Vilafranca del Penedes may not be as famous as Barcelona or Madrid, but it’s a treasure trove for wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers eager to discover authentic Catalan culture. Known for its exceptional wineries and vivid landscapes, this region offers a range of tours that combine taste, history, and outdoor fun. From tasting top-quality cava to cycling through scenic vineyards, each experience promises a memorable day. Among the standout options, the From Sitges: Wine Tasting at 2 Wineries, Snacks and Pickup offers a deep dive into regional wines with expert guides, while the From Sitges: Cycling Tour with Winery visit and Tasting combines active exploration with wine tasting. For foodies, the Paella Masterclass with Drink and Bike Ride mixes cooking, cycling, and wine in a fun-filled afternoon. Lastly, those on a tighter budget or seeking a shorter visit can opt for the Barcelona: Cavas Hill – Winery Tour & Cheese Tasting, which packs a lot into just two hours.
Quick Overview
This list features wine tastings at top wineries, cycling adventures through vineyards, and culinary experiences like paella-making. Whether you prefer relaxing tasting sessions, active outdoor exploration, or combining food and drink in a hands-on class, Vilafranca has options that cater to different interests and budgets.
1. From Sitges: Wine Tasting at 2 Wineries, Snacks and Pickup
At number one, this wine tasting tour from Sitges offers a well-rounded introduction to Catalonia’s premier wine region. For around $116, you’ll be picked up in Sitges and visit two historic wineries in the Penedès. The tour includes guided visits and tastings of both wine and cava, with a total of six generous servings. The small-group setting (usually limited to a few travelers) ensures personalized attention, and the air-conditioned van makes for a comfortable ride through the rolling vineyards.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on quality over quantity—learn about the cava and wine-making process, explore ancient wineries, and enjoy the scenic landscapes that inspired many of Spain’s most famous sparkling wines. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide Alex, who brings history and passion for the region alive. With excellent reviews averaging 4.9/5, travelers love the balance of education, tasting, and beautiful views.
Bottom Line: If you want a thorough, friendly introduction to Penedès wines with a personal touch, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy structured tastings and cultural insights.
2. From Sitges: Cycling Tour with Winery visit and Tasting
Number two on our list takes you on a leisurely bike ride through vineyard landscapes—the cycling tour from Sitges blends physical activity with wine tasting for an engaging experience. For $96, this five-hour adventure begins with pickup in Sitges, followed by a 30-minute van transfer to the vineyards. Once there, you’ll cycle at a relaxed pace around the picturesque landscape, with stops along the way to taste local products and learn about cava and wine production.
The highlight is a guided visit to a winery, where you’ll explore the cellar, sample various wines and cavas, and hear stories about the family-run operation. The tour’s reviews are glowing, with travelers mentioning Alex’s friendly, funny, and knowledgeable style. One reviewer said, “We felt like we had the place to ourselves,” emphasizing the personalized and intimate feel of the experience.
This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy combining outdoor adventure with cultural discovery. The scenic views and the opportunity to taste grapes, almonds, and cava make it more than just a typical wine tour.
Bottom Line: This is ideal for those who want to stay active while exploring vineyards. It’s a great choice if you prefer to see the landscape up close rather than just visit wineries.
3. From Sitges: Paella Masterclass with Drink and Bike Ride
For those eager to combine cooking, cycling, and wine tasting, this Paella Masterclass with Drink and Bike Ride from Sitges offers a full flavor of Catalan culture. For about $125, you’ll learn how to craft authentic paella, then enjoy it paired with local wines or cava. The experience also includes a leisurely bike ride alongside the vineyards and a visit to an ancient winery.
Guests rave about the informal and friendly atmosphere, with some noting the guide Alex’s extensive knowledge of the region. The paella is described as “delicious,” and the bike ride as “easy and pleasant,” making this suitable for most fitness levels. The tour provides a balanced mix of culinary skills, local history, and outdoor activity, all wrapped into one afternoon.
The tour is especially good for foodies who want to learn a traditional dish in a fun setting, while also experiencing some light cycling and wine tasting. The reviews highlight the family-run winery and the authentic experience of drinking cava at a family estate.
Bottom Line: This is perfect if you want a relaxed, engaging day that combines cooking, wine, and outdoor exploration—a well-rounded choice for a memorable cultural experience.
4. Barcelona: Cavas Hill – Winery Tour & Cheese Tasting
Last on our list, but certainly not least, is the Cavas Hill winery tour in Barcelona. For just $29, this 2-hour experience offers a quick but rich taste of Catalan cava and cheese. You’ll explore the historic cellars from the early 20th century, walk through the vineyards, and learn about the cava-making process, all in a centrally located winery.
The highlight here is the pairing of three artisanal cheeses with a selection of cavas, making this an excellent value for those short on time or budget. The Modernist-style main house adds to the ambiance, and the intimate setting allows for personalized tasting. Although reviews aren’t listed, this tour’s price and focus on pairing make it a popular choice for casual visitors wanting a quick, authentic experience.
This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a short, affordable introduction to Catalan wine and cheese without sacrificing quality or atmosphere. It’s well-suited for those stopping in Barcelona or seeking a local taste of cava and cheese.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, budget-friendly experience with a focus on cava and cheese pairings in a historic setting.
$29 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you’re after a comprehensive wine experience with in-depth tastings, the From Sitges: Wine Tasting at 2 Wineries offers a deep dive into regional wines. For active travelers, the cycling tour combines exercise with scenic views and wine tasting.
Food lovers should consider the paella masterclass, which balances cooking with outdoor exploration. Lastly, if a short, casual experience appeals, the Cavas Hill winery provides a quick taste of cava and cheese in a historic setting.
When planning, think about your fitness level (cycling tours require some stamina), your budget, and whether you prefer a guided tasting or a hands-on experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Vilafranca del Penedes offers a rich variety of wine, food, and outdoor experiences suited for different travelers. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast eager to visit top wineries, an active explorer wanting to cycle through vineyards, or a foodie excited to learn how to make authentic paella, this region won’t disappoint.
Two standout options are the From Sitges: Wine Tasting at 2 Wineries for its comprehensive tasting and historical insights, and the Paella Masterclass for a colorful, hands-on culinary adventure. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic Catalan experiences.