From Bilbao: La Rioja a journey to the vineyards & tradition

Exploring Spain’s renowned wine region of La Rioja becomes a memorable experience with this 9-hour guided tour departing from Bilbao. For a reasonable price, you’ll visit two carefully selected wineries, enjoy wine tastings and appetizers, and stroll through the historic streets of Laguardia. The tour offers a well-rounded taste of vineyard scenery, medieval architecture, and local winemaking traditions, making it ideal for those eager to combine cultural discovery with wine appreciation.

The tour is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights of Rioja Alavesa without the hassle of planning. It includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and all necessary tickets and entry fees. While it does not cover lunch or hotel pickups, the journey offers plenty of authentic experiences in a compact timeframe. The tour suits those comfortable with moderate walking and who enjoy learning about wine and medieval villages.

Key Points

• Duration: 9 hours, with multiple stops around La Rioja and Laguardia
• Includes: Visits to 2 unique wineries, wine tastings, and local appetizers
• Departure points: Outside Meliá Bilbao or Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao at 09:20 or 09:30
• Visit: The historic village of Laguardia, known for its medieval walled streets and underground wineries
• Transport: Comfortable minivan or bus, depending on group size
• Not included: Lunch, hotel transfers, or additional snacks beyond the tasting

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Starting from Bilbao: Convenient Meeting Points Near Your Hotel

The tour begins outside Meliá Bilbao at 09:20 or outside Sercotel Coliseo Bilbao at 09:30. Both meeting points are on the street next to the hotel entrances, so no need to go inside. This setup offers flexibility for travelers staying in central Bilbao. It’s important to arrive on time, as missing the departure means missing the entire experience with no option for a late join.

The transportation included is round-trip, with a 75-minute drive to Rioja Alavesa and a 40-minute return journey. The overall schedule is structured to maximize time at each location while allowing for a relaxed pace.

Touring the Vineyards: Visits to Two Authentic Wineries

The focus of this tour is on quality, traditional wineries that showcase unique winemaking techniques. The first stop is a charming, traditional winery where visitors learn about the winemaking process firsthand. You’ll taste some of their best wines directly from the lands, gaining insight into what makes Rioja wines special.

The second winery visit takes place in Laguardia, where more than 300 underground wineries carved beneath the village streets tell a story of centuries of winemaking. Entering one of these underground cellars, you get a glimpse of the medieval craftsmanship and local traditions that have shaped the region. The guided tour here offers an authentic look into wine production and regional history.

Exploring Laguardia: A Medieval Village Full of Character

Laguardia is the highlight for history and architecture lovers. The walled village features narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and coats of arms that tell tales of long ago. The walk through its historic center lasts around 45 minutes, but the charm of medieval walls and doorways leaves a lasting impression.

The guided tour of Laguardia includes visits to its most iconic corners and an opportunity to see the underground wineries for a close look at winemaking within medieval stone. Free time follows, giving visitors around two hours to enjoy lunch in the village, explore more, or visit local shops. Note that lunch is not included but plenty of local eateries are available.

Tasting Experiences: Wines, Appetizers, and Local Snacks

At each winery visit, wine tastings are included, allowing you to savor regional varieties directly from the producer. The first winery offers an exquisite tasting of their best wines, while in Laguardia, you also enjoy local snacks or appetizers alongside the wines.

These tastings emphasize the authentic flavors of Rioja wines, complemented by appetizers that enhance the experience. The guide provides context about each wine’s origin, grape varieties, and pairing suggestions, enriching your understanding of Rioja’s winemaking craftsmanship.

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Flexible Schedule and Pacing

The tour’s itinerary balances organized visits with free time for personal exploration. After the guided Laguardia tour and tasting, travelers have around 2 hours to enjoy lunch, shop, or simply soak up the medieval atmosphere. The schedule includes a 75-minute drive to Rioja Alavesa, time at wineries, and a 40-minute return trip, making the overall day comfortable for most.

While the timing is generally reliable, the order of visits may vary on some dates for operational reasons. The guided tours are conducted in both Spanish and English, ensuring clarity regardless of language preference.

Practical Considerations: Accessibility and Comfort

This tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility problems or those who walk slowly, as the walking involved at Laguardia and the wineries is moderate. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended due to cobbled streets and winery tours.

Passengers are asked to bring their passport, and no food or drinks are allowed in the vehicle. The tour limits pets to assistance animals only, and smoking, vaping, glass objects, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are prohibited for safety reasons.

Cost and Value for the Experience

The tour covers all necessary tickets and entry fees, plus transportation and a bilingual guide. The wine tastings and local appetizers are included in the price, offering good value for a day that combines cultural exploration with wine appreciation. Since lunch is not included, travelers can choose a preferred spot in Laguardia, adding flexibility to their experience.

Enhancing Your La Rioja Visit

This tour makes it easy to enjoy La Rioja’s vineyards and medieval charm in a single day. It’s especially suitable for wine enthusiasts and those interested in historic villages. The knowledgeable guides and well-structured itinerary ensure an engaging experience, even if you’re unfamiliar with Rioja wine.

However, the tour may not be ideal for families with young children under 5, or those with mobility impairments, given the walking involved. It also requires timely arrivals to avoid missing out on the scheduled activities.

La Rioja from Bilbao: A Well-Balanced Day of Wine and History

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Rioja’s vineyards and medieval architecture all within a comfortable timeframe. The two winery visits are thoughtfully chosen to highlight traditional winemaking techniques and regional flavors, while the walk through Laguardia provides cultural richness.

The inclusive guiding and round-trip transportation make it a hassle-free way to experience Spain’s premier wine region. It’s perfect for wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Rioja without long drives or complicated planning.

While lunch is not included, the free time in Laguardia allows for a personalized meal experience, whether you prefer local tapas or a sit-down restaurant. The flexible schedule and bilingual guides ensure an informative and enjoyable day, leaving visitors with lasting memories of vineyard sceneries and medieval streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included, with stops at Rioja Alavesa and Laguardia.

Can I join with children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years, but older children who can walk and sit through the schedule can participate.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is free time in Laguardia to explore and dine at local restaurants.

What should I bring?
Bring passport, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. No food or drinks in the vehicle, and smoking is prohibited.

Are the tours conducted in English?
Yes, the tours are bilingual in Spanish and English.

What if I am late or need to cancel?
Please arrive on time; late arrivals cannot be accommodated. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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