Haro, Laguardia and two Rioja wineries from Bilbao

If you’re visiting Bilbao and craving a taste of Spain’s renowned wine region, this Haro, Laguardia, and Rioja wineries tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve read enough reviews and tour descriptions to get a solid sense of what it offers. And honestly, it sounds like a well-balanced day for anyone eager to explore La Rioja’s famed vineyards and historic towns without the hassle of planning every detail.

What really appeals is how this tour combines cultural sights and wine tasting—a perfect combo for those who want more than just sipping wine but also to soak in some local charm. The fact that it’s a full-day trip, about 9 hours, means you get a comprehensive experience, yet it still leaves room for free time, especially for lunch. On the flip side, this tour is geared towards those who don’t mind a group setting and potential weather changes, since it runs rain or shine.

If you’re into learning about wine—from centuries-old cellars to modern architectural marvels—or simply enjoy wandering charming old towns, this could be a fitting choice. It’s also a budget-friendly way to tick off a lot in one day, especially if you compare it to booking individual visits and transportation on your own.

Key Points

• Includes visits to historic Haro and Laguardia, with walking tours that reveal both the towns’ charm and history.
• Visits to renowned wineries, including CVNE, with a guided tour of their facilities and tastings paired with cheese and charcuterie.
• Unique sights like the Eiffel-designed barrel room at CVNE and the Frank Gehry-designed Marqués de Riscal hotel.
• Flexible free time for lunch, giving you the chance to explore local eateries or bring your own picnic.
• Small group setting (max 55 travelers), which can make for a more personal experience.
• Cost-effective choice for wine lovers wanting to see and taste some of La Rioja’s best without breaking the bank.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

You’ll meet your group at Mazarredo Zumarkalea in Bilbao around 9:00 am, ready for a day packed with sights, tastes, and stories. This tour clocks in at about 9 hours, which sounds like a lot but is well-paced, especially considering the stops. It’s a good length for those who want to get a feel for the region without dedicating multiple days.

The Haro Experience

Haro kicks things off with a guided visit to a local winery, considered the “wine capital” of Rioja. The tour lasts about an hour and a half and includes a walk through essential winery spaces. The highlight here? The barrel room designed by Gustave Eiffel—yes, the same engineer behind the Eiffel Tower—making this part of the experience visually striking. You’ll also explore underground cellars and get a taste of the region’s winemaking heritage.

The guided walk around Haro itself adds context, letting you soak in the town’s historic vibe. Our reviewer mentioned it’s a charming place with a genuine feel. The combination of the architecture and the stories behind the wineries makes it more than just a tasting stop.

Laguardia: Medieval Charm and Wine

After Haro, the tour continues to Laguardia, a picturesque medieval town encircled by ancient city walls. Expect a walk through narrow, winding streets that feel like stepping back in time. When we read reviews, many praised the town’s stunning views and well-preserved architecture.

The highlight here is a guided visit to a small traditional winery—a more intimate look into local wine-making traditions. The tour here lasts about two and a half hours, including free time for lunch. The break gives you options: you can explore more, grab a local bite, or relax with a glass of Rioja in one of the many charming taverns.

The Marqués de Riscal and Elciego

Before heading back to Bilbao, the tour makes a short stop in Elciego to see the Marqués de Riscal hotel, designed by Frank Gehry. This building is often called a modern architectural masterpiece, and even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth a quick look. The vivid, sculptural design makes for some great photos—something many travelers rave about.

What We Love About This Tour

The combination of history, architecture, and wine is what makes this experience stand out. The visits to historic towns and the chance to taste wines in both traditional and modern settings give a well-rounded perspective of La Rioja. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge helps bring stories and details to life, making the day richer than a simple tasting trip.

We also appreciate the value—the price of $86.90 per person includes guided tours, tastings, and transportation, which is a lot to cover independently for a similar cost. The small group size, max 55 travelers, means you’re not lost in a crowd, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the experience.

The Potential Downsides

While many find this tour fantastic, it’s worth noting that it’s a group experience, so it might not suit travelers craving total flexibility or privacy. The itinerary is set, and although there’s free time for lunch, you’ll need to organize your own meal. Some might find the long day tiring, especially if you’re not used to group bus tours.

Weather could also be a factor—since the tour takes place rain or shine, be prepared for the elements, especially when walking through towns or touring wineries. Also, the tour is primarily aimed at adult travelers interested in wine and culture; it’s not specifically family-friendly, though children with accompanying adults get a 50% discount.

Who Would Love This Experience

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to see La Rioja’s most iconic wineries and towns without the hassle of car rentals or planning. It also suits travelers who appreciate architecture and scenic views—the stops at Eiffel’s barrel room and Gehry’s hotel add visual interest. If you enjoy guided walks and learning about local traditions, this will keep you engaged.

It’s a great choice for those with a full day to spare and a curiosity about Spain’s wine regions, but it might not be the best fit if you prefer private, flexible, or family-oriented trips.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 2-12 can join with two adults and receive a 50% discount. While they may enjoy the scenic towns and architecture, wine tastings and winery visits are geared toward adult interests.

How long is the overall tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at around 9:00 am and returning to Bilbao later in the day.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you can choose to explore local eateries during your free time in Laguardia.

What’s included in the experience?
Guided visits to wineries and towns, tastings paired with cheese and charcuterie, and transportation between stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because you’ll be exploring towns and winery facilities. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Is the guide multilingual?
Most tours are operated by a multilingual guide, which helps if you’re not fluent in Spanish.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel within that window.

All in all, this Haro, Laguardia, and Rioja wineries tour from Bilbao offers a well-rounded, culturally rich experience for those wanting to dive into Spain’s celebrated wine scene. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic walking, architectural marvels, and wine tasting. The price point provides good value for a full day’s exploration, guided by knowledgeable hosts who bring local stories and history to life.

While it’s not a private tour and involves some planning on your part for lunch, the chance to visit historic towns, sip quality wines, and see iconic structures like the Eiffel barrel room makes it worth considering if you’re in Bilbao and want to get a taste of La Rioja’s best.

Ready to explore Rioja’s vineyards and charming towns? This tour could be your perfect day out. Just pack comfortable shoes and an appetite for discovery.