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The 13 Best Tours in Castile and Leon
Castile and Leon is a region bursting with authentic experiences, from savoring world-class wine to exploring medieval castles and tasting exquisite Iberian ham. Its diverse landscapes and deep-rooted traditions make it a perfect playground for curious travelers. We particularly love the Visit to the Ham Factory in Salamanca for its hands-on approach to understanding the famous jamón ibérico, and we’re equally impressed by the Airplane flight that offers a thrilling way to see the region’s stunning scenery from above. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or adventure seeker, there’s a tour here to match your interests.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best tours in Castile and Leon—ranging from wine tastings and vineyard visits to private guided tours of historic sites, scenic flights, and even e-bike adventures. Each offers a unique window into the region’s culture, landscape, and flavors. Read on to discover which experiences suit your style and how to make the most of your trip.
1. Visit to the Ham Factory in Salamanca. Tasting and Masterclass
Rating: 5.0/5 (70 reviews)
Price: $38.32 per person
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
This tour offers a deep dive into the art of Iberian ham production, where you’ll learn about the four-year curing process in Salamanca’s drying rooms and cellars. The highlight is a tasting of 100% Iberian ham, revealing subtle nuances of flavor and texture. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll understand what makes jamón ibérico so special—and get to sample different cuts. Reviewers rave about the engaging guides and the accessibility of the location just 10 minutes from Salamanca’s center.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of education and sensory experience, perfect for food lovers eager to understand Spain’s most famous delicacy. The cost offers excellent value considering the comprehensive insight and quality tasting included.
Bottom line: A fantastic, accessible experience for ham enthusiasts and curious travelers alike wanting to see the process up close and enjoy a delicious tasting.
2. Visit La Joya Escondida de la Ribera del Duero Winery
Rating: 5.0/5 (33 reviews)
Price: $28.91 per person
Duration: 2 hours
At number 2, this guided visit of Finca Villacreces combines a detailed tour of the vineyard and winery with tastings of their flagship wines, Pruno and Finca Villacreces. The tour is intimate, with a focus on explaining the winemaking process and the unique terroir of Ribera del Duero. The experience finishes with a tasting in a relaxed setting, making it suitable for wine enthusiasts wanting a well-rounded visit without the crowds.
The reviews highlight the passionate guide and the opportunity to see the wine’s journey from grape to glass firsthand. The price includes the tour and tastings, offering good value for such a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine lovers wanting an authentic, in-depth look at one of Spain’s premier wine regions, with a tasting that emphasizes quality and craftsmanship.
3. Guided tour glass in hand with wine tasting directly from the barrel
Rating: 5.0/5 (21 reviews)
Price: $35.64 per person
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
This tour in the Ribera del Duero region combines education with a delicious wine tasting experience directly from oak barrels. The guide explains Dominio de Cair’s philosophy, giving guests a chance to observe and sample wines at their freshest. The highlight is the “glass in hand” approach, which makes the visit lively and interactive. The tour ends with a tasting of 3 wines paired with a gourmet appetizer, adding a culinary dimension.
Guests praise the passionate guide Noemi and the chance to learn about wine from a producer’s perspective, making this a memorable experience. The tour’s intimate setting makes it perfect for small groups or couples.
Bottom line: For those interested in seeing wine aging firsthand and enjoying a gourmet tasting, this is a top choice for a hands-on experience.
4. Airplane flight
Rating: 4.0/5 (125 reviews)
Price: $84.83 per person
Duration: 1 hour
For a different perspective on Castile and Leon, this aerial flight offers sweeping views of the landscape. You can pick your route and even take control of the plane, living out your pilot fantasy. It’s perfect for adventure travelers who want a thrilling and highly visual experience. The flight can showcase everything from scenic valleys to historic towns from above—an unforgettable way to see the region’s diversity.
The reviews mention the friendly staff and the memorable experience of flying, though some note the price is on the higher side for a short flight.
Bottom line: An ideal choice if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view of Castile and Leon, especially for those with a sense of adventure and a love of aviation.
5. Experience with traditional winery tasting serrana s.XVI
Rating: 5.0/5 (2 reviews)
Price: $17.36 per person
Duration: 1 hour
Step back into the 16th century at this medieval winery in Castile and Leon, where the building itself is a piece of history. The tour covers vine growing and fermentation processes, immersing you in the heritage and traditions of the region. Visitors describe it as a sensory journey through centuries of wine-making, with the opportunity to taste wines in a setting that’s both historic and charming.
Though small and intimate, this experience offers excellent value at a low price, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic history combined with wine.
Bottom line: A charming, budget-friendly way to connect with traditional wine-making and history on a personal level.
6. Private Guided Tour with Admission to La Granja and Fabrica de Vidrio
Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $174.53 per person
Duration: 3 hours
This private tour offers a luxurious, personalized experience of two iconic sites: La Granja Palace and the Royal Glass Factory. You’ll bypass crowds with tickets included and enjoy detailed explanations of royal architecture and glassmaking traditions. The visit provides a perfect mix of historical grandeur and craftsmanship.
Ideal for those who appreciate royal history and architecture, this tour is tailored for travelers wanting a private, in-depth experience. It’s a bit pricier but offers a level of exclusivity and comfort difficult to match.
Bottom line: Best suited for history and architecture enthusiasts seeking a luxurious, private day out.
7. Explore the Legacy of Arganza’s 19th-Century Winery
Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $28.74 per person
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Visit a historic winery in Bierzo that dates back to the 19th century, where you’ll meet your guide and learn about local wine traditions. The tour explores centuries-old vineyards and architecture, providing insight into the Bierzo region’s winemaking heritage. This experience is more than just tasting; it’s about connecting with the story of wine in Castilla y Leon.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and the chance to experience authentic local wine culture. It’s a great choice for those interested in historic wineries and regional specialties.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a cultural and historical perspective on wine production.
8. Aranda de Duero: Bodegas Valdubón – A gastronomic visit
Rating: 5/5 (1 review)
Price: Not specified
Duration: 2 hours
This tour combines a winery visit with local gastronomy. Starting with a glass of wine, you tour the vineyard and facilities, then enjoy a tasting of three Ribera del Duero wines paired with local tapas like morcilla, lechazo, and chocolates. The experience emphasizes pairing wines with regional flavors, making it a delicious way to understand local cuisine.
Perfect for food and wine lovers who want to experience the region’s flavors in a relaxed setting surrounded by vineyards. The focus on pairing elevates this beyond a simple tasting.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a comprehensive taste of Ribera del Duero’s wines and local dishes.
9. E-bike tour & Picnic in an Exclusive winery Estate
Rating: 4.6/5 (reviews)
Price: $56 per person
Duration: 2 hours
This active experience takes you on an electric bike ride through the 110 hectares of a private winery estate. You’ll explore vineyards, enjoy scenic views, and stop for a picnic among the vines. It’s perfect for those who want to combine outdoor activity with wine appreciation, all in a beautiful natural setting.
Guests mention the guided ride and the chance to connect with nature in a relaxed, scenic environment. It’s suitable for active travelers and those looking for something different from the typical tasting.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for outdoor lovers who want to enjoy wine in a casual, scenic environment.
10. Ribera del Duero Tour: From Madrid to Ribera del Duero – lunch included
Rating: Not specified
Price: $235 per person
Duration: 9 hours
This full-day tour starts in Madrid and takes you through the Ribera del Duero wine region, with multiple winery visits and lunch included at a local winery. It’s a comprehensive trip suited for those eager to explore multiple wineries and sample regional cuisine in one day. The guided experience emphasizes education, with opportunities to meet winemakers and learn about the terroir.
The all-inclusive price and detailed itinerary make it a great value for serious wine enthusiasts eager to maximize their time.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want an extensive and organized experience of Ribera del Duero’s wineries and gastronomy in a single day.
11. Tasting: Introduction to Wines of D.O. Ribera del Duero
Rating: 4.8/5 (reviews)
Price: $40 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
This private tasting introduces you to the wines of Ribera del Duero, pairing several wines with tapas that highlight their flavors. It’s perfect for those new to wine or wanting to sharpen their palate, learning about the soil and climate factors that influence the region’s distinctive flavors.
Guests praise the careful selection of wines and the friendly, informative service. It’s suitable for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, educational experience.
Bottom line: An accessible, well-structured way to start understanding Ribera del Duero’s wines in a private setting.
12. Tasting: Reserve Wines (Rioja and Ribera del Duero) + Pairing
Rating: 5/5 (reviews)
Price: $46 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
This tour offers a comparative tasting of reserve wines from Rioja and Ribera del Duero, including 4 wines and tapas. You’ll learn about aging techniques and terroir differences that give each region its unique character. The pairing enhances the experience, translating wine into delicious bites.
Reviewers appreciate the insightful commentary and the intimate setting, making it ideal for those wanting to develop their wine palate.
Bottom line: Best for serious wine lovers wanting an educational comparison of Spain’s top red wine regions.
13. To the Ribera del Duero: Guided visit to discover the monuments of the Duero
Rating: Not specified
Price: $14 per person
Duration: 2 hours
This cultural tour explores the monuments of Soria, including San Juan de Duero monastery, San Polo, and San Saturio Hermitage. It’s an excellent way to combine history, architecture, and nature along the banks of the Duero River. The walk is relaxed but packed with informative commentary about the sites’ significance.
Ideal for history buffs or those seeking a more leisurely, scenic experience that complements the region’s wine and culinary tours.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in Soria’s architecture and natural beauty, providing a cultural counterbalance to the region’s wine tours.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Castile and Leon
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re passionate about gastronomy, the ham masterclass offers a memorable deep dive into Spain’s culinary heritage. For wine lovers, options vary from vineyard visits and barrel tastings to full-day wine tours from Madrid.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the traditional winery experience, while those wanting a luxury experience might choose the private La Granja tour.
Timing is also key: summer offers great outdoor activities like the e-bike tour, and early booking is recommended for popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
From immersive ham masterclasses and intimate vineyard tastings to scenic flights and historic site visits, Castile and Leon offers a diverse array of tours to match any travel style. If you’re a food lover, the ham and wine experiences will satisfy your palate and curiosity. History buffs will appreciate private tours of La Granja and the monuments of Soria. And for those seeking a thrill, the aerial flight provides a once-in-a-lifetime view of the landscape.
We recommend choosing based on your main interests, budget, and available time. For a well-rounded trip, combining a wine tasting with a visit to La Granja or exploring historic monuments can give you a full picture of the region’s heritage and flavors. Book early, especially for the most popular tours, and enjoy every moment of your journey through Castile and Leon.
