Visit of Marques de Riscal & Boutique Winery from Bilbao

Visiting Marques de Riscal & a Boutique Winery from Bilbao: An Authentic Rioja Experience

If you’re headed to Bilbao and want to explore the heart of Spain’s renowned wine region, this 5-6 hour tour offers an excellent way to do so. For about $295 per person, you’ll visit Marques de Riscal, one of the most iconic wineries with its striking architecture, and a charming boutique winery for a more intimate tasting experience. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines scenic drives, exquisite wines, and delicious snacks, making it a well-rounded introduction to Rioja’s famed landscape and flavors.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances luxury and authenticity — the grandeur of Marques de Riscal’s architecture paired with the personal touch of a boutique winery. Plus, the included tastings of premium reds and whites along with local appetizers help you truly savor the region. A slight consideration is that the tour is on the longer side, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic day without feeling rushed.

This tour is perfect for food and wine enthusiasts who appreciate both world-class wineries and picturesque landscapes. If you’re curious about Rioja’s famed wines but want a guided, hassle-free day, this experience offers great value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Two winery visits including Marques de Riscal, one of Spain’s most recognizable wine estates.
• Tastings of 3-4 premium wines at each stop, paired with local snacks like cheese, chorizo, and bread.
• Beautiful scenery of the Ebro Valley and expert-guided tours that offer insight into Rioja’s winemaking.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group size (max 7 travelers).
• Balanced itinerary with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.
• Flexible cancellation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

A Deep Dive Into the Rioja Tour Experience

The Itinerary in Detail: What’s Included and Why It Matters

The journey begins early from Bilbao, with pickup at the Radisson Collection Hotel on Gran Vía. From there, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the transition from city to countryside relaxing and stress-free. The small group size (up to 7 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, with ample opportunity for questions or casual conversation.

Stop 1: Bodegas Marques de Riscal

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Marques de Riscal, a winery famed for both its exceptional wines and its eye-catching architecture designed by Frank Gehry. The tour lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, during which you’ll explore the vineyards, cellars, and learn about the history of this legendary estate. The tasting session includes 3 premium wines—reds and whites—that showcase the best of Rioja’s offerings.

The reviews echo the quality of this stop, with travelers like Sergio C noting that “everything was perfect, from the van to the explanations and tastings.” The setting alone makes this a memorable stop, with Gehry’s design providing a striking backdrop to your wine experience. The tasting of 3 wines lets you appreciate the nuances among different Rioja varieties, making it ideal for those wanting a deeper understanding of the region’s wine craftsmanship.

Stop 2: Boutique Winery in Samaniego

Next, the tour moves to a smaller, more intimate boutique winery in Samaniego. Here, you’ll tour the facilities and sample 3 unique wines, including both red and white options. This part of the experience offers a glimpse into smaller-scale, artisanal winemaking, which many travelers find particularly charming and authentic.

Included in this stop is a light snack—cheese, chorizo, and fresh bread—adding a delicious local touch. The boutique winery experience appeals to those who want to see a different side of Rioja, away from the larger commercial estates, and enjoy a more relaxed tasting environment. The free admission here contrasts with the fee for the Marques de Riscal tour, providing good value and variety.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the reasons this experience garners a top rating (5 out of 5 based on reviews) is the knowledgeable guide, often praised for their clear explanations and friendly demeanor. As Sergio C mentioned, “Jani was fantastic,” which speaks to the quality of guidance you can expect.

The scenic drive through the Ebro Valley is another highlight. You’ll pass through lush vineyards and rolling hills, which creates a natural, scenic backdrop to your tasting sessions. The ability to enjoy such views comfortably from the vehicle is a definite plus, especially for those who prefer not to hike or walk much during a wine tour.

Why Is This Tour a Great Value?

Considering the price of approximately $295, you’re getting a well-organized, guided experience that includes two comprehensive winery visits, tastings of at least six wines, local appetizers, and transportation—all in a compact 5-6 hours. The inclusion of premium wines elevates the experience, and the small group size enhances intimacy and engagement with your guide.

Possible Limitations or Considerations

While overall highly praised, some travelers might find the duration a bit long, especially if they prefer shorter excursions. The tour includes quite a bit of driving, so those sensitive to long bus rides may want to plan accordingly. Also, the tour operates with a mobile ticket system, which is convenient but requires a smartphone for entry.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for wine lovers and curious travelers eager to learn about Rioja’s renowned wines in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who appreciate beautiful architecture, scenic drives, and authentic wine tastings. Because the tour is small and personalized, it’s also perfect for travelers who value guided insights and a friendly atmosphere.

If you’re interested in exploring small wineries and learning directly from experts, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for a half-day escape from Bilbao that combines culture, scenery, and wine in one package.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. The combination of world-famous Marques de Riscal, a taste of Rioja’s best wines, and the charm of a boutique winery makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to Spain’s famed wine region. The expert guidance, stunning scenery, and delicious local snacks make it a memorable experience.

While it’s a slightly longer day, the value gained in authentic wine experiences and striking landscapes makes it worthwhile. It’s especially suitable for enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Rioja wines or travelers who simply want a hassle-free, guided way to explore the countryside.

In short, this tour offers a great mix of luxury, learning, and scenic beauty—perfect for those wanting to enjoy Rioja’s best without the hassle of planning it all themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Gran Vía Bilbao, making it easy to reach via public transportation or a short taxi.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, visits, tastings, and snacks.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all winery tastings (3-4 wines at each winery), appetizers at each stop, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves tasting alcohol, so it’s intended for adults of legal drinking age.

Is there a small group limit?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a selection of premium reds and whites from both wineries, offering a rundown of Rioja’s wine styles.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is part of the package.

How should I prepare for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothes, perhaps a hat or sunglasses for the drive, and enjoy your curiosity about Rioja’s wines and scenery.

Would this tour suit a family or non-drinkers?
While adults will most enjoy the tastings, non-drinkers can still appreciate the scenery, architecture, and snacks, making it suitable for family groups with responsible older children.

This tour provides a well-rounded, authentic taste of La Rioja’s wine and landscape, guided by friendly experts and designed to give you a meaningful, enjoyable day. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to experience Spain’s renowned wine culture in a relaxed setting, this experience offers excellent value and memorable moments.