Bilbao is a city that combines cutting-edge architecture, a thriving food scene, and easy access to some of Spain’s finest wine regions. When it comes to lunch experiences, Bilbao offers more than just pintxos at a local bar. Whether you’re interested in world-class Rioja wine tours, exploring boutique wineries, or enjoying a scenic hike with regional tastings, you’ll find options that suit your style. We particularly like the Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour because it combines architectural marvels with wine tasting, all with a local tapas lunch, making it perfect for those who love a bit of culture paired with their vino. For a more intimate experience, the A Sip-By-Sip Tour of 3 Boutique Rioja Family Wineries offers personalized tastings and a relaxed private atmosphere.
Looking for something active? The Hike Gaztelugatxe, Fishing Port Bermeo & Pintxo Lunch blends outdoor adventure and regional flavors, ideal for travelers wanting a dose of nature combined with delicious local snacks. With these choices, Bilbao proves to be a city where culinary and cultural adventures go hand in hand. To help you decide, below is a detailed review of the best lunch experiences—each offering a unique way to enjoy Spain’s Basque Country and Rioja wine regions.
1. Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao
At number 1 on our list, the Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch is a standout for combining modern architectural gems with world-class Rioja wines. The tour includes guided visits to the Marques de Riscal winery, designed by Frank Gehry, and the Ysios winery, crafted by Santiago Calatrava. These structures are as much a part of the experience as the wines. The tour also features a stop in the medieval village of Laguardia, where you’ll enjoy a local tapas lunch with wine—included in the price. Expect to taste three different wines at Marques de Riscal and explore the innovative architecture that makes Rioja’s landscape so distinctive. If Ysios is closed, your guide will take you to Javier San Pedro Winery for a tutored tasting of two remarkable wines. This tour is perfect for architecture enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. The reviews emphasize how well-organized and informative it is, with comments on the friendly guide and quality local lunch. Bottom line: a fascinating blend of design, wine, and regional charm, ideal for those who want a full day of cultural and gustatory delights.
2. La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch
The La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch offers a balanced mix of traditional and modern Rioja wines in a small-group setting capped at just seven participants. Starting in Haro, you’ll visit some of the finest boutique wineries with a focus on classic Rioja styles. Afterward, you’ll explore San Vicente de la Sonsierra, known for its modern Rioja wines, and finish with a lunch in a winery surrounded by vineyards and medieval villages. This tour is highly rated for the personal touch, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guide Irene and the quality of both the wines and the food. The included picnic lunch features a variety of Spanish dishes, making it a relaxed, flavorful experience. It’s suited for those keen on authentic, small-batch wines and an intimate, leisurely pace. Bottom line: perfect for wine connoisseurs who want a relaxed day with delightful regional flavors and a scenic backdrop.
3. Hike Gaztelugatxe, Fishing Port Bermeo & Pintxo Lunch from Bilbao
Number 3 is for those who appreciate nature, scenic hikes, and regional cuisine. This tour combines a hike to the hermitage of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, made famous by Game of Thrones, with visits to the fishing village of Bermeo. After the hike—about two hours—you’ll enjoy a pintxos lunch with drinks in Bermeo, a charming coastal town. The tour emphasizes authentic local flavors, with included pintxos, wine, beer, or cider, and the opportunity to explore a traditional Basque port. The reviews highlight the stunning views and the well-organized itinerary, perfect for active travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with delicious regional bites. Bring comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for a good walk. Bottom line: superb for active travelers who want a taste of nature and local gastronomy all in one.
4. A Sip-By-Sip Tour of 3 Boutique Rioja Family Wineries (Private Tour with Lunch)
This private Rioja winery tour is tailored for wine lovers wanting an intimate, personalized experience. Visiting three different family-run wineries, you’ll sample several wines and learn about each winery’s unique approach to winemaking. The tour includes a relaxing lunch in a traditional setting, with plenty of time to savor the wines and regional dishes. The guide can customize the experience, which makes it ideal for those seeking flexibility and depth. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide Sara, the variety of wines, and the delicious food, with one guest noting it felt like a personal tour. This is a bit pricier, but the private setting offers unmatched intimacy and detailed insights. Bottom line: perfect if you want a private, fully customizable day among family wineries with plenty of tastings and a traditional meal.
5. Marques de Riscal and Ysios Rioja Wine Tour w/ Lunch from Bilbao
This full-day tour is a luxury experience that visits two of the most iconic wineries in Rioja. Starting with Marques de Riscal, designed by Frank Gehry, you’ll take a full winery tour and taste three wines paired with local snacks. Then, at Ysios, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting of premium wines alongside cheese, ham, and meats, all within an architecturally stunning building by Santiago Calatrava. The tour includes a traditional three-course Rioja lunch, making it great for those who want to combine architecture, wine, and regional cuisine. The reviews show satisfaction with the full itinerary and quality tastings, though note that it runs only on specific days. Bottom line: ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, high-end Rioja experience with a focus on architecture and gastronomy.
6. Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch
Number 6 offers an authentic boutique winery experience with visits to two family-run wineries. The tour emphasizes high-quality wines and local food pairings, including a delicious picnic lunch among the vineyards. You’ll also stop in Laguardia, a medieval walled town surrounded by vineyards, providing excellent photo opportunities and a taste of local history. The reviews emphasize the friendly guide Irene, the variety of wines, and the relaxed pace. It’s a good choice if you prefer a smaller group and a more personal experience. The included picnic and visits to local wineries make this a well-rounded day. Bottom line: great for wine fans who want a personal touch and scenic setting.
7. Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao Private Tour
This private tour allows you to visit three Rioja wineries, each offering exclusive tastings of 8 wines, and a lunch in LaGuardia. With personalized attention, you’ll learn about wine production and enjoy scenic views of vineyards. The private transport and flexible itinerary are suited for those who prefer a customized, intimate experience. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide Mateo and the quality of the wineries, with many noting how relaxed and personal the day felt. The tour is best for serious wine lovers wanting in-depth knowledge. The price reflects its premium, private nature. Bottom line: a top pick for those seeking a tailored, private wine adventure in Rioja.
8. Private La Rioja Day: Visit 2 Premium Wineries with lunch
Number 8 offers a private, full-day experience focusing on two top wineries with 8 wines and a light pintxos lunch. The itinerary includes a guided tour in Laguardia, with scenic views and local food. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized, relaxed day sampling premium wines and enjoying a light regional lunch in a charming setting. The reviews highlight professional guides and the quality of the wineries. Because it’s private, it’s especially suited for small groups or couples. Bottom line: perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, private Rioja day with a focus on top-tier wineries.
9. Private Workshop Preparation of Pintxos with Lunch in Bilbao
This hands-on pintxos workshop places you in Bilbao’s old town, learning how to prepare 4 traditional skewers with a professional chef. The experience includes a regional lunch and offers a fun, interactive way to learn about Basque culinary traditions. It’s perfect for food lovers who want to roll up their sleeves and take home a skill. The reviews mention how fun and informative the class is, with the chef clearly passionate and the environment friendly. The price is accessible, and the experience is short but impactful. Bottom line: excellent for travelers interested in cooking and local food in a relaxed setting.
10. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe with Winery Visit and Lunch (From Bilbao)
Number 10 combines dramatic scenery and regional wine with a visit to the San Juan hermitage, famous from Game of Thrones. After climbing the 241 steps, you’ll enjoy a quick lunch of pintxos, then visit a family winery to taste local Txakoli wine paired with seafood. The tour is designed for nature and wine lovers who want a comprehensive day trip with personalized attention. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking views and well-organized itinerary. It’s suited for those who want a mix of outdoor exploration, local wine, and cultural sights. Bottom line: ideal for active travelers who want a scenic day out with regional tastings.
11. Full-day private Bilbao tour (Guggenheim museum & full pintxo lunch included)
This private 5-hour tour takes you inside Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim Museum with an expert guide, followed by a stroll through Casco Viejo and a pintxos lunch. The flexibility of a private guide means you can customize the experience to include more sightseeing or shopping. Many reviews mention the welcoming guidance of Ana, who makes the city come alive. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a concentrated, cultural day with an emphasis on art, architecture, and local cuisine. The tour includes tickets to the Guggenheim and a local pintxos experience. Bottom line: perfect if you want a short but rich immersion into Bilbao’s highlights with a culinary twist.
12. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Vitoria
Number 12 is a small-group tour from Vitoria, giving you access to Laguardia, Rioja wineries, and a traditional lunch. It’s ideal for those based in Vitoria who want an authentic wine day with local vineyard walks and tastings. The reviews mention Victor’s excellent guidance and the fun, informative nature of the experience. The included lunch of regional dishes complements the wine tastings perfectly. It’s a budget-friendly option for those wanting to maximize wine and food in a manageable day. Bottom line: best for travelers staying in Vitoria or seeking a comprehensive but accessible Rioja experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Bilbao
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If architecture and design are your thing, the Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour offers a stunning visual complement to your wine tasting. For a more personalized and private experience, the Sip-By-Sip Tour or the Full Rioja Private Tour provide exclusivity and tailored visits. If you want a mix of outdoor adventure and regional flavors, the Gaztelugatxe hike with Pintxos is a fantastic choice. Budget travelers may prefer the Workshop Pintxos Class, while those seeking a complete culture should consider the private Guggenheim Tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and to ensure small-group or private options are available. Most tours operate year-round, but check for seasonal variations in winery openings or outdoor activities.
To sum it up, Bilbao’s lunch experiences are as diverse as the city itself. From architectural marvels in Rioja to scenic hikes combined with regional wines, there’s something for all. If you want world-class wines, look no further than the Rioja region—either in guided tours or private tastings. For those who love hands-on culinary experiences, the pintxos workshop is ideal. Active travelers should not miss the Gaztelugatxe hike, while culture and art lovers will enjoy the Guggenheim private tour. Whatever your preference, Bilbao’s food and wine scene promises memorable flavors and sights that you’ll be talking about long after your trip ends. Be sure to book early, and enjoy exploring this vibrant Basque country destination.