Most visitors to Bilbao come for one Frank Gehry building, and this day trip lets you see a second one, in the vineyards. Rioja Alavesa, the part of the Rioja wine country that lies in the Basque province of Álava, starts roughly an hour and a half inland from the city, beyond the mountain passes, and it holds two of Spain’s most photographed wineries. The Marqués de Riscal estate at Elciego is a historic bodega that added a hotel and visitor building designed by Gehry, its titanium ribbons in pink, gold and silver sweeping over the roofline of an old village. Not far away at Laguardia, the Ysios winery by Santiago Calatrava has a long undulating aluminium roof that echoes the silhouette of the Sierra Cantabria behind it. This small-group excursion links the two, adds tastings with the story of how the region makes its wine, and includes lunch, which is the part many people remember best. It is a day for people who like architecture as much as wine, and it works well as a counterpoint to the Guggenheim, because you see how the same architect behaves in a rural setting. Because it is a guided trip from Bilbao, nobody has to drive after tasting.
How the day runs
The excursion leaves from Bilbao and drives south and inland into Rioja Alavesa, with time at each of the two wineries for a guided visit and tastings and a lunch included in the price. Exact pick-up arrangements, departure days and the winery programme can change with the season and the wineries’ own schedules, so check the details for your date when you book rather than assuming a daily departure. Expect a full day, not a half day, with a good part of it spent on the road.
What to look at
At Marqués de Riscal, stand back for the full silhouette of the Gehry building against the old village before you go in, because the ribbons look different from every angle and in different light. At Ysios, the roof is the point, a long wave of metal that is easiest to appreciate from the approach road and the terrace. Inside both, the tastings are an introduction to Rioja styles rather than a masterclass, so go with curiosity rather than expectations of a deep technical session.
Who it suits
Couples and friends who want a change from the city, architecture fans, and anyone who would like a wine experience without the logistics of driving. It is less suited to travellers with small children or those who get carsick on winding roads, and it is not the right choice if you are short of time, because the drive eats a large share of the day. This is the one wine excursion we recommend, so choose it if wine is a priority, and spend your remaining pintxos appetite in the old town of Bilbao or San Sebastián instead.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group day trip from Bilbao to two architect-designed wineries in Rioja Alavesa, with tastings and lunch included.
Best time
Spring and autumn, when the vineyards are green or gold and the roads are quiet, though the trip is possible in other seasons.
How long
A full day, with a long drive each way and unhurried time at the wineries.
Tips
Eat a good breakfast, bring a light layer for cool cellars, and check the departure days for your date when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Architecture lovers and wine drinkers who want the Gehry effect beyond Bilbao.
- Families
- Better for older children and teens than for toddlers, given the long drive and the tastings.
- Couples
- A relaxed day of views, cellars and a long lunch without anyone having to drive.
- Pair with
- A pintxos evening in Bilbao, or a morning at the Guggenheim on another day.
- Time needed
- One full day.
Good questions
Which wineries does this Rioja trip visit?+
The trip links the Marqués de Riscal estate at Elciego, with its Frank Gehry building, and the Ysios winery at Laguardia, designed by Santiago Calatrava. Both are in Rioja Alavesa.
How far is Rioja from Bilbao?+
Rioja Alavesa lies roughly an hour and a half inland from Bilbao by road, so the day involves a fair amount of driving. A guided trip means you do not have to drive after tasting.
Is lunch included?+
Yes, lunch is part of this excursion. Check the details for your date when you book for the exact menu and any dietary options.
Does the excursion run every day?+
Not necessarily. Departure days and winery programmes can change with the season, so check the dates when you book.
Do I need to like wine to enjoy it?+
It helps, but the architecture is a strong draw on its own. Gehry’s building and Calatrava’s roof are worth the trip for design fans even if you only sip.
