prestigious wineries. These wineries, often family-run with generations of tradition, boast vineyards that stretch across rolling hills and terraced slopes, with each glass telling a story of the unique climate and soil that define this legendary region.

The experience includes tastings of acclaimed Rioja wines, from vibrant young reds to complex aged varieties, expertly guided by knowledgeable sommeliers. Paired with an expertly curated gourmet lunch at a top-rated local restaurant, the tour appeals not just to wine connoisseurs but also to food lovers eager to indulge in regional specialties. Beyond the wineries, visitors get a taste of Laguardia, a charming medieval village perched atop a hill, with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old walls hinting at its storied past. Secret viewpoints around Laguardia provide panoramic vistas of vineyards and distant mountains, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

This tour is a stand-out due to its intimate settings, personalized guidance, and the chance to experience Rioja’s blend of natural beauty, history, and culinary excellence. It’s not just about tasting wine—it's about immersing yourself in the culture and landscape that make this part of Spain a true standout for visitors seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Perfect for wine enthusiasts, foodies, or those simply looking to enjoy a day in a scenic and historic setting, this tour offers a seamless way to appreciate the depth of Rioja's tradition and landscape in a single day.

About Northern Spain Gastronomy

Northern Spain Gastronomy is a Bilbo-based tour operator specializing in curated food, wine and cultural experiences across the Basque Country, Rioja and Cantabria. From Bilbao as a launch point, the company organizes guided trips that showcase regional specialties such as Basque pintxos, Txuleta steak, Txakoli wines and traditional dishes like cocido montañes.

Highlights include private and guided visits: exclusive access to the Guggenheim Museum with certified guides; wine tours through Rioja visiting family wineries and landmark architecture; coastal excursions to Getaria and the cliffs of Zumaia; and full-day journeys to San Sebastian with cider-house lunches. Several itineraries combine tastings with scenic walks, medieval villages (Laguardia, Santillana del Mar, Comillas) and cultural landmarks including El Capricho and Castro Urdiales.

Meals and tastings are integrated into most itineraries, ranging from gourmet restaurant lunches to picnic spreads and multi-pintxo meals in Bilbao’s Old Town. Options explicitly listed include private winery visits, gourmet lunches, cheese farm tastings, and specialized Guggenheim tours.

Northern Spain Gastronomy operates from Bilbo, Euskadi, offering experiences that range from 1.5-hour private museum visits to full-day (up to nine-hour) excursions. The operator’s published itineraries emphasize local producers, regional wines and authentic Basque culinary traditions, presenting travelers with focused food-and-wine itineraries that connect culture, landscape and cuisine.

Published itineraries list fifteen distinct trips covering Basque wine regions, coastal landmarks, Rioja wineries, San Sebastian excursions and Cantabrian villages. Typical group sizes and booking details are available per itinerary; specific durations and inclusions vary by trip and are stated with each offering. See listings.