From Bilbao: La Rioja Wineries Day Trip with Wine Tastings

Discover La Rioja Wineries: An Honest Look at the Full-Day Trip from Bilbao

Thinking about a day trip from Bilbao to explore Spain’s renowned Rioja wine region? We’ve looked into the La Rioja Wineries Day Trip with Wine Tastings, and it looks like a solid choice for anyone curious about wine, history, and charming small towns. This tour combines guided visits to two historic wineries, a walk through picturesque villages, and some fantastic tastings—all within a manageable nine-hour window.

What really appeals to us are the guided winery tours and the chance to taste high-quality Rioja wines in authentic settings. Plus, the stops in Haro and Laguardia offer a chance to soak up the atmosphere of medieval Spain, which is always a bonus when you’re on a wine-focused day. One thing to keep in mind: the tour doesn’t include lunch, so planning for that is essential, especially if you want a proper meal or some local tapas. Overall, it’s well-suited for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone who wants a relaxed, informative day out with manageable transportation logistics.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour involves some bus travel—around 4.5 hours in total—and isn’t recommended for people with limited mobility. Rain or shine, the experience runs as scheduled, so be prepared for variable weather if you’re visiting in spring or fall. This trip works best if you’re okay with a full day of sightseeing, walking, and tasting, and if you’re comfortable in group settings.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about wine, exploring charming towns, and doesn’t mind a packed schedule, this tour could be a wonderful way to experience La Rioja without the hassle of organizing everything yourself. Let’s get into the details so you can decide if it’s the right fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Guided visits to two historic wineries offer insight into Rioja wine-making traditions
• Tastings include a variety of wines, often with opportunities to compare different stages of production
• The tour includes strolls through charming towns like Haro and Laguardia, rich in history and character
• No lunch included, so plan to buy food locally or bring snacks
• The transportation is comfortable, with pickup and drop-off in Bilbao but no hotel transfers
• Suitable for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers, but not ideal for those with mobility issues

What to Expect from the Tour: A Deep Dive

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at a central meeting point in Bilbao—specifically at the bus stop next to the Guggenheim Museum—and begins with a roughly hour-long bus ride into La Rioja. The coach is cozy enough for a group, and the journey offers glimpses of Basque and Rioja countryside, which looks simply lovely when the weather cooperates. Once you hit Haro, the real fun starts.

First Stop: Haro and the CVNE Winery

Our first visit is to CVNE, a century-old winery that’s become an emblem of Rioja’s wine scene. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of the vineyards, cellars, and the production process, which is quite fascinating if you’re into how wine is made. The highlight is the wine tasting, where you’ll try some of the region’s best vintages in a historic setting. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging and informative.

One guest noted, “We really enjoyed the tour — the wine was top-notch, and everything was super interesting. We definitely understand wine better now!” That sums up how a good winery visit can elevate your appreciation for wine beyond just drinking it.

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Exploring Haro’s Historic Center

After the winery, there’s a guided walk through the Plaza de la Paz in Haro. It’s a chance to see the town’s charming, old-world architecture and learn a bit about its history. The reviews highlight how the walking tour was a highlight, with visitors appreciating the mix of culture and scenery. This town is a perfect blend of history and wine, making it a worthwhile stop.

Second Stop: Laguardia and a Traditional Winery

Next, we head to Laguardia, a medieval town with narrow streets and ancient stone buildings. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of a small, family-owned winery. Unlike the grand CVNE, this place offers a more intimate look at Rioja wine production—think those cozy tunnels from the 14th century, now used for aging wine.

The reviews rave about the personalized experience and the chance to learn about winemaking from a more “familiar” perspective. One reviewer adored the opportunity to taste wine during fermentation—a rare peek into the process before bottling. It’s a great addition for serious wine fans and those interested in craftsmanship.

Free Time in Laguardia and Lunch Options

After the winery visit, you get about an hour and a half to explore Laguardia at your own pace. It’s perfect for strolling, picking up souvenirs, or grabbing a bite. Keep in mind, many stores might close early or be closed in the afternoon, depending on the day, so plan accordingly.

While lunch isn’t included, many recommend the local tapas bars and cafes. The guide often suggests good spots, and one review mentions enjoying wine and pinxtos—those delightful small bites typical of Basque and Rioja regions.

Passing by Marqués de Riscal

On the return journey to Bilbao, the group stops in Elciego to admire the Marqués de Riscal building, an architectural marvel designed by Frank Gehry. It’s an impressive sight even from the bus, and many visitors enjoy snapping photos from outside. If you’re into modern architecture, this is a bonus, though it’s not a guided tour of the building itself.

Timing and Duration

The full-day experience lasts about 9 hours, with the bus leaving and returning from Bilbao. The schedule is quite packed, so be ready for a lot of walking and sightseeing. The tour’s timing allows for a relaxed experience without feeling rushed—though, naturally, some days might be busier than others.

The Value of the Experience

Looking at the price point, the tour includes transportation, a guide, visits to two wineries, and tastings—an appealing package for wine lovers. The reviews repeatedly mention the quality of the guides, especially highlighting Stephan’s knowledge and friendly demeanor. One guest summed it up: “Stephane was an excellent guide, very informative and helpful,” which shows how a good guide can really make a difference.

The tasting sessions are often paired with cheese and charcuterie, enhancing the overall experience. It’s not just about drinking wine but understanding it—how it’s made, what makes Rioja wines unique, and how to appreciate different vintages and styles.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Well-organized, knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, authentic wineries, and charming towns. The opportunity to compare different wineries and wines offers real insight into Rioja’s diversity.
• Cons: The bus journey can be long, and the tour isn’t suited for those with limited mobility. No lunch is included, so you need to plan ahead, and some may find the schedule a bit tight if they prefer more leisurely exploration.

Who Is This Tour Ideal For?

If you’re passionate about wine or eager to learn about Rioja’s famous varieties, this trip hits the right notes. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a guided experience that takes care of logistics, so they can focus on tasting and enjoying the scenery. History and architecture buffs will appreciate the stops in Haro and Laguardia, even if the main focus is wine.

This tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or anyone looking for a more relaxed, less structured day. It’s also worth noting that weather can influence the experience, especially during outdoor walks or cellar visits, so come prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at a central Bilbao meeting point are included; no hotel transfers.

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

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to buy food during the free time in Laguardia.

How long is the bus ride?
The total bus time is about 3 hours—around 1 hour to Haro, 30 minutes to Laguardia, and 1.5 hours back.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This isn’t explicitly designed for children and involves walking and tasting wine, so it’s best for adult travelers.

What language is the tour guide available in?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility due to walking and uneven streets.

How much wine can I expect to taste?
While exact amounts aren’t specified, you’ll visit two wineries with tastings, often paired with cheese or charcuterie.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, both wineries offer bottles for sale, and many visitors find good souvenirs at every price point.

Is there free time to explore in Laguardia?
Yes, about 1.5 hours for wandering, shopping, or relaxing in local cafes.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This La Rioja Wineries Day Trip from Bilbao is a solid pick for anyone who enjoys wine but also appreciates a taste of local culture and history. It’s particularly good if you want to learn about wine production, taste a variety of Rioja wines, and see some of the region’s most picturesque towns—all in one day. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even on your own and love discovering new wines or historic towns, this trip can be a memorable and rewarding experience. Just keep in mind the physical aspects—walking, bus travel, and the weather—when planning your day.

All in all, it offers a balanced experience that combines wine, culture, and beautiful scenery, making it a worthwhile option for curious travelers eager to explore La Rioja without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: