Bilbao is a city full of surprises, and its compact size makes it perfect for quick, immersive tours that give you a real taste of its character. With three-hour tours, you can explore Bilbao’s culinary scene, historic neighborhoods, and lively markets without feeling overwhelmed. We especially love the CERTAL Exclusive Tour: LA RIBERA Market + GASTROBARS Bilbao because it combines a local market experience with tasting some of the best Basque bites, all while enjoying the stories behind each dish. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickup and drops off, making it super convenient for travelers.
Another standout is the Bilbao Pintxos Tour: 3-Hour Culinary Adventure all included, which offers an in-depth look at the city’s famed pintxos culture, with plenty of food, drinks, and lively conversation. Both tours showcase Bilbao’s vibrant food scene and are perfect for anyone eager to sample authentic Basque flavors and learn about local ingredients. For those who prefer a more relaxed, focused food experience, these options provide excellent value and plenty of memorable moments.
Below, you’ll find a list of the best 3-hour tours in Bilbao, each with its own unique appeal, so you can pick the one that best fits your interests and travel style.
1. CERTAL Exclusive Tour: LA RIBERA Market + GASTROBARS Bilbao (3h)
At number 1, the CERTAL Exclusive Tour: LA RIBERA Market + GASTROBARS Bilbao offers an authentic dive into Bilbao’s gastronomic scene. Starting with a visit to the bustling Mercado de la Ribera, your guide will introduce you to fresh local produce, including fish, vegetables, and cheeses. This tour is perfect for those who want to understand what makes Basque cuisine so special. As you wander through the market, the guide shares stories about local food customs and regional specialties, making it both a culinary and cultural lesson.
The tour includes trying two pintxos—small Basque snacks—paired with local drinks like cider or Rioja wine. It’s a relaxed, social experience that emphasizes tasting and learning. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the convenience, especially after a day of sightseeing. With a solid 4.5/5 rating based on 9 reviews, many travelers praise Beatrice’s knowledge and engaging style.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into Bilbao’s market culture and local flavors without a long day. It offers excellent value at $68.78 per person and is perfect for food lovers eager to connect with local customs.
2. Bilbao Pintxos Tour: 3-Hour Culinary Adventure all included
Second on our list is the Bilbao Pintxos Tour: 3-Hour Culinary Adventure all included, guided by Adria. This tour takes you through Bilbao’s lively streets, starting at the Palacio de la Diputación on Gran Vía. From there, Adria introduces you to the famous pintxos culture, showcasing a wide range of seafood, meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The tour doesn’t just focus on tasting; it also teaches you about the local ingredients and the stories behind each bar.
What makes this tour stand out is its interactive nature—you’re not just eating, but also learning about Basque ingredients and culinary traditions. The tour includes multiple stops, each offering local wines and drinks, making it a true culinary journey through Bilbao. Reviewers love Adria’s enthusiasm and knowledge, often saying it’s a “must-do” activity. The experience ends back at the starting point, with plenty of food and drink to satisfy any appetite.
Priced at $142.29, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Bilbao’s pintxos culture, making it ideal for foodies who want a lively, social, and educational experience. Reviewers mention that the variety of pintxos and drinks, combined with the engaging guide, makes it one of the best ways to explore Bilbao’s culinary scene.
Bottom line: For those wanting a lively, all-inclusive tasting tour with a knowledgeable guide, this experience offers great value and plenty of memorable bites and insights.
3. How to Choose the Best 3-Hour Tour in Bilbao
When picking your perfect Bilbao food tour, consider your budget, interests, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re keen on a market-focused tour with local produce and a relaxed pace, the CERTAL Exclusive Tour is your best bet. It’s also ideal if hotel pickup and a quieter experience appeal to you.
If you want to fully learn about pintxos culture, enjoy more food and drinks, and learn about local ingredients in a lively atmosphere, the Bilbao Pintxos Tour is a fantastic choice. It’s more extensive and suited for those eager to explore the city’s vibrant pintxos bars with a knowledgeable guide.
Consider your budget as well. The first tour is more affordable at around $68, while the pintxos tour is pricier but includes more stops and food. Also, think about your physical activity level—both tours involve walking, but the Pintxos Tour covers several bars and can be lively.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Both tours operate in the late afternoon or evening, making them perfect for after a day of sightseeing.
4. Final Thoughts
Bilbao’s compact size and rich culinary traditions make it an excellent city for short, focused tours. Whether you prefer the market-centered experience of the CERTAL tour or the pintxos-filled adventure guided by Adria, you’ll come away with new favorites and a deeper understanding of Basque cuisine.
For travelers on a budget or those who want a relaxed, insightful introduction, the CERTAL Exclusive Tour is a top recommendation. If you crave a full, lively tasting experience with multiple stops, the Bilbao Pintxos Tour delivers just that. No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these flavorful, fun-filled Bilbao experiences.
