The Original Bilbao Food Tour with Wine Pairings

Experience the Authentic Flavors of Bilbao with the Original Food Tour

If you’re looking to truly taste Bilbao, this 3-hour guided food tour is a fantastic way to do it. Led by local guides who know their city inside out, you’ll explore the old town, visiting five unique pintxo bars. For $108 per person, you get the chance to indulge in 8-9 pintxos, paired expertly with local wines, cider, and beer. The best part is that you get insider access to some lesser-known spots, not just the touristy main streets.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s hosted by born-and-raised Bilbao locals who take pride in sharing their culinary heritage and cultural stories. Second, you’ll sample award-winning pintxos, many of which are not even visible on the bar — the guides order them for you, ensuring you taste the very best.

A potential consideration? The tour is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Also, don’t expect a quick snack — this is a substantial experience that will leave you full and satisfied. It’s perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and travelers eager to understand Basque culture through its vibrant culinary scene.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic local experience with guides born and raised in Bilbao.
Visit five different pintxo bars, from historic taverns to modern hotspots.
Sample award-winning pintxos and learn how to order like a local.
Paired with regional wines, cider, and beer to enhance each bite.
Great value for money considering the included food and drinks.
Ideal for food lovers and those wanting a cultural introduction to Bilbao’s culinary scene.

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A Deep Dive into Bilbao’s Pintxo Scene

When you sign up for this tour, you’re signing up for more than just tasting; you’re entering the heart of Bilbao’s social and culinary fabric. This is a city renowned for its pintxos — small, flavorful bites often served on a slice of bread — and this tour is a perfect way to get an insider’s perspective. The guides, being locals, know the hidden gems and favorite spots that don’t always make the online lists.

The Itinerary and Its Charm

Starting at San Nikolas Church, the tour kicks off in the old town, which dates back to 1300. From there, the group meanders through narrow streets, stopping at five bars. Each stop offers a distinct atmosphere — from cozy traditional taverns to sleek, modern pintxo bars.

You’ll get to try the special pintxos that are not “on the menu” — the guides order these directly from the chefs. This means you’ll sample chef’s specials that often win awards in local competitions, giving you a taste of Bilbao’s top culinary creativity.

What to Expect at Each Stop

As you move from bar to bar, the guides will share stories about Basque culture and history, making the experience both delicious and educational. The focus is on quality over quantity — you’ll enjoy high-caliber pintxos paired with the perfectly suited wine or cider.

Reviews consistently mention the generous portions and high standard of food — “You certainly won’t need to eat after this tour,” says one enthusiastic traveler. Because the drinks are included, you’re not just nibbling; you’re sipping regional wines, including red and white, or local cider, adding to the authentic feel.

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Sample Local Drinks

Of course, pairing the pintxos with regional beverages makes the experience more than just a tasting. The tour includes five drinks—from local red and white wines to cider and beer. You might find that the guides are very attentive in selecting the perfect accompaniment for each bite, and many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the expert wine pairing.

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Authenticity and Insider Tips

What really elevates this experience is the inside knowledge the guides bring. One reviewer notes, “Irene knew the best places for Pintxos and wine, and had a wealth of knowledge about the area and Basque history.” These guides are passionate about their city and eager to share the culture, language, and stories behind the food. They’ll teach you how to order pintxos confidently, which is invaluable if you want to continue exploring Bilbao’s culinary scene on your own.

Another favorite feature? The hidden gems — bars that are “less touristy” and more authentic. This focus on local favorites means you’re tasting Bilbao as locals do, not just the standard tourist fare.

The Value of This Tour

At $108, the tour provides excellent value. For that price, you’re getting a full dinner, professional guiding, and a curated selection of high-quality pintxos and drinks. Many reviews applaud the generous portions and high quality, with travelers remarking they didn’t need to eat afterwards. Plus, you gain the confidence to order and explore on your own, thanks to the guides’ tips.

Timing and Group Size

The tour lasts roughly three hours, which is perfect for an evening activity. The group size tends to be small to medium, allowing for personal interaction and a more relaxed atmosphere. Meeting at San Nikolas Church at 6:00 pm ensures you get a good start to your night, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making it easy to continue exploring or head to your accommodations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and wine lovers who want a local, authentic taste of Bilbao. Perfect for those interested in Basque culture, history, and cuisine. It’s an excellent way to kick off your visit or as a lively evening activity. However, it’s best suited for non-vegetarians and those who don’t have dietary restrictions, as it’s not adapted for vegetarians or vegans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, this tour is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. The focus is on traditional pintxos, which often include meat or seafood.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about three hours, starting around 6:00 pm, but check availability for specific start times.

Does the price include drinks?
Yes, you’ll receive five drinks during the tour, including red and white wine, cider, and beer.

Where do we meet the guide?
You meet the guide by the main entrance of San Nikolas Church, right in front of the church, at 6:00 pm.

Is food included, or do I need to eat beforehand?
The tour includes 8-9 pintxos and is considered a full meal. Come hungry!

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I learn how to order pintxos?
Absolutely. Guides will teach you how to order confidently so you can continue exploring Bilbao’s pintxo bars on your own.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults and involves alcohol, so it’s not recommended for children.

Are there options for people with dietary restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, and no specific options are mentioned for other dietary restrictions.

Final Words

If you’re eager for an authentic, flavorful introduction to Bilbao, this food and wine tour is a perfect choice. It’s a lively, educational, and delicious way to get to know the city’s culinary soul. The guides’ local knowledge and passion shine through, elevating the experience beyond just eating. You’ll walk away full, informed, and eager to explore more of Bilbao’s vibrant pintxo scene.

This tour is especially suited for foodies, culture buffs, and those wanting a relaxed social evening. It’s also a great way to meet fellow travelers and get a taste of Basque hospitality. Just remember — come hungry, and leave ready to order pintxos like a true Bilbao native.