Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What wines will I taste on this northern Spain wine tour?

Accepted Answer

Two distinct regions: world-class Rioja at Marqués de Riscal, from young reds to oak-aged reservas, and Txakoli, the Basque Country's lightly sparkling white, at a coastal winery in Getaria. Each comes with its own setting, the Rioja vineyards on day one and the Atlantic on day two.

Question 2

Is this a good alternative to the train from Madrid to San Sebastián?

Accepted Answer

It's built for exactly that. Instead of a Madrid to San Sebastián train that passes Rioja without stopping, this Madrid to Basque Country tour stops at the wineries, villages, and cathedral along the way, with private transport and your hotel sorted.

Question 3

Is the San Sebastián pintxos tour included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your first evening includes our award-winning Old Town pintxos and wine tour, led by a local guide who knows the bars, the bites, and the unwritten rules of the counter.

Question 4

How many people are on the tour?

Accepted Answer

A small group of 10 guests maximum, traveling together by private minibus with expert guides throughout.

Question 5

What kind of hotel will I stay in?

Accepted Answer

A 4-star hotel in the heart of San Sebastián, so after the pintxos evening you're a short walk from your room rather than out of town.

Question 6

How much food and drink is included?

Accepted Answer

The big ones: a vineyard lunch at Marqués de Riscal, the full pintxos and wine evening in San Sebastián, and a Txakoli tasting in Getaria. Free time in Getaria and Burgos lets you choose your own lunches, with your guide's recommendations.

Question 7

Will I have free time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in Getaria and in Burgos, so you can eat grilled fish by the harbor or wander a medieval center at your own pace. The structured stops leave room to explore.

Question 8

Are dietary needs accommodated?

Accepted Answer

We do our best to adapt, so tell us about any dietary needs when you book. With wineries, pintxos bars, and set lunches across two days, we'll confirm what's possible for your date ahead of time.

Question 9

How physically demanding is the tour?

Accepted Answer

Expect comfortable walking through old towns and a winery or two, with private transport between every stop. Tell us about any mobility needs when you book and we'll advise.

Question 10

Is the Basque country from Madrid tour kid-friendly?

Accepted Answer

It can work for families; children's and infant tickets are available, though the pace leans toward wine and food. Tell us your group's ages and we'll help you decide if it's the right fit.

Question 11

Where does the tour start?

Accepted Answer

Outside the Rodilla café in Plaza del Emperador Carlos V, near Atocha station. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time.

San Sebastian & the Basque Country

Overview

What's included

You will visit

Get a taste of San Sebastian & the Basque Country

What to expect

Day 1, Rioja Alavesa: lunch at the world's best winery

Day 1, San Sebastián: pintxos with the locals

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