Marques de Riscal and Ysios Architecture Wine Tour w/Lunch, SS

A detailed look at the Marques de Riscal and Ysios Architecture Wine Tour from San Sebastian

If you’re planning a trip to San Sebastian and have a soft spot for good wine, striking architecture, and a taste of local flavor, this tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day exploring two of Rioja’s most iconic wineries—Marques de Riscal and Ysios—along with a charming visit to Laguardia, topped off with a hearty three-course lunch. From what we gather, it’s a well-rounded experience designed for wine lovers, architecture fans, and those keen to explore beyond the city.

What really stands out is the chance to visit the second best winery in the world and marvel at the incredible design of Ysios, crafted by Santiago Calatrava. Plus, the tour’s reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and delicious local food as major pluses. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves several hours of travel—roughly 4 hours in total—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full-day outing and don’t mind the bus ride.

One thing to consider is the group size and booking specifics. The tour is perfect if you’re traveling with at least one other person but requires a minimum of two to confirm your spot, and it only runs with at least three people for public bookings. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it’s worth planning ahead or checking with the provider for options. Still, the experience seems designed for those who want a relaxed, guided day with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

All in all, this tour is ideal for anyone wanting a comprehensive, expert-led glimpse into Rioja’s renowned wines, distinctive architecture, and charming towns — especially if you’re happy to spend most of the day on the road. It’s a good fit for curious travelers who love a blend of culture, food, and wine, delivered in a personalized, small-group setting.

• Two iconic wineries: Marques de Riscal, rated as second best in the world, and the visually stunning Ysios.
• Architectural highlights: Both wineries boast impressive designs, with Ysios being a must-see for architecture fans.
• Tastings and food: Enjoy premium wine tastings paired with local cheese, serrano ham, and a three-course meal.
• Cultural charm: The visit to Laguardia offers picturesque medieval streets and a taste of Basque history.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides provide insights into wine-making, architecture, and regional history.
• Full-day adventure: About 9 hours from start to finish, including travel time and stops.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The Drive from San Sebastian to Rioja

The day kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel or residence in San Sebastian. You’ll then enjoy a scenic drive through the lush valleys of the Basque Country, which is a lovely way to set the mood for the day ahead. The two-hour journey gives you a chance to relax and take in the landscape, especially if you love rolling hills and vineyards.

Marques de Riscal: A Full Winery Tour

Your first stop is Marques de Riscal, which truly is a site to behold—not just for its wines but also for its architecture. This winery is renowned worldwide, ranked as the second-best in the entire region. When you arrive, a full tour awaits, guiding you through the cellar, production areas, and tasting rooms. Expect to taste three of their top wines, paired with some local snacks. The guide’s insights will help you understand the nuances of each wine—what makes them special and how they’re crafted.

One of the crowning features here is the stunning architecture—the winery’s striking, modern design, created by Frank Gehry, is worth the visit alone. Guests often comment on how memorable the building is, blending contemporary art with traditional winemaking.

Ysios Winery: An Architectural Marvel

Next, you’ll visit Ysios, a winery famous not only for its wines but also for its architecturally significant building by Santiago Calatrava. Since opening in 2000, Ysios has become one of the region’s most iconic structures, with its undulating roof resembling waves or mountain ridges. You’ll get a guided tour of the building and enjoy a tasting of two premium wines, complemented by cheese, serrano ham, and other cold meats.

Guests frequently mention how the architecture enhances the tasting experience—you’re not just sipping wine but doing so in a piece of art. The guide will share the story behind the design and what makes this winery stand out.

A Walk Through Laguardia

After the wineries, the tour takes you to Laguardia, a medieval town with charming, narrow streets and a centuries-old wall. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo stop and to soak in the local atmosphere. The town’s history and architecture provide a lovely contrast to the modern wineries, giving a well-rounded regional flavor.

Lunch in Rioja

Midday, you’ll enjoy a three-course meal with wine, dessert, and vegetarian options if needed. The lunch is reputedly delicious, offering a taste of local cuisine, which balances the day’s wine and architecture focus. It’s a time to relax and discuss the morning’s highlights with your guide and fellow travelers.

Return Journey and Final Stops

After lunch, the journey back to San Sebastian takes about two hours, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect. Depending on your preferences, the tour provider offers free drop-offs at different cities if arranged in advance, adding flexibility to your trip.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—one mentioned Anton as a “great and pleasant” driver, adding a personal touch to the experience. Several highlight the spectacular architecture of Ysios and the quality of wines sampled. The overall vibe is intimate, with small groups (max 8), which allows for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The value of the tour is often reflected in the reviews, with guests feeling they gained a lot from the guided tastings and insights into the regional wine culture. The inclusion of local snacks and a proper sit-down lunch also earns high marks, as it adds to the sense of a full, indulgent day.

Price and Value

At $326.10 per person, this tour is a significant investment but seems appropriate given the comprehensive itinerary, private tastings at two wineries, and a full lunch. The fact that all transport, entry fees, and meals are included makes it straightforward and stress-free. For wine aficionados or architecture lovers, the experience offers a lot of memorable moments—versus just visiting wineries on your own, you get expert narration and curated experiences.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience suits travelers who love wine, enjoy sightseeing, and appreciate good design. If you’re comfortable spending most of the day on a bus and want a guided, all-inclusive experience, it’s a fantastic choice. It’s particularly good for those wanting to deepen their knowledge of Rioja wines and see some of the region’s most architecturally renowned wineries.

If you’re traveling as a couple or in a small group, you should definitely consider booking early since the tour only runs with a minimum of three people. Solo travelers might want to look into joining with others or checking if the provider offers alternatives.

FAQs

How far is the drive from San Sebastian to Rioja?
It’s about a two-hour drive each way, which is comfortably managed with a good guide and scenic views. Expect to spend around four hours in total traveling, so bring some snacks or entertainment for the road.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, you get a three-course meal with wine and dessert. Vegetarian options are available, and the food is described as delicious, highlighting local flavors.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 8 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and personalized. Keep in mind that public tours only run with at least 3 people, so booking early is wise.

Can I get dropped off at a different location after the tour?
Yes, if you want to be dropped off somewhere other than San Sebastian, you can check the provider’s website to arrange this free of charge, depending on your plans.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wine tastings and architecture suggests the tour is best suited for adults. Families with children might find it less appropriate unless they are very interested in wine and architecture.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since there are walking tours at the wineries and in Laguardia. The tour runs rain or shine, so an umbrella or raincoat could be handy.

Final thoughts

This Rioja wine and architecture tour offers a thoughtfully curated day for those eager to explore the region’s best-known wineries and enjoy stunning modern architecture. The combination of private tastings, cultural visits, and a delicious lunch makes it a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suited to travelers who value guided insights, want to avoid planning logistics themselves, and enjoy small-group intimacy.

While the drive is long, the highlights—both visual and gustatory—make it worthwhile. If you’re looking for a way to deepen your appreciation of Rioja wines and see some of the most architecturally significant buildings in the region, this tour provides a memorable, enriching day out. Just be sure to book in advance and consider how you feel about spending the better part of a day on the road.

Happy planning, and I hope your trip to Rioja is filled with fantastic sights, delicious wines, and great company!