3-4-5 Days Bordeaux Itinerary
Planning to visit Bordeaux on your next trip to France and looking for the best things to do?
You are in the right place! Known for its world-class wines and stunning architecture, Bordeaux is a city that will undoubtedly captivate you.
In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide to the 33 best things to do in Bordeaux, with all the must-see attractions and places of interest.
And at the end of the article, you will also find itineraries to visit Bordeaux in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days (or more!) as well as my suggestions for the best hotels according to your budget.
So, what to do and see in Bordeaux?
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
To visit Bordeaux, I recommend that you buy the Bordeaux City Pass. It’s the best way to save time and money!
It is valid for 48 or 72 hours and gives you access to the main tourist sites in Bordeaux.
The Bordeaux Pass includes:
- A skip-the-line ticket to the Cité du Vin (before noon)
- Entrance ticket to the Bassins des Lumières
- Free entry to 15 museums and monuments to see in Bordeaux
- A city tour of your choice: by tourist train, open-top bus or guided walking tour
- The public transport card which gives you unlimited access to the tram, bus and river shuttle.
1. Visit the City of Wine
La Cité du Vin is a must visit to do in Bordeaux and the best way to start your visit to the city.
This modern building, in the shape of a wine carafe, presents an impressive exhibition where wine comes to life through an immersive and sensory approach, all in an evocative architecture.
Learn about the history of wine, explore the different wine cultures of the world, and end your tour with a tasting at Le Belvédère, which offers 360-degree views of Bordeaux.
The Cité du Vin is open every day. I advise you to allow at least 3 hours for your visit.
The Cité du Vin being the most tourist attraction in Bordeaux, it is essential to book your tickets in advance.
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
If you are a wine lover and want to visit one (or more!) wine estates near Bordeaux, you will find all the estates offering visits and tastings on Rue des vignerons.
It’s the best way to book your wine tours easily!
PS: some are even free, so enjoy!
2. Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror
Place de la Bourse, with its astonishing 18th century architecture, is an emblematic place in Bordeaux.
But what makes it even more impressive is the Water Mirror located just opposite. This vast slab of granite covered in water reflects the magnificent Place de la Bourse, creating a unique effect.
Whether you’re walking in the mist or just enjoying the reflection, it’s a sight not to be missed when visiting Bordeaux.
And if you’ve decided to visit Bordeaux with children, they won’t be able to resist getting a little (a lot!) wet walking on it!
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
Where to park in Bordeaux?
Located underground, the Place de la Bourse car park is a secure place to park your car.
It is not only close to the Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d’eau, but also to most of the other must-see monuments in Bordeaux. It is therefore an ideal starting point for your day of exploration.
3. Climb to the Top of the Pey-Berland Tower
For a breathtaking view during your stay in Bordeaux, head to the Tour Pey-Berland.
This autonomous bell tower, adjacent to Bordeaux Cathedral and built in the 15th century, allows you to admire the city from a unique point of view 50 meters high.
After climbing the 231 steps, you will be rewarded with a magnificent panorama of the city of Bordeaux.
It’s a great place for photography enthusiasts or if you just want to appreciate the beauty of the city from above.
Entrance to the Pey-Berland tower is included in the Bordeaux pass.
4. Bordeaux Submarine Base – Bassins des Lumières
Your Bordeaux itinerary continues with a visit to the Bordeaux Submarine Base, home to the Bassins des Lumières.
This sprawling WWII-era underwater bunker now houses a digital art center where you can experience immersive light and sound exhibits.
These dynamic exhibits project artwork onto the massive concrete walls, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that is a must-see.
During my visit, I was able to attend two exhibitions: one dedicated to Dali and the other to Gaudi.
It takes about 1 hour to attend the 2 screenings. This is one of the best things to see in Bordeaux!
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
Don’t forget to book your ticket for the Bassins des Lumières in advance.
If you have the Bordeaux Pass, no need to take another ticket, entry is included.
5. Cailhau Gate
When you walk around, be sure to pass Porte de Cailhau, another place of interest to see in Bordeaux.
This historic gate, which was part of the medieval city walls, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
You can climb to the top of the gate for a fantastic view of the Garonne and the Pont de Pierre.
Visiting Porte de Cailhau is free with the Bordeaux City Pass (or 5€ if you don’t have it) and offers an excellent opportunity to discover the history of Bordeaux while enjoying a beautiful panorama.
6. Cruise on the Garonne
For a relaxing break in your Bordeaux tour, I advise you to do a great activity: a river cruise on the Garonne.
The river meanders through the heart of Bordeaux and offers you a different perspective of the sights of the city.
You can admire some famous sites such as Place de la Bourse and Saint-André Cathedral from the comfort of a boat.
There are different types of cruises, but there are 2 that I particularly recommend:
- The classic 1h30 cruise
You will have a guide on board who will tell you more about the history of Bordeaux and the buildings you will see.
The cruise also includes a glass of wine and a canelé (the famous Bordeaux pastry I’ll tell you about later!)
To book your cruise on the Garonne
You will enjoy a delicious homemade savory and sweet buffet while admiring the view.
This cruise only operates on Sundays.
7. Visit the Palais Rohan, the City Hall of Bordeaux
I continue this Bordeaux tourist guide with the Palais Rohan (not to be confused with the Palais Rohan in Strasbourg!), also known as the Hôtel de Ville de Bordeaux.
This magnificent 18th century palace is an architectural gem that tells the rich history of Bordeaux. You will be able to discover its large rooms and admire its superb interior decoration.
The Rohan Palace can only be visited as part of a guided tour which takes place only two days a week.
You can get more information and book your visit at the Bordeaux tourist office.
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
To visit the historic center of Bordeaux and learn more about the history of the city, I advise you to book a guided tour.
Here are the best:
- A 2-hour guided walking tour in the old town
- A 3-hour guided bike tour
- A sidecar tour
- A private tour with a driver in a 2CV.
If you have purchased the Bordeaux City Pass (by clicking here) a guided tour is already included!
8. Shopping on Sainte-Catherine Street
For shopaholics, rue Sainte-Catherine in Bordeaux is a paradise.
The longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe offers a wide range of shops and boutiques.
From high-end brands to quirky local boutiques, you’ll find it all!
9. The Big Bell
During your trip to Bordeaux, you should also visit the Grosse Cloche.
This historic belfry, known for its large bell, is one of the oldest in France. The Grosse Cloche is a symbol of Bordeaux and offers a glimpse of the city’s medieval past.
You can climb the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of Bordeaux.
As with the Palais Rohan, the visit to the Grosse Cloche is guided only and must be booked in advance with the Bordeaux tourist office.
Visits only take place 2 days a week.
10. Discover St. Michael’s Basilica
Another tourist site to see during your stay in Bordeaux: the Saint-Michel basilica.
This amazing Gothic church, with its impressive spire, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can admire intricate stained glass and fascinating carvings.
Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the bell tower for a breathtaking view of the Bordeaux cityscape.
And if you like that, try attending a service for a truly immersive experience.
11. The Best Wine Tastings in Bordeaux
A visit to Bordeaux would not be complete without a wine tasting.
Bordeaux is renowned worldwide for its exceptional wines.
You can visit one of the many wine bars or wineries in the city to sample different varieties and learn about winemaking.
And if you’d rather opt for a guided tour with a local guide, here are the top 3 wine-themed guided tours of Bordeaux (just click the orange links for more information and to book):
- A tasting of 3 wines accompanied by local cheeses
- Bordeaux wine tasting workshop where you will learn the art of tasting with an oenologist
- A food tour with wine tasting: you will also visit a selection of gourmet restaurants to sample local delicacies and products!
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
There are several wine tours that include visits to vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting. It is a must for all wine lovers.
You will find them all on this page (click here) and I tell you more about these visits in the section “Best things to do around Bordeaux” (lower in the article).
12. Public Garden
For a moment of tranquility in this bustling city, head to the Jardin Public, a beautiful public park in the heart of Bordeaux.
Here you will find a large pond, wide lawns, beautiful statues and even the Bordeaux Natural History Museum.
It’s one of the best places to go in Bordeaux to take time to relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the surroundings.
Children will also be delighted to let off steam in the playground or take a ride on the carousel.
13. Bordeaux Cathedral
Another must-see attraction in Bordeaux is the Saint-André de Bordeaux Cathedral.
It is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and an important religious site.
From the outside, the cathedral impresses with its Gothic architecture and size. Inside, you can admire the magnificent stained glass windows and carved details.
Entrance to the cathedral is free.
14. Grand Theater of Bordeaux
Whether you are a fan of opera, ballet or classical music, a visit to the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux should be on your list of things to do in Bordeaux.
This 18th century theater is not only an important cultural venue, it is also an architectural gem.
Its neoclassical facade is decorated with 12 Corinthian columns and statues representing the nine muses and the three goddesses.
Check the theater program in advance and consider booking tickets for a performance. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local culture and see the beautiful auditorium from inside.
Reservations for an opera or any other performance should be made through the official website.
Even if you don’t plan on attending a show, you can still admire the exterior of the building while on vacation in Bordeaux.
15. Place des Quinconces and the Monument to the Girondins
If you don’t know what to do in Bordeaux, head to Place des Quinconces, which is one of the largest squares in Europe.
It houses the Monument to the Girondins, a large fountain and column erected in memory of the Girondins who participated in the French Revolution.
Bronze statues and cascading fountains make this landmark a favorite photo spot.
16. Château Pape Clément – Wine Estate
If you have decided to go to Bordeaux for a few days, you absolutely must visit a local vineyard.
One of the best known is Chateau Pape Clément, in Pessac, just outside Bordeaux.
You can stroll through the vineyards, visit the cellars and, of course, taste some of the estate’s best wines.
It is one of the oldest wine estates in Bordeaux and it offers a unique insight into the region’s winemaking history and tradition.
This is an experience not to be missed in Bordeaux!
Book your visit and wine tasting at Château Pape Clément here.
For an original activity to do in Bordeaux, Château Pape Clément even offers a wine-making workshop.
Few wine estates offer it, so take advantage of it during your stay in Bordeaux and book by clicking here!
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
If you don’t have a car and don’t want to opt for an organized excursion, Château Pape Clément is one of the best wineries to visit in Bordeaux as it is easily accessible by public transport.
17. Discover the Local Cuisine at the Marché des Capucins
For a glimpse of the local gastronomy, go to the Marché des Capucins.
This bustling market is where locals come to buy fresh produce, cheese, meat and seafood. It’s the perfect place to sample local delicacies.
You can taste the famous oysters from the Bassin d’Arcachon , cheese and, of course, wine.
You will also find several cafes and restaurants where you can eat.
18. The Famous Canelés of Bordeaux
In the midst of all these visits, take the time to taste the famous Bordeaux canelés.
These little sweet pastries are the favorite of the people of Bordeaux and must absolutely be tasted by all the gourmands who visit Bordeaux.
They are prepared with eggs, milk, vanilla, and rum and baked until the outside is caramelized, while the inside remains soft.
It is a delicious contrast of textures and there is no doubt that you will not be satisfied with a single canelé during your stay in Bordeaux!
Baillardran is particularly famous for its canelés, but given their price (€3.10 per canelé), I recommend buying them at La Toque Cuivrée.
Their cannelé costs only 70 cents and is just as good!
19. The Wine and Trading Museum
If you want to know more about the history of wine in Bordeaux, head to the Musée du Vin et du Négoce.
This museum presents in detail the wine trade that has shaped Bordeaux for centuries.
You will discover the different stages of wine production, from harvest to bottling. He also explores the trade and shipping of Bordeaux wines around the world.
And of course, a visit wouldn’t be complete without a wine tasting at the end.
You need to book your tickets in advance.
If you have the Bordeaux City Pass, admission to the museum is free.
20. Explore the Chartrons district
The Chartrons district is a charming and trendy area of Bordeaux that deserves to be explored.
It’s known for its antique shops, boutiques and wine shops, making it a great place to wander around Bordeaux for a quiet afternoon.
The district is also home to the CAPC, museum of contemporary art, and the museum of wine and trades of Bordeaux, so many cultural attractions to discover.
And when you feel like taking a break, you can stop in one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat or a glass of Bordeaux wine.
Also, don’t miss Rue Notre Dame, a bustling street lined with shops and restaurants.
21. Immerse yourself in the history of Bordeaux at the Aquitaine Museum
To fully understand the history of Bordeaux, you must visit the Aquitaine Museum.
This museum houses a collection of objects and exhibits that tell the story of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region, from prehistory to the present day.
From ancient Roman statues to exhibits on the Atlantic slave trade, this museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s past.
Like all museums to visit in Bordeaux, admission to the Aquitaine Museum is included in the Bordeaux pass.
22. Bordeaux Botanical Garden
To take a breath of fresh air, you can go to the Botanical Garden of Bordeaux.
This beautiful green space is home to a wide variety of plant species from around the world, some of which are rare and endangered.
The garden is divided into several sections, each featuring plants from a particular region or environment.
From the Mediterranean garden to the Asian garden, they offer a unique and peaceful setting for a quiet walk.
Admission to the Botanical Garden of Bordeaux costs €5.
If you are a nautical enthusiast, the museum of the sea and the navy is worth visiting.
Located in the Bacalan district, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of maritime exploration.
The museum’s collection includes old maps, navigational instruments and models of famous ships.
Free with the Bordeaux Pass.
24. 6 Other Museums in Bordeaux
In Bordeaux, besides the Cité du Vin and the Museum of the Sea and the Navy, there are many other museums to discover.
Here are my favorites:
- Museum of Fine Arts: it houses an extensive collection of works of art from the Renaissance to the present day.
- CAPC Museum of Contemporary Art: Showcases international contemporary art in a converted warehouse.
- National Customs Museum: Explores the history of customs and traditions in France.
- Maritime History Museum: It presents the rich maritime history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region.
- Cap Sciences: An ideal place for children, with interactive exhibitions on science and technology.
- MECA: A center for the creative arts, housing performing companies, artists’ studios and exhibition spaces.
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
If you plan to visit several museums, you should get the Bordeaux City Pass.
As I said above, it offers free access to several museums and other attractions, as well as public transport.
It is really very practical!
25. Visit Moon Harbor Distillery
Spirits lovers can also take advantage of their stay in Bordeaux to visit the Moon Harbor Distillery.
Located in the heart of town, this distillery produces whiskey using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.
During the guided tour, you will learn about the distillation process, you will see the aging cellars and, of course, you will have the opportunity to taste their products.
26. Explore the Darwin ecosystem
The Darwin ecosystem is a unique space in Bordeaux that absolutely must be explored.
Former military barracks have been transformed into an innovative center for sustainable development.
Here you’ll find art installations, organic produce markets, and even a skate park.
Check the calendar of events on the official website before you go.
You may be able to attend a concert, an art exhibition or a farmers market during your stay in Bordeaux!
What to do around Bordeaux?
Bordeaux’s location in the heart of the Aquitaine region makes it an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area.
So what are the best places to visit around Bordeaux?
Here is my pick of the best day trips!
27. Visit the Médoc wine region
For wine lovers, a trip to Bordeaux would be incomplete without a visit to the Médoc wine region.
Here you will find some of the most prestigious wine estates in the world.
A day trip can include visiting several castles.
If you have a car, I particularly recommend that you visit:
- Taillan Castle
This family winery run by five sisters offers tours of its very old cellars and tastings of its award-winning wines.
You can also walk in the large park which offers a view of the vineyards.
You will have the choice between different types of visits.
Another advantage of the castle is that it is accessible by public transport from Bordeaux.
To book your visit-tasting at Château du Taillan
- Chateau Marquis de Terme
A traditional wine estate that offers tours and tastings of its Margaux appellation wines.
If you can, book the “Grands crus et chocolats” workshop. You can combine different chocolates from all over the world with the wines of Château Marquis de Terme.
You need to choose your type of visit (all of course include a tasting of several wines).
- Château Lamothe Bergeron
Known for its elegant red wines, this chateau offers vineyard tours and tastings.
The visit is different from those you can do in other wineries, because it is interactive.
At each stage, you can watch animations or short films projected on the vats and in the cellars. Ideal if you have children!
You can also taste the 2 grape varieties of the estate.
The castle offers several types of tastings. I made the one where you can taste 3 wines with a different macaroon each time (and they are the best I have ever eaten!).
To book this tour or to see the other tours available.
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
Good news for those without a car, you can book a day trip with transport included from Bordeaux to visit several estates in the Médoc.
It’s the easiest way to visit multiple wineries in one day, and you won’t have to worry about driving after the tasting.
Here is my selection of the best day trips around Bordeaux (just click on the links below for more details and to book):
- Visit of 2 castles of the Margaux appellation – Duration: Half day
- Half-day tour to discover Médoc wines
- Visit of 2 Médoc castles + 4 wine tastings + aperitif platter with cheese and charcuterie
- Day trip to discover the Médoc and Saint Emilion, the other region famous for its wines. Includes the visit of 3 wine estates and a tasting of 6 wines + 1 aperitif + 1 picnic. You will even have the chance to take a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint Emilion.
This is the most complete excursion to visit wine estates in one day!
28. The Vineyard of Saint-Emilion
Visiting the Saint-Emilion vineyards is another must-do excursion around Bordeaux.
This charming medieval town is not only known for its picturesque streets and ancient monolithic church, but also for its excellent wines.
I highly recommend that you visit the following wineries:
- Chateau Bernateau
A family winery for 11 generations that offers tours and tastings. Its organic wines are very popular.
The visit is very detailed and you will even have the chance to see the vines.
At the end of the presentation, you can taste three red wines.
- Jacobin Convent
This historic winery is located in a former convent.
You will discover the old concrete vats that are still in use and descend into the underground cellars where the bottles are stored. The place is really impressive.
There are several tours to choose from, but I recommend the ones that include a tuk tuk tour through the vineyards of Saint-Emilion. The landscape is very pretty and it also allows you to go around the village.
You will then return to the shop to taste the wines.
To visit the Couvent des Jacobins in Saint-Emilion, just click here.
Also, don’t forget to take a stroll through the town of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
As with the Médoc, you can also visit several Saint-Émilion estates on a day trip from Bordeaux.
All day trips include round-trip transport from your hotel in Bordeaux.
Here are the two best guided tours:
- Wine tasting in 2 castles of Saint-Émilion – Small group (8 people maximum) – 2 wine estates, 5 wines to taste + 1 appetizer board + visit of the village of Saint-Émilion – 5 hours of visit
- Visit and tasting in 3 wine estates classified Châteaux de Saint-Émilion – Small group (8 people maximum) – 3 wine estates + Guided walking tour of the village of Saint-Émilion – One-day tour
29. Explore the Bassin d’Arcachon
If you fancy a day by the sea, you should head to the Bassin d’Arcachon.
It is a charming resort where you can relax on the beach, taste fresh oysters or take a boat trip around the bay.
Arcachon is an hour’s drive from Bordeaux.
30. Visit the Dune du Pilat
Near the Bassin d’Arcachon you will find the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe.
The climb to the top can be a bit strenuous, but the panoramic views of the bay and the Atlantic Ocean are worth it.
It is a unique natural attraction that you should not miss around Bordeaux.
If you don’t have a car, you can visit the Dune du Pilat and Arcachon on a day trip from Bordeaux.
You can find the details here.
What to do in Bordeaux with children?
Bordeaux is a family city that offers many attractions to entertain the little ones. Here are my favorites:
31. Spend a day at Bordeaux Pessac Zoo
If you have decided to go to Bordeaux with your family, you should spend a day at the Zoo de Bordeaux Pessac.
This well-kept zoo is home to over 100 species of animals from around the world, including giraffes, lions, tigers, and monkeys.
The zoo also organizes daily shows and sessions where you can feed certain animals, which the children really enjoy!
32. Bordeaux Museum of Science and Nature
For a family stay in Bordeaux, you should visit the Natural History Museum, located right next to the Jardin Public.
The museum features nearly 3,500 animal specimens in several exhibits, each with its own theme, such as baby animals or food.
Admission is free with the Bordeaux Pass.
33. Cap Science: Bordeaux Science Museum
Cap Science , Bordeaux’s science museum, is another great place to visit with kids.
The museum is full of interactive displays that make science learning fun for all ages.
The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from space exploration to environmental science, so there’s something to pique everyone’s interest.
Tips for your Bordeaux itinerary:
Remember that many museums in Bordeaux are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
What to do in Bordeaux at night?
Bordeaux is not just about its historical monuments and its wine; the city also offers a diverse nightlife.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy wine bar or a lively nightclub, Bordeaux has it all.
- Let yourself be seduced by the culture of Bordeaux wine bars
Bordeaux being one of the most famous wine regions in the world, it is not surprising that the city is home to many wine bars.
At places like Le Wine Bar, Le Bar à vin and Tchin Tchin Wine Bar, you can taste a wide range of local wines, accompanied by delicious tapas.
- Spend a night dancing to great music in one of Bordeaux’s hip clubs
If you feel like dancing, go to one of the many clubs in Bordeaux.
The list is long: Club the warehouse, Le Cercle, Pachanga Club Bordeaux, Parallel Club, L’Opale…
How many days to visit Bordeaux?
To visit Bordeaux, I recommend at least 2 days.
If you want to visit the surroundings and explore the Médoc and/or Saint Emilion region , 3 to 5 days are perfect.
Don’t forget that with the Bordeaux City Pass you can use public transport for free, visit museums and many attractions in Bordeaux.
1 Day Bordeaux Itinerary
If you only have one day in Bordeaux, I advise you to focus on the historic center.
You can follow this route:
- Park your car in the Place de la Bourse car park to begin by seeing one of the most beautiful squares in Bordeaux. And don’t forget to cross the road to see the Water Mirror.
- Go to the tourist office to get your Bordeaux Pass (book it in advance here!)
- Pass by Place des Quinconces to see the impressive fountain of the Monument to the Girondins
- Grand Theater of Bordeaux
- Bordeaux City Hall
- Great Cathedral of Bordeaux
- Tour Pey Berleand
- Saint Catherine Street
- Big Bell
- Aquitaine Museum if you are interested in the history of Bordeaux
- St. Michael’s Basilica
- Walk on the quays of the Garonne to Porte Cailhau
- National Customs Museum.
2 Days Bordeaux Itinerary
With an extra day, you have the option to explore other Bordeaux attractions.
Here are the best things to do in Bordeaux for a weekend.
For the first day, follow the route I mentioned above.
On the second day you can:
- Start your day early at the Cité du Vin, to discover the wine-growing history of the region.
- Lunch at the Halles de Bacalan, located nearby
- Visit the Sea and Marine Museum
- Discover the Bassins des Lumières and its impressive spectacle
To end the afternoon, several options are available to you:
- Take a cruise on the Garonne
- Do a wine tasting
- Go to Château Pape Clément and visit this famous wine estate
- Stroll through the Chartrons district and cross to the other side of the Garonne to discover the botanical garden and the Darwin ecosystem
- Visit one or more museums according to your interests.
2 Days Bordeaux Itinerary
If you have 3 days in Bordeaux, you should take a day trip to one of the neighboring wine regions, such as the Médoc wine region or the vineyards of Saint-Emilion.
Here are the best day trips (the same ones I talked about before, I’m just putting the links here for your convenience):
Medoc
- Visit of 2 castles of the Margaux appellation – Duration: Half day
- Half-day tour to discover Médoc wines
- Visit of 2 Médoc castles + 4 wine tastings + aperitif platter with cheese and charcuterie
Saint Emilion
- Wine tasting in 2 castles of Saint-Émilion – Small group (8 people maximum) – 2 wine estates, 5 wines to taste + 1 aperitif board + visit of the village of Saint-Émilion – 5 hours of visit
- Visit and tasting in 3 wine estates classified Châteaux de Saint-Émilion – Small group (8 people maximum) – 3 wine estates + Guided walking tour of the village of Saint-Émilion – One-day tour
Medoc + Saint-Emilion
- Day trip to discover the Médoc region and Saint Emilion, the other region famous for its wines. Includes the visit of 3 wine estates and a tasting of 6 wines + 1 aperitif + 1 picnic. You will even have the chance to take a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint Emilion.
This is the most complete wine tour, allowing you to visit both the Médoc and Saint-Emilion regions in just one day!
4 Days Bordeaux Itinerary
If you have 4 days in Bordeaux, you can really discover the city and its surroundings.
For example, you can spend a day exploring the Bassin d’Arcachon and visiting the Dune du Pilat.
If you don’t have a car, you can book your excursion from Bordeaux here.
2 Days Bordeaux Itinerary
If you are lucky enough to spend 5 days (or more!) in Bordeaux, you will have time to enjoy the city a little more or to visit the surroundings in more depth.
For example, you can spend an entire day in the Médoc region and another in Saint-Émilion.
You will find the complete list of activities and excursions available in Bordeaux here.
Accommodation in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a very touristy city and the best hotel deals don’t stick around for long.
So, if you know your travel dates, book your accommodation!
To help you, here is my selection of the best hotels in Bordeaux, depending on your budget:
- Central Hostel Bordeaux Centre : A youth hostel located 500 meters from Place de la Bourse. Dormitory bed from €35, breakfast from €5.50. Strengths: cleanliness, good location, friendliness of staff. This is the best choice for cheap accommodation in Bordeaux!
- Hôtel Life Bordeaux Gare: Hotel located near the station and the Garonne. Modern and comfortable double room from €100, breakfast from €14. Most: the hearty breakfast, parking, friendly staff.
- Aparthotel Adagio Bordeaux Center Gambetta: Located 10 minutes on foot from rue Sainte Catherine. Studio or apartment with kitchen from €120, breakfast from €15. Most: geographical location, spacious apartments, warm welcome.
- Quality Hotel Bordeaux Centre: Located 2 minutes from the Grand Théâtre. Modern and spacious double room from €190, breakfast €16. Pros: Main street location, comfy beds, room size.
- Yndo Hotel: 5 star hotel located in a magnificent 19th century residence. The rooms are equipped with designer furniture in a refined style. From €270, breakfast €34. Strengths: the charm of the hotel, the neat decoration, the attentive staff. This is my recommendation for an upscale stay in Bordeaux!
- Radisson Blu Hotel Bordeaux: Located next to the Cité du Vin. Spacious and well-decorated double room with large windows, from €285, breakfast €20. Strengths: the staff, the roof and its view, the calm.
- Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa: This luxury hotel located in the center of Bordeaux offers sumptuous and very comfortable rooms from €410, breakfast from €28. The pluses: the swimming pool, the Spa, the gourmet restaurant, the attentions during the stay (bottle of wine, fruit). This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Bordeaux!
Where to eat in Bordeaux
Bordeaux gastronomy is as varied and rich as its wine culture. Here are some good restaurants in Bordeaux where you can taste local dishes :
- Le 428: for excellent original cuisine based on seasonal products.
- Restaurant Temps in Nouveau Bordeaux: warm welcome, excellent wine list, good food and very pleasant surroundings. Everything you need to have a good time!
- Les Docteurs: Typical restaurant offering simple but very well-cooked dishes. Everything is homemade.
- La Tupina : Known for its traditional French cuisine, La Tupina is a must-visit place for food lovers. Don’t forget to taste their famous duck confit!
Bordeaux Tourist Map
To help you plan your visits, I’ve made a tourist map of Bordeaux, with all the best places to visit, must-see attractions and activities I talk about in this guide.
You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow.
Now you know all the best things to do in Bordeaux! If you need help planning your stay, feel free to ask me in the comments below.
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