Bilbao’s best shopping experiences combine local market culture with authentic Basque flavors. The standout is the La Ribera Market tour, which I love for its no-nonsense approach to food shopping and excellent pintxos tastings. It’s the perfect way to understand local market culture while sampling regional specialties.
For a broader shopping adventure, the San Sebastian day trip offers tremendous value, mixing shopping in the Old Town with stops at La Concha Beach and an unforgettable visit to a family cheese farm. The Idiazabal cheese tasting alone makes this worth your time.
Let’s explore the top shopping tours worth your euros in Bilbao.
Key Points
- The CERTAL Exclusive Tour in Bilbao offers a comprehensive gastronomic experience, with a focus on exploring the local La Ribera Market and gastrobars.
- The San Sebastian Tour from Bilbao includes a visit to the Comb of the Wind sculpture and a tasting of Idiazabal cheese and local cider.
- The San Sebastian Tour is a family-friendly option, with opportunities for kids to interact with farm animals.
- Both the San Sebastian Tour and the CERTAL Exclusive Tour have high ratings, with the latter praised for the guide’s expertise and engaging personality.
- The tours offer convenient booking options, including the ability to reserve now and pay later, making them accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Visit San Sebastian and a Family Cheese Farm With Tasting (From Bilbao)
From Bilbao, this small group tour takes visitors to explore the charming city of San Sebastian and a family-run cheese farm. Accommodating a maximum of 12 participants, the tour provides pickup and drop-off in Bilbao, near the iconic Guggenheim Museum.
In San Sebastian, guests will wander through the Old Town, stroll along the picturesque La Concha Beach, and admire the unique Comb of the Wind sculpture.
At the family cheese farm, they’ll enjoy a tasting of the renowned Idiazabal cheese, made from Oveja Latxa sheep. The experience also includes local cider tastings and opportunities for kids to interact with farm animals, making it a family-friendly outing.
Priced from $262.70 per person, the tour includes all fees, bottled water, snacks, and a selection of cheeses. With a perfect 5.0-star rating and free cancellation, this tour offers a delightful blend of culture, gastronomy, and countryside exploration.
Read our full review: Visit San Sebastian and a Family Cheese Farm With Tasting (From Bilbao) Review
Book now: Check availability
From Bilbao: San Sebastian and Basque Cheese Farm Tour
Departing from the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, this 7-hour small-group tour invites travelers on a captivating exploration of San Sebastian and a family-owned Idiazabal cheese farm.
Priced at $193.40 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
During the interactive experience, a shepherd leads participants through the cheese-making process and the importance of sheep grazing in Basque valleys.
Visitors can indulge in a tasting of the exclusive Idiazabal cheese, paired with local cider or wine, in a traditional Basque txoko lounge.
The tour also includes a walking exploration of San Sebastian, where travelers can discover hidden gems and capture stunning views from Monte Igueldo and the Comb Of The Wind sculpture.
With a small group limited to 7 participants, the tour provides a personalized and immersive journey through the Basque region’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.
Read our full review: From Bilbao: San Sebastian and Basque Cheese Farm Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
CERTAL Exclusive Tour: LA RIBERA Market + GASTROBARS Bilbao (3h)
Inviting travelers on an exclusive three-hour culinary excursion, the CERTAL Tour BILBAO explores the vibrant La Ribera Market and local gastrobars in Bilbao.
Priced from $75.06 per person, this small-group tour has a maximum of 8 participants and includes two pintxos (Basque tapas) and one drink as snacks, as well as lunch and dinner.
The tour starts at 11:30 am in Arriaga Plaza, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine and culture.
Guided by the knowledgeable Beatrice, you will learn about the region’s culinary traditions and have the chance to interact with local vendors.
The tour culminates back at the meeting point, providing a comprehensive gastronomic experience.
With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 7 reviews, the CERTAL Exclusive Tour has been praised for Beatrice’s expertise and engaging personality.
Travelers can conveniently book this tour with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: CERTAL Exclusive Tour: LA RIBERA Market + GASTROBARS Bilbao (3h) Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Cost of the Shopping Tours?
The average cost of shopping tours in Bilbao typically ranges from €25 to €50 per person, depending on the length, inclusions, and number of participants. Many tours offer discounts for larger groups or combined experiences.
Do the Tours Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
The shopping tours generally accommodate special dietary requirements. Many tour operators offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to the needs of all participants. Visitors should inquire about the available options when booking their tour.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children and Families?
The shopping tours in Bilbao are generally family-friendly and suitable for children. Many tours offer activities and accommodations to cater to the needs of families, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
What Is the Duration of the Shopping Tours?
The duration of the shopping tours typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the specific itinerary and the pace of the group. Many tours offer flexibility to accommodate the needs of families and children.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
The shopping tours can often be customized to individual preferences. Many tour operators offer the flexibility to tailor the itinerary and duration to suit the specific needs and interests of each customer.
Recap
Bilbao offers a range of shopping tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s vibrant markets, sample local cheeses, and experience the Basque culture. These tours provide a unique opportunity to take in the region’s rich culinary heritage and discover its hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in visiting San Sebastian, a family cheese farm, or the bustling La Ribera market, Bilbao has something to offer for every shopping enthusiast.