La Rioja A Journey Through Vineyards and Tradition

If you’re considering a day trip from Bilbao that combines scenic beauty, history, and, of course, wine, this tour through La Rioja might just be the perfect match. Although I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve read plenty of reviews and examined the itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed for those who want a relaxed yet immersive experience of Spain’s most famous wine region without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What really caught my eye are the stunning vineyard landscapes and the opportunity to visit a medieval village with underground wineries—these are the kind of sights that make you want to stop, breathe, and appreciate the craftsmanship behind every glass of wine. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured; if you’re not a big fan of walking or moving at a set pace, it might be worth considering how this suits your style.

This tour is a solid pick for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone craving a taste of rural Spain with beautiful views. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to learn about winemaking techniques like carbonic maceration or simply enjoy wandering charming old towns. Now, let’s get into the details so you know exactly what to expect.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes the long day manageable.
• Visits to two distinct wineries provide insight into traditional and innovative winemaking.
• Stunning vineyard views are a highlight, perfect for photo lovers.
• The charming medieval village of Laguardia offers a picturesque setting for exploration.
• Wine tastings included give a real taste of the region’s best.
• Free time for lunch allows you to soak in the atmosphere and pick a spot that suits your taste.

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 9:30am, with pickup at a designated meeting point in Bilbao. You’ll be riding comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan or bus, which is a huge plus considering the nearly 9-hour duration. The group size can be up to 50 people, but more often than not, you’ll be in a smaller, more manageable group. This makes it easier to ask questions, hear the guide, and feel less like just another face in a crowd.

First Stop: Banos de Rioja

Your first destination is a traditional winery in Banos de Rioja, a place dripping with history and charm. Here, you’re invited to walk through the vineyards—experiencing the outdoors and the smells of ripe grapes—before the actual tour begins. The guide will share stories that connect you to generations of winemakers, giving you a sense of why this region’s wine is so special.

This stop is about an outdoor vineyard walk, which is perfect for those who enjoy fresh air and scenic views. It lasts about an hour, and since the admission is free, it’s an easy way to start the day on a relaxed note. From the reviews, we know visitors appreciated the “good explanations” and the chance to see a winery that’s full of history and character.

Second Stop: Laguardia

Next, you’ll venture to Laguardia, a village that’s practically a postcard. This medieval walled town is packed with narrow streets, ancient architecture, and a palpable sense of history. Here, you’ll visit an underground winery—one of over 300 in the region—which is a highlight for many travelers. These underground cellars, carved into the earth, keep the wine at ideal conditions and showcase a different aspect of Rioja’s winemaking tradition.

This part of the trip offers a close-up look at how regional wines are produced, especially with a focus on carbonic maceration—a technique that results in vibrant, fruity wines. You’ll get to taste some of their best offerings, which many reviews describe as “authentic and flavorful.” Expect to spend around 45 minutes exploring this underground world before enjoying a tasting.

Free Time in Laguardia

After the winery visits, you’ll have some free time to explore Laguardia further or grab lunch. Since lunch isn’t included, this is your chance to try local taverns or cafés, soaking in the village’s atmosphere. It’s a lovely opportunity to stroll the streets, visit local shops, or just sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy the scenery.

Final Reflections

The tour wraps up back at the starting point in Bilbao, making it a convenient day trip. The entire experience, including travel, visits, and tastings, is designed to give you a balanced view of La Rioja’s landscape, tradition, and modern winemaking.

Practical Aspects and What They Mean for You

• Price: At $90.07 per person, the cost covers transportation, two winery visits with tastings, and a local guide. Considering the full day and the quality of experiences, this offers good value—especially when you factor in the scenic views and cultural insights.
• Guides and Languages: The tour is operated with bilingual guides (Spanish & English), making it accessible for many travelers. The reviews highlight engaging explanations that add a lot to the experience.
• Timing & Pacing: The 9-hour schedule includes travel time, so pace yourself if you prefer a more relaxed day. The tour runs rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.
• Group Size: While groups can be up to 50, they tend to be smaller, which is better for interaction and comfort.
• Accessibility: Sadly, this tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility challenges due to walking and uneven streets.

What Others Are Saying

One reviewer called it a “fabulous day,” appreciating the visit to two wineries—La Emperatriz and La Fábula—and praised the guide Borja for his “good explanations.” The consistent praise for the views and the experience of the underground winery shows how memorable these moments are. The fact that the tour is highly rated (5 stars from one review) suggests that those who enjoy wine, history, and pretty villages will find this trip quite satisfying.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love wine and want to learn more about how it’s made in a region known for its vineyards, this tour is a no-brainer. It’s also ideal if you enjoy walking through charming towns and seeing centuries-old architecture. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for travelers who are okay with a full day of activity and some walking, but who don’t mind a structured schedule.

Final Thoughts

This La Rioja tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic views, cultural insights, and wine tastings—all within a manageable, well-organized package. The combination of picturesque villages, underground cellars, and traditional wineries makes it a memorable experience for anyone curious about Spain’s wine tradition. The inclusion of free time for lunch gives you some flexibility to make the most of Laguardia’s charming streets.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to explore La Rioja’s vineyards without the hassle of planning, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially good for those who appreciate authentic experiences—where history and taste go hand-in-hand.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not designed with children in mind, especially since it involves some walking and older-style underground wineries. However, if children are comfortable with walking and short tours, they could enjoy the scenic views and village strolls.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation (air-conditioned minivan or bus), guided visits, and tastings at two wineries. Lunch is not included, so you’ll need to arrange that yourself.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 9 hours, including travel time, visits, and free time. The actual sightseeing stops are around 2-2.5 hours total.

Are the tours bilingual?
Yes, the excursions are in both Spanish and English, usually with a multi-lingual guide.

What should I bring?
Bring your EU ID or non-EU passport, comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps some cash or card for lunch or souvenirs. Also, check if you have any food restrictions and inform the guide at the start.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start. Full refunds are available if you cancel early.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, the tour goes ahead regardless of weather, so dress accordingly and bring an umbrella if needed.

What’s the group size usually like?
Groups can be up to 50, but they tend to be smaller, making it easier to interact with the guide.

Is this tour good for a first-time visitor to La Rioja?
Absolutely. It’s a beginner-friendly way to see key sights, learn about winemaking, and enjoy beautiful scenery without the need to organize anything yourself.

How scenic are the views?
Expect gorgeous vineyard vistas, especially around Banos de Rioja and in Laguardia, which are often praised as some of the most beautiful parts of the region.

If you’re craving a combo of stunning landscapes, traditional wine culture, and medieval charm, this tour from Bilbao is definitely worth considering. It strikes a nice balance between guided insights and free exploration, making it a practical choice for a memorable day outside the city.