Bilbao: Pintxos and Wine Tasting Tour with Local Guide

When visiting Bilbao, few experiences capture the city’s soul quite like a guided pintxos and wine tour. For around $96 per person, this 3-hour walking adventure takes you through some of Bilbao’s most iconic food spots, from bustling markets to historic taverns, all led by passionate local guides. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste for Basque culture, history, and of course, its celebrated gastronomy.

What we love about this tour is how it combines delicious food with rich stories about the city’s traditions. You’ll visit the largest covered market in Europe, Ribera Market, where top chefs and locals stock up on fresh ingredients. Then, strolling through Bilbao’s charming old town, you’ll stop at bars filled with character, sharing pintxos (Basque tapas) and local wines. The tour then crosses into Bilbao’s modern Ensanche district, where historic bars serve up ** Rioja wines** and innovative pintxos blending tradition with modern flair.

One thing to consider is the tour’s pace—it’s quite active, with walking and standing at each stop. If mobility is a concern, this might be a less suitable option. Also, the tour emphasizes traditional foods and wines, so if you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured experience, you might find it a bit regimented. But for those eager to sample authentic flavors, learn about local customs, and meet fellow travelers, this tour is hard to beat.

This experience suits anyone who wants a well-rounded introduction to Bilbao’s food scene—especially if you’re interested in learning the stories behind the pintxos, discovering hidden bars, and enjoying high-quality local wines in a lively setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine culinary delights with cultural insight, whether on a first visit or a repeat trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Combines traditional pintxos tasting with local wine and cultural stories.
Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Bilbao’s food and history.
Diverse Stops: Visits include Ribera Market, historic old town bars, and modern Bilbao districts.
Quality Tastings: Enjoy four pintxos and four drinks, with non-alcoholic options available.
Small Group Feel: The tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, even if only a few participate.
Value for Money: Combining food, drink, and expert storytelling offers a rich, affordable experience.

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Bilbao

A Closer Look at Bilbao’s Pintxos and Wine Tour

Starting Point and Structure

The tour begins at Tourne Bilbao’s shop on Villarías street, a central location easy to reach after arriving in the city. From here, your guide will give a quick briefing, setting the stage for what’s to come. This introduction often includes tips on how locals approach food and drink, making you feel more like a Bilbaíno than a tourist.

Ribera Market

Your first stop is Ribera Market, Europe’s largest covered food market. It’s a feast for the senses, with vibrant displays of fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties. This spot is a favorite among locals and chefs alike, and it’s where many top restaurants source their ingredients. Here, you’ll appreciate the importance of local produce in Basque cuisine, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a Michelin-starred chef shopping for ingredients.

More Great Tours Nearby

Old Town and Pintxos Bars

Next, you’ll wander into Bilbao’s historic old town, full of narrow streets and lively plazas. The first bar often has txikiteros—local wine drinkers—singing and sharing small glasses of wine. The guide might invite you to join in, giving you a taste of genuine Basque camaraderie. Sampling a Txakoli, a slightly sparkling, fresh white wine native to the Basque Country, you’ll get a real sense of local drinking culture.

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, according to reviews, is the guide’s ability to introduce you to hidden, authentic spots you wouldn’t easily find on your own. As one traveler said, “Roberto was super knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and made the whole evening feel relaxed and fun.” The chance to share stories and traditions over a pintxo and glass of wine is truly special.

Keen to taste more of Bilbao? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Plaza Nueva and Traditional Pintxos

The tour then makes its way to Plaza Nueva, a bustling square lined with historic taverns. Here, you’ll sample two more pintxos and learn about the local wine Txakoli in a lively, friendly setting. These bars often have a long-standing tradition of socializing over small bites and drinks, making it a perfect spot to soak in the local atmosphere.

Crossing into Ensanche

Crossing the river, you’ll step into Bilbao’s modern district, Ensanche, where the city’s economic pulse beats strongest. Here, a historic bar awaits, offering a chance to taste Rioja wines—another regional favorite—as well as innovative pintxos that fuse traditional flavors with contemporary cuisine. The balance between old and new in this part of Bilbao highlights how the city respects its roots while embracing progress.

The Experience Itself

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy four bars with gourmet pintxos and drinks—often four glasses of wine or non-alcoholic options. Guides are attentive, making sure everyone’s preferences are respected. The pace is lively but relaxed, giving you plenty of time to savor each bite and sip.

Authenticity and Local Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Roberto and Oscar are passionate about sharing Bilbao’s stories, from cultural traditions to culinary secrets. Guests repeatedly mention how these guides make the experience personal and engaging, turning a simple food tour into a memorable cultural journey.

Duration and Group Size

At just three hours, this tour offers a perfect snapshot of Bilbao’s food scene without feeling rushed. Even small groups, sometimes just a few people, help foster a friendly environment where questions are encouraged. The tour is designed to be informative, fun, and intimate.

Analyzing the Value

For $96, you’re paying for much more than just food—you’re gaining insider knowledge about Bilbao’s culinary traditions and local culture. The inclusion of four pintxos and four drinks across different districts ensures variety, and guides often share stories about the significance of each dish and drink. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food and wine—not just average bar snacks, but authentic, high-quality offerings.

The tour’s flexibility—offering non-alcoholic drinks and accommodating dietary preferences—adds to its appeal. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers, especially if you’re solo. As one reviewer noted, “Even if I was the only person on the tour, they went ahead and conducted it—fantastic service.”

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable shoes: Expect some walking and standing.
Be ready for social interaction: Guides encourage participation, singing, and sharing stories.
Timing: Check availability to find a starting time that fits your plans.
Age and mobility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments because of the walking and standing involved.
Booking: Reserve ahead to ensure a spot, especially during busy seasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love food, wine, and authentic cultural insights. It’s especially well-suited for those curious about Basque traditions, who enjoy small-group settings and want to immerse themselves in local life. Foodies looking to discover hidden gem bars and learn the stories behind the dishes will find this tour particularly rewarding.

It also offers a great mix of history, culture, and gastronomy—perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a well-rounded introduction to Bilbao. If you’re traveling solo, the friendly, intimate atmosphere makes it easy to connect with fellow food lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Tourne Bilbao’s shop on Villarías street and concludes back at the same location.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll enjoy four pintxos and four drinks (wine or non-alcoholic options), plus a guided experience led by a knowledgeable local.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The guide makes accommodations for different preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tastings.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not ideal for people with mobility impairments due to walking and standing. It’s best suited for adults comfortable with light physical activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English and guides are known for being friendly, engaging, and informative.

Are the wines included?
Yes, each stop includes a glass of wine—such as Txakoli, Rioja, or local beers—and non-alcoholic alternatives are available.

Can I join the tour if I’m a solo traveler?
Absolutely. The tour has received praise for its friendly atmosphere, even when only one person joins.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and casual clothing are recommended, as there’s some walking involved.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this Bilbao pintxos and wine tour means stepping into the city’s culinary heart, guided by passionate locals who want to share their favorite spots and stories. It’s an immersive experience that blends delicious tasting with cultural learning, all within a few hours—an ideal way to deepen your appreciation of Bilbao.

You’ll love the chance to sample authentic pintxos, sip local wines, and hear stories about Basque traditions that make the city unique. The tour’s small-group setting and guided storytelling create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for both food lovers and culture seekers.

If your priority is discovering local flavors with expert guidance and a touch of Bilbao’s lively spirit, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those eager to integrate culinary exploration into their sightseeing, rather than just ticking off a list of attractions.

For travelers who want an authentic, friendly, and delicious introduction to Bilbao, this pintxos and wine tour truly offers a memorable taste of the city’s soul.