Basque Country’s 12 Best Tours & Experiences: Which To Choose?

Basque Country is a region that truly offers something special for travelers seeking authentic, active, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re interested in tasting world-class wines, soaring above cliffs in a tandem paraglider, or exploring charming coastal towns, this area delivers. We’re particularly fond of the solar winery experience in Laguardia, which combines history, art, and a taste of local craftsmanship, as well as the adrenaline rush of paragliding in Bilbao or Sopelana. These activities showcase the region’s rich landscape and culture in a way that’s both fun and informative. Plus, the private transfers ensure your journey is smooth, giving you more time to enjoy every moment.

If you’re planning your trip, this list of the best Tours & Experiences in Basque Country will help you decide which adventures fit your style and interests. From cultural explorations to outdoor thrills, these tours demonstrate the variety and quality of experiences waiting for you.

Quick Overview

This list features a mix of wine tastings, outdoor adventures, cultural tours, and transport services. Expect options like the Complete winery experience that combine history, art, and local gastronomy, as well as thrilling activities like Private Tandem Paragliding Flight in Bizkaia. For a more relaxed yet authentic taste of Basque culture, the Basque Press Farm and Cider House offers a traditional cider experience. Those seeking a longer, immersive tour can explore the 6-day private trip across Spain and France. Lastly, options like surfing lessons in San Sebastian and luxury airport transfers round out the list for convenience and excitement.

1. Complete winery experience: visit, tasting and traditional food

At number 1, our list opens with a winery experience that blends history, art, and local flavor. The Solar de Samaniego Winery in Laguardia, which dates back to 1968, offers an immersive journey into Basque winemaking. This tour includes a visit to the historic Finca La Escobosa, originally owned by writer Félix María de Samaniego. The Beber Entre Línéas project elevates this experience with collaborations involving artists from multiple disciplines, transforming the winery’s industrial architecture into a living piece of art. Guests enjoy tasting local wines paired with traditional Basque foods, making it a well-rounded cultural outing. The 3-hour experience offers excellent value, with a 4.5/5 rating based on 175 reviews, emphasizing its popularity.

What sets this tour apart is its blend of literature, art, and viniculture, making it ideal for those interested in authentic local stories and flavors. Visitors often comment on the quality of the tastings and the unique setting. It’s best suited for wine lovers or anyone curious about Basque heritage through a tasting that’s more than just wine.

Bottom Line: A culturally rich, artsy winery visit that combines history, local cuisine, and an engaging atmosphere for a fair price.

2. Private Tandem Paragliding Flight in Bizkaia

For adrenaline seekers, number 2 on our list offers a private tandem paragliding flight in Bizkaia. The 20-minute flight provides breathtaking views over the Basque landscape, perfect for those wanting a quick but memorable adventure. The activity is suitable for anyone over 4 years old, making it accessible for families and thrill-seekers alike. The professional pilots prioritize safety while ensuring you get a gentle, exhilarating ride through the air.

This tour stands out because of its personalized experience—you’re flying with a guide who tailors the flight to your comfort level. With a rating of 4.5/5 from 58 reviews, many travelers praise the professionalism and beauty of the scenery. You’ll see cliffs, mountains, and the coastline from a perspective few get to enjoy.

Bottom Line: An unbeatable way to see Basque Country from above, perfect for travelers craving adventure and stunning visuals.

3. Paragliding Experience Bilbao

Number 3 features a paragliding experience that’s highly praised for its scenic location along the beaches of Sopelana and Getxo. The 25-minute flight offers spectacular views of cliffs, beaches, and the city of Bilbao, making it a great choice if you’re after both adventure and photography opportunities. The experience has a perfect 5-star rating from 8 reviews, with visitors describing it as “peaceful, a bit scary, and unforgettable.”

This activity is especially popular because of its location in one of the world’s best paragliding spots. The guides are experienced, and the small group size ensures a personalized ride. It’s suitable for beginners and those comfortable with a bit of excitement.

Bottom Line: A memorable, scenic flight that combines the thrill of flying with the stunning Basque coastline views.

4. Private 6-Day tour Basque country across Spain-France border

Our number 4 choice is an all-encompassing private tour lasting six days. It visits iconic spots like Bilbao’s Guggenheim, the rock islet of Gaztelugatxe, San Sebastian’s culinary scene, and Biarritz in France. Starting in Bilbao with private transfers, the tour provides in-depth exploration—walking through Bilbao’s Old Town, viewing masterpieces at the Guggenheim, and hiking to Gaztelugatxe for breathtaking sea vistas.

This tour is unique because of its comprehensive itinerary, combining cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights into one seamless trip. The 7-seater vehicle makes it ideal for small groups or families. The reviews highlight its personalized approach and expert guides. It’s priced higher at $4,600 per person, but the detailed itinerary and luxury accommodations make it worth it for those wanting an in-depth experience.

Bottom Line: For travelers looking for an all-inclusive, immersive journey across Basque and neighboring regions, this is an excellent choice.

5. San Sebastian Surf House

Number 5 offers a two-day surf experience in Zarautz, one of Spain’s premier surf spots. The tour includes lessons on the long beach break, suitable for both beginners and intermediate surfers. After hitting the waves, you can relax at the cozy surf house, a converted farmhouse with a relaxed vibe. The reviews praise the friendly atmosphere, expert instructors, and the combination of surf, yoga, and local food.

This experience is perfect for those wanting to learn or improve surfing skills while enjoying local hospitality. Its focus on relaxation and camaraderie makes it ideal for groups of friends or solo travelers wanting a laid-back but active experience.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded surf getaway that mixes learning, relaxation, and regional charm for a friendly price.

6. Paragliding flight in Sopelana

This 30-minute paragliding flight in Sopelana offers a more extended airborne experience. The activity emphasizes safety and comfort, with pilots customizing the ride to your preferences. The reviews describe it as “fun,” with professionals making sure everyone feels secure. The views over cliffs and coastlines are spectacular, and the flight’s duration allows ample opportunity for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Ideal for those wanting a less hurried, more immersive flight experience, it suits first-timers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike.

Bottom Line: An excellent, longer flight in a top paragliding location that delivers thrill and stunning views.

7. Private Transfer from Bilbao Airport to San Sebastian city

For travelers arriving in Basque Country, a private transfer ensures a smooth start. The Mercedes-Benz vehicle offers comfort and efficiency, with drivers attentive to safety and luggage. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach San Sebastian, making it a practical choice for avoiding taxi lines and negotiating fares. The reviews highlight the driver’s professionalism and the convenience of having a pre-arranged pickup.

This service is perfect if you prefer a stress-free arrival or departure, especially after long flights or when managing luggage.

Bottom Line: Reliable, comfortable, and hassle-free transportation—ideal for small groups or families arriving at Bilbao Airport.

8. Wine Tasting at Calado EL Guallavero

Number 8 offers an intimate wine tasting experience. The visit explores underground tunnels dating back to medieval times, where wines are stored in natural conditions. Tasting local wines and learning about their production, guests can experience the secret underground cellar and enjoy a one-hour tasting for just over $23. The private space provides a cozy atmosphere admired by visitors who appreciate authenticity and history.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts or history lovers who want a deeper connection to Basque winemaking traditions.

Bottom Line: An authentic, historic wine tasting that combines tradition, flavor, and a hint of mystery.

9. Arrival Private Transfers: Bilbao Airport BIO to Bilbao City

A slightly more comfortable option than individual taxis, this luxury van transfer from Bilbao Airport to Bilbao city guarantees a smooth, safe arrival. The private vehicle is disinfected, and a professional driver greets you with a sign. The ride takes about 20 minutes, and reviews note the efficiency and friendly service.

Perfect for travelers arriving in style and wanting to avoid public transport or shared shuttles, especially if arriving in a group.

Bottom Line: An efficient and hygienic transfer option that makes your arrival effortless.

10. Organic Winery Visit with Tasting in Bilbao

Number 10 features a visit to an organic winery in Bilbao’s Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. The tour offers insights into organic wine production paired with tastings of local Txakolis. Visitors learn about the region’s terroir and the production process during a 1.5-hour experience, with a focus on sustainability and flavor. The reviews mention the informative nature of the tour and the high-quality tastings.

Ideal for environmentally conscious travelers or those interested in organic food and drink, this tour provides a taste of regional authenticity.

Bottom Line: An educational, flavorful experience emphasizing sustainable wine production.

11. Private Transfer from Bilbao airport to San Sebastián

This private transfer offers a stress-free ride from Bilbao airport directly to San Sebastian. Priced per group, it provides a comfortable, private environment and the convenience of meet-and-greet service. The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, with reviews emphasizing professionalism and ease.

Best suited for small groups or families seeking a seamless arrival, it removes the hassle of taxis and shared shuttles.

Bottom Line: A reliable, private transport choice that simplifies your travel into Basque Country.

12. Basque Press Farm and Traditional Cider House with transport

Closing our list at number 12 is a full-day cultural trip visiting a 16th-century press farm and cider house. The experience includes tasting fresh apple juice, drinking cider straight from barrels (TXOTX), and enjoying a traditional Basque lunch. The 6-hour tour immerses you in local agriculture and cider traditions, with the chance to see and taste authentic regional specialties.

This tour is perfect for those interested in food culture and history, especially if they want to experience the Basque countryside beyond the city.

Bottom Line: An engaging, full-day adventure into Basque cider-making and farming traditions.

How to Choose the Right Tour or Experience in Basque Country

When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, time availability, and personal interests. For wine lovers, the Complete winery experience offers a deep dive into local viniculture and art. If adventure calls, paragliding or surf lessons provide memorable outdoor thrills.

For those arriving or departing, the private transfer options ensure comfort and ease, while cultural tours like the Basque Press Farm give insight into local food traditions. Longer trips such as the 6-day cross-border tour are best for travelers with time to spare who want to explore more extensively.

Booking early is highly recommended, especially for activities with limited availability like paragliding and private transfers. Tailor your choices to match your interests—whether it’s gastronomy, outdoor adventure, or cultural discovery—and enjoy the rich diversity of experiences Basque Country offers.

To sum it up, Basque Country’s tours span from wine and cider tastings to adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities and cultural explorations. If you want a taste of history and art, the winery and museum visits are perfect. Craving adventure? Paragliding and surfing will satisfy your need for thrill. For seamless travel, private transfers make your trip stress-free. Whatever your style, booking early guarantees you a spot on these popular experiences. Now, get planning, and enjoy everything this remarkable region has to offer.