Marques de Riscal and Ysios Architecture Wine Tour w/Lunch, SS

An In-Depth Look at the Marques de Riscal and Ysios Architecture Wine Tour from San Sebastian

If you’re a wine lover or simply intrigued by breathtaking architecture, this day trip from San Sebastian offers a compelling mix of both. For around $326, you’ll spend roughly nine hours exploring two of Spain’s most iconic Rioja wineries—Marques de Riscal, often ranked among the world’s best, and the architecturally stunning Ysios—plus a visit to the charming medieval town of Laguardia and a hearty three-course lunch. Led by knowledgeable guides, this small-group tour combines cultural sights, top-tier wines, and delicious local food into one memorable day.

What makes this experience shine are a few standout features. First, the full winery tour at Marques de Riscal gives you a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking process, topped off with tastings of some of their finest wines. Second, the visit to Ysios is like stepping into a modern art gallery—its unique, undulating design by Santiago Calatrava makes it one of the most photographed wineries in the world. These architectural marvels aren’t just pretty sights; they are paired with top-quality wines and local snacks, making the experience as flavorful as it is visually stunning.

A potential consideration is that public tours only run with a minimum of three people, which might be a challenge for couples hoping to join alone. This means you’ll want to book a few weeks in advance or consider private options if available. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate good wine, striking architecture, and authentic regional foods, and who enjoy small-group settings with personalized attention.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to world-famous Marques de Riscal with a comprehensive winery tour and tastings.
• Architectural marvels of Ysios, designed by Santiago Calatrava, offering stunning photo opportunities and insight into modern wine architecture.
• Authentic regional experience with local cheeses, serrano ham, and a flavorful three-course Rioja lunch.
• Small-group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate, personalized experience.
• Ideal for wine enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike, with plenty of opportunities to compare wines and enjoy regional scenery.
• Convenient pickup from your San Sebastian hotel simplifies logistics, with options for drop-offs in different cities.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Scenic Drive Through Basque Country

The tour begins early, around 7:30 a.m., with pickup from your San Sebastian accommodations. We loved the way the drive through the verdant valleys and rolling hills of the Basque Country sets the tone—expect a peaceful morning as your guide shares colorful commentary on local history and geography. The roughly two-hour drive is comfortable, with scenic views making it feel like a gentle introduction to the day ahead.

Marques de Riscal: A Winemaking Legend

Our first stop is Marques de Riscal, arguably the most famous winery in Rioja and rated as the second best in the world. We appreciated the in-depth full winery tour, which lasts about an hour and a half and includes a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process. The guide’s knowledge, combined with the chance to taste three of their best wines, makes this a highlight. The wines are paired with local snacks, adding a savory touch to the experience.

Guests rave about the architecture of the winery—a futuristic, flowing structure clad in titanium that seems to shimmer under the sun. One reviewer mentioned, “Had an incredible time. Our driver, Anton, was great and a pleasure to be with.” The personal attention from guides helps you understand what makes Marques de Riscal a world-class winery.

Ysios: A Modern Architectural Wonder

Next, we visit Ysios, which opened in 2000 and has become an iconic symbol of contemporary wine architecture. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the building’s wave-like roofline and glass walls make it one of the most photogenic wineries in Spain. The visit here includes a walkthrough of the building itself and a tasting of two premium wines, complemented by local cheeses, serrano ham, and cold meats.

Guests consistently mention how Ysios’s architecture elevates the experience. One reviewer noted, “We then finished the tour with Basque fare for lunch,” highlighting the seamless blend of visual art and regional cuisine. The guide’s narration about Calatrava’s design adds depth—this is architecture that’s both functional and artistically inspiring.

Exploring Laguardia: A Medieval Treasure

After the wineries, the tour takes a brief 30-minute stop in Laguardia, a Xth-century walled town perched on a hill overlooking vineyards. The town’s medieval streets and towers present fantastic photo opportunities. The free stop allows you to soak in the atmosphere of old Spain—narrow alleys, stone walls, and ancient gates. It’s the perfect setting for a quick stroll and some memorable snapshots.

Lunch: A Taste of Rioja

The highlight for many is the three-course Rioja lunch, lasting about an hour and a half. You’ll enjoy regional dishes paired with local wines, with vegetarian options available. Guests have expressed satisfaction with the meal, describing it as fabulous and authentically regional. It’s a great chance to relax, share impressions, and savor the flavors of La Rioja.

Return Trip: Scenic Drive Back to San Sebastian

After lunch, you’ll head back to San Sebastian, with a couple of hours’ drive through the scenic province of Alava. The comfortable transport and calm pace make this part of the day restful, giving you time to reflect on what you’ve seen and tasted.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

What sets this tour apart is the combination of world-class architecture, premium wines, and regional cuisine. We loved the way the guides share stories about the buildings and their creators—Calatrava’s design at Ysios isn’t just for looks; it enhances the wine-tasting atmosphere, making each sip and photo feel special.

The small-group size means you get personalized attention, whether it’s asking questions about the winemaking process or getting tips for exploring Laguardia afterward. The reviews echo this sentiment, with one guest noting, “Anton was great from the start,” emphasizing the importance of a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $326 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it offers a well-rounded experience that combines luxury, education, and authentic regional flavors. The inclusion of a full winery tour, tastings, lunch, and transportation makes it a good value for those wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning.

One thing to keep in mind: public tours require a minimum of three people, so if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, booking early or checking private options will help secure your spot. Expect the tour to start early, with some days requiring pickups as early as 7:15 a.m., so be prepared for an active day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to taste top Rioja wines and learn about their history. Architecture lovers will appreciate the innovative designs of Marques de Riscal and Ysios, while foodies will enjoy the regional lunch. It’s perfect for travelers who like small-group tours that offer a more personal touch and want to avoid the crowds of larger bus trips. If you’re interested in combining cultural sights, excellent wines, and stunning scenery all in one day, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is pickup included? Yes, pickup from your San Sebastian hotel or residence is offered, with some days possibly requiring an early start around 7:15 a.m.

How long is the drive? The drive from San Sebastian to La Rioja takes approximately 2 hours each way, offering scenic views of Basque Country’s lush valleys.

What does the tour include? The tour includes visits to Marques de Riscal and Ysios wineries, tastings of multiple wines, a three-course Rioja lunch, and a visit to Laguardia.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, the tour is popular and usually booked about 45 days ahead. Remember, the public tour minimum is three people.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, vegetarian options will be available during lunch.

What is the group size? The maximum is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I be dropped off in a different city? Yes, check the provider’s website for drop-off options in other locations for free.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the entire tour last? Approximately 9 hours, including travel, visits, lunch, and sightseeing.

Is this suitable for children or non-drinkers? While primarily designed for adults, non-drinkers can still enjoy the architecture and scenery. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This wine and architecture tour from San Sebastian offers a rare blend of culinary delights, eye-catching design, and regional charm. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a well-organized, intimate experience without the crowds, while indulging in some of Spain’s best wines and most innovative winery buildings.

Travelers who love a mix of history, design, and good food will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Rioja wines and explore the region’s artistic side. Thanks to the knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops, you’ll leave with more than just pictures—you’ll carry genuine memories of a day well spent amid some of Spain’s most captivating sights.

In short, if you’re after a thoughtfully planned, small-group day that combines wine, architecture, and regional gastronomy, this tour is a smart choice. It balances education, leisure, and visual delight—perfect for curious travelers eager to experience Rioja beyond just the tasting glass.