Private tour Bilbao to La Rioja A day of Winery Tours and Tasting

Starting early in Bilbao, this private wine tour whisks you off to the scenic landscapes of La Rioja and Rioja Alavesa, two of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions. For about $286.60 per person, you get a full day (around 8-9 hours) of visiting two wineries, tasting eight wines, and exploring the charming medieval village of Laguardia. With a private guide whose personal connections make each tasting memorable, this tour is a great choice for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge and enjoy some of Spain’s best vino in a relaxed, personalized setting.

What we really love are the small-group vibe and the chance to see two very different wineries—each with its own style and story—without the crowds often found in larger tours. Plus, the inclusion of a private tour of Laguardia’s castle and caves adds a historical touch. On the flip side, keep in mind this is a full-day commitment, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a quick taste of Rioja or have limited mobility.

This tour suits curious wine lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a comprehensive, authentic Rioja experience without the hassle of planning. If you enjoy personalized attention and expert insights, you’ll find this tour well worth the price.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private tour with a dedicated guide who has personal connections at the wineries.
• Comprehensive tasting: Eight wines across two wineries with food pairings at each stop.
• Cultural exploration: Visit to Laguardia’s medieval village, caves, and castle tower.
• Flexible dining options: Guests can choose their lunch, either a la carte or pre-booked.
• Value for the price: Authentic and educational experience that rivals more expensive group tours.
• Ideal for: Wine enthusiasts and history lovers seeking a deep dive into Rioja’s culture and flavors.

What to Expect from the Rioja Private Winery Tour

This tour provides a balanced blend of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and scenic views. From the moment you’re picked up in Bilbao, you’ll notice how well-organized everything is, with a comfortable transport that lets you relax while soaking in the landscape. The tour’s strength lies in its small-group setup—only your party participates—meaning more personalized attention and flexibility.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: La Rioja
Your first stop features a visit to one of the renowned wineries in La Rioja. Expect a guided tour of the vineyards and production areas, where your guide will explain centuries-old winemaking traditions. You’ll taste some of their finest wines, complemented by food pairings crafted to enhance each sip. Reviewers have praised the “excellent tours and tasting experiences” thanks to the personal relationships your guide has with the wineries, making each visit feel special and welcoming.

Stop 2: Rioja Alavesa
Next, you’ll head to another distinguished winery in Rioja Alavesa. Here, expect a different atmosphere—perhaps a more boutique or family-run operation, offering a slightly different approach to winemaking. Again, you’ll enjoy eight tastings across both stops, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and learn about wine varieties like Crianza and Gran Reserva. The emphasis on small-scale, quality-focused wineries means you’ll probably taste wines that aren’t available in standard retail outlets.

Stop 3: Laguardia
The tour’s cultural highlight is the visit to Laguardia, a medieval village perched on a hill with cobbled streets, historic walls, and underground caves. Your private tour includes visits to the castle tower and caves, giving insight into how wine was stored and transported centuries ago. The reviews highlight how impressive and full of history Laguardia is, with one reviewer mentioning it as a “ton of history” packed into a small village. It’s a perfect break from wine tasting to stroll and soak in the atmosphere.

The Experience in Detail

Wineries:
The two wineries you visit are described as distinctive and boutique, with personal relationships fostering a welcoming atmosphere. This is key—your guide’s connections mean you get more personalized tours, often with insights you wouldn’t get in larger, generic visits. Guests mention the “beautiful wineries” and the opportunity to taste a variety of wines from Crianza to Gran Reserva, which are the hallmarks of high-quality Rioja wines.

Food and Tastings:
Each winery includes snacks and food pairings, which greatly enhance the tasting experience. The fact that you can choose your lunch (either a la carte or pre-reserved) adds a layer of flexibility and allows you to enjoy a meal suited to your preferences, whether it’s a light snack or a more substantial dish.

Cultural Tour of Laguardia:
The visit to Laguardia is often described as a highlight—a charming medieval village with stunning views and a rich history. You’ll explore the castle, walk through ancient streets, and visit caves that reveal traditional wine storage methods. One reviewer pointed out that Laguardia “has a ton of history” and is “very impressive,” making it a worthwhile addition to the wine-focused day.

Transport and Timing:
The tour begins at 8:30 am, which means an early start but an entire day of discovery. The private transport ensures comfort and flexibility. With an 8-9 hour duration, it’s a full day but not overly rushed, giving you time to enjoy each stop.

Authenticity and Value

Reviews consistently mention the excellent value for money and knowledgeable guides, making this a cost-effective way to experience Rioja. One reviewer noted they ended up spending more on wine to take home, facilitated by the guide’s help, which speaks to the trust and flexibility built into the experience.

The inclusion of eight tastings across two wineries with food pairings is quite generous—many tours charge extra for tastings or are less personalized. The private setting means fewer crowds, more tailored interactions, and a relaxed pace, all of which combine to make it a memorable day.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

While the tour is well-reviewed, keep in mind that by design, it’s a long day. If you prefer a relaxed pace or have difficulty walking on cobbled streets or stairs, especially in Laguardia’s medieval streets and caves, this might not be ideal. Also, the cost might seem steep for some, but considering the personalized attention, private tours of wineries, and cultural stops, many feel the experience offers good value.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine lovers looking for a comprehensive, authentic tasting experience paired with cultural exploration. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group or private tours where expert guides can tailor the experience and share personal insights. History buffs will enjoy the Laguardia stop, and connoisseurs will find the variety and quality of wines impressive.

The Sum Up

Choosing this private La Rioja wine tour means investing in a personalized, in-depth experience that combines expert-guided tastings, cultural sightseeing, and stunning scenery. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to learn about Spanish wines from knowledgeable guides, visit distinctive wineries, and enjoy the relaxed pace of a private tour. The inclusion of a cultural stop in Laguardia adds a memorable historic dimension, making it more than just a wine tasting.

While it’s a full day and might be slightly pricey, the value for quality, personalized service, and authentic experiences makes it worthwhile—especially if your aim is to discover Rioja’s best wines and charming villages without the crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just starting to appreciate Spanish wines, this tour will deepen your appreciation and leave you with lasting memories.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included in the standard package, but you have the option to pre-book or choose your dishes at a recommended restaurant. The tour allows flexibility to suit your preferences.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit two wineries, each offering a tour and tasting, with a total of eight wines sampled across both stops.

What kind of wines will I taste?
The tastings include a variety of Rioja wines, such as Crianza and Gran Reserva, giving a good overview of the region’s different styles and aging processes.

Are the tours private?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves tasting alcohol and walking around cobbled streets, it’s best suited for adults comfortable with those activities.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 46 days in advance is typical, and early reservation is recommended to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.