From Bilbao: Private San Sebastian, Pintxo, and Wine Tour

If you’re looking to combine the best of Basque wines, gastronomy, and scenery, this private tour from Bilbao hits all the right notes. For about $280 per person, you spend around 7 hours exploring charming Getaria with its family-owned winery, then heading to San Sebastian for a pintxos crawl, topped off with breathtaking views from Monte Igueldo. What’s especially appealing is the personalized touch—this is a private experience with a guide who genuinely makes the day special.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the chance to visit a family winery where grapes have been harvested by hand since 1834, making it a genuinely authentic experience. Second, the inclusion of a pintxos crawl in San Sebastian, which lets you sample the city’s vibrant culinary scene from some of its most beloved local bars.

A possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace to savor each moment, you might find it a bit rushed. But overall, this tour suits travelers eager to get a taste of Basque wine, local cuisine, and stunning vistas—perfect for those who want an authentic experience without the hassle of planning everything themselves.

Key Points

Authentic Wine Experience: Visit a family-run winery with centuries of tradition and taste Txakoli, a distinctive Basque white wine.
Culinary Delights: Enjoy a pintxo lunch and hop from bar to bar in San Sebastian’s lively Old Town.
Scenic Highlights: Take photos from Monte Igueldo and admire Eduardo Chillida’s famous Gorria sculpture.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about Basque culture, history, and gastronomy from a knowledgeable guide.
Private Group: Experience a personalized tour tailored to your interests.
Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from Bilbao and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance add peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Convenient Pick-up and Intimate Group Setting

This tour begins with a hotel pickup in Bilbao, which means you avoid the hassle of figuring out transportation—an advantage for travelers staying in Bilbao or nearby. Since it’s a private group, you get a more tailored experience, with your guide able to adapt the stops and timing based on your interests.

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The Getaria Family Winery

The first major stop is a family winery in Getaria, a charming coastal town renowned for its seafood and wine. Here, you’ll meet a family member who has been harvesting grapes by hand since 1834, giving you a genuine glimpse into traditional wine-making. The focus is on Txakoli, a crisp, slightly sparkling white wine unique to the Basque Country, with a fresh, citrusy flavor.

You’ll have the chance to taste three different types of Txakoli, each paired with small plates of local delicacies—think fresh anchovies from Getaria, which are famous worldwide. This pairing highlights the region’s dedication to simple yet flavorful food and wine. The guide will walk you through the process, explaining the significance of each step and how this wine has remained a local treasure.

Exploring San Sebastian’s Pintxos Scene

After the winery, it’s time for a pintxos crawl in San Sebastian. This part of the tour is where you’ll experience the lively local culinary scene firsthand. Hop from bar to bar in the Old Town, sampling small bites that are the Basque version of tapas—tiny, flavorful, and designed for sharing. Your guide shares stories about the city’s famous visitors, kings and queens who have enjoyed these bars over the centuries, and points out some secret spots only locals frequent.

You’re encouraged to order what you like, making this experience flexible and personalized. It’s a perfect way to get a real taste of San Sebastian’s gastronomy, which is renowned worldwide. The guide also provides context about each bar and its history, adding an extra layer of appreciation.

Scenic Photos at Monte Igueldo and the Gorria Sculpture

No visit to San Sebastian is complete without some picture-perfect moments. The tour includes a stop at Monte Igueldo, one of Europe’s oldest theme parks, offering sweeping views of the city and coast. It’s an excellent spot for photos, especially if you want to capture the curving bay and the hills that surround the city.

Plus, your guide will point out the famous Gorria sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, a striking piece that embodies the Basque spirit. These scenic vistas and artistic landmarks provide memorable backdrops perfect for photos and reflection.

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Learning About Basque Culture and History

Throughout the day, your guide shares insights into the history of San Sebastian and Basque culture. From tales of historical figures to modern-day traditions, this narrative enriches your understanding of what makes this region special.

The tour balances fun, education, and authentic experiences, making it ideal for curious travelers eager to deepen their appreciation of Basque identity and its culinary heritage.

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Duration, Cost, and Practicalities

This 7-hour tour offers a generous sampling of wine, food, and scenery at a moderate price. The cost includes private guiding, wine tastings, fees and taxes, and a pintxo lunch—a good deal considering the personalized nature of the experience and the inclusion of high-quality local products.

With availability varying, it’s best to check the schedule in advance. The tour is flexible with a cancelation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving peace of mind in planning your trip.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic taste of Basque wine, food, and scenery without the fuss of planning every detail. It’s ideal if you appreciate learning about local traditions from passionate guides and enjoy trying different wines and regional dishes.

If you’re a foodie eager to sample San Sebastian’s notorious pintxos and visit an historic winery, or simply want a scenic, cultural day trip from Bilbao, this tour hits all the right notes. It also suits those who value a private, personalized experience over large group tours.

For a manageable price, this private tour offers a genuine slice of Basque life—one filled with tradition, delicious flavors, and stunning panoramic views. You’ll love the chance to sip Txakoli in a family-run winery, and the lively pintxo crawl in San Sebastian is a real highlight, especially with the guidance of a knowledgeable host. The scenic stops at Monte Igueldo and the Chillida sculpture round out the day beautifully, making for a memorable experience.

While the schedule can be busy, the flexibility, personalized attention, and authentic local encounters make this a fantastic choice for those eager to understand the soul of Basque Country. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture buff, or simply someone who loves beautiful landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a private guide, wine tasting, pintxo lunch, and all fees and taxes. Pickup from Bilbao is also included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While primarily designed for adults, it’s best suited for those who enjoy wine, food, and scenic views. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What wines will I taste?
You will sample 3 different types of Txakoli, a traditional Basque white wine, paired with local small plates like anchovies.

Is this a group tour?
It’s a private experience, so you’ll be with your own group, personalized and intimate.

What makes the winery special?
It’s a family-run operation with a history dating back to 1834, harvesting grapes by hand with traditional methods.

What are the highlights of San Sebastian included?
You’ll walk the charming Old Town, sample pintxos in local bars, and enjoy views from Monte Igueldo.

How scenic are the stops?
Very. The views from Monte Igueldo and the cityscape of San Sebastian are truly stunning, perfect for photos.

This tour offers a lovely blend of culture, culinary delights, and beautiful scenery—a true taste of what makes Basque Country so unique.