The Award-Winning Bilbao Food Tour & Wine Pairing by Basque Local

If you’re considering a food-focused adventure in Bilbao, this highly acclaimed tour might just be what you’re looking for. With a perfect 5-star rating from over 800 reviews, it’s clear that travelers find it memorable—and for good reason. This tour promises a genuine taste of Basque pintxos, paired with local wines, all while walking through the city’s historic Old Town.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it’s led by knowledgeable guides who share stories that bring Bilbao’s streets and food culture alive. Second, the quality of the food and drinks—from award-winning pintxos to carefully selected wines—gets consistently high praise. But, as with any experience, there are a few things to keep in mind, like the fact that it’s a walking tour in a busy city setting, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet immersive way to get to know Bilbao’s culinary traditions and vibrant nightlife. If you’re a foodie eager to learn how to order pintxos confidently or craving a social evening with fellow travelers, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• It’s a guided walking tour through Bilbao’s old town, ideal for exploring on foot.
• Includes 5 stops where you sample 1-2 pintxos and enjoy drinks like wine, beer, or cider.
• The tour offers an insider’s perspective on Bilbao’s food scene and history, making it more than just a tasting.
• It’s a three-hour experience that combines food, drinks, and cultural stories, providing good value.
• Booking in advance is recommended, typically about 45 days ahead due to its popularity.
• It’s not suitable for vegans or vegetarians, but there are options for pescatarians and gluten-intolerant guests, depending on the bar.

What to Expect from the Bilbao Food & Wine Tour

This tour is a wonderful way to dive into the Basque culinary culture without the hassle of figuring out where to go on your own. We loved the way it balances food, drink, and storytelling—making each stop a chance to learn something new about Bilbao’s history and local eating habits.

The tour kicks off at San Nikolas eliza, a charming spot in the old town, where your guide will meet you and set the tone for the evening. From there, you spend about three hours walking through narrow streets, soaking in sights, sounds, and smells that instantly connect you to Bilbao’s soul. You’ll visit a mix of modern and historic bars, offering a varied experience that showcases both old traditions and contemporary twists.

The Stops and Their Charm

The first stop, in the heart of Casco Viejo, is where the guide will demonstrate the art of ordering pintxos. You’ll get a hands-on lesson on how to navigate menus and order these tiny, flavorful bites with confidence. The guide also orders special pintxos—some of which might not even be on the menu—giving you a taste of what’s possible in Bilbao’s vibrant bar scene.

Throughout the evening, you’ll sample award-winning pintxos—some that have gained recognition in local competitions—paired with local wines or beers. A standout is the quality of the wine selection, which complements the rich flavors of the food. Many reviews mention how the wines and ciders are carefully chosen to enhance each bite.

One frequent highlight, echoed by numerous travelers, is the knowledgeable guide who shares stories about Bilbao’s streets and Basque culture. One reviewer noted, “Olaia is a local from Bilbao and her knowledge and enthusiasm made the evening so special.” Her ability to weave in history and cultural insights adds depth to what could otherwise be just a string of tastings.

The Food Quality and Variety

Participants consistently praise the quality of the pintxos—from traditional favorites to innovative creations that have won awards. The tour includes 1-2 pintxos at each of five bars, giving you an excellent variety. Some of these spots are very old, steeped in history, while others are more modern, reflecting Bilbao’s evolving culinary scene.

Guests also love the wine and drink pairings. Options include red and white wines, beer, cider, and even water, catering to different preferences. Several reviews mention the excellent wine, noting that it’s well paired with the food and adds to the overall experience.

The Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

The tour typically hosts small groups, with a maximum of 12 travelers, which keeps things intimate and friendly. Many reviews talk about the social aspect—meeting people from around the world, enjoying the company, and sharing stories over a glass of wine. One review described the experience as a “fun social experience with several small groups combined,” which shows how it fosters camaraderie.

Accessibility and Practicalities

This experience is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received instantly upon booking. It’s located near public transportation and doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly. The tour begins at a central location, making it easy to access from most accommodations in Bilbao.

While the tour isn’t recommended for vegans or vegetarians, it does cater well to pescatarians and those with gluten sensitivities—especially since the guide and bars are aware of dietary needs, with reviewers mentioning that Olaia, the guide, often ensures options are available for different diets.

Price and Value Analysis

At around $119 per person, this tour offers a good balance of food, drinks, guided storytelling, and cultural insights. Considering it includes five stops with 1-2 pintxos each plus five drinks, the value is quite strong. The full dinner aspect—since you come hungry and leave satisfied—adds to the value, especially when paired with the knowledgeable guidance.

Many reviewers highlight that this is an excellent first-day activity because it gives you a quick yet authentic overview of Bilbao’s gastronomy and helps you discover where to return later for more pintxos. If you’re a foodie who loves tasting and learning, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy food, wine, and cultural stories woven into a relaxed walking adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who want to get a feel for Bilbao’s vibrant old town while sampling the very best of Basque pintxos. It’s also a solid choice if you prefer small groups and personalized attention, as the limited size makes for a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

While not ideal for vegans or vegetarians, it’s suitable for pescatarians and those who enjoy a good glass of wine paired with quality snacks. If you’re traveling alone, the friendly group setting often makes it easy to connect and make new friends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
It’s not recommended for vegans and vegetarians, but there may be options for pescatarians or those with specific dietary needs. It’s best to advise when booking.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately three hours, during which you’ll visit five bars, sample pintxos, and enjoy drinks.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 45 days ahead due to the tour’s popularity, especially in peak seasons.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a local English-speaking guide, 1-2 pintxos at each of five bars, five drinks (wine, beer, or cider), and the full dinner experience.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour. No formal dress code is required.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the focus on alcohol means it’s best suited for adults.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour—perfect if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, authentic way to explore Bilbao’s culinary landscape, this tour hits all the right notes. It combines delicious pintxos, excellent local wines, and a guide who genuinely loves sharing her knowledge. The small group setting makes it social and welcoming, and the variety of stops ensures you see both historic and modern aspects of Bilbao’s food scene.

While it’s not a vegetarian-friendly experience, if you’re open to tasting a range of traditional Basque snacks and learning about the city’s gastronomy and history, this tour offers fantastic value. It’s especially ideal as an introduction early in your trip, giving you ideas for where to return for more pintxos later on.

This experience stands out because of its high ratings, consistent praise for guides, and the quality of food and drink. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, it’s a wonderful way to spend an evening getting to know Bilbao’s cultural heart through its flavors.

Happy eating and drinking in Bilbao!