From Bilbao: La Rioja a journey to the vineyards & tradition

This tour promises a full day exploring one of Spain’s most famous wine regions—La Rioja—without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. It takes you through stunning vineyard landscapes, into centuries-old wineries, and into the charming medieval village of Laguardia. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply after an authentic taste of Spanish culture, this experience offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and flavorful tastings.

One aspect we particularly appreciated is how smoothly the day runs, with guided visits that provide insights into winemaking and local traditions. The carefully curated stops ensure you get a taste of both the countryside and the history woven into Laguardia’s ancient streets.

A possible consideration is the full-day timetable, which involves quite a bit of driving and walking. If you prefer unhurried, relaxed sightseeing or are less mobile, some parts of the tour might feel a bit fast-paced. Still, for those eager to pack a full experience into one day, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy wine, history, and picturesque villages, and who don’t mind a busy schedule. Families, couples, and groups looking for a hassle-free way to explore La Rioja will find this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included wine tastings and guided explorations.

Key Points

Well-organized itinerary with clear stops and enough free time for personal exploration.
Authentic visits to traditional wineries with tastings straight from the source.
Historic Laguardia offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval Spain.
Guided tour ensures you gain insights into winemaking and local culture.
Comfortable transportation included, with a group size that balances intimacy and sociability.
Cost-effective, considering the wine tastings, entry fees, and guided experience included in the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off outside the Meliá Bilbao hotel at 09:20, or alternatively at Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao at 09:30. Both meeting points are straightforward, with clear instructions not to enter the hotels themselves—just wait outside on the street. This familiarity ensures you’re not fumbling through confusing pickup zones. The transport itself is either a minivan or bus, depending on group size, which means space is comfortable, and journey times are kept reasonable (about 75 minutes to Rioja Alavesa and 1.5 hours back to Bilbao). The road trips are an opportunity to relax and enjoy scenic views of the Basque Country transitioning into La Rioja’s vineyards.

First Stop: Rioja Alavesa Wineries

The initial visit is to a traditional winery, a spot praised for its charm and character. Here, we loved the way the guide explained the winemaking process in a relaxed, approachable manner. You get to see the actual production areas and taste wines directly from the lands that produce them. Authenticity is a key theme—you’re encouraged to savor the flavors and ask questions, making it more than just a tasting. One reviewer mentioned that this winery “felt like stepping into a living history of winemaking,” which adds depth to the experience.

The guided tour lasts about an hour and includes an appetizer and wine tasting session. Multiple reviews note the quality of the wines, with some guests calling it “a genuine experience” rather than a commercialized tasting. The guide’s insights help you understand why La Rioja wines are so highly regarded, and you’ll leave with a better appreciation of the region’s terroir.

Medieval Laguardia

Next, the tour takes you 40 minutes south to Laguardia, a true highlight of the day. This medieval walled village is a feast for the senses—narrow cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and coats of arms decorating facades. The guided walk through Laguardia lasts about 45 minutes, where you’ll learn about its centuries-old roots and see some of the most iconic corners of this historic town.

One detailed review mentions how the guide brought the town’s history to life, pointing out architectural details and stories behind the underground wineries. You’ll get a close look at one of these subterranean cellars, carved beneath the streets, which are used for aging wine even today. The underground visits are highly appreciated—many guests find it fascinating to walk through the tunnels and see how winemaking is embedded in Laguardia’s very foundation.

Tasting and Free Time in Laguardia

After the guided tour, it’s time for another tasting, this time including local snacks and more wine. The tasting is described as authentic, with some reviews highlighting the regional flavors of cheese, cured meats, and bread that accompany the wines. Guests often comment on the warm atmosphere, making it easy to relax and enjoy the flavors.

With around two hours of free time afterward, you can explore on your own, find a cozy café, or wander the streets for photos and souvenirs. Many appreciate this flexibility, as it allows for a personal connection with the village’s ambiance.

Return Journey and Additional Insights

The return trip is about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences. The guide may share additional stories or answer questions along the way, rounding out the day with more local insights.

The Practicalities—What You Need to Know

What’s Included

The tour provides everything you need for a smooth experience: bilingual guides, transportation, entrance tickets, and wine tastings. This means less planning and more enjoying—an excellent value considering the number of stops and the quality of experiences. The guide’s knowledge helps you understand not just the wines, but the cultural significance of La Rioja’s winemaking traditions.

What’s Not Included

Lunch isn’t part of the package, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to dine in Laguardia during your free time. Hotel pickup/drop-off isn’t included either, so arriving on time at the meeting points is essential. The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or young children under five, mainly due to walking and the pace.

Timing and Pacing

The entire day runs from about 09:20 to roughly 18:30, including travel, visits, and free time. It’s a full schedule, so you should be prepared for some walking and a busy pace. However, the guides are experienced and aim to keep the group engaged and comfortable.

Group Size and Language

The tour is operated in both English and Spanish, with a multilingual guide. Group size can vary, but it strikes a balance—small enough for intimacy, large enough to be lively. Seats in the minivan or bus aren’t assigned, so arriving early ensures preferred seating.

Weather and Suitability

Rain or shine, the tour goes ahead, so dress appropriately. Comfortable shoes and clothes are highly recommended, especially given the cobbled streets and walking involved. Pets aren’t allowed, except assistance dogs, and smoking is prohibited on the vehicle and indoors.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price, this experience offers a good mix of guided insight, authentic wine tastings, and cultural exploration. The inclusion of two winery visits, the underground cellar tour, and the free time in Laguardia make it a well-rounded day out. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides and the authentic feel of the visits, which add value beyond just tasting wines.

While it’s a busy schedule, the structured approach lets you maximize your time in La Rioja without the hassle of planning individual transport or tickets. It’s perfect for those who want to combine scenic views, history, and wine in one comprehensive experience, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about La Rioja’s renowned wines and winemaking processes. History lovers will enjoy exploring Laguardia’s medieval streets and underground cellars. It also suits travelers who prefer guided experiences that take care of logistics, allowing them to relax and focus on soaking up the culture and flavors. Families with older children, couples, and small groups who enjoy a lively, immersive day will find this a terrific choice.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced, leisurely day or have mobility challenges, you might find the busy schedule less ideal. Since lunch isn’t included, those wanting a full, sit-down meal during their trip should plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Bilbao to La Rioja and back is included, with a comfortable minivan or bus depending on group size.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since there’s walking involved. Bringing your passport can be helpful if you want to have ID for any local purchases.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included, but you’ll have free time in Laguardia to explore and dine at your own pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under five or travelers with mobility issues, as the pace involves walking and standing.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, including travel, visits, tastings, and free time.

Are all visits guided?
Yes, the entire tour is guided in English and Spanish, including the winery visits and Laguardia’s streets.

What’s the quality of the wine tastings?
Guests report the wines are high quality, with some describing the tasting experience as “genuinely authentic,” directly from the lands.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Absolutely, the tour proceeds in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for the day.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of scenic vineyard views, historic charm, and authentic wine tastings, all wrapped in a well-organized day from Bilbao. It’s especially suited for those craving a structured, guided exploration of La Rioja without the stress of planning logistics themselves. The inclusion of underground cellars and Laguardia’s medieval streets adds a special touch of character that often exceeds expectations.

While it’s a busy day with lots of walking and driving, the overall value and depth of the experience make it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to understand Spain’s wine heritage and cultural roots. If you’re after an immersive, fun, and educational journey into one of Spain’s top wine regions, this tour ticks many boxes.

This tour hits a sweet spot for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of La Rioja’s vineyards, history, and local flavor, all delivered with knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics.