Marques de Riscal and Ysios Rioja Wine Tour w/ Lunch from Bilbao

Experience the Best of Rioja’s Wineries and Historic Towns in a Day from Bilbao

If you’re headed to Bilbao and want a taste of Spain’s world-renowned Rioja wine region, the Marques de Riscal and Ysios Rioja Wine Tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day. For about $326.38 per person, this 8.5-hour journey takes you through stunning landscapes, visits to iconic wineries, and a charming medieval town — all with the comfort of a small group and expert guides.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive visit to the Marques de Riscal, often recognized as the best winery in the world. Second, the visit to the Ysios winery provides an architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava, paired with tasting some of the region’s finest wines. The tour also includes a traditional three-course Rioja lunch and opportunities to stroll through picturesque towns like Laguardia.

A small caveat? The pickup point in Bilbao is fixed, and the initial pick-up arrangement was a bit unclear for some guests, as noted in reviews. If you’re looking for a super flexible itinerary or multiple pickup locations, this could require some advance planning.

This tour suits those who are eager to explore premium wineries, enjoy authentic regional flavors, and appreciate scenic drives through historic towns. It’s ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, or travelers wanting a taste of Rioja’s elegance without the hassle of organizing separate visits.

Key Points

• Premium Wineries: Full tours at Marques de Riscal and Ysios with tastings of top wines.
• Authentic Food: Includes a traditional three-course Rioja lunch with local wine, cheese, and meats.
• Historic Towns: Visit the medieval walled town of Laguardia for a picturesque walk.
• Expert Narration: Guides share insights into Basque history, geography, and architecture.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Convenient Transportation: Comfortable drive through stunning landscapes with a fixed departure point.

A Deep Dive into the Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao

What to Expect at Marques de Riscal

Our first stop, Marques de Riscal, is often called the “best winery in the world,” and it’s easy to see why. Designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry, the building’s undulating, metallic exterior looks more like a sculpture than a traditional cellar, making it a highlight for architecture buffs. Inside, you’ll find a full winery tour—a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process, from grape to bottle.

Wine tasting here includes three of their finest wines, paired with some local snacks like cheese and serrano ham. You’ll learn about the winery’s history, its innovative approach, and what makes their wines special. Guests on the tour appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience enjoyable and educational. One reviewer noted, “Great day. Great experience,” although they also pointed out a minor hiccup with the pickup arrangements, which shows that even with smooth planning, small issues can occur.

Ysios Winery: Architecture Meets Agriculture

The second highlight is Ysios, an architectural masterpiece designed by Santiago Calatrava. Opened in 2000, its distinctive, wave-like roof makes it one of the most iconic buildings in the region. Here, you’ll explore the building and enjoy tasting two premium wines. Complemented by local cheese, serrano ham, and cold meats, this is a chance to savor regional flavors in a stunning setting.

The guided visit includes insights into the building’s design and how it integrates with the landscape. Guests love the aesthetic appeal and the sophisticated wines. This stop’s highlight is the blend of modern architecture and fine wine, offering a memorable visual and sensory experience.

Exploring Laguardia: The Medieval Jewel

After winery visits, the tour takes you to Laguardia, a medieval town surrounded by ancient walls and known for its charming streets and historical ambiance. The 30-minute stop allows for a quick walk through cobbled alleys and a chance to snap photos of the town’s picturesque setting. Visitors often comment on its beautiful, preserved architecture and its atmosphere that transports you back in time.

A Delicious Three-Course Rioja Lunch

No wine tour would be complete without good food, and this tour delivers. The lunch, held in Laguardia or a nearby town, includes three courses, a glass of wine, and dessert. Vegetarian options are available, accommodating different dietary needs. Guests rave about the “delicious, comfortable” meal, which offers a genuine taste of regional cuisine. The duration, about 1.5 hours, is enough to relax and enjoy without feeling rushed.

Scenic Drive and Personal Touches

The return drive from Rioja to Bilbao offers stunning views of the Basque countryside. The total drive time is about an hour and a half, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour company offers pick-up and drop-off options in Bilbao, and potentially in other cities like San Sebastián or parts of Rioja if booked through their website, providing flexibility depending on your travel plans.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price might seem steep at first glance, it includes full winery tours, tastings, a delicious lunch, and transportation—all curated for ease and quality. The focus on small group sizes (max 8 travelers) means you’ll get more personal attention from guides and a chance to ask questions. The professional narration enhances understanding of Rioja’s traditions and architecture, adding depth to the experience.

On top of that, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as key strengths. One guest summed it up: “Great experience. The guide was very knowledgeable about the region and wines.” The inclusion of local snacks and regional specialties makes it more than just a wine tasting; it’s an immersion into Basque culture.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• The pickup point is fixed in Bilbao, so confirm your meeting location in advance.
• If you’re staying in San Sebastián or other cities, check if alternative pickup options are available on the company’s website.
• The tour is most suitable for those comfortable with small group settings and moderate walking in towns.
• Be prepared for weather-dependent activities; if weather cancels the outdoor parts, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
• Since gratuities are optional but appreciated, consider tipping guides if you enjoyed the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Rioja wine tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to visit prestigious wineries and taste top-tier wines. It’s also excellent for history and architecture lovers, thanks to the striking buildings and medieval towns. If you’re looking for a comfortable, curated day trip from Bilbao that combines scenery, culture, and cuisine, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, if you prefer extremely flexible schedules or independent exploration, you might find the fixed itinerary a bit constraining. Also, those looking for a more budget-friendly experience might consider other options, but remember that this tour emphasizes quality, expert guides, and exclusive visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the three-course lunch, and the tour includes local appetizers like cheese and cold meats, so vegetarians can enjoy regional flavors.

What is included in the wine tastings?
You will taste three wines at Marques de Riscal and two at Ysios, all selected as some of their best or premium options. Tastings are paired with regional snacks.

Are the winery tours guided?
Yes, guides lead the tours at both wineries, sharing insights into the wine-making process, architecture, and regional history.

Can I book this tour on different days?
Yes, the tour runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, but if your preferred date isn’t available, you can contact the provider for options.

What is the duration of the entire day?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, visits, lunch, and free time.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included; you’ll travel comfortably in a small group vehicle with scenic views throughout the drive.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Bertiz Cafe Bakery in Bilbao and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine tasting, the tour’s cultural and scenic aspects make it enjoyable for non-drinkers, but note that wine tastings are part of the experience.

What are the small group sizes?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

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

Final Thoughts

This Rioja wine tour from Bilbao offers a carefully curated glimpse into one of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions. From the architecture of Ysios to the historic charm of Laguardia, the experience balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and gastronomic delights. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it an engaging, informative day.

If you’re seeking a luxurious yet authentic way to explore Rioja, enjoy premium wines, and learn about regional history, this tour is a fantastic choice. It caters well to those who appreciate quality over quantity, and it provides a genuine taste of Spain’s wine-making excellence in a relaxed setting.

For travelers craving a memorable, carefully planned day trip full of flavor, scenery, and stories, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to confirm your pickup details and pack your curiosity and appetite for a truly enjoyable adventure.