Luxury Culinary & Wine Tours in Spain
Spain’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses — here in Spain centuries-old recipes meet modern innovation, and each region tells its story through food and wine. From Michelin-starred dining in San Sebastián to organic farm-to-table cuisine in Mallorca, every experience is rooted in place and passion. At Avelia Travel, we design tailor-made culinary and wine journeys that grant you access to Spain’s most celebrated chefs, boutique vineyards, and local traditions — all with the comfort, privacy, and refinement of true luxury travel.
Why Spain Is a Culinary Powerhouse
Spain’s culinary identity is as diverse as its geography. From the refined pintxos of the Basque Country to the bold, spice-kissed dishes of Andalusia and the avant-garde plates of Catalonia’s Michelin-starred chefs, each region offers a distinct flavor profile shaped by centuries of tradition and innovation.
In cities like San Sebastián and Barcelona, dining is elevated to art — with more Michelin stars per capita than almost anywhere in the world. Yet, culinary excellence isn’t limited to fine dining. Spain’s bustling markets, family-run bodegas, and olive oil estates offer immersive, ingredient-driven experiences rooted in place.
Tapas culture invites exploration: graze through neighborhoods with a local expert, sampling jamón ibérico, anchovies in vinegar, and creamy tortilla española with perfectly paired local wines. Spain’s commitment to seasonal, local ingredients — a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet — has earned UNESCO recognition and global admiration.
Where to Taste the Best of Spain
Spain’s culinary map is as diverse as its landscapes — from pintxos in the Basque Country to deep reds in Ribera del Duero and olive oil estates in Andalusia. Each region tells its own story through flavor, tradition, and innovation. Below, discover six epicurean regions where Avelia designs unforgettable private food and wine experiences.
Basque Country & San Sebastián
The Basque Country is one of the world's most celebrated culinary destinations. In San Sebastián, tradition and innovation meet in every bite — whether you’re grazing through the Old Town’s pintxos bars, dining in a three-Michelin-starred temple like Arzak, or sipping crisp Txakoli by the sea.
Pintxos Culture: Hop between atmospheric taverns with your private guide to sample skewered delicacies and local wines.
Michelin Dining: Enjoy reserved tables at Akelarre, Mugaritz, or Arzak, where culinary artistry reaches avant-garde heights.
Txakoli & Cider Houses: Visit family-run cider houses and coastal vineyards, complete with guided tastings and local pairings.
Explore our San Sebastián Food & Cuisine Guide for top pintxos and Michelin stops.
Catalonia & Barcelona
From mountain vines to coastal kitchens, Catalonia is a playground for food lovers. Barcelona sets the tone with its blend of Modernist cuisine and vibrant market culture, while Priorat and Penedès offer some of Spain’s most expressive wines.
Wine Tasting in Priorat & Penedès: Explore boutique cellars and biodynamic estates with private access to top producers.
Modernist Cuisine: Dine at chef-driven restaurants where Catalan tradition meets molecular creativity.
Cooking Classes & Market Tours: Walk through the Boquería Market with a local chef, followed by a hands-on Catalan cooking session in a private kitchen.
For deeper inspiration, explore our full Barcelona Food & Cuisine Guide.
La Rioja & Ribera del Duero
For serious oenophiles, La Rioja and Ribera del Duero are the heart of Spain’s winemaking heritage. These regions offer bold reds, ancient vines, and immersive vineyard hospitality — all with Avelia’s insider access.
Private Wine Estates: Taste rare vintages in family-owned wineries, with exclusive entry to private cellars and barrel rooms.
Meet-the-Winemaker: Spend time with passionate enologists and vineyard owners who bring Spanish terroir to life.
Boutique Vineyard Hotels: Stay on-property at architectural gems surrounded by vines, perfect for slow evenings and sunrise tastings.
For a full tasting journey, visit our dedicated Wine Tasting in Rioja experience page.
Andalusia
Andalusia’s culinary soul is rich with tradition — from liquid gold olive oil to the complex world of Sherry. Here, history is served alongside every dish, whether you're exploring palaces or hidden tapas bars.
Olive Oil Estates: Visit award-winning producers in Jaén, Spain’s olive oil capital, for private mill tours and tastings.
Sherry Tastings in Jerez: Experience the solera system and savor dry Fino to rich Pedro Ximénez with a local sherry master.
Seville Tapas Crawl: Join a private guide on a curated tapas journey through Seville’s historic quarters, with stops at artisanal bodegas and taverns.
Dive into flavors with our Seville Food & Cuisine Guide.
Madrid & Central Spain
Madrid blends regal tradition with contemporary flair. Its central location also makes it an ideal base for wine day trips to nearby Ribera del Duero or Toledo.
Historic Taverns: Step into century-old taverns serving local wines, vermouth on tap, and house-made specialties.
Gourmet Rooftop Dining: Savor panoramic views and chef-curated tasting menus on exclusive rooftop terraces.
Wine Day Trips: Let us arrange chauffeured escapes to Ribera del Duero or Vinos de Madrid D.O., just beyond the capital.
Discover more in our Madrid Food & Cuisine Guide.
Mallorca & the Balearic Islands
Beyond the beaches, the Balearic Islands boast a growing reputation for sustainable agriculture and bold island flavors. Mallorca in particular offers a refined yet relaxed approach to gastronomy.
Seafood-Forward Cuisine: Enjoy dock-to-table dining with fresh-caught fish, sea urchin, and lobster in secluded coves.
Organic Island Farms: Visit local producers of cheese, figs, almonds, and charcuterie, with farm-to-table tastings and picnics.
Binissalem Wine Estates: Discover native grapes and sun-drenched vineyards on private tours with Mallorca’s top winemakers.
Learn more in our full Mallorca Food & Cuisine Guide.
Map of Spain’s Best Wine Regions
From vineyard-lined valleys to Mediterranean hillsides, see where Spain’s most celebrated wines are born.
Spain’s wine regions are as diverse as its cuisine. From the bold reds of La Rioja and Ribera del Duero to the mineral-rich whites of Rías Baixas and the intense, small-production wines of Priorat, each region offers something distinct.
This map highlights the key wine-growing areas that pair beautifully with our culinary itineraries — including Penedès, home to world-class sparkling Cava, and Andalusia’s Sherry Triangle, where tradition runs deep.
Use this map to get a sense of how these regions connect to culinary cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and San Sebastián — then let us craft a journey that brings these landscapes (and flavors) to life.
Signature Experiences with Avelia Travel
At Avelia, culinary travel goes far beyond reservations and recommendations — we craft immersive journeys that place you at the heart of Spain’s gastronomic culture. Every experience is privately curated, deeply rooted in place, and tailored to your pace and preferences. From vineyard lunches in La Rioja to chef-led cooking sessions in Barcelona, these are the moments that elevate a trip into a memory of a lifetime.
Private Tastings at D.O. Wineries
Step inside some of Spain’s most prestigious Denominación de Origen estates for private tastings with expert sommeliers. Enjoy guided walks through sun-drenched vineyards, sample reserve vintages in barrel rooms closed to the public, and discover the terroirs of Ribera del Duero, Priorat, and La Rioja — all arranged exclusively for you.
Market Visits & Cooking with Chefs
Join passionate local chefs for a market-to-table culinary adventure. Begin at iconic markets like La Boquería in Barcelona or Triana in Seville, hand-picking ingredients while learning about regional flavors. Then head to a private kitchen or countryside estate to prepare a traditional meal — from seafood paella to gazpacho — and share stories over a glass of wine.
Vineyard Picnics & Olive Oil Pairings
Let us set the scene for a relaxed yet refined countryside afternoon: a beautifully prepared picnic amid the vines in Catalonia or Andalusia, complete with fine wine, artisan cheeses, and fresh local produce. Visit family-run olive oil estates in Jaén or Mallorca for private tastings paired with local bread, tomatoes, and sherry vinegar, learning the delicate art of Spanish olive oil from producers themselves.
Seamless Private Transportation
Whether you're traveling between San Sebastián and Rioja or weaving your way through Andalusia’s white villages, every journey is smooth, scenic, and stress-free. Your culinary adventure includes chauffeured transfers in premium vehicles, with optional guides en route for storytelling, stops, and local tips. Luggage? Handled. Routes? Optimized. You simply relax and enjoy the ride.
Multi-Region Itineraries, Fully Tailored
Craving tapas in Madrid, wine in Ribera del Duero, and seafood on the coast — all in one unforgettable trip? We design custom multi-day itineraries that effortlessly connect Spain’s culinary capitals. Whether you want to explore one region in depth or combine several, every moment is personalized — down to your tasting menus, hotel choices, and behind-the-scenes access.
Sample Culinary Itineraries
Each Avelia journey is tailor-made, but the ideas below offer a glimpse into what’s possible. Whether you're drawn to Spain’s most iconic wine regions or looking to explore markets and kitchens with local chefs, our culinary itineraries bring together flavor, culture, and seamless luxury.
Spain’s Culinary Heritage Itinerary
11 Days: San Sebastián – La Rioja – Duero Valley – Madrid
An immersive journey through Spain’s rich food and wine traditions. Enjoy private pintxos tours, Basque cider house visits, exclusive access to family-run vineyards in La Rioja and the Duero Valley, and a behind-the-scenes look at Madrid’s gourmet markets.
→ View Full Itinerary
The Grand Food & Wine Journey
Customizable Example
Blend coast, countryside, and capital on a personalized trip combining Michelin dining in the Basque Country, vineyard stays in Ribera del Duero, and historic taverns in Madrid. Includes private guides, luxury hotels, and tailored tastings.
→ Start Planning This Journey
7-Day Catalonia Gourmet Escape
Customizable Example
A week of wine and cuisine through Barcelona, Priorat, and Penedès. Think chef-hosted dinners, exclusive winery access, and boutique accommodations — designed for lovers of bold flavors and refined experiences.
→ Customize Your Catalonia Escape
When to Go: Culinary Seasons in Spain
Spain’s culinary calendar is vibrant year-round — each season offering distinct flavors, festivals, and food traditions. Whether you’re drawn to spring’s fresh harvests, fall’s grape crush, or winter truffles in the north, there’s always something delicious unfolding.
Spring — March to May
As the countryside awakens, so does the market scene. Wild asparagus, baby artichokes, and spring lamb take center stage across Spain’s kitchens. Wine lovers will enjoy new vintage releases and fewer crowds at the estates in La Rioja and Penedès. It’s also prime time for culinary festivals, olive oil tastings, and countryside picnics.
Summer — June to August
Long, warm days are ideal for beachside dining, sunset tapas crawls, and seafood-forward menus along the coast. Think grilled sardines in Andalusia, lobster in Mallorca, and al fresco paella on a Catalan terrace. Pair it all with lively harvest celebrations in Galicia or the Balearics.
Pro tip: Add a coastal stop like San Sebastián or the Balearic Islands to balance food and sun.
Fall — September to November
Harvest season is one of the most magical times for culinary travel. Join grape-picking events in La Rioja or Ribera del Duero, tour working cellars during peak fermentation, and enjoy hearty seasonal fare like mushrooms, roasted meats, and slow-cooked legumes. Wine tours are at their peak — so book early.
Winter — December to February
Winter in Spain is cozy and deeply flavorful. In the north, it’s truffle season — with foraging experiences and truffle-based menus. In Andalusia, olive oil pressings begin, and in Madrid and inland villages, you’ll find warming dishes like cocido madrileño and red wine stews. Fewer tourists mean a more intimate, authentic culinary experience.
For a broader look at climate, festivals, and regional travel tips, see our Best Time to Visit Spain guide.
Why Book With Avelia
We don’t just plan trips — we design experiences that connect you to the soul of Spain through its cuisine and culture. From the first idea to your final meal, every detail is handled with care, discretion, and a deep love for authentic travel.
Tailor-Made Culinary Journeys
No two travelers are alike — and neither are our itineraries. Whether you're a passionate wine collector, a professional chef, or simply curious about Spain’s flavors, we build your journey from scratch based on your tastes, travel dates, and rhythm.
Insider Access You Can’t Google
We open doors others can’t. Enjoy private entry to family-run vineyards, invitation-only olive oil tastings, after-hours cooking classes, and reserved tables at Spain’s most sought-after restaurants. These are the moments that define a truly bespoke trip.
Private Guides, Chefs & Sommeliers
You’ll travel with a handpicked network of local experts — from charismatic market guides to renowned chefs and passionate winemakers. We make sure you’re always in good hands, with people who love sharing their craft.
Seamless Luxury Service
From boutique hotel bookings to chauffeured transfers and last-minute reservations, we take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Our team is available throughout your trip, should you need anything at all.
FAQs: Spain Culinary & Wine Tours
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Spain offers dozens of unique wine regions, but the most iconic include La Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Priorat, and Penedès. Each has its own terroir, wine styles, and boutique estates — and Avelia crafts itineraries to match your tastes and timing.
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Yes. All of our food and wine experiences are fully private. You’ll be paired with local chefs, market guides, sommeliers, and culinary experts who bring each destination to life — just for you.
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Every season offers something special. Spring brings fresh produce and festivals. Fall is ideal for grape harvests and cellar visits. Summer offers seafood on the coast, and winter is perfect for olive oil pressings and truffle tasting. We’ll help you choose based on your preferences.
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Absolutely. We often design itineraries that combine culinary highlights with architecture, history, and regional culture — such as Gaudí in Barcelona, the Alhambra in Granada, or flamenco in Seville.
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Our culinary tours are fully customizable. While many experiences are ideal for adults, we also offer family-friendly tastings, cooking classes, and hands-on food experiences that kids love.
Other Culinary Destinations to Explore
Looking to focus your trip on a specific region or city? Explore some of Spain’s most celebrated destinations for food and wine — each with its own character, ingredients, and culinary rhythm.
Barcelona – Tapas bars, seafood markets, and modernist cuisine in the heart of Catalonia
San Sebastián – Pintxos culture, Michelin-star dining, and Txakoli vineyards along the Basque coast
Seville – Andalusian tapas trails, sherry tastings, and traditional olive oil estates
Madrid – Historic taverns, rooftop dining, and gourmet markets in Spain’s dynamic capital
La Rioja Wine Region – Legendary wineries, barrel tastings, and vineyard stays in Spain’s top wine DOCa
Mallorca – Island-grown produce, organic farms, and boutique wine estates near the sea
Combine these destinations into a multi-region itinerary, or let us help you choose the perfect culinary base.
Plan Your Culinary Trip to Spain
Ready to experience Spain through its most unforgettable flavors?
Whether you already know where you want to go, or need help choosing the perfect mix of cities, vineyards, and culinary moments - we’ll design a fully customized itinerary just for you.
Tell us a bit about your travel plans below, and we’ll take care of the rest.