Haro, Laguardia and two Rioja wineries from Bilbao

Exploring La Rioja: A Day of Wine, History, and Architecture from Bilbao

If you’re after an authentic taste of Spain’s renowned wine region, this full-day tour from Bilbao hits all the right notes. For around $87 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours exploring Haro, the capital of Rioja, the medieval Laguardia, and even catch a glimpse of the modern architectural marvel, the Marqués de Riscal hotel designed by Frank Gehry. Led by a friendly guide (possibly bilingual), you’ll hop between historic streets, centuries-old wineries, and eye-catching buildings.

What we love most? First, the chance to walk through Haro’s historic center with its charming alleys and traditional vibe, and second, visiting a century-old winery in CVNE, where the barrel room designed by Gustave Eiffel makes wine tasting feel like a trip through history. A small but meaningful highlight is the guided tour of Laguardia, a medieval town that looks like something out of a fairy tale, plus the opportunity to sip wine in a cozy, traditional winery.

A possible snag? The tour’s pace can be quick, especially if you want to linger over lunch or explore in more depth. The lunch break isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget time and money for an enjoyable meal. That said, the tour is perfect for those who want a structured, insightful day with a good balance of guided visits and free time.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, and architecture enthusiasts who appreciate well-organized trips that cover a lot of ground in a single day. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a value-packed excursion that combines cultural sights with the pleasures of wine tasting.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines visits to Haro, Laguardia, and two wineries, plus a modern architectural stop.
• Authentic charm: Walking tours of historic towns offer genuine local atmospheres.
• Wine tasting: Includes guided tours of wineries with tastings paired with cheese and charcuterie.
• Architectural highlight: Pass by the Marqués de Riscal hotel with its stunning design.
• Flexible free time: Opportunity to explore or enjoy lunch at your own pace.
• Value: At $86.90, the tour offers a lot of diverse experiences in one package.

A Deep Dive into the La Rioja Day Trip

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Bilbao at 9:00 am from Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 65, in the Abando district. The group size caps at 55 travelers, balancing the camaraderie of a small group with enough participants to foster lively conversation. The tour includes a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward, and the entire day is scheduled for about nine hours, giving you a full immersion into Rioja’s highlights.

Haro: The Heart of Rioja Wine

Your first stop is in Haro, famously known as the capital of wine in the region. Here, a guided visit to a local winery lasts about an hour and a half. The highlight? The guided tour of CVNE, a winery that’s been producing wine for over a century. You’ll walk through the barrel room designed by Gustave Eiffel, a real treat for architecture buffs, and descend into the underground cellars where wine matures in silence. The tasting with cheese and charcuterie makes this a sensory experience, not just a visual one.

Many reviewers, like one from Tripadvisor, mention how charming and interesting these winery visits are, praising the pairing of tastings with local cheeses and cured meats. The chance to walk through Haro’s historic streets afterward adds context to your tasting experience, connecting the modern wine culture with its medieval roots.

Laguardia: Medieval Charm and Traditional Wineries

Next, the tour heads to Laguardia, a medieval town that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. You’ll walk through its narrow streets, admire the stone houses, and get a sense of what life was like centuries ago. The guided visit to a small traditional winery allows you to see a more intimate side of Rioja wine-making, often with the chance to ask questions directly to the winemaker or guide about their craft.

This part of the tour is widely praised for its authenticity and picturesque scenery. The town’s medieval walls and towers are simply stunning, and many visitors find it offers excellent photo opportunities. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here for free time for lunch, which is not included but gives you flexibility to enjoy local tapas or sit-down meals at your own pace.

The Architectural Marvel: Marqués de Riscal

Before returning to Bilbao, the bus makes a quick stop in Elciego to marvel at the Marqués de Riscal hotel. Designed by Frank Gehry, this building is an eye-catching combination of modern design and traditional wine country. Its titanium-colored curves are striking against the rolling vineyards—perfect for photo enthusiasts. Though only a 15-minute stop, many travelers find it worth the quick detour for the architecture alone.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the obvious appeal of wine and charming towns, what truly sets this experience apart is its balance. We loved the way it manages to blend historic and modern elements: centuries-old wineries and a Gehry-designed hotel, with a walk through a medieval town. The guided tours enrich your understanding of wine production and local culture, making each sip more meaningful.

The tastings, paired with cheese and charcuterie, add a culinary dimension that elevates the experience. The free time for lunch allows for personal exploration, so you can sample regional specialties or relax over a leisurely meal.

However, if you prefer to linger at each site or explore without a tight schedule, this tour might feel a little rushed. The itinerary is packed, and you’ll want to manage your expectations on how much time you have for each stop.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts eager to see both traditional wineries and modern architecture, history lovers interested in medieval towns, and travelers who enjoy well-organized excursions that cover multiple highlights efficiently. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate value for money, given the inclusive tastings and guided tours.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a comprehensive, engaging way to explore La Rioja’s finest sights without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It pairs wine culture, historic streets, and stunning architecture into one satisfying day. The guide’s friendly tone and expert commentary make it a lively, educational experience—one that captures the essence of Rioja in a manageable package.

For travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and wine, this tour provides a practical and memorable introduction to Spain’s iconic wine region. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize their day with a structured itinerary that takes the guesswork out of exploring La Rioja.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Bilbao and back is organized and included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How much time is spent at each stop?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours at the Haro winery, 2.5 hours in Laguardia including free time for lunch, and a quick 15-minute stop at the Marqués de Riscal hotel.

Are the winery visits suitable for children?
Children aged 2 to 12 accompanied by two adults receive a 50% discount, making it accessible for families. However, the focus is on wine tasting, so keep that in mind if traveling with little ones.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour operated in multiple languages?
It may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, so expect explanations in at least one language other than Spanish, enhancing understanding for international travelers.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking, some cash or card for lunch, and a sense of curiosity are all you’ll need. An appetite for good wine and charming towns is optional but highly encouraged.

This La Rioja day trip from Bilbao offers a well-rounded experience—rich in scenery, history, and flavors—making it an excellent choice for those wanting to sample Spain’s wine country without overcomplicating their itinerary.