Architectural Rioja Wine Tour: Marqués de Riscal & Ysios (Bilbao)

About this experience

Discover the perfect introduction to Rioja by exploring both its legendary wineries and its exciting new generation of winemakers. Visit three contrasting wineries, including the architectural icons Marqués de Riscal and Ysios, plus a family-run boutique winery where you'll experience Rioja's modern wine movement. Taste at least 8 exceptional wines, from world-famous labels to small-production gems, while learning about the region's history, terroir, and winemaking traditions. Complete your day in the medieval village of Laguardia, where you'll enjoy a light tapas lunch, stroll its charming cobbled streets, and capture unforgettable photos of vineyards, spectacular architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. A perfect blend of iconic wineries, authentic culture, and unforgettable scenery.

What to expect

1. Stop 1

   The tour starts from Bilbao and includes a scenic drive along the dramatic ridge of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains on our way to the Rioja wine region — a beautiful journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

2. Stop 2 · 1h 30min

   Marqués de Riscal is one of Rioja’s most historic and influential wineries, founded in 1858 and known for combining tradition with bold innovation. Taste 4 wines Its wines helped put Rioja on the world map, and today the estate is instantly recognisable thanks to the spectacular titanium-and-steel hotel designed by Frank Gehry. During your complete guided visit, you’ll explore one of the region’s pioneering wineries, learn about its winemaking legacy and enjoy a tasting of some of their emblematic wines.

3. Stop 3 · 30min

   Our next stop is Ysios Winery, one of Rioja's most iconic architectural landmarks. Designed by the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, its striking wave-shaped roof mirrors the Sierra de Cantabria mountains, making it one of the most photographed wineries in the world. We will step inside the winery to discover the story behind its remarkable design, learn about its architecture, and enjoy a tasting of one of Ysios' most iconic wines.

4. Stop 4 · 1h

   The last winery takes us to Javier San Pedro Ortega, a family-run boutique winery representing the new wave of Rioja winemakers. Here, you'll discover how a new generation is redefining the region by combining tradition with innovation and a strong focus on terroir. The experience concludes with a guided tasting of four wines, perfectly paired with a selection of local Rioja appetizers, offering an authentic taste of the region's modern winemaking scene.

5. Stop 5 · 1h 30min

   Our tour concludes with a light tapas lunch in Laguardia, one of Spain's most beautiful medieval villages. Stroll through its charming cobbled streets and soak up the atmosphere as you enjoy a selection of traditional local tapas, the perfect ending to a day discovering the very best of Rioja.

Tour & ticket options

Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

Meeting & pickup

• The meeting point is in front of the Guggenheim museum where the big red stop for the Bilbao city view Hop-on Hop-off bus is located (by the tourist information point). You will see it easy as it is in front of Islares restaurant and very close to the Puppy flower sculpture designed by Jeff Koons.

End point

• The meeting point is in front of the Guggenheim museum where the big red stop for the Bilbao city view Hop-on Hop-off bus is located (by the tourist information point). You will see it easy as it is in front of Islares restaurant and very close to the Puppy flower sculpture designed by Jeff Koons.

Before you go

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.