Bilbao is famous for its bold architecture, lively pintxo bars, and its role as a gateway to Basque cuisine and wine. But did you know the city also offers some truly memorable lunch experiences that blend scenery, local flavors, and cultural insights? We’re especially fond of the Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour because it combines stunning winery architecture with a delicious tapas lunch, making it a favorite for both wine lovers and architecture buffs. Or consider the La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch, which offers a more intimate exploration of Rioja’s traditional and modern wines, capped with a sit-down meal in a medieval village. Whether you’re after a wine-focused day, a scenic hike with pintxos, or a private tour with personalized touches, Bilbao has options that suit all interests and budgets.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best lunch experiences in Bilbao, with tours ranging from full-day wine adventures to scenic hikes combined with regional snacks. Each offers something unique, so read on to find your perfect match.
1. Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao
At number 1 on our list, this small-group tour takes you inside the famous Rioja region’s most architecturally stunning wineries, Marques de Riscal and Ysios. Designed by Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava respectively, these wineries are as much about design as they are about wine. You’ll taste three wines at Marques de Riscal, and if Ysios is open, enjoy a guided visit with a tasting of two remarkable wines, often paired with Iberian ham. The tour includes a local tapas lunch in Laguardia, giving you a taste of Basque flavors in a charming medieval setting. With a 5.0 rating from 114 reviews, guests love the blend of architecture, wine, and regional cuisine. It’s a well-organized experience perfect for those seeking a luxurious but authentic day out.
Bottom Line: If you want a photo-worthy experience that combines architecture, wine, and local food, this tour offers exceptional value at around $284.46 per person. It’s ideal for design enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.
2. La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch
This tour is a perfect choice for those wanting a more intimate experience. capped at seven participants, it offers a deep dive into Rioja’s traditional and modern wineries. You’ll visit two top-rated wineries, taste up to seven wines, and enjoy a generous picnic lunch amid the vineyards and medieval villages of Laguardia. Reviewers praise the tour guide Irene’s extensive knowledge and the opportunity to explore boutique wineries with personal touch. The tour lasts about eight hours and costs $267.46 per person, making it a good value considering the number of tastings and included lunch.
Bottom Line: Best suited for gourmets and wine aficionados wanting a relaxed, personal day with excellent wine tasting and a picnic lunch in a beautiful setting.
3. Hike Gaztelugatxe, Fishing Port Bermeo & Pintxo Lunch from Bilbao
For a combination of nature and regional food, this 4-5 hour tour offers a memorable adventure. You’ll hike San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a dramatic island fortress made famous by “Game of Thrones,” then explore the fishing village of Bermeo. The highlight is a pintxos lunch—small Basque tapas—paired with wine, beer, or cider. It’s a great way to combine physical activity with authentic local dining. Reviewers note the tough but rewarding hike and the scenic beauty of the Basque coast.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to experience nature, culture, and food in a half-day outing, at $143.30 per person.
4. A Sip-By-Sip Tour of 3 Boutique Rioja Family Wineries (Private Tour with Lunch)
This private tour is tailored for wine enthusiasts who want an intimate and personalized experience. Visiting three different family-run wineries, you’ll sample a variety of Rioja wines, many with high ratings like 90+ points. The tour includes a relaxing lunch, often in a scenic setting, and the flexibility to customize your day. Guests love the personal attention and the chance to learn about Rioja’s diverse winemaking styles directly from the families behind the wines. Price is higher at $474.33 per person, but the personalized experience and private transport deliver real value.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious wine lovers who want a flexible, private experience with multiple tastings and an authentic, behind-the-scenes look.
5. Marques de Riscal and Ysios Rioja Wine Tour w/ Lunch from Bilbao
This full-day tour combines visits to two of Rioja’s most architecturally iconic wineries—Marques de Riscal and Ysios—plus a three-course Rioja lunch. You’ll enjoy a full guided tour of Marques de Riscal, rated as the world’s second-best winery, with tastings of three wines, and explore Ysios, famous for its futuristic design, with two premium wine tastings paired with cheese and cold meats. The tour provides a well-rounded experience of Rioja’s modern architecture and high-end wines for about $326.38. Reviews mention the spectacular buildings and the quality wines.
Bottom Line: Ideal for architecture fans and wine connoisseurs wanting a comprehensive, all-included day with gourmet food.
6. Full Rioja Wine Tour with Lunch from Bilbao Private Tour
For those seeking a luxurious, private experience, this tour covers three top Rioja wineries with tastings, plus a traditional lunch in Laguardia. The itinerary includes visits to bodegas in Haro, Samaniego, and Laguardia, along with a guided tour and wine tastings of specific renowned wines. The private transport and personalized service make it a fantastic option for couples or groups. The cost is $420.62 per person, reflecting its exclusive nature.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want privacy and tailor-made experiences, especially wine lovers eager to explore Rioja’s finest wineries.
7. Private La Rioja Day: Visit 2 Premium Wineries with Lunch
This half-day private tour features visits to two premium wineries with 8 wine tastings and a light pintxos lunch in a medieval village. It’s perfect if your time is limited but you still want a personalized, high-quality wine day. Guests highlight the knowledgeable guide Mateo and the delicious wine and food pairing. The tour lasts around 8 hours and costs $352 per person, including transportation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts looking for exclusivity and a relaxed pace.
8. Private Workshop Preparation of Pintxos with Lunch in Bilbao
This hands-on pintxos-making workshop in Bilbao is a fun, interactive way to learn about Basque cuisine. You’ll learn to prepare 4 traditional skewers, guided by a passionate chef, in a relaxed setting in the old town. The tour lasts about 2 hours and includes a delicious lunch with your creations. Reviewers call it “a great time” and praise the informative, friendly instructor. It costs $112.92 per person and is perfect for foodies who want an authentic culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to learn culinary skills and enjoy a casual, fun local experience.
9. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe with Winery Visit and Lunch (From Bilbao)
This tour offers the chance to hike San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, visit the hermitage made famous by “Game of Thrones,” then enjoy a pintxos lunch and a wine tasting of Txakoli. The 6-7 hour experience includes tickets to Gaztelugatxe, a scenic drive, and a family-owned winery. Critics appreciate the combination of nature, culture, and food. It is a balanced day for active travelers at $269.40.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers who want a full day exploring coastal scenery, historic sites, and regional wines.
10. Full-day private Bilbao tour (Guggenheim museum & full pintxo lunch included)
If you want a rundown of Bilbao, this private 5-hour tour hits the highlights, including the Guggenheim Museum and the 13th-century Casco Viejo. The tour is customizable, and you’ll enjoy a local pintxo lunch included in the price of $289.20. Guests praise the personalized service and the insider insights that make this tour stand out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors seeking a curated, flexible experience that covers art, history, and food.
11. Rioja Wine Tour: Winery & Traditional Lunch From Bilbao
This full-day trip explores Laguardia and the Rioja wine region with visits to a local winery and a traditional La Rioja lunch. It combines guided wine tastings with authentic regional cuisine, with a focus on learning about Rioja’s winemaking tradition. Rated highly for its informative tours and delicious food, at $288.10 it offers good value for a full day.
Bottom Line: Great for wine novices and food lovers wanting a comprehensive but relaxed Rioja experience.
12. Private Tour: Hondarribia & San Sebastian with Lunch from Bilbao
Combine coast and cuisine with this private day trip. You’ll explore Hondarribia’s colorful port, then walk through San Sebastian’s Old Town, finishing with a pintxos tour. Rated 5 stars, guests appreciate the personalized attention and local insights. The 9-hour journey costs $346.59 and is perfect for those wanting a full, personalized Basque experience.
Bottom Line: Best for foodies and culture lovers who want a tailored, scenic day.
13. Bilbao All Iron Tour: Guggenheim and San Mamés with Lunch
This 5-hour tour blends modern architecture and sports culture. You’ll see San Mamés Stadium and the Guggenheim, along with a gourmet lunch. It’s suited for fans of architecture and football alike, with reviews noting the informative guides and the unique combination of sights and food. The price is $283 per person.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sports fans and art lovers wanting a focused, fun experience.
14. San Sebastian Full-Day Tour with Cider House Lunch
This small-group tour takes you from Bilbao to San Sebastian and the Basque cider houses. You’ll stroll the Old Town, La Concha, and visit a traditional cider house for a hearty, regional lunch with cider. Reviewers highlight the authentic atmosphere and delicious food. The 7-hour trip costs $248.63, making it a great choice for gourmets.
Bottom Line: A top pick for culinary travelers seeking a relaxed day exploring both the city and its cider culture.
How to Choose Your Ideal Lunch Experience in Bilbao
When selecting among these lunch tours, consider your interests: are you after wine and architecture? Then the Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour is a winner. If you prefer a more personal touch and boutique wineries, the private Sip-By-Sip tour offers tailored tastings. For active explorers, the Gaztelugatxe hike paired with pintxos balances exercise and regional flavor. Budget-conscious travelers might favor the pintxo workshop or the full-day private tours with meals included. Always check reviews, especially for guides, as personal stories can make or break your experience. Booking early is wise during peak seasons, and many tours include transportation, making your planning simpler.
Wrapping Up
From luxury architecture-focused wine tours to scenic coastal hikes with regional snacks, Bilbao offers a wide variety of lunch experiences. For a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and scenery, options like the Architectural Rioja Small Group Wine Tour or the Boutique Rioja Wine Tour stand out. If you’re after something more active and casual, the Gaztelugatxe hike with pintxos is hard to beat.
No matter what your style or budget, you’ll find a memorable way to enjoy Basque cuisine and wine. Just remember to book early—these popular experiences fill up quickly, especially in high season. Bon appétit and cheers to your Bilbao adventure!
