tours of bordeaux wine region

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An authentic taste of the French lifestyle!

Bordeaux bespoke wine tours exploring vineyards by electrical bike or minivan in small groups or customized to make your trip truly memorable.

Bordeaux wine tours with locals

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Small Group Tour

Médoc Wine Lovers (afternoon)

Cabernet lovers, this tour is for you! On this Médoc wine tour trip you will be able to admire the classical architecture of a Grand Cru Classé chateau near Margaux, and learn all about the infamous 1855 classification. Enjoy a wine tasting paired with cheese to finish the afternoon in true French style.

From 95 € per person

Small Group Tour Workshop

Tasting Workshop – Bordeaux Fundamentals

Want to upgrade your wine tasting knowledge? With this wine masterclass, you’ll learn everything there is to know about Bordeaux wines and more.

From 45 € per person

Saint-Emilion Wine Lovers (afternoon)

Venture through the stunning landscape of Saint-Emilion, enjoying its flavorful wines and discover the secrets of its medieval village. Absorb the history, culture and have loads of fun with your local expert guide, as you are given an intimate and enriching tour of one of the world's most prestigous wine regions.

From 100 € per person

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Private Tour

The Bordeaux Wine Bar Crawl

Looking for the perfect idea for a bachelorette party in Bordeaux? Don't look any further, we will take care of everything by guiding you on a tour of the best wine bars in the city!

From 120 € per person* *Price per person for a group of 8 people

A seaside getaway to Arcachon Bay

For an unforgettable wedding proposal, anniversary, birthday or simply to enjoy a romantic moment together, Bordeaux Wine Trails offers you a day to remember at the top of the breathtaking Dune du Pilat.

From 110 € per person* *Price per person for a group of 8 people

Cooking class in a Bordeaux chateau

In the heart of the Saint-Emilion appellation, your small group will take over the kitchens of a renowned chateau, learning how to prepare a gastronomic meal with a local chef!

From 315 € per person* *Price per person for a group of 8 people

What makes BORDEAUX WINE TRAILS

Get ready to enjoy the

French lifestyle.

A unique wine tour in Bordeaux, France.

Bordeaux Wine Trails invites you to discover the Bordeaux wine region, one of the best in the world. We have a history of winemaking and culture that we’re extremely proud of and want to share it with you !

Our goal is to give you an authentic taste of French food, wine, landscape, history and cultural heritage on every one of our Bordeaux wine tasting tours. Our local expert guides love what they do, entertaining and ensuring all our guests get the best from their time with us.

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The Paris 2024 Olympics are right around the corner, scheduled from July 26th to August 11th. With athletes coming from all over the globe and about 10 million visitors, Paris is getting ready to welcome a massive crowd of spectators and tourists alike! But if you're hoping to avoid the crowds of the busy city, we've got just the alternative for you. Just a 2-hours train ride away from Paris is Bordeaux, a charming city known for its world-famous wines. As Bordeaux experts, we're here to help you plan the perfect Olympic getaway.

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Bordeaux is an excellent starting point for your exploration of the region’s vineyards and châteaux, wine-growing village and picturesque landscapes. We offer day trips or half-day trips to the main Bordeaux appellations. Be it the Médoc or Sauternes, Saint-Émilion or Graves, the vineyards along the estuary or the Entre-deux-Mers region- literally ‘between two rivers’-, you have plenty of options, each with its various different themes. Book your wine tour now!

from 145€/pers.

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Bordeaux wine tours and châteaux visits

Best wine tours in Bordeaux

Discover 2 beautiful châteaux in the Medoc region of Bordeaux: a Great Classified Growth estate and a charming family-run estate, steeped in history. This afternoon tour offers great value f... See More

Our best-selling Bordeaux tour! Ride your e-bike through the vineyards of St.Emilion on your way to visit 2 chateaux: a family-run estate & a Grand Cru Classe estate. Enjoy guided tours and ... See More

Climb the highest sand dune in Europe, taste oysters and visit 2 châteaux in the Medoc, a family-run estate and a Classified Growth estate. Drive along the mythical “Route des Chateaux” and ... See More

Combine two famous Bordeaux wine regions in a day! Visit 2 chateaux in Medoc for tours and tastings in the morning. Then after lunch in a chateau, explore Saint Emilion, visiting a wonderful... See More

Join this private full-day tour in Bordeaux to visit the birthplace of Bordeaux wines and the world famous sweet wines of Sauternes, accompanied by an expert wine guide.  You will be picked... See More

Visit three châteaux and the fascinating medieval village of Saint-Émilion, accompanied by an expert wine guide. Taste the wines of a Grand Cru Classé château and enjoy lunch at a château. ... See More

Why Visit Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a mecca for wine lovers and it's no surprise given the number of wineries, vineyards and châteaux there are to visit. If you're looking for a wine tour, then quite simply, Bordeaux is one of the most iconic wine regions in the world to visit! Wine-tasting tours and châteaux visits in Bordeaux are an absolute must for any wine lover or food fanatic. The Bordeaux way of life is a daily celebration of wine, heritage and culture thanks to the region's philosophy of “l’art de vivre”, which places great gastronomy, beautiful places, and bonhomie at the heart of everyday living - very similar to our ethos at Winerist! To really uncover the essence of Bordeaux you need to experience a  châteaux visit  and taste the wine, guided by locals and Bordeaux winemakers themselves! Bordeaux is one of our top wine regions and one that at Winerist we have visited many times so you can be assured that we offer the very best tours that the region has to offer. Find your ideal wine tour of Bordeaux here . WINE TASTING TOURS IN BORDEAUX At Winerist we have the best selection of private and group tours of the Bordeaux wine region. Leaving from Bordeaux city centre or from your hotel, we offer a wide selection of wine tours and vineyard visits that will introduce you to the unique sub-regions of Bordeaux including Medoc, Saint.Emilion, Pauillac and many more. We believe the best wine tours are guided by the people that live and work there, that's why we carefully select our tours based on the local knowledge and unique perspectives of the local guides. And, we use our unique relationships with chateaux and winery owners in the region to bring you access to experiences not available elsewhere when you book private and tailor-made Bordeaux experiences with us.

Bordeaux wine travel is made easy with only short journey times from Bordeaux city to it's world-famous winemaking regions. Whether you go mad for Margaux or prefer a Sauternes, this is an incredible place to explore wine country. It helps, of course, that each Bordeaux appellation is dotted with beautiful châteaux to visit, tiny historic towns, and mile upon mile of undulating vineyards to tour.

The appellations here are described as Left Bank or Right Bank, depending on which side of the river they inhabit. From the legendary region of Medoc in the north, to the sweet wine producing Sauternes in the south; and the renowned estates of Saint Emilion and Pomerol in the east, some of the most sought-after wines in the world are produced here. How could this region not make for the best wine tasting tour ? FOOD TASTING EXPERIENCES IN BORDEAUX Whilst enjoying the region's wines we also recommend taking a food tasting tour to explore Bordeaux's incredible cuisine. Bordeaux is a gastronomic paradise, with fantastic restaurants representing every cuisine imaginable. Many of the best Bordeaux restaurants are, of course, focused on the rich culinary heritage of both France and Bordeaux, with fresh, seasonal local produce taking centre stage. If you're a fan of oysters, don't leave without visiting the Cap Ferret Peninsula, which is dotted with simple oyster farming villages where on a Winerist Arachon Bay tour you can taste the freshest oysters imaginable. Bordeaux is one of the best destinations for taking a mouth-watering gourmet food tour. MORE REASONS TO VISIT BORDEAUX Not only is Bordeaux a Mecca for wine and food lovers; the city is alive with fascinating history and a vibrant cultural scene. Formerly an important centre for shipping and trade, Bordeaux is now a cosmopolitan destination where history sits shoulder-to-shoulder with modernity. Get lost in the ancient streets of Saint Emilion; stroll through trendy Saint-Pierre and visit the cutting-edge wine museum Cite du Vin; stop for lunch in gastronomic Saint-Michel and end your day with a glass of the region's finest in one of the many wine bars of Chartrons. Winerist’s vast array of private wine and city tours and  small group tours will help you explore this amazing city.

WINERIST INSIDER TIP Our favourite way of exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux is by bicycle. It's fun, eco-friendly & can be enjoyed at your own pace. Choose an e-bike wine tasting tour from Bordeaux  for minimal effort!  

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7 great bordeaux wine tours: find the best tastings and vineyards.

As a wine lover, the Bordeaux wine region is an absolute must-visit destination. Located in southwestern France, Bordeaux is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in the world. And the best way to really get an overview of the region, try lots of wine, and learn as much as possible is to go on one of the top Bordeaux wine tours.

When we went for the first time, we were worried we wouldn’t be able to get into the top wineries and we’d have a hard time navigating the language barrier. In many ways, we were right. It wasn’t easy booking tours on our own without help. But then we found Rue des Vignerons , a website that helps you easily locate and book winery visits and more.

Not only can you book your own tours through them, you can also book a full or half day group tour in either the Right Bank or Left Bank, making it even more easy to find the best wineries and have a nice time on your trip, without having to worry about details.

We’ve been on many tours in Bordeaux and have found each of these to be very rewarding, fun, and educational. I hope you’ll find one that you love just as much as we did.

Planning a trip to Bordeaux ?

• Easiest way to book wine tasting appointments: Rue des Vignerons (instant booking!)
• Book a private wine tour with driver with B for Bordeaux (personalize your tour)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they find all the best deals)

Where to Stay in Bordeaux See all hotel options

• Intercontinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel, an IHG Hotel  (5-star hotel in Bordeaux Centre)
• Château Fombrauge – Bernard Magrez Luxury Wine Experience  (Saint Emilion)

Best Tours and Experiences in Bordeaux:

• Bordeaux Walking Tour (Private)
• Medoc Full Day Wine Tour – 150€/pp – a full-day tour to discover 3 carefully selected châteaux.
• Saint Emilion Full Day Wine Tour – 155€ – Visit & tasting at 3 Châteaux.

Table of Contents

Best Bordeaux Wine Tours

Saint emilion full day wine tour from bordeaux.

This full-day Saint Emilion wine tour is one of the best Bordeaux wine tours you can take. This is our top recommended tour for a reason. It’s with a company we know and trust. They meet at the Bordeaux Tourist Office, so it’s convenient for everyone. The tour includes 8 full hours of learning about wine production, seeing where some of the best wine in France is produced, and of course, tasting wine.

You’ll travel in comfort in a top-of-the-range, air-conditioned van from Bordeaux with an English-speaking Bordeaux wine expert, who will make sure you’re having a great time and learning a lot.

The tour includes a visit & tasting at 3 Châteaux and an opportunity to explore Saint Emilion for a little while on your own. This little town is so cute. You’re going to love it. This is a small group tour, but with 8 people or less. Two people are required to run the tour.

• 09:20 am : Meet your guide in front of the Bordeaux Tourist Office
• 09:30 am: Departure for the Bordeaux vineyard tour in Saint Emilion
• 10:30 am: Visit and tasting at the 1ᵉʳ Saint Emilion wine estate
• 12:00 am: Visit and wine tasting at the 2ᵉ Saint Emilion wine estate
• 1:00 pm: Free time for personal discovery and lunch in the village of St Emilion. (at your own expense)
• 3:30 pm: Wine tasting at the 3ᵉ Saint Emilion wine estate
• 4:30 pm: Departure from Saint Emilion for Bordeaux
• 5:30 pm: Drop-off at Bordeaux Tourist Office

Saint-Emilion Full Day Wine Bike Tour from Bordeaux

If you’re looking for something unique, we recommend this wine bike tour. There’s no more fun way to see this awesome town and the vineyards than on an electric bike.

Your guide will take you safely through the spectacular winding landscapes of the Saint-Emilion and Pomerol vineyards. You’ll discover the grape varieties that make Bordeaux so prestigious. Taste the wines right at the châteaux where they are made, before losing yourself in the charm and beauty of the medieval village of Saint-Emilion.

Between vineyard visits, enjoy a fresh lunch in the heart of the vineyards, letting time stand still as you bask in the sunshine and fresh air. This tour is an effortless adventure for all levels thanks to the electric power of our new bikes.

• 09:00 am: Meet your guide in front of the Bordeaux Tourist Office at 12 cours du 30 Juillet. Depart for Saint-Emilion by minibus.
• 10:00 am: Climb aboard! Pick up your E-bike and clothes before a safety briefing with your guide.
• 11:15 am: Visit a château in Saint-Emilion and enjoy a red wine tasting followed by a private sit-down picnic lunch prepared by our local caterer overlooking the vineyards!
• 2:00 pm: Guided tour of the village of Saint-Emilion and its picturesque cobbled streets
• 3:30 pm: Discover a family estate located on one of Saint-Emilion’s finest terroirs! Enjoy an additional tasting and some nibbles to complete the experience!
• 5:30 pm: Return to Bordeaux!

Medoc Full Day Wine Tour from Bordeaux

If you want to develop from a wine novice to a wine connoisseur, this full-day Bordeaux Wines Workshop and Tour is perfect for you. Over the course of 7 hours, you’ll have the chance to increase your wine knowledge and indulge in some of the best wines in the country.

The tour includes a 1.5-hour workshop accompanied by a wine specialist and visits to two estates. Test your skills in smelling the different aromas that define a good wine, and see how the taste of your wine changes when you sample different foods with your wine.

This tour also includes transportation via air-conditioned vehicle, 6 different wine tastings, and a snack. It’s the perfect way to spend a day exploring Bordeaux’s wine culture.

Overall, these three Bordeaux wine tours offer a great way to explore the region’s wine culture. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious day trip or an educational wine workshop, you’re sure to find a tour that fits your needs. So book your tour today and get ready to experience the best of Bordeaux’s wine culture!

• 09.20 am: Meet your guide in front of the Bordeaux Tourist Office
• 09: 30 am: Departure for the Bordeaux wine tour in the Médoc
• 10.45 am: Arrival at the first winery for a visit and wine tasting
• 12:00 am: Free time for lunch (own expense) in Pauillac
• 2.00 pm: Visit and wine tasting at the second winery
• 3:30 pm: Visit and wine tasting at the 3ᵉ domaine viticole
• 5:30 pm: Drop-off at Bordeaux tourist office

St-Emilion & Médoc Combined Day Tour from Bordeaux

If you don’t have a lot of time but want to see both St. Emilion and Medoc, you can take this combined day trip that will show you the contrast between the two.

You’ll start out with a tour and tasting in St. Emilion, then head to local winery for a wine tasting and picnic lunch, then it’s on to a family run estate in Medoc and a tasting session at a second winery in the Margaux region.

This tour has a small group size with a maximum of 8 people, so you’ll get nearly undivided attention from your guide who is there to answer your questions and assist you with anything you need along the way.

The tour includes a short walking tour of Saint Emilion, red wine tastings in a Château, private transportation via air-conditioned minivan, and a professional English-speaking guide and driver. All tasting fees and the picnic are included. This tour has received the Badge of Excellence from Viator !

Half-day private tour in Saint-Emilion in a sidecar

This tour is the one to book if you’re short on time or just want a quick tour, but don’t want to join a group. As an added bonus, it’s also conducted in a retro sidecar.

You’ll be picked up at your hotel in Bordeaux and taken out to Saint-Emilion, where your tour of the vineyards and countryside begins. You’ll have a few wine tastings, plus some time to walk around the town on your own.

This tour is approximately 4 1/2 hours and everything you need is included in the price.

Bordeaux Private Full Day Wine Tour

If you have a group, this private full-day tour is definitely the way to go. The price is higher, but it’s for a group of up to 8 people, so the more you have the less it costs per person.

This 8-hour tour is also great because it’s a custom-made tasting experience. You can choose to explore the Medoc, Saint Emilion, Graves, or Sauternes, and you get to choose up to three château visits and expert-led wine tastings. Or you can have your guide choose for you based on your preferences.

The tour includes professional English-speaking guide and driver, fully private wine tour, bottled water, private transportation via air-conditioned minivan, hotel pick-up and drop-off. The only thing not included is the tasting fees at the Chateaux.

Médoc Luxury Wine Trip from Bordeaux in a Citroën DS Limousine Convertible

On this tour, you will travel in style in a 1973 Citroën DS Limousine Convertible with a private chauffeur, and enjoy a fully customized tasting tour. You can choose to do a half or full day tour and up to 4 can ride in the car.

Admire the views along the ‘Route des Chateaux’, choose to visit Premier Cru vineyards, and stop to indulge in guided wine tastings or lunch at a gourmet restaurant.

The tour price includes transportation and bottled water. The other activities are at your own expense.

Our Best Bordeaux Tips

There’s a lot to think about when you’re planning your trip to Bordeaux. Here are a few things we wish we’d known before we went.

• It’s not easy to book wine appointments directly through wineries. It’s way easier to book through Rue des Vignerons. You can also easily cancel your booking if something comes up.
• English is not spoken everywhere, so be prepared with some key French phrases.
• It’s best to stay in the town of Bordeaux if you don’t have a car. It’s walking distance to everything and all of these tours can depart from there.
• If you do have a car, you might want to stay in St. Emilion. It’s so cute and easy to get around.
• We like St. Emilion more than Medoc for the experience because it’s cuter, more laidback, and easier to visit.
• Look for wineries that offer dinner. We had better dining experiences out in the vineyards than in town.
• If you want to try more wines, head to one of the wine bars in Bordeaux to sample more than you could ever try at the wineries.

Bordeaux Wine Tour Questions

How much does it cost to go wine tasting in bordeaux.

Bordeaux wine tours vary in cost, but many of them are not very expensive. The most expensive tours include tastings of a variety of high-end wines as well as food and occasionally even the chance to try your hand at making wine. But, for the most part, most wine tours in France cost around $100-$160 per person for a full 8-10 hour day. Of course, this will vary depending on what is included, if it’s a private wine tour, and so forth. For private wine tours, you can expect around $200-$300 per person.

When Should I Visit Bordeaux Wineries?

The best time to visit Bordeaux wineries is between August and October, with September being peak season. Mid to late August is perfect for seeing vineyards overflowing with grapes and have warm to hot weather, while September is when the grapes are at their best and harvesting season begins. By mid-October, much of the grapes are harvested for use during the off-season, but you’ll experience far milder temperatures which is perfect for those who don’t love the summer heat.

How Do you Get Around Bordeaux Wineries?

The wineries are located within a 50-mile radius of the city. The closest vineyards are located just outside the city center and are very easy to reach. Many tour companies offer transportation to these vineyards so you don’t have to worry about driving yourself or taking public transportation (especially helpful since public transport is limited). With pre-arranged tours, you can also easily choose an accommodation that is central to the city center or in a nearby village to maximize your time spent tasting wines and visiting wineries without having to worry about long travel times.

How Many Days is Enough for Bordeaux?

You should plan on spending between 4-7 days in Bordeaux, however, there is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on your interests and how much time you have available. If you are simply looking for a short visit to do some wine tasting at a few wineries, a couple of days should be sufficient. However, if you want to explore the vineyards or take an immersive wine-tasting tour, you may want to stay in Bordeaux for a week or longer.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

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• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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13+ Impeccable Bordeaux Wine Tours to Take in 2024

Bordeaux wine tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone, not just wine enthusiasts. But, finding the right wine estate and knowing which tour is right for you can be difficult!

When I first started dabbling in the world of wine, I realized I had absolutely zero clue why I liked certain wines more than others and the differences between wines from different French regions, which is precisely why I’ve created this list of the best wine tours from Bordeaux so you can have an expert wine connoisseur help you during your trip.

Because, whether you’re new to drinking wine or you’re a wine enthusiast, there’s always something you can learn from these local aficionados.

Located in southwestern France, the Bordeaux wine region is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in the world. So, nobody wants to risk visiting a winery that doesn’t suit their flavor interests, right?

Don’t have time to read the whole article? No problem!

The #1 Bordeaux wine tour on this list is undoubtedly the Saint- Emilion wine tour & day trip from Bordeaux! Offering numerous wine tastings, a professional English-speaking guide, and roundtrip transportation, this is the ultimate Bordeaux wine tour!

With these tours, you can learn about the history and production of local metiers and even get a chance to explore the wine-making process!

Plus, there are plenty of charming villages and towns to explore in this picturesque corner of France. Cheap wine tastings may exist in Bordeaux, but I promise you… the experience won’t be cheap!

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience, be sure to add the Bordeaux wine region to your travel itinerary!

Best Bordeaux Wine Tours in 2024

🍷1. saint emilion day trip with sightseeing tour & wine tastings from bordeaux.

What’s Included? ⤵️

• Bottled water
• Free access to WiFi onboard
• Professional English-speaking guide and driver
• Short walking tour of Saint Emilion
• Roundtrip air-conditioned transportation via minibus from Bordeaux
• Three special wine tasting sessions

🍷 With nearly 500 5-star reviews, this full day Saint Emilion day trip is easily one of the best Bordeaux wine tours you can take. Enjoy 8 full hours of learning about wine production, seeing where some of the best wine in France is produced, and of course, tasting wine. You’ll travel in comfort in an air-conditioned minibus from Bordeaux, and you’ll even get the opportunity to explore Saint Emilion for a little while! This tour eliminates the need to rent a car, so you can save some money and do everything you want to do on your day tour of Bordeaux!

🍷2. Luxurious Full Day Bordeaux Wine Tour in a Tesla

• Private transportation in a Tesla
• Professional guide and driver

🍷Looking for the ultimate luxury Bordeaux wine tours? Look no further! Over the course of 8-9 hours, you and your small group will be chauffeured in a pristine Tesla across France’s most popular wine region. Visit high-end wine estates across multiple wine regions including Saint Emilion, Pauillac, and Sauternes and indulge in luxurious group wine tastings throughout the day. Be sure to pick up some amazing cheese and fruit along the way for the perfect day exploring Bordeaux! Not only does this luxury tour top most others , you can also feel good about limiting your carbon footprint while you do it.

🍷3. Full Day Wine Tour in Saint-Emilion (Premium Sedan)

• Private transportation in a luxurious sedan
• Professional local driver and guide
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off (if chosen)

🍷 Considering a luxury Bordeaux wine tour on your next trip to France? Sounds great! Be sure to check out this 9-hour day trip to Bordeaux’s wine region where you’ll get the chance to explore numerous wine estates across Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. You’ll also have the opportunity to dine at La Terrasse Rouge which is surrounded by some of the most prestigious wine estates in the region. You’ll also be able to sample, Chateau Canon, which if you aren’t aware is a Premier Grand Cru Classé! This is easily one of the most luxurious Bordeaux wine tours available, so be sure to book in advance if you want to secure your spot in the premium sedan. It can only hold 3 people, so keep this in mind if you have a larger group.

🍷4. Full Day Bordeaux Wines Workshop and Tour

• Transportation via air-conditioned vehicle
• 90-minute wine tasting workshop
• 6 different wine tastings
• Guided visit and wine tastings at two different chateaus

🍷 Over the course of 7 hours, you’ll find yourself developing from a wine novice to a wine connoisseur! Test your skills in smelling the different aromas that define a good wine, and see how the taste of your wine changes when you sample different foods with your wine. With a 1.5-hour workshop accompanied by a wine specialist and visits to two estates , you’ll have the chance to increase your wine knowledge and get to indulge in some of the best wines in the country.

Half Day Bordeaux Wine Tours

🍷5. saint emilion half-day trip with wine tasting & winery visit from bordeaux.

• Red wine tastings in a Château
• Private transportation via air-conditioned minivan

🍷 If you’re looking for a quick wine tasting in Bordeaux that gives you a chance to see the iconic Saint-Émilion village and provides the chance to sample some amazing French wines, this tour is for you! This tour has a small group size with a maximum of 8 people, so you’ll get nearly undivided attention from your guide who is there to answer your questions and assist you with anything you need along the way. With over 400 5-star reviews, it’s easy to see why this tour has received the Badge of Excellence from Viator !

🍷6. Médoc Region Half-Day Wine Tour with Winery Visit & Tastings from Bordeaux

• All wine tastings included
• Roundtrip transportation from Bordeaux
• Small-group Medoc wine tour
• Scenic drive through Bordeaux’s wine region

🍷With several visits to both Classified Growth and Crus Bourgeois appellations, there’s no wonder why this spectacular half day Bordeaux wine tour has received Viator’s Badge of Excellence and dozens of 5-star reviews! It doesn’t matter if you’re short on time, this half day excursion includes Bordeaux wine tasting tours at several estates and allows you the opportunity to drive past some of the region’s most famous chateaux including Palmer and Chateaux Margaux.

🍷7. Make your Own Cuvée of Bordeaux Wine

• Alcoholic beverages and snacks
• Full wine class right in the center of Bordeaux
• The bottle of wine you create
• The chance to seal your bottle and attach your very own label

🍷 Not everyone has a full day to take one of these spectacular Bordeaux tours, so if you have to make do with just a few hours, this wine workshop has received the Badge of Excellence from Viator ! In just one afternoon, you’ll get the opportunity to work with wine connoisseurs to create a wine that tastes great. You’ll also have the chance to practice sealing a bottle of wine, including your own, and you can even create your very own wine label for your bottle to bring home! If you are considering several half day tours Bordeaux has to offer, this one is one of the best-rated in the city.

Private Bordeaux Wine Tours

🍷8. bordeaux private half day wine tour – st emilion or medoc.

• Roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Bordeaux
• Professional English-speaking guide and driver (other languages may be available upon request)
• Visits to 2 wineries in the Graves or Medoc wine regions
• Visit 1 winery in Saint Emilion

🍷 Want to make the most out of your half day Bordeaux wine trip? Well, in just 4 hours, this tour will bring you to 3 different wine estates that you get to select yourself ! This allows you to squeeze a lot of sightseeing into a short amount of time, so you won’t feel like you missed out on the wine regions if you only have limited time in Bordeaux. Since you’ll be short on time, be sure to sample at least one of the Grand Cru wines… Haut-Brion is simply exquisite.

🍷9. Bordeaux Private Full Day Wine Tour

• Fully private wine tour
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• You get to pre-select the wineries you visit

🍷When it comes to private Bordeaux wine tours, this one surely shouldn’t be missed! Complete with your very own guide and driver, you and your group will be able to pre-select the wine estates in Bordeaux that you visit prior to pickup. This saves you time and allows you the chance to see more of the French countryside between visits. They allow you to visit up to three estates and recommend pre-booking your wine tastings in advance.

🍷10. Bordeaux Médoc Region Private Wine Lovers Tour with Château Visits & Tastings

• Walking tour of the village of Saint Emilion
• English-speaking tour guide and private driver
• Transportation via air-conditioned minibus with free onboard WiFi access
• Three wine tastings in Bordeaux

🍷Among some of the best wine tours in Bordeaux, this 8-hour wine lovers tour is perfect for the classic wine enthusiast. With visits to several different wine estates and chateaus as well as the village of world-famous St. Emilion, this is one wine tour you won’t want to miss! Plus, with an English-speaking guide and air-conditioned transportation, you’ll have everything you need for a luxurious visit to France’s best wine region.

Bordeaux Bike Tours

🍷11. bordeaux: essentials 3-hour bike ride.

• Half day bike rental
• Beautiful 3-hour bike ride through Bordeaux’s old town with a guide

🍷 Not really a wine drinker? That’s okay, I love beer and spirits too. While the rest of your group runs off to take a Bordeaux vineyard tour, consider taking a 3-hour bike ride around the city of Bordeaux with a guide ! You’ll learn about the history of this famous French city and get the opportunity to see a large portion of the region in a short amount of time. Plus, you’ll get some great opportunities for photos, so make sure your battery is charged!

🍷12. Bordeaux: St-Emilion Vineyards e-Bike Tour with Wine & Lunch

• English and French-speaking tour guide
• Full-day St. Emilion electric bike rental for touring
• Lunch accompanied by local wines
• Visits to a Great Classified Growth estate as well as to two stunning chateaux
• Roundtrip transportation from Bordeaux by van

🍷 In the mood for something a little out of the ordinary on your Bordeaux wine tour? Consider booking this incredible e-bike tour that includes a 15-kilometer ride through stunning vineyards in France’s iconic Saint Emilion wine region ! You’ll get spectacular views of the region’s most scenic areas during this beautiful bike ride, then you’ll be rewarded with a group wine tasting in Bordeaux at multiple chateaux and classified growth estates! While you will be riding an e-bike, an average level of physical fitness is required for this tour, but it’s easily one of the best Bordeaux wine tours by bike.

Bordeaux Wine Tour from Paris

🍷13. full-day tour to saint-emilion and medoc, from bordeaux.

• English-speaking guide
• Small group tour with private transportation between Paris and Bordeaux
• Three wine tastings all from different classified growth vineyards within the St. Emilion and Medoc wine regions (with a Grand Cru tasting)
• Walking tour of Saint Emilion
• Picnic in a Chateau
• Photo stop at Château Margaux

🍷 Planning a trip to Paris and want to visit France’s most spectacular wine region without the hassle of planning all of the complex details? This day trip to Bordeaux from Paris is for you! Simply hop in your semi-private vehicle from Paris to Saint Emilion where you’ll have the opportunity to sample Grand Cru wines (some of the best white wine tasting in Bordeaux), take a walking tour of the charming town, and enjoy a lovely picnic in a charming chateau.

Bordeaux Wine Map

Now that you have all of the information you need for a spectacular trip to Bordeaux’s wine region, you can use this map to find the vineyards that you believe will suit you best and mark them for your personal itinerary.

The Best Wines to Try in Bordeaux

Chateau Pey La Tour 2018

Recognized for its ruby red color, this bright wine has notes of raspberries, licorice, and some light spices.

Chateau Tour Chapoux

Pairing well with red meat and poultry, this well-balanced simple wine is a great starting point for those looking to broaden their wine palette.

Chateau Pey La Tour 2019

Wood-aged and recognized for its big tannins, this bold red boasts a spiciness that is perfect around the holidays.

Château Pey La Tour Bordeaux 2018

Rich with notes of licorice and blackcurrant, this wine can stand up to most red meats and is good for sipping.

Chateau Peybonhomme Les Tours 2018

Known for its use of fresh black fruits and smoky aftertaste, this delicious red is affordable and will pleasantly accompany any steak dinner.

Bordeaux Wine Tour Packages

Some wineries in Bordeaux offer luxurious wine tour packages inclusive of tastings, meals, and even your accommodation.

Château Cordeillan-Bages and Château Meyre are just two that offer such packages, and make for a great choice if you’re looking for something extra special!

FAQ: Bordeaux Wine Tours

In this next section, I’m going to be diving into answering several essential questions for your wine trip to Bordeaux

What is the Best Wine Tour in Bordeaux?

The best wine tour in Bordeaux is probably the Saint- Emilion wine tour & day trip! This tour takes you on a scenic drive through the stunning countryside of Bordeaux, stopping at renowned chateaux in Saint-Émilion and Pomerol.

Not only do you get to taste the region’s best wines, but you’ll also learn about the history and production process from experienced local guides. This tour also includes a 45-minute walking tour of Saint Emilion with an expert, local guide, so you really do get the best bang for your buck with this tour!

Is Bordeaux France Worth Visiting?

Bordeaux, France is absolutely worth visiting! This glorious city is not just a wine lover’s paradise, but it also boasts a rich historical heritage, stunning architecture, and a vibrant food scene.

Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, take in the majestic sight of Place de la Bourse along the Garonne River, or simply unwind in the lush green spaces that dot the cityscape.

And, let’s not forget the main attraction – the vineyards! In Bordeaux, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through some of the world’s most renowned vineyards, savor exquisite wines, and meet the winemakers behind these exceptional blends.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a history buff, or simply a traveler seeking a unique French experience, Bordeaux is a destination that’s worth every bit of the hype.

How Much Does it Cost to Go Wine Tasting in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux wine tours range greatly in cost, but overall many of them are not very expensive.

The most expensive tours will include tastings of a variety of high-end wines as well as food and occasionally even the chance to try your hand at making wine. But, for the most part, most wine tours in France cost around $100-$160 per person for a full 8-10 hour day.

Of course, this will vary depending on what is included, if it’s a private wine tour, and so forth.

When Should I Visit Bordeaux Wineries?

The best time to visit Bordeaux wineries is between August and October, with September being peak season.

Mid to late August is perfect for seeing vineyards overflowing with grapes and have warm to hot weather, while September is when the grapes are at their best and harvesting season begins.

By mid-October, much of the grapes are harvested for use during the off-season, but you’ll experience far milder temperatures which is perfect for those who don’t love the summer heat.

So, if you want those iconic photos of the vineyards overflowing with grapes, then visit in late August to early September. But, if you want to avoid the summer sun and are looking to score some good deals on accommodations, then October is a great season to visit.

October is also great for foliage viewing over the vineyards in Bordeaux, so if this is something that you would like to see, then you should consider visiting in October.

Can you Do Wine Tours in Bordeaux?

Yes, you can visit the wineries in Bordeaux. Many of them offer wine tasting tours with advance notice while some allow you to simply arrive and ask for a tour.

Depending on your interests, you can opt for a specialized wine tasting of specific brands and types, a tour of the vineyards and winemaking facilities, or a combination of both.

If you are looking for a truly immersive experience, there are several Bordeaux wine tours available that will take you to some of the most famous wineries in France! No matter how you decide to do it, visiting wineries in Bordeaux is quite simple.

How Do you Get Around Bordeaux Wineries?

The wineries in and around Bordeaux are located within a 50-mile radius of the city. The closest vineyards are located just outside the city center, while others can be found further away if you’re looking for a truly local experience.

Many tour companies offer transportation to these vineyards so you don’t have to worry about driving yourself or taking public transportation (especially helpful since public transport is limited).

With pre-arranged tours, you can also easily choose an accommodation that is central to the city center or in a nearby village to maximize your time spent tasting wines and visiting wineries without having to worry about long travel times.

How Many Days in Bordeaux is Enough?

You should plan on spending between 4-7 days in Bordeaux , however, there is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on your interests and how much time you have available.

If you are simply looking for a short visit to do some wine tasting at a few wineries, a couple of days should be sufficient.

However, if you want to explore the vineyards or take an immersive wine-tasting tour, you may want to stay in Bordeaux for a week or longer. Some travelers even choose to live in Bordeaux for several months or years, soaking up the local culture and delving deeper into the winemaking process and industry.

Though this often comes after their week-long visit when they discover how beautiful life in the Bordeaux wine region of France is!

Ultimately, it all depends on what you are looking for and how much time you have available. However, no matter how long you stay in Bordeaux, there are plenty of amazing wineries and gorgeous vineyards to explore!

How Do You Get to Wineries in Bordeaux France?

The best way to get to wineries in Bordeaux France is by car , as most of the wineries are located outside of the major cities and are not accessible via public transportation. This makes sense since vineyards need lots of open space and plenty of sunlight, and are not typically found nearby highly-trafficked areas.

If you do not have access to a vehicle during your visit, you may want to look for local tour companies that offer wine tasting tours or hire a taxi driver to take you to the wineries of your choice.

Some high-end hotels also offer free pick-up and drop-off in the nearby city or airport. making it very convenient for you to access their vineyards.

However, this isn’t the case for all wineries in Bordeaux, France and these hotels will come with a shocking price tag for most.

Another option is to rent a bicycle or e-bike and explore on your own, though this can be challenging if you want to visit several different wineries in a single day.

Bordeaux Wine Trail on Horseback

If you’re looking for an adventurous way to explore the beautiful vineyards of Bordeaux, then why not take a horseback ride along the wine trails?

Horseback riding is one of the most unique and thrilling ways to experience the stunning views of this famous French wine region. Not only will you get to admire some breathtaking scenery, but you’ll also have an opportunity to meet local winemakers and learn about their craft while enjoying some delicious wines!

Bordeaux Far and Ride is a great company that offers horseback riding wine tours for experienced riders.

What is the Famous Wine Town in Bordeaux?

Saint-Émilion is easily the most famous wine town in Bordeaux! This lovely, medieval village is not only a UNESCO world heritage site but is also home to some of the world’s most famous vineyards and wineries.

The cobblestone streets, monolithic church, and stunning vistas make Saint-Émilion an absolute must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Not to mention, the town is brimming with wine shops where you can sip on and purchase the region’s finest Grand Cru wines.

Best Place to Stay in Bordeaux for Wine Tastings

The best area to stay in Bordeaux for wine tastings is around the city center, near Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion .

This location is close to the popular wineries as well as smaller, family-run wineries such as Château de Pressac, and guests can spend their days exploring the city before heading out to visit the vineyards.

There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and hotels in this area so you’re sure to find something to suit your needs.

The iconic Médoc region also provides a great alternative to the Bordeaux city center, with its beautiful rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. The area boasts some of the most prestigious wineries in Bordeaux, so if you’re looking for an unforgettable wine experience, this is a great place to stay!

How Do You Spend Two Days in Bordeaux?

If you only have two days in Bordeaux, you should spend it exploring the main city where you’ll find beautiful French souvenirs and include a full day between the Bordeaux wine museum and a guided tour discovering your favorite French wines.

Be sure to book a centrally-located accommodation so you can easily get to all the major sites and won’t spend too much time getting to the vineyards.

If you want to primarily spend your time doing wine tastings, then you should consider booking a hotel northeast of Bordeaux in Saint Emilion where you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous vineyards.

What Should I Pack for Bordeaux Wine Tours?

If you’re heading out on one of the aforementioned wine tours of Bordeaux, then you should pack these items:

• A day bag or backpack
• A hat to block the sun
• Water (between the sun and the wine, getting dehydrated is practically a guarantee)
• Snacks (this is more for people with dietary restrictions since almost every winery you visit will have food available for purchase or included in your Bordeaux wine tasting)
• Comfortable, stylish clothing (the people hosting these wineries typically dress business casual)
• Close-toed shoes (heels will sink in the dirt if you’re going for a walk in the vineyards – wear pumps or wedges at a minimum if you want a little extra height)
• Cash – while you can book your wine tasting tour online in advance, it’s a good idea to have some euros on you for gratuity and small purchases

Which Experiences are Best for Wine Tours & Tastings in Bordeaux?

If you want to make the most of your wine tours and tastings in Bordeaux, then I recommend heading to a few different types of wineries.

First, explore one of the many sprawling vineyards that are located just outside of the city ( Château Ambe Tour Pourret is a popular favorite), where you’ll get to see firsthand how grapes are grown, harvested, and turned into some of the world’s most delicious wines.

You should also make time to visit one of the wineries in Bordeaux city center ( Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion is lovely), where you’ll get a more intimate experience learning about the history and culture of wine-making in France.

And finally, be sure to check out some of the smaller, family-run wineries ( The Naked Vigneron is a hidden gem) that are hidden in the hills outside of the city, where you’ll not only get to experience some truly unique wines, but will also get a chance to meet the wine-makers themselves and learn more about their craft.

What Wine Tastings in Bordeaux are Good for Avoiding Crowds?

Most Bordeaux wine tasting tours have maximum group sizes of 8-10 people, so you can usually avoid any large-scale crowds.

However, if you’re looking for something a little more intimate then why not try a private tasting? These are available at many wineries and allow you to enjoy the experience without the presence of other tourists – simply book a private tour in advance and you’ll be set for a unique and personal experience.

It’s also worth noting that some of the smaller, independent wineries tend to have fewer visitors than those in the larger estates. So don’t forget to explore these hidden gems along your travels too!

What are the Best Wine Tastings in Bordeaux?

Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Martillac and Chateau Beauregard in Pomerol on the right bank are some of the best places for wine tours and tastings in Bordeaux.

They both offer a special wine tasting experience as well as a wonderful small group wine tour, with Château Smith Haut Lafitte even offering private meals for larger groups prepared by their award-winning chefs.

If you’re looking to take a full day wine tour equipped with several wine tastings while looking out over stunning vineyards in one of the most famous wine regions in the world, then these two wine estates are sure to impress.

Skip to the bottom of the article? No problem!

The #1 Bordeaux wine tour on this list is undoubtedly the Saint-Emilion wine tour & day trip from Bordeaux! Offering numerous wine tastings, a professional English-speaking guide, and roundtrip transportation, this is the ultimate Bordeaux wine tour !

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Bordeaux is a wine lover’s paradise, and with so many different types of wineries to explore, there’s something for everyone. If you really love wine, be sure to visit France for the annual Bordeaux wine festival! Typically occuring in June, it’s the best time to sample most of the region’s most famous wines.

Whether you’re looking to book one of these full day Bordeaux wine tours complete with tastings or just want to wander the vineyards on your own, or perhaps you’re in town for a Bordeaux wine tasting weekend, this city has something special to offer everyone who visits.

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

The 13+ Best Bordeaux Wine Tours of 2024

Last updated on February 28th, 2024 at 10:40 pm

Table of Contents

Looking for the best Bordeaux Wine Tours for your trip? I’ve got you covered!

With over 7,000 wineries to choose from it’s hard to know which are the best Bordeaux Wine Tours to choose.

Considered to be one of the wine capitals of the world Bordeaux has a lot to offer, and it can be a little overwhelming with so much choice.

Maybe you should do a self-guided tour. Perhaps you’d enjoy wine tasting as part of a group. Or you might prefer a private tour.

It’s no great secret that I enjoy a glass or two of wine, and Bordeaux wine is some of my favourite.

And living in the Charente, I’m just 90 minutes away from Bordeaux and have enjoyed several of the wine tours available.

My Top 3 Picks: The Best Bordeaux Wine Tours in 2024

Full-Day Saint Emilion Wine Tasting Tour

✅ This 8-hour tour has 400 5-Star Reviews

✅ Visit a Grand Cru Classé chateau

✅ St-Emilion, is a UNESCO-listed village

Médoc Private Wine Tour & Tastings

✅ Visit three wine châteaux in the Medoc 

✅ A personalised tour with guided tastings

✅ Explore winemaking villages such as Margaux

Electric Bike Wine Tour Tasting

✅ Guided tour of two chateaux

✅ Picnic Lunch & Wine Tasting

✅ Hire fees for your electric bike

The Best Bordeaux Wine Tours on Foot in the City

If you’d rather not tour the vineyards or simply don’t have time, wine tasting in the city is the perfect option. There are lots of great wine bars and boutiques where you can enjoy a wine-tasting experience in Bordeaux itself.

1. La Cité du Vin

⭐️  RATING:  4 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2-3 hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

You cannot fail to be impressed by this unique wine museum. I was blown away by how much I learned on my trip, not to mention the building itself.

It was designed to represent the flow of wine into a glass and is nothing short of spectacular. La Cité du Vin stands high, at 55 metres and is a huge tourist attraction. 

It opened in 2016 intending to educate people about winemaking and doesn’t just feature the wine region of Bordeaux.

It’s an immersive wine experience featuring wines from around the world.

You won’t spend most of your time reading as you do in many museums. But there’s a lot to see and a lot to listen to.

And don’t worry there’s an English audio option for those that need it.  The main exhibition is on the second floor and covers everything you could possibly imagine about wine history.

From understanding how wine is made to the incredibly cool ‘Buffet of the Five Senses’ (Le buffet des 5 sens). I mean wine tasting does need all five senses after all.

The wine tasting happens on the 8th floor called ​​the Belvedere where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

It really doesn’t get any better than tasting fantastic wine and a view to match.

To really enjoy the experience you’ll want to set aside half a day. But if you’re pushed for time you can create a tour specific to your own interests.

This is a very well organized museum with wonderful interactive areas. Very educational in many areas and really a first class museum. And a free glass of wine at the top when you finish to look over Bordeaux! lisa ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK Tickets to La Cité du Vin Wine Museum

No 2 – Cousin and Compagnie

⭐️  RATING: 4 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   1 Hour | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

This is one of the oldest wine shops in Bordeaux and their Vintage Wine Tasting event is one you don’t want to miss. Especially as it’s paired with a charcuterie board of cured meats and cheese.

Not only are they the oldest but they were also one of the first to introduce biodynamic wines into the region. They were awarded the Eco-Défis 2022 label.

As well as enjoying four Grands crus wines selected from vintage years in the 70s, 80s and 90s, you’ll learn the history behind making them.

And they’ll tell you how to choose the right cheese for the right wine.

As it’s only an hour so you’ll still have time to explore the rest of the city. You can choose between an experience in French or English.

A must when you are passing through Bordeaux and want to satisfy your wine cravings! A wide range of biodynamic and natural wines and a passionate team that shares its knowledge with us! martin ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK The Vintage Wine Tasting with Cousin and Compagnie

No 3 – Le Pied à Terre

⭐️  RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2 Hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

Run by two brothers, Pierre and Geoffroy, Le Pied à Terre is another great wine-tasting option.

These guys love their wine it’s that simple. There isn’t much they don’t know, and they’re happy to help you drink it too. You’ll taste three Bordeaux wines accompanied by a selection of Basque cheese and meat.

They are popular and tend to sell out fast, so make sure you get your tickets in advance.

The tasting lasted close to two hours and it was entertaining, educational, light-hearted and truly a sweet lesson in the wine of Bordeaux. You’re made to feel like family.  stephen ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK Le Pied à Terre Wine Experience

The Best Full Day Immersive Bordeaux Wine Tours

We’ve collated our five of the best full-day tours covering a variety of price ranges and inclusions. Something to suit everyone.

No 4. ​​Bordeaux Super Saver Wine Tasting class with Lunch in St Emilion

⭐️  RATING:  5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   9 hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

The first in our full-day tours is the super saver. It combines a workshop with lunch along with a trip to the most famous of the Bordeaux wine regions, Saint-Emilion.

The morning is spent in Bordeaux learning and tasting, followed by lunch in the city. Next is a visit to two chateaux in St Emilion for tours of the vineyards and more wine tasting.

This value-packed tour is limited to 8 people to ensure a more personalised experience.

What’s included:

• A two-hour Wine Tasting Workshop with a minimum of 11 French wines paired with cheeses 
• Lunch in the city centre
• A road trip to UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion
• A visit to two châteaux for a vineyard tour and wine tasting
• Local English-speaking guide

We did the full day tour and we are so glad we did. Tasted some amazing wine in the morning and learned all about French wine. It was really interactive! Then went out to the winery’s in the afternoon. So beautiful. Isabell was a AMAZING guide. kelsey ( read more reivews )

▶︎ BOOK the Supersave Wine Tour in St Emilion

No 5. Saint Emilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings

⭐️  RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   8 Hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

Combine two châteaux visits with a walk around the beautiful village of St Emilion. Enjoy tasting red and white wines from Saint-Emilion from the Saint-Emilion and Pomerol wine region.

No need to worry about driving; you’ll be driven everywhere you need to go in an air-conditioned coach.

Starting at a chateau in St-Emilion you’ll learn about the effects the soil and climate have on the grapes before enjoying a 45-minute walking tour of the village.

The second chateau is a Grand Cru Classé chateau and you’ll tour the wine cellars before tasting some for yourself.

• An 8-hour day trip
• Visit two châteaux
• A walking tour of St Emilion village
• English speaking guide
• Wine tasting and vineyard tours

We had a fabulous day visiting 3 chateaux and St Emilion town itself. We have to say that our tour guide, Helena, was superb. She was so enthusiastic throughout and full of knowledge. matthew ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK The St Emilion Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings

No 6. From Bordeaux: Full Day to Saint-Emilion and Medoc

⭐️  RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   9 Hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

Enjoy the morning in Saint-Emilion and the afternoon in the Medoc combining two of the best Bordeaux wine regions.

In a small group of no more than eight people, you’ll get to explore the village of St-Emilion as well as a grand cru tasting at Château la Croizille. Back to Bordeaux for a 3-course picnic lunch with a glass of wine before heading off for the Medoc.

Here you’ll get to do tastings at Château Siran and the grand cru classé Château Marquis. And no trip would be complete without a visit to the famous Château Margaux.

• Explore two Bordeaux appellations: Saint-Emilion and Margaux
• Tastings at three different wineries
• Picnic lunch and a glass of wine
• Guided tour of Saint-Emilion village
• English-speaking guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle

Our tour guide, Guy, was wonderful and shared a wealth of information about the wine growing regions and the certifications Chateau’s aspire to. The historic town of Saint-Emilion is quaint and beautiful. Although an all-day tour, it wasn’t overly taxing. ronald ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK The St Emilion & Medoc Tour & Wine Tastings

No 7. Luxurious full-day Bordeaux wine tour in a Tesla

If you really want to do it in style then this is the luxury full-day tour that tops our list.

This private tour starts with being picked up from your hotel in a Tesla by your chauffeur, who also doubles up as your guide. He’ll then take you to explore your chosen Bordeaux appellations, Saint-Émilion, Médoc or Sauternes.

Whichever one you choose, you’ll visit three châteaux, enjoy private tours and do plenty of wine tasting without the need to drive or plan anything.

Everything is taken care of for you so you can enjoy a VIP experience.

• 8-9 Hour Tour
• Private Tesla
• English-speaking Chauffeur/Guide
• 3 Châteaux Tours

This was fantastic! Pascal’s knowledge of French wine is tremendous. He also made the trip entertaining and enjoyable with stories of the history and the famous families who’ve built Bordeaux wine to what it is today. This by far was the highlight of our trip. kevin ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK The full-day Bordeaux wine tour in a Tesla

No 8. Médoc Private Wine Tour with Chateau Visits & Tastings

I have to say this is my favourite full-day tour because the region has some of the best wines, including Malbec, my favourite.

It’s a personalised private tour just for you, allowing you to explore the region which brings you not only Malbec but Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot too.

You’ll see winemaking villages such as Margaux, St Julien, Pauillac, and St Estephe and have time to learn about Bordeaux wines, as well as tasting some robust reds.

• A visit to three wine châteaux in the Medoc 
• Three guided tastings
• Private chauffeur and hotel pick-up
• A personalised tour

Gosia was a fantastic guide who was informative and friendly. We were quite familiar with American wines prior to our visit, and she did an excellent job educating us on the unique characteristics of the Medoc region as well as Bordeaux as a whole. We highly recommend this tour!! steven ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK your Private Médoc Wine Tasting and Tour

The Best Half-Day Bordeaux Wine Tours

If you’re looking to do a few smaller tours rather than a full day, we’ve curated some of our favourites. You can even make your own Cuvée.

No 9. Saint Emilion Half-Day Wine Tasting Trip

⭐️  RATING: 4.5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4 Hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

With over 400 5-star reviews, this wine tour is topping our list.

It’s history and wine combined as you’ll spend time in the UNESCO-listed medieval village of St-Emilion and enjoy wine-tasting in a grand cru estate. It’s the best of both worlds.

With numbers capped at eight, you’ll enjoy a semi-private tour and hear about the 8th-century Breton monk who first started growing grapes in this area.

And of course, you’ll get to sample some wines for yourself.

• 4 Hour-guided tour
• Short walking tour of St Emilion
• Red wine tastings in a Château
• Air-conditioned minibus

My friends and I had a 5-star wine tour from Bordeaux to Saint Emillion. Between the vast knowledge of our tour guide and incredible wine tasting, I couldn’t recommend this tour enough.  katharine ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK your Half-Day Saint-Emilion Wine Tasting and Tour

No 10. Médoc Region Half-Day Wine Tour with Winery Visit & Tastings

What better way to spend four hours than by driving through the beautiful Médoc region? And stopping off at two chateaux wine estates along the way.

Not only will you learn about the history of the Médoc Region, but the wine estates visited will be either Classified Growth or Crus Bourgeois appellations.

Producing some of the most renowned reds in the region, it’s a great opportunity to sample some of the wines you may have heard of but not tried.

Your route will take you along Route des Châteaux (castle road) where you’ll see the famous châteaux, Palmer and Margaux.

• Wine tasting fees
• Scenic drive through the Médoc Region

An excellent tour of the Médoc region. Valentin was a fantastic guide who was passionate, knowledgeable, and very friendly. The wines that we tasted were incredible and Valentin clearly had a strong relationship with the guides at the winery, which made us feel comfortable and well received. will ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK your Half-Day Médoc Wine Tasting and Tour

No 11. Make your own cuvée of Bordeaux wine

⭐️  RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3 Hours | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

Earlier in this article, I told you about two brothers, Pierre and Geoffroy, who own Le Pied à Terre.

They offer wine tasting in  Bordeaux city  and now we’re adding a little bit of personalisation to that experience. You’ll have the opportunity to make your own cuvée of Bordeaux wine. 

First comes the wine tasting where you’ll sample wines from the left bank of the Garonne river, the right bank and the Graves. Then it will be your turn. Under the experienced hands of Pierre and Geoffory, you’ll get to have a go yourself by mixing your blend using different grape varieties.

You’ll even create your own label for your newly created wine. Such a fun and memorable thing to do.

• 3 Hour workshop
• Wine tasting
• Cheese and charcuterie
• The bottle of wine you create

We had a great tasting and education. Even though I have been to many wine tastings I still learned something. The visuals are really nice. The part where we made our own wine was fun and educational. I highly recommend this experience. lee ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK tickets to make your own cuvée of Bordeaux wine

Wine Tasting Tours By Bike, Sidecar or at Night

If you fancy something a little bit different then this collection of fun wine tours will be perfect. From the magic of the Médoc in a sidecar to biking around Bordeaux for some tastings, these tours have it all.

No 12. The Médoc in a sidecar

⭐️  RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3 Hours 30 Mins | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

Not for the fainthearted this is by far the most fun way to take a tour of the Médoc.

Limited to two people, one goes in the sidecar and one behind the driver. Helmet and gloves and provided along with a knowledgeable tour guide to tell you everything you need to know about wine in the region.

It’s a fantastic way to see the beautiful countryside of the Médoc. You’ll also visit a château to partake in some wine tasting. The perfect way to spend a day.

• 3.5 Hour tour
• Sidecar and driver/guide
• Helmet & gloves
• Wine tasting at one château 

The Retro Sidecar Tour through the Medoc region of Bordeaux with Alex was a great experience. Despite my wife’s reservations at the surprise mode of transport from the start, by the first half hour she was thoroughly enjoying what was a four hour tour. tripadvisor review ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK your own retro sidecar wine tour experience

No 13. Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Wine Tour Tasting & Lunch

I always think there is no better way to explore the French countryside than on a bike.

And if that bike happens to be electric, meaning less work for me, all the better. That’s exactly what you get with this all-day wine-tasting bike tour.

You’ll leave Bordeaux in air-conditioned comfort and pick up your bike in the beautiful UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion. As you cycle leisurely through the region, you’ll pass plenty of famous châteaux on your way.

Stopping off at a vineyard for a picnic lunch, you’ll learn all about the wine in the region and sample some for yourself.

• 8.5 Hour tour
• Air-conditioned transport to St Emilion
• Electric bike hire
• Picnic lunch
• 4 Wine tasting 
• Guided tour of 2 chateaux: vineyards and cellars

Had a fantastic day touring around Saint-Emilion. Our tour guide Dorian was very accommodating and informative. Personalised the tour to our interests. Would definitely recommend helen ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK your own electric bike wine tour experience

No 14. Night Tour with Food & Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

⭐️  RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2 Hours Approx | ✅  Check Rates & Availability!

Just like Paris in the rain, Bordeaux at night is beautiful. And this walking tour combines food, wine and history as you stroll through the city at night.

Take in sights such as Grosse Cloche de Bordeaux, the beautiful old gates of Bordeaux, and Place Camille Jullian, one of the hidden gems in the city. 

You’ll finish your evening in Place Général Sarrail and indulge in cheese, charcuterie and Mezze from Lebanon washed down with some wonderful Bordeaux wine.

• 2 Hour walking tour at night

Siad was a wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide. He was patient with us since my mom walks a little slower. He brought us to all really nice places that we didn’t find when we walked by ourselves for hours. And the bar he brought us to was like being in someone’s home. It was soooo good. jennifer ( read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK your Bordeaux by night walking tour with wine

Bordeaux Wine – What You Need to Know

As a red wine girl myself, I love the fact that over 85% of Bordeaux wine is red and made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. And even better, there are 7,000 wineries to choose from.

Bordeaux has been producing wine for over 2,000 years and is one of the oldest wine regions in the world. It’s divided by the Gironde estuary into two distinct areas: the Left Bank and the Right Bank. 

The Left Bank is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines, while the Right Bank is known for its Merlot-based wines.

The Six Bordeaux wine sub-regions

The region is divided into six sub-regions, each with its unique terroir and style of wine.

Saint-Emilion

Probably the most famous of the five regions, ​​the Saint-Emilion sub-region is located on the right bank of the Dordogne River. It’s known for its Merlot-based wines.

The limestone and clay soils of the region produce wines that are soft and fruity with notes of plum, black cherry, and spice. With its own micro-climate, it benefits from a regulated temperature and avoids the harsh winter frosts.

This makes it perfect for cultivating vines and producing vintages that don’t suffer from unpredictable weather patterns.

The four appellations of Lussac Saint-Émilion, Puisseguin Saint-Émilion, Saint-Émilion and Saint-Émilion Grand Cru represent almost 970 registered winegrowers. 

Another wine found in this region is Pomerol, also made from the Merlot grape.

However, you won’t find any classification such as Cru or Grand Cru. It’s the only major Bordeaux appellation that doesn’t.

Next on the list is one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, the Médoc. It’s my favourite as it’s where you’ll find some of the heavier reds I love so much.

It’s on the left bank of the Gironde estuary and is home to some very famous wines. Names such as Château Margaux, Château Latour, Château Lafite Rothschild, and Château Mouton Rothschild.

The flavour of a Médoc wine can vary depending on the specific winery and vintage, but commonly you’ll find blackcurrant, often referred to as cassis. 

Also, Médoc wines are aged in oak barrels, which imparts flavours of cedar and tobacco. Some may have a hint of vanilla, as well as notes of spices like cinnamon, clove, and black pepper.

Blaye and Bourg

If you enjoy a nice Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon or Muscadelle, then this region is perfect for you. It’s actually two regions rather than one, Blaye and Bourg. 

Located on the northern banks of the Gironde the vines grow on sand, gravel and clay-limestone soils. Classed as Bordeaux Grands Ordinaires they are less expensive than the wines in other regions. 

The Côtes de Blaye are dry white wines whilst Côtes de Bourg are red.

Graves and Pessac Leognan

One of the oldest wine regions in Bordeaux, dating back to the Roman era, it also has some beautiful pine forests. 

The region is divided into two main areas: Graves to the south and Pessac-Léognan to the north.

Graves is known for its gravelly soils, while Pessac-Léognan has a mix of gravel, sand, and clay. Both areas produce high-quality red and white wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.

It’s home to some of the oldest and most well-established chateaux. Chateau Haut-Brion produces some of the most sought-after wines in the world.

Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, a family-owned estate that has been producing wine since the 14th century.

And Chateau Carbonnieux, is one of the oldest estates in Bordeaux, dating back to the 13th century.

Sauternes and Barsac

If it’s sweet wine you’re after then look no further. Sauternes is the jewel in Bordeaux’s sweet wine crown. It attracts tourists from far and wide. 

The climate is responsible for the richness of the Sauternes wine with its combination of morning mists and warm, sunny afternoons.

Apparently, these conditions encourage the growth of a fungus called Botrytis cinerea. Also known as noble rot, it dehydrates the grapes and concentrates their sugars, acids, and flavours.

The result is a complex, honeyed wine with flavours of apricot, peach, and honey, balanced by refreshing acidity.

Sauternes and Barsac have produced many famous sweet white wines, including Château Rieussec, Château Suduiraut, and Château Climens. 

They’re typically made from a blend of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes, with Semillon being the dominant grape.

Entre Deux Mers

Situated between the rivers Garonne and Dordogne, “Entre Deux Mers” means “between two seas”. It refers to the location of the region between the two rivers.

The wines are generally known for their lightness and crispness, with a range of fruity and floral flavours. White wines from the region are often described as crisp and aromatic, with notes of citrus.

The red wines tend to be medium-bodied with a range of fruity and herbaceous flavours. 

The red varieties produced here are called Bordeaux or Bordeaux Superior. I have to say I’m not really a fan as I find them too bland. I favour heavier reds such as Malbec.

Some of the best-known châteaux in Entre Deux Mers include Château de Reignac, well-known for its red wines, Château Haut-Sarpe, known for producing both red and white wines, and Château Roquefort, known for its sweet wines made from the Muscadelle grape.

What to take with you on a Bordeaux Wine Tour

Having done my fair share of wine tours, I know what to look out for and those ‘ must have ’ items

Sun hat  – it can get pretty warm out in the vineyards. Keeping the sun off your head, shoulders, and neck will make it much more enjoyable.

Sunscreen  – the last thing you want is to get burnt. So remember to take sunscreen with you, especially on an all-day tour.

A large bottle of water  – although some tours provide water, you can never have too much. Between the sun and the wine, it’s easy to become dehydrated and end up with a headache.

Sensible shoes  – I know it sounds boring, but in the vines, you’re likely to be walking in the dirt. 

Appropriate clothing  – the full-day tours are long so wear comfy shoes and clothing. You don’t want your feet to ache or feel too hot because you’re clothes aren’t appropriate.

Cash  – I know that sounds funny in this digital age but in France, a little bit of cash goes a long way. Especially if you want to tip your guide.

The Bordeaux City Pass

One thing you should do, if you’re coming to Bordeaux, is to buy one of the City Passes . You can choose between a 48 or 72-hour pass.

They give you access to so much, including unlimited access to Bordeaux’s public transport network. More importantly, you’ll get a 15% discount on the wine tours offered by Bordeaux Tourism.

If you’re looking for things to do in Bordeaux the City Pass will give you plenty of options included in the price.

FAQs About the Best Bordeaux Wine Tour

Can you do food tours in bordeaux as well as wine tours.

Yes, you can do food tours in Bordeaux . There are several really good ones to enjoy to really appreciate the wine and food Bordeaux has. to offer.

What is the best time to visit Bordeaux for a wine tour?

The best times to visit Bordeaux for a wine tour are from April to June and from September to October. During these periods, the weather is usually pleasant and you get to experience the vineyards during the growing season or harvest time .

Can I visit Bordeaux vineyards without a tour?

Yes, you can. However, it’s always a good idea to check in advance as some vineyards require appointments for tastings and visits.

Can I buy wine directly from the vineyards?

Absolutely! In fact, buying directly from the vineyards often gives you access to their best selections and sometimes, exclusive wines not available elsewhere.

Can you stay at a wine chateau?

Absolutely, you can stay at a wine chateau . There are many to choose from in and around Bordeaux.

Can you do wine tasting at the vineyards in France?

Yes, you can do wine tasting at the vineyard in France . You will be shown how to taste wine properly and enjoy understanding the different types of wine. It’s a great way to try before you buy.

What is the famous wine village near Bordeaux?

Saint Emilion is the famous wine village near Bordeaux. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a beautiful, cobblestoned village.

Final Thoughts: Wine Tours in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is quickly getting the reputation for being the new Paris as it’s safer and easier to walk around with magnificent buildings and of course, great wine.

I love spending time in Bordeaux and although I’ve now been several times, I still haven’t discovered all the hidden gems the city has to share. So if you’re looking to visit Bordeaux this article on the best hotels to book will help.

Known as the wine capital of France if you love your wine then taking a wine tour in Bordeaux should be top of your list. From one day to seven, Bordeaux is a fantastic city .

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TRAVELLING TO FRANCE?

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I personally use these sites myself and if you use them, they will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps reduce the ever-increasing cost of maintaining my blog and writing about France. Thank you!

Kylie Lang is the founder of Life in Rural France. She moved to France in 2016 and lives in the beautiful Charente region in the Nouvelle Aquitaine. Through the blog, she showcases the best places to visit in France, especially in the South West. From chateaux and winery tours to hotels and restaurants, she has first-hand experience of life in France.

Bordeaux Wine Region

Explore the best wineries in bordeaux.

Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in? Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Displaying 1-3 of 132 wineries

Château Balestard La Tonnelle

Discover rich, intense and structured wines of Château Balestard La Tonnelle in Bordeaux

Château de Pressac

Discover the château where the surrender ended the Hundred Years War.

Chateaux La Croizille & Tour Baladoz

Come and have a look on the new modern wine cellar while tasting wines of Saint Emilion Grand Cru.

Travel Guide to Bordeaux Wine Region

Bordeaux wine region is located on the Atlantic coast, on right and left bank of the Gironde Estuary. Benefiting from the location and the climate Bordeaux vineyards here produce exclusive wines. Worldwide recognized for its harmonious, premium quality wines, Bordeaux is a major player in the international wine market. Moreover, the city of Bordeaux is one great wine capitals famous for its historical heritage and outstanding gastronomical scene.

Check out wine tastings & tours in Bordeaux .

Explore Bordeaux wine region with the help of our travel guide:

Bordeaux wines and where to taste them

Medieval villages and towns

Culinary specialties of Bordeaux

Everything You Need to Know about Bordeaux Wine Region

Garonne and Dordogne Rivers devices Bordeaux Wine Region into two main parts, the Left Bank and the Right Bank , and the territory between two rivers called Entre-Deux-Mers . Bordeaux includes 57 appellations(AOC) and 38 sub-regions, which makes it the largest appellation wine producer in France. The main grape varieties used in the production of world-known Bordeaux wines are Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon , often accompanied by Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Bordeaux wines produced of these red varieties are globally recognized as “Bordeaux Blend”. Even though 90% of the wine produced here is red, there as well exists a white Bordeaux blend - its primary grapes are Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Muscadelle is also involved in this blend in some cases.

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

From chic urban hotels exuding contemporary elegance to rustic châteaux tucked away in the idyllic countryside, Bordeaux offers an array of stays that cater to every discerning traveler's preferences.

Distinguished by its distinctive features and tailored to meet your every need, the Madame Hotel stands as a tranquil sanctuary nestled in the bustling center of Bordeaux.

Located in the heart of Bordeaux, Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa immerses you in a sophisticated and polished realm.

The Château Pont Saint-Martin situated at the heart of the Pessac-Léognan Classified Growths. Its immediate neighbors include the distinguished Châteaux Malartic-Lagravière, Fieuzal, and Domaine de Chevalier.

Once the cherished residence of the renowned painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, this 16th-century estate, nestled in South Gironde, serves as an immersive gateway into the captivating realm of Lautrec.

Check out other hotels in Bordeaux Wine Region .

This is what you shouldn't miss when visiting Bordeaux!

- Visit La Cité du Vin museum to discover the history of the wine civilization - Discover the Bordelais vineyard participating in the  Médoc marathon - Have lunch with your family in the village of Saint-Emilion - Wander along the Dune du Pilat the tallest sand dune in Europe

Bordeaux Wine Region Map

Right and a Left Banks of Bordeaux - Must-Visit Distinctive Territories

As already mentioned in the intro, Gironde Estuary divided the Bordeaux wine region into right and left banks. This division also defines the style of Bordeaux blends and splits Bordeaux into distinctive territories that are must-visit while you are traveling in the region. The Left bank area includes famous appellations such as Médoc , Graves , Margaux , and Pauillac , where Cabernet Sauvignon is the predominant grape variety whereas on the Right bank you will find Saint-Émilion , Pomerol , Libournais , and  Bourg and Blaye with the dominance of Merlot .

Grape Varieties of Bordeaux

Fruity Wines of a Right Bank of Bordeaux wine region

The right bank of the Bordeaux wine region includes renowned wine appellations such as Pomerol and Saint-Emilion . Wines produced here unlike left banks are more Merlot -based, with Cabernet-Franc , Cabernet Sauvignon , Malbec , and Petit Verdot used in blending. Bordeaux wines from the right bank are more fruity, lower in acidity, and tannins. Visiting Saint-Emilion is a must for everyone travelling to Bordeaux. Later you will discover what makes this little village so special.

Wines of the Left Bank - Peppery & Tannic

The wines of the Left bank (particularly, Medoc and Graves wine regions) display fruit aromas and flavors of berries as well as dark cherry, vanilla, and coffee beans. The Bordeaux wines here are spicier and have also peppery flavors and bold tannins. The major factors, which influence the characteristics of these wines, are soils and the favorable climate of the territory (clement winter and hot summer). Cabernet Sauvignon is a primary grape in the blend of the Left bank wines. It is also responsible for the powerful characteristics of the wine.

Medoc gathers many renowned appellations as well as Grand Crus - French wine classification level given to the wineries of the most superior grade with the highest excellence Bordeaux vineyards.

''Bordeaux has a very unique and specific way of trading wine, which makes it traditional and modern at the same time.'' Mattia Antonio Cianca - Local sommelier about Bordeaux

The Most exclusive wines in the world - Grand Crus of Médoc

• Château Latour - Historical wine estate rated as a premium cru under the 1855 Bordeaux classification. Château Latour terroir is expressed in the elegance and depth of its wines. That's why it is rated as one of the most expensive wines from Médoc.
• Château Haut-Brion is one of the oldest wine estates of this area, located in the town of Pessac, a few kilometers away from Bordeaux. Estate produces some of the best white Bordeaux blends in the world. Haut Brion Blanc wine is the world's most expensive dry white wines.
• Château Margaux has been bringing excellence with its Bordeaux wines for hundreds of years already. Wines that are meant to be aged and to be enjoyed with food. What makes these wines so special is a special sophisticated character of Margaux terroir expressed in wines.
• Château Lafite Rothschild has a fascinating history that goes back to 1234. The wine estate is an honourable member of the five châteaux referred to as the ‘first growths’. And they produce Bordeaux wines that with exceptional finesse and elegance that are great as young but also have significant ageing potential.
• Ch â teau Mouton Rothschild - Since 1924 estate brings Artists such as Salvador Dalí, Francis Bacon, Picasso and Miró designed labels for bottles. Château Mouton Rothschild gives complete freedom of creation around the theme of the vine and the pleasure of drinking. The project underlines the exclusivity of each and every bottle produced here.

Don't miss this lifetime opportunity to visit the most exclusive wine-making Châteaus in Bordeaux! However, keep in mind, that Bordeaux is not only about high-end wine-producing Châteaus. There are around 8000 Châteaus around the region and you can find high-quality Bordeaux wines in every price segment.

Something Else?

Sauternes - high quality sweet wines from the left bank.

Many believe that Bordeaux produces only red wine blends. However, Sauternes , a famous village, situated in the South West of Bordeaux, is known for its high-quality sweet white wines.

Crossed by the Ciron, the vineyard benefits from the combination of heat and humidity, that's why the bacteria Botrytis Cinerea appear. This bacteria allows the development of mushrooms that causes shrivelling grape berries, which results in increased sugar and flavor content and is responsible for the characteristic flavor of Sauternes wines. Sauternes wines shine with desserts as well as it expresses their brilliant character with foie gras.

The grape varieties used in the production of Sauternes wines:

• Sémillon
• Sauvignon blanc

Entre-Deux-Mers - "Between Two Seas"

Entre-Deux-Mers means "between two seas/tides" but actually, the territory lies between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers.

Located in the South East of Bordeaux, Entre-Deux-Mers occupies 7000 hectares, which makes it the largest winemaking area of the Bordeaux.

The huge diversity of soils in this wine area allows the production of red and white wine. Here, they produce dry and sweet white Bordeaux wines from Sauvignon and Sémillon grapes. To produce high-quality red Bordeaux wines, wine-growers use the Merlot .

Entre-Deux-Mers wines are well-balanced and crispy with pale golden color. Normally, they are consumed young but they can be aged well thanks to Sauvignon Blanc 's potential.

Soil types: sand, clay, grave, clay-limestone.

The most used grape varieties: Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon .

Similarity with other famous wine regions

Even though Bordeaux is a unique region mainly known for its full-body red wines, the curious wine enthusiasts can find in Bordeaux wines some common aromas with wines from Italian red wine region - Chianti . For example, when harvested early, both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from Bordeaux have strong red currant notes - the same happens with Sangiovese wines from Chianti. Red wine lovers often choose Chianti and Bordeaux as their top priorities for wine tasting and tours.

Explore Cities and Medieval Villages of Bordeaux Wine Region

Bordeaux benefits from great weather and beautiful landscapes with a huge historical heritage discover medieval villages and towns where there are many cultural activities for couples, families or friends. Impossible to be bored!

City of Bordeaux

World's best city to travel to in 2017, according to lonely planet.

Bordeaux's renovation began in the 90' thanks to the current mayor, Alain Juppé. After cleaning facades, reorganizing quays, and the tramway placing, the town transformation was amazing for several years.

Walk along the Garonne on the quays and pass in front of Place de la Bourse and admire its reflection on the Miroir d’Eau . Turn at the Quinconces to stroll in “Triangle d’Or” and admire the Grand Theatre and its architecture (don’t hesitate to go inside).

Next, if you’re a shopping lover, explore Europe's largest pedestrian street: Sainte Catherine Street , where you will discover major Franch chains, design shops, cafes, and restaurants. So, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your break. Visit the district Saint Michel, where you can take a walk in the alleys of the cosmopolitan district. You will be fascinated by the old architecture of this part of the city and then together with it, you can discover the super modern building of the museum “La Cité du Vin”, must visit place in Bordeaux and perfect for families, couples or friends who want to explore the culture and civilization of wine. You will end up your visit with a glass of wine on the terrace of the museum.

Bordeaux is wealthy for its wine bar culture, stroll around the old part of the city and explore the wine scene, where you will be able to taste not only local but also international wines.

The Medieval Village Saint-Emilion

Saint-Emilion is famous for its huge vineyards, the quality of wines, architecture, and cultural heritage. The village hosts thousands of wine enthusiasts every year because of its wines. However, not everybody knows that Saint-Emilion was the first vineyard written on the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1999 for having an outstanding universal value. And we don't talk only about Bordeaux wines and vineyards here. The town has incredible architecture and a great history.

Come, discover the largest monolithic church in Europe, the catacombs, Chapel of Trinity! Saunter in the village in a couple, or with your family and friends to discover its amazing landscapes and visit surrounding Bordeaux vineyards!

After exploring the heritage of Saint-Emilion, you can visit wineries in the surroundings of the village !

Château La Croizille offers a wide diversity of experiences: workshops, wine tasting events, picnics, you can even have accommodation at the winery.

Visit winery that produces Bordeaux wines for more than 400 years. The 14th generation of Beaulieu family is pleased to welcome you to Château Coutet and share their passion and knowledge of terroir with you.

Arcachon - The Town of The Four Seasons.

The town is separated in 4 “towns”, and each “town” name one of the four seasons.

Arcachon was created in 1857 by the imperial decree of Napoléon 3, its renown increased rapidly, and became the town of the four seasons. Indeed, the town is separated into 4 “towns”, and each “town” name one of the four seasons. Explore four seasons of the city and have a diversity of experiences that this oceanside city has to offer.

• The Summer town gathers seafront and Arcachon city center where you can find the famous Casino, hostels, restaurants… 
• The Autumn town presents fishing and nautical activities so, you can walk along with the marina/fishing port (the third largest of France).
• The Winter town is located on the Arcachon Dune and It’s a place where you can spend family time and admire the view from the Belvédère.
• Finally, Spring town is a more residential district. You can find the famous Abatilles spring.

DON'T forget to visit the tallest Sand dunes in Europe, Dune du Pilat. You will admire incredible views over the ocean and Arcachon forests. It will definitely be the highlight of your holidays!

Discover the finest Bordeaux Wine Tour Guide and embark on unforgettable Guided Wine Tours in the heart of Bordeaux .

Gastronomy in Bordeaux Wine Region

Discover Culinary Specialities in Bordeaux. The location as a port and a trading city has affected the peculiarities of its gastronomy. Bordeaux wine region's gastronomical scene is pretty diverse. You will find everything from high-end gourmet restaurants and bistros to wine bars and marketplaces, where you can taste authentic food and products. Here you will find the three most characteristic dishes that represent the region the best.

La Lamproie Bordelaise - Fish Served In Its Own Blood

The old Aquitaine recipe from Middle ages.

Not a pleasant story to be told how they prepare this dish. However, it is considered to be a delicacy in Atlantic coastal areas of France as well as in Spain and Portugal . Between February and March, the fish come back at Gironde and Dordogne confluence to lay their eggs. This is when fishermen catch Lamprey, which is the only fish to bleed alive.

the preparation of the dish starts with extracting blood from the fish, which is later mixed with red wine to prepare the sauce. Then, Lamprey is cooked with leeks and added the sauce. You can serve it with garlic croutons, fresh pasta or boiled potatoes.

Caviar from Michelin-Starred Chef's Selection

Caviar d’Aquitaine is one of the most famous caviar in the world and part of the Aquitaine gastronomy. The Caviar comes from sturgeons raised in high-quality rivers and ponds. That’s why the Caviar d’Aquitaine is recognized by Michelin-starred chefs.

The best way to taste Caviar is to eat it alone to don’t change its amazing flavour. Avoid taking the Caviar with silver or stainless steel spoon to don’t oxidize it.

Taste it with dry white wine, brut or extra brut champagne, or fresh vodka !

The Famous Confit de Canard

First, the aim of this recipe was to conserve the meat and protect it from the air thanks to the grease. Then, it became a real traditional recipe from the south-west of France.

After choosing Landes's duck, put the wings and thighs aside as well as the grease.

During 24 hours, the duck is covered with salt to dry up it before to be cooked. The meat is cooked for 2 hours in order to be tender. It can be tasted directly or it can be kept in its grease and to eat later.

South Treat - the Canelé

The canelé is a vanilla and rum-flavored delicious little cake with a tender heart and crispy, caramelized crust. The Canelé's origins are still uncertain but the legend says it was invented by nuns of the Annonciades' convent. Yet, during the last archaeological digs, any cakes pans weren't found.

This pastry disappeared during several decades to come back in force during the '20s. There is some trouble with the cake's name: how many "n" need the word? The answer: only one since 1985 with the creation of canelé's association.

Are you convinced to visit Bordeaux wine region? Start planning your holidays, check out the list of unique wine tastings & tours in Bordeaux!

Local sommelier mattia antonio cianca tells us about bordeaux wine region.

Q: For Bordeaux, what is the very best with this wine region compared to other regions in France?

A: Many factors make Bordeaux unique. You can fly directly from many destinations and land close to the city center and vineyards. There are numerous water activities available: cruises, bars, restaurants, clubs, and activities like "yoga boats". You can also try beach walks, surfing, sunsets, and amazing oysters!

Bordeaux has a very unique and specific way of trading wine, which makes it traditional and modern at the same time. While Bordeaux is famous for its unique red wines, there is a great diversity of light and easy-drinking whites as well. For example, Entre-Deux-Mers, more structured and serious whites from Pessac-Leognan, soft and juicy Merlot -based reds from the right bank, fuller-bodied with long-term potential from the Medoc, and elegant dessert wines from Sauternes and Barsac.

Q: If you visit Bordeaux for the very first time, which grape variety should you try first?

A: I guess it will depend on the season, and of course, famous blends from the region. In summer, I would go for Sauvignon-Blanc-based wine. In winter, I would focus more on the Cabernet-Sauvignon -based blend.

Q: Is there any particular food dish that you have to try when you stay in Bordeaux?

A: The most obvious choice would be Steak and chips. It sounds simple, but restaurants are focusing on high-quality meat that is perfect for the wines of the region. The Les lamproies à la bordelaise, a fish from the Gironde, an old recipe cooked for centuries. The lamprey is cooked in a red wine sauce and cut into pieces. Canelé, a small cake from Bordeaux and part of Aquitaine’s culinary heritage. Caramelized color and a soft heart, scented with vanilla and rum.

Would you like to read a bit more about Bordeaux wine and food? Have a look also at our blog post about Bordeaux food and wine experiences!

Insider Tips about Bordeaux

Where to eat in Bordeaux?

L'entre deux verres

• Address: 8 Place Aristide Briand, 33360 Quinsac, France
• Menu: French cuisine
• Specialty: Oysters

Recommended by Château Vieux Mougnac

La Table de Pavie

• Address: 5 Place du Clocher, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
• Menu: French modern cuisine
• Specialty: Aiguillette de Saint-Pierre cuit au beurre truffé

Recommended by Château de Pressac

Osteria Le Panzanelle

• Address: 95 Cours du Général Leclerc 33210, Langon, France
• Specialties: Seasonal ingredients, Foie gras de canard 

Recommended by Château Les Remparts

Where to stay in Bordeaux?

Château Hotel Grand Barrail

• Address: ROUTE DE LIBOURNE, D243, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
• Facilities and services: Restaurant, Spa, Outdoor swimming pool, Fitness room, Sauna, Hot tub, Turkish baths, Meeting space

Chateau du Palanquey & Spa

• Address: Château du Palanquey 2 Lieu dit Palanquey, 33350 Sainte-Colombe, France
• Facilities and services: Spa, Indoor and outdoor pool, massage room, fitness space, wellbeing space

Rodin in Bazas

• Address: 1 Allée Saint-Sauveur, 33430 Bazas, France
• Facilities and services: Breakfast, suite bathroom, free car park and a terrace

What are the best wine bars in Bordeaux?

Vins Urbains

• Address: 27 rue des Bahutiers, 33000, Bordeaux France
• Wine menu: Regional, national and European wines

Chai Pascal

• A ddress:  37 Rue Guadet, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
• Wine menu: French wines

La Barrique

• Address: 32 Rue Maubec, 33210 Langon, France

What to do in Bordeaux?

Visit the Historic Monuments in Saint Emilion

• Address: Rue du Château du Roy, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France

Tour at Roquetaillade Castle

• Address: Roquetaillade, 33210 Mazères, France

Visit the charming town of Cadillac

• Address: Cadillac, Girone, France

Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux Wine Region:

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Home | Bordeaux wine trip - 3 days 3 regions

Bordeaux wine trip - 3 days 3 regions

In just 3 days learn all you need to know about these exclusive estates in the Bordeaux vineyards. This tour is a complete look at the most important regions on the Bordeaux wine scene.

• Medoc Classified Growths, family owned vineyards and a Cru Bourgeois
• Tour the UNESCO world heritage site of Saint Emilion with your guide
• Visit a family vineyard in Pomerol
• Discover the delicious sweet wines of Sauternes
• Explore the white wines of the Graves
• Your own private wine tour your way

This three day wine tour is entirely customizable. Contact us to make it your own.

• Everything is included! You dont have to pay anything extra.
• You will become an expert in Bordeaux wines. Our guides are trained by the WSET, MW or similar.
• Your tour your way. Only private wine tours for personalized attention and safety.
• 80% more information given than from our competitors
• 99% of our customers recommend us to their friends.
• Over 800 chateau visited
• More than 1600 glasses of wine tasted
• More than 300 wine tours
• More than 1000 wine lovers like you served
• You will leave Bordeaux knowing all there is to know about our wines.

TOUR ITINERARY:

10 am Pick up at your hotel.

11 am A morning of cellar visits and tastings in a Classified Growth of Pessac-Leognan. (sample properties: Chateau Haut Brion, Chateau Pape Clement, Smith Haut Lafitte, Carbonnieux, Haut Bailly, Domaine du Chevalier)

12:30 pm Lunch in a winery restaurant in the Graves appellation. (not included)

2 pm Two Chateau visits with tastings in Sauternes Classified Growth properties. (Chateau Yquem, Chateau Suduiraut, Chateau de Fargues, Chateau Sigalas Rabaud, Chateau d'Arche, Chateau Guiraud, Rayne Vigneeau)

5 pm Return to your hotel.

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30 Best Bordeaux Wineries & Famous Vineyards 2024

Discover The Best Bordeaux Wineries in 2024, Tours & Wine Tasting Experiences

The Bordeaux wine region is perhaps the most legendary wine-producing area in all of Europe. It’s best known for its medium to full-bodied red wines, luscious botrytis-affected dessert wines , gorgeous scenery, and famous chateaux. But Bordeaux is a vast destination to travel to. With over 38 sub-regions and a vibrant cultural scene in the city of Bordeaux itself, a wine lover could easily spend a month or more and not be done exploring.

At its most basic level, the region of Bordeaux is cut in half by the Garonne River, and wineries on either side are permitted to produce red wine blends consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon , Cabernet Franc , Merlot , Malbec , Carmenere , and Petit Verdot .

On the white wine front, both dry and sweet wines are produced with Sauvignon Blanc , Sauvignon Gris , Semillon and Muscadelle . Colombard and Ugni Blanc can also be found in small quantities at various boutique wineries.

In this travel guide, we’re going to list 30 of our favorite Bordeaux wineries throughout the entirety of the region that are worth visiting. We realize that each Winetraveler has a preference when it comes to wine styles and winery experiences, so we’ll do our best to split this list of wineries into a variety of categories.

In This Guide: Best Bordeaux Wineries, Wine Tours & Tasting Experiences

• Travel Logistics: Getting to and Around Bordeaux

Where To Stay in Bordeaux’s City Center

Tours & things to do in the city of bordeaux, the best private bordeaux wine tour, best bordeaux wineries to visit.

• Bordeaux Winery/Hotel Combinations
• Famous Bordeaux Vineyards

Bordeaux Wineries with Beautiful Grounds and Scenery

• Boutique/Family Bordeaux Wineries & Intimate Tours and Tastings
• Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux Wineries
• Pin This Article for Later on Pinterest

Fun Bordeaux Fact

The wine association within Bordeaux is currently experimenting with growing grape varieties foreign to the region, such as Tempranillo , Garnacha and Touriga Nacional , among others, in an effort to prepare for climate change in the future.

RELATED: 10 Sweet Wine Growing Appellations To Know About in Bordeaux

Travel Logistics Getting To and Around Bordeaux

As we’ve mentioned, Bordeaux is a big place, so travel logistics are important. The region resides in the southwestern portion of France, north of Spain’s Basque region. While the city itself has its own fairly large airport, it’s often difficult to find direct flights if you’re coming from the United States.

If you’re already in Europe, direct flights can be found from most major European cities. Otherwise, if you’re coming from the US, consider flying into Paris or Madrid and connecting to Bordeaux. You can search for current flight deals and get notified as they arise right here.

Once you’re in the city, we highly recommend spending at least a couple of nights exploring its cobblestone streets, Place de la Bourse, delicious restaurants, wine bars and of course, La Cité du Vin (a new and impressive “wine city” and museum, skip the line with this ticket ).

Stay at the opulent 5-star Intercontinental Bordeaux for luxury digs, a rooftop bar, and a perfect location near the opera house. Or, stay at Hôtel des Quinconces for an equally luxurious experience in the city center but with a more boutique vibe.

Before we dive into the wineries, there are a few more must-do activities while visiting Bordeaux.

Stop at exceptional wine bars like Le Bar à Vin, Tchin Tchin Wine Bar, Julo and Voilà ! Bar à vins du monde .

Experience Bordeaux like never before on this 2-hour electric scooter tour ! With an easy-to-ride and eco-friendly electric scooter, you can cover double the distance in half the time, while exploring the picturesque Garonne riverside and iconic landmarks like Bordeaux Cathedral and Pont de Pierre. Get insider tips from your local guide and capture unforgettable moments at Place des Quinconces and more. Choose from a morning or afternoon tour departure and make the most out of your Bordeaux adventure.

Indulge in the culinary delights of Bordeaux with a 3-hour gourmet food walking tour . Led by a knowledgeable foodie guide, you’ll visit three beloved local shops to sample the staples of French cuisine, including canelés (a Bordeaux pastry), cheese, and charcuterie, accompanied by a glass of wine. Learn about the wine industry and its fascinating history in Bordeaux, and at the end of the tour, head back to a central apartment to enjoy all the delicious specialties you’ve gathered, paired with another glass of wine.

Discover a unique and exciting way to explore Bordeaux with a private motorcycle tour . Hop on the sidecar and take in the breathtaking views while your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating anecdotes about the top landmarks and hidden gems along the way, from Place de la Bourse to Palais Gallien. With hotel pickup included, enjoy a stress-free and personalized experience tailored to your interests. Avoid the hassle of navigating and discover Bordeaux from a perspective rare to visitors.

Alternatively, you can customize a personal and private guided walking tour around the city to all of its major sights and landmarks with our local friend Sophia.

RECOMMENDED: Book These Highly-Rated Bordeaux Wine Tours

Once you’ve spent a few romantic days wandering the city streets and indulging in epic cuisine at restaurants like Restaurant Son’  and Le Petit Atelier des Faures,  rent a car and prepare to explore the countryside. National, Europecar and Hertz all have downtown Bordeaux rental offices. So check rates well ahead of time here and lock up a rental for the duration of your trip.

If you’d prefer not to drive and would like to explore Bordeaux’s wine country in a private, guided fashion, we highly recommend scheduling a day trip with Atlas Bordeaux . You’ll visit some of the most noteworthy wine regions like Medoc, Saint-Emilion, Graves, Sauternes, or Pessac-Leognan. Group tours to regions like Saint-Emilion are also available. One other fun way to explore the countryside is by bike .

Did You Know?

Bordeaux, acclaimed for its viticultural prestige, also shines as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its remarkable urban harmony and architectural unity. The city’s enlisting under this prestigious designation is credited to its expansive quays along the Garonne River, the imposing Place de la Bourse, and the grandeur of the Port of the Moon—an elegant urban and architectural ensemble that dates back to the Enlightenment period. For wine enthusiasts venturing into this region, there’s an intriguing slice of lesser-known history; the city’s wine trade expansion in the 18th century directly influenced its urban plan and development. Exploring Bordeaux reveals hidden gems like the historic wine merchants’ district, Chartrons, where cobbled streets whisper tales of wine barrels rolled out for international shipment. Bordeaux’s contribution to the world of oenology is also reflected in its innovative La Cité d u Vin , a cultural facility that offers a multisensory journey through the world of wine across various cultures and civilizations. This contemporary museum, shaped like a swirling glass of wine, not only symbolizes the city’s rich wine heritage but also offers an avant-garde edge to the classic wine country tour.

As we just mentioned, some Winetravelers may prefer to visit the Bordeaux wine region in a guided fashion. If that’s what you’re looking to do, we highly recommend scheduling a full-day private trip with Atlas Bordeaux . Below, you’ll get a taste of what some of your travel options are in the region, so you’ll be better prepared to craft the perfect trip. Atlas will help you do that and more.

Decide on the region (or multiple regions) you’d like to visit most. Typically, most of our readers are interested in visiting Medoc, Margaux, Saint-Emilion, Graves, Sauternes, or Pessac-Leognan. You can even request some of the wineries we mention in this list that you’d like to visit. They will then design a custom, all-inclusive itinerary for you. Typically, your full-day experience is complete with transportation, lunch, and private wine tastings. You can opt for family-operated establishments, or arrange for a Michelin-star restaurant on your itinerary. It’s completely up to you.

Where to start? We recommend you take a few moments to think about the kind of experience you want to get out of your visit to Bordeaux. Are you looking to visit some of the most famous chateaus? Do you prefer more boutique wineries? Are you looking to travel at a leisurely pace and get lost in the region? Are you looking for wineries with views or lodging? Luckily, we’ve covered a bit of everything in this list. The first wineries we mention here include accommodation if you’re looking to stay on a vineyard. 

Winery/Hotel Combinations

Château pape clément.

Location: Pessac Leognan

Why Guests Like It: Luxury, Castle/Chateau Experience, History, Great Service, Beautiful Grounds, Restaurant, Elegant

A visit to Chateau Pape Clement is worthwhile simply for the wine alone, however, it’s also one of the most memorable hotel experiences you’ll likely have in France. During one of our recent 2-night stays, we had the opportunity to dine in the incredibly well-maintained gardens, with over 60 acres of vines planted in the distance. The rooms feel historic and ornate, exhibiting a vibe of elegance we have yet to experience at any other winery hotel in France.

Without going into too much detail (we’ll let the staff at the chateau do that for you), wine production dates back to the 1200s. The property was also once owned by a pope, hence its name. If you’re looking to stay on a vineyard at one famous winery in Bordeaux, this is your opportunity. Book a stay for your preferred dates right here.

La Maison d’Estournel

Location: Saint-Estèphe

Why Guests Like It: Location, Great For Couples, Exceptional Food (Custom Even), Great Service, Fabulous Grounds, Luxurious Rooms

For a truly “French” experience, consider staying and dining at the sumptuous La Maison d’Estournel . Here, the staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. One day for lunch, they were kind enough to set our table up outside in the gardens on request. With a sommelier on hand to answer any of your Bordeaux wine questions, combined with a menu that changes daily and a chef willing to tailor a meal to your preferences, you really can’t go wrong. 

Location-wise, La Maison d’Estournel is just minutes away from many of the famous Bordeaux wineries we discuss a little later on in this guide, including Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Mouton Rothschild.

RELATED: What To Do, Where To Eat, Stay and Drink in Paris for 2 Days

Hôtel & Restaurant LALIQUE – Château Lafaurie Peyraguey

Location: Sauternes (Bommes)

Why Guests Like It: Modern, Luxurious, Exceptional Restaurant, Service, Location

An often-overlooked travel experience in Bordeaux is a stop in Sauternes. This is where some of the most delicious and meticulously crafted sweet white wines are made, better than anywhere else in the world. Château Lafaurie Peyraguey’s new opulent Hôtel & Restaurant LALIQUE exudes luxury. It’s the perfect stop for couples looking for upscale amenities, cuisine and modern, chic luxurious rooms. Better still, you’re in close proximity to a number of our favorite wineries in the Sauternes region. From the restaurant’s floor-to-cieling glass windows, you can gaze out at the vineyards of Chateau Sigalas-Rabaud. In the other direction, you can see Chateau d’Yquem in the distance. Stay here .

Château Sigalas-Rabaud

Why Guests Like It: Luxurious, Exceptional Service, Great Wine Produced on the Property, Beautiful Views and Grounds

Literally right next door to LALIQUE, consider staying at Chateau Sigalas-Rabaud for a true French vineyard resort experience. This is a family-run operation and Laure and her team are guaranteed to make you feel welcome. We had the pleasure of walking with her through the vineyards while she discussed the production process of their famous botrytis sweet wines. Then, we continued on through the vines on foot to visit both Chateau Rayne-Vigneau and Château Lafaurie Peyraguey. You’re also in close proximity to wineries like Clos Haut-Peyraguey and Chateau d’Yquem, which are must-visits. If you book a trip , tell her we sent you. 

RELATED: The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary For Exploring The Champagne Wine Region

Domaine du Papillon

Location: Medoc

Why Guests Like It: Peaceful, Removed, Family-Operated, Swimming Pool, Great Breakfast

If you’re looking to stay in a slightly more affordable hotel in the Medoc region, Domaine du Papillon provides a great base and welcoming hosts. Christoph and Sabine go out of their way to make sure all their guests are content with their stay. There’s even a chance they’ll have breakfast with you and give you advice on the best places to taste wine while you’re in the area. While not a winery itself, this hotel has spacious grounds that are perfect for lounging and taking your visit to Bordeaux at a slower pace. You’re also only a short distance from a number of wineries in the Medoc.

Château Borgeat de Lagrange

Why Guests Like It: Castle-like Setting, Great Service, Beautiful Grounds

Location: Blaye

Up until now, all of the winery/hotel combinations we’ve mentioned have been on the left bank of the Garonne. Château Borgeat de Lagrange will take you a little further south in Bordeaux and place you not far from the right bank of the river. That means more of the wines over here will be Merlot dominant. Consider a stay at Château Borgeat de Lagrange for peaceful and beautiful surroundings, a swimming pool, a historic building and a great jump-off point to visit a number of Right Bank wineries. Here, you’ll feel like you’re taking a step back in time.

Le Pain De Lune

Why Guests Like It: Boutique, Excellent Service, Beautiful Grounds, Location

Location: Bourg

For a more relaxed, boutique accommodation, consider staying at Le Pain De Lune . This is a smaller villa, yet gorgeous and well-maintained both externally and internally. It’s also right on the right bank of the Dordogne River, where the Garonne splits. What we tend to hear from our readers most about this place is the service. If you’re looking for advice about the best things to do in Bordeaux, don’t be shy to speak with your host, Philippe.

RELATED: 15 Beautiful Castles You Must Visit When in Europe

Famous Bordeaux Vineyards & Château To Visit

Château haut-brion.

Location: Pessac

Why Guests Like It: Location, Historic, Great Wine

Chateau Haut-Brion is not only one of the most famous and oldest wineries in Bordeaux, it’s also conveniently located near the city of Bordeaux. That being said, it makes for an ideal stop if you’re staying in the city. In terms of what you can expect when you visit the winery, the staff are incredibly friendly, the grounds are stunning, and most guests are incredibly pleased with the tours they offer. While this is a first-growth winery, we found that the staff didn’t make it seem so and were incredibly humble. If you’re lucky, you may get to taste some of the legendary ’09 or ’10 vintages.

Visits to Haut-Brion are difficult to attain, but you can request a potential experience if you complete their requested form. It helps if you work in the wine industry and it helps more if you request the visit well in advance.

Château Giscours

Location: Margaux

Why Guests Like It: Impressive Vineyards & Facilities, Affordable & Informative Tours, Delicious Wine

This winery maintains one of the largest vineyard areas in the Margaux sub-region of Bordeaux. Their wines are world-famous, and there’s a good chance whether you’re a novice wine drinker or an expert that you’ve seen various vintages on wine shop shelves. This is a beautiful property to visit. An opportunity to taste the essence of Margaux within a castle, along with an informative tour. We only paid 12 euros and had a very nice experience. Email or call them at +33 (0)5 57 97 09 09 and [email protected] to schedule a visit.

RELATED: The Battle of Verdun: How To Visit the Battlefield Near Champagne, France

Château Margaux

Why Guests Like It: Historic, Delicious Wine, Impressive Castle/Vineyards, Great Service, Luxurious

There’s a reason why Chateau Margaux remains one of the most famous wineries in the world. A visit to their property will quickly tell you that they must have been doing something right all of these years. Our readers frequently claim that some of the vintages sampled at Margaux are “the best glasses of wine we’ve ever had.” That’s assuming you’re into big-bodied and luscious Cabernet-dominant reds, of course. This winery simply cannot be missed. And while it’s clearly a large, somewhat corporate operation, the grounds and facilities are nothing short of breathtaking. The guides who take you through the facilities are also clearly passionate about the work they do here, and you’ll have a great time. Visits to Chateau Margaux are strictly by appointment only and can be difficult to schedule. It’s best to call them directly and see what your options are: +33 (0) 5 57 88 83 83.

Château Latour

Location: Pauillac

Why Guests Like It: Beautiful Grounds, Hospitable, Great Wines, Service, Restaurant

For such a famous producer, we didn’t feel like we were visiting some sort of corporate operation. Clearly, the winery has been successful, but the staff couldn’t have been more friendly and accommodating. The wines are also top-notch. If you’re able to sneak in for a visit to the property, it’s open Monday through Friday. Unfortunately, due to COVID they’ve been a bit more restrictive as to who may be able to visit. It’s open for tours and tastings geared towards professionals within the wine industry currently, but you may be able to schedule a visit by calling them at +33 5 56 73 19 80.

Château Mouton Rothschild

Why Guests Like It: Historic, Fantastic Wine, Opulent Property, Great Service, Museum

Another one of the most famous Château on Bordeaux’s left bank, Mouton Rothschild is another first-growth that has been crafting delectable juice since 1853 (though it was only elevated to first growth in 1973). As you might expect, the grounds and facilities here are impressive, as is the quality of service. However, it’s worth noting that this winery has only recently started providing tours again due to COVID. You may be able to schedule a visit by appointment only, call +33 (0)5 56 73 21 29 to inquire.

RELATED: Top Travel & Wine Necessities Every True Winetraveler Should Own

Château Lafite Rothschild

Why Guests Like It: Castle Vibes, Beautiful Grounds and Vineyards, Exceptional Red Wines

Everything from the vast circular barrel room, the tasting areas, to the gardens, vineyards and castle itself is impressive at Château Lafite Rothschild. Located just north of Mouton, it’s worth a stop here if you’re planning on touring Pauillac. Unfortunately, this is another producer that has been pretty restrictive with visits due to the current COVID situation. Tastings and tours are by appointment only, +33 (0) 1 53 89 78 00.

Château Cheval Blanc

Location: Saint Emilion

Why Guests Like It: Exceptional Wine, Historic, Rooftop Wine Tastings, Beautiful Grounds

We aren’t going to get your hopes up for visiting Cheval Blanc. It’s entirely possible, but wine tourism is something they currently are not promoting to the public. Cheval Blanc is now currently owned by LVMH (Moet Hennessy), and its primary focus is production and distribution. If you’re an industry professional, you can expect a guided tour through their vineyards, facilities and cellar, topped off with a tasting experience on the rooftop of the chateau that overlooks Pomerol and Saint Emilion. 

Chateau d’Yquem

Location: Sauternes

Why Guests Like It: Historic, Beautiful Grounds, Incredible Sweet Wine

Arguably one of the most famous Chateau in all of Bordeaux, d’Yquem produces some of the most sought-after sweet white wines in the world (unfortified). The property is vast, and somewhat removed from other producers in the area. You can actually see the towering estate from miles away. We remember briefly stopping in Saint-Croix-du-Mont (another sweet sub-region) to explore the terroir there, and in the distance, we could see d’Yquem standing high above the landscape. If you step into the main lobby of the winery, it makes all of the other nearby producers seem tiny.

Luckily for Winetravelers, Chateau d’Yquem is open to the public for visitation. However, appointments are required and visits are private. Be sure to book your visit well in advance .

RELATED: How To Explore The Alsace Wine Route

Château Petrus

Location: Pomerol

Why Guests Like It: Legendary Wines

Some of the most sought-after red wines in the world reside under the label of Chateau Petrus. We’re only mentioning it here because they are so famous, but it’s unlikely you’ll ever get to experience a visit to the facility in Pomerol. These days, Petrus focuses exclusively on production, not visitation. Visitors are only allowed on the property if they receive an exclusive invitation, and it’s almost always for those within the wine or hospitality industries.

Are there more famous Bordeaux wineries worth mentioning? Absolutely. Unfortunately, the way it currently works in Bordeaux (and especially with the ongoing COVID situation), the more famous the winery, the more difficult it is to get a visit. Should more legendary first-growths open up their doors to visitors, we’ll add them to this list. In the meantime, we’ll continue on with more exceptional Bordeaux wineries that are currently open to the public.

When it comes to the scenery in Bordeaux, you’re pretty much going to find it everywhere. That being said, this is a tough list to narrow down, so we’ve included Bordeaux wineries that have exceeded our personal expectations both in terms of views and the service provided.

Château Marquis

Why Guests Like It: Rent a Bike, Boutique, Great Service, Great Wines, Affordable, Beautiful Scenery

Located in Margaux, and not far from the famed Chateau Margaux, this more humble property is geared towards the wine tourist more than most in Bordeaux. Not only is the wine great and the surrounding vineyards beautiful, it’s one of the few wineries in Bordeaux that you can also rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside. Definitely worth a stop, and the staff are happy to give you recommendations for additional things to do in the region.

Château Lamothe Bergeron

Why Guests Like It: Beautiful Property, Newly Restored Tasting Room, Immersive Tourism Experience

The vibe and setting outdoors at Château Lamothe Bergeron makes you feel as though you’re at some 18th-century outdoor French gala. When you make your way inside, you’ll feel almost exactly the opposite. This chateau went above and beyond to provide a high-tech wine tourism experience to its guests. The building has been almost completely restored recently, the tasting room is beautiful, and the tour and tasting options allow for an immersive experience. You’ll have the opportunity to taste the wines in their various developmental stages. This is also an ideal winery if you’re not looking to spend much money, as their most basic tasting starts at just 8 euros.

This is one of the few wineries in Bordeaux that (at least currently), doesn’t require reservations. You can visit from April to October: 7 days a week, from 10 am to 6 pm – from November to March: Mondays to Fridays from 9:30 am to 5.30 pm.

RELATED: Southern Rhone: 2 Day Winery & Tasting Room Itinerary By Car and Bike

Marquis de Vauban Castle

Why Guests Like It: Caters To Tourists, Horse-Drawn Carriage, Beautiful Property, Great Service, Lunch, Camping, Beautiful Views, Family Friendly

Unlike many Bordeaux producers who shy away from wine tourism and prefer to focus on wine production, Marquis de Vauban Castle provides an ample range of tasting and tour options to guests. You can choose to take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the property, take a little train ride if you have kids in tow, take an underground passage tour beneath the citadel of Blaye, or have a romantic lunch with your significant other overlooking the grounds. This property also supports motorhomes if you’re cruising around Bordeaux and provides electrical hook-up.

Château Prieuré Lichine

Why Guests Like It: Informative Tours, Beautiful Property, Great Service

For those looking for a detailed and personal tour of a lovely estate in the Margaux region, Château Prieuré Lichine is worth a stop. You’ll take a walk through the lovely courtyard, visit the wine cellar and production facilities, and learn about some unique and modern production techniques being implemented. Our tour guide Sarah also gave us background on the Margaux region itself, diving deep into the regulations and wine-making techniques of the area. The tasting room is also remarkably beautiful, and you’ll likely spend an hour or two relaxing or walking the grounds.

Château Castera

Location: Saint-Germain-d’Esteuil

Why Guests Like It: Great Value, Great Wines, Beautiful Property, History, Great Service

One of the few luxurious wineries perhaps in all of Bordeaux where you can get an informative tour and tasting for as little as 6 euros. As you’re guided through the property and production facilities, you’ll hear the passion in the guide’s voice. This is another castle-like setting, and the operation is run by a relatively young and enthusiastic team. Our favorite part about the visit is the escape game they offer from the top of the castle tower. Certainly a unique experience and an indication that guests having a memorable experience is important at Château Castera .

Château Dauzac

Location: Labarde

Why Guests Like It: Great Service, Beautiful Grounds, Welcoming Staff, Great Wines

This is a great winery to visit that’s a bit removed from many of the more popular wineries in the area. The property is sprawling, offering opportunities to buy a bottle and post up to have a little picnic of your own. If you choose to do a tour at Dauzac , they tend to be small and personalized. It begins in the vineyards, then you’ll be walked through the production facilities, the wine cellar and finally get to relax in the tasting room.

RELATED: 10 Unique Wineries & Experiences To Try Around The World

Chateau Rayne-Vigneau

Why Guests Like It: Stunning Property, Great Wines, Warm Staff, Sensory Experiences

Boutique/Family Wineries & Intimate Tours and Tastings

Château moutte blanc.

Location: Macau

Why Guests Like It: Boutique, Family Operated, Warm Staff, Great Quality Wines, Petit Verdot

Moutte Blanc focuses on the Petit Verdot variety. A grape that is typically used in smaller quantities in Bordeaux blends, so sampling wines from this producer will undoubtedly provide a unique experience. A small, yet pretty castle-like setting, Château Moutte Blanc is one of those family-run wineries that will likely to give you a warm welcome should you knock on their door. To be safe, we don’t recommend that and suggest you make an appointment: +05 57 88 40 39.

Vignobles Noailles

Location: Côtes de Bourg

Why Guests Like It: Family Operated, Warm Staff, Great Wines

This boutique, family-run estate will leave you humbled. Escape the typical large estates of Bordeaux and visit this quaint house and vineyard located in Teuillac, Côtes de Bourg. What’s encouraging about Vignobles Noailles is that many of our friends who are tour operators in the region bring their guests to this winery because they know just how good the wine is and how special the experience is. Both individual and group visitation experiences are offered, and typically include walks through the vineyard, a cellar visit, and a tasting afterword. To schedule a visit, call +33 (0) 6 16 06 08 48 or email [email protected] .

RELATED: Touraine Travel Guide: Explore the Heart of the Loire Valley

Château Arnauld

Location: Haut-Medoc

Why Guests Like It: Boutique, Warm Staff, Great Wines, Location

This “boutique castle” is ideal for those looking to taste exceptional wine in a relaxed setting at an affordable price. Due to COVID, walk-ins are no longer offered, however visitation can be reserved ahead of time . They currently have two tasting and tour options, the first is a 1-hour visit that includes a vineyard walk and explanation, in addition to a visit to the production facilities and barrel room. Finally, you’ll have a delightful tasting in their recently renovated tasting room showcasing two of their best wines. The second option includes everything previously mentioned, except a third wine is included along with a chocolate pairing.

Château d’Arcins

Why Guests Like It: Historic, Personal Attention, Great Wines

It’s well worth a stop at Chateau d’Arcins for their wines and history alone, but it makes even more sense to stop here since it’s practically across the street from Chateau Arnauld. For us, the coolest thing about Chateau d’Arcins is that they’ve been producing wine since the 14th century. It’s argued that they’re the oldest estate in Haut-Medoc. What’s even more interesting, supposedly wines were crafted here at the command of the notorious Knights Templar. Call them to reserve a visit at +05 56 58 91 29.

Château Hourtin-Ducasse

Why Guests Like It: Friendly Staff, Great Tours, Beautiful Grounds, Boutique, Great Wines

We love visiting Château Hourtin-Ducasse thanks to the amicable hospitality of owners Michel and Maria. Taste wines alongside the winemaker himself, and straight from the barrel. They’ll take the time to get to know you here, just as much as you’ll be eager to get to know them. This is one winery where while we always recommend scheduling an appointment ahead of time, if you knock on the door they’ll likely let you in and give you all of their attention. Truly passionate about their work, Château Hourtin-Ducasse is one winery we hear again and again from our readers that they will be returning to.

Château Nodot

Why Guests Like It: Museum, Biodynamic, Great Wines, Affordable, Friendly Staff

The staff at Chateau Nodot go above and beyond to welcome their guests to their winery. What’s more, this is one winery that prides itself on being biodynamic . If you’re looking for a somewhat removed, authentic, boutique and focused wine tourism experience in Bordeaux, stop by Nodot. This is an area that’s not very sought out as a tourist destination, so you can expect more personal attention and we believe you’ll be impressed with the quality of wine production in the area as well. Contact them ahead of time at: +05 57 42 50 38

Château des Tourtes

Why Guests Like It: Family Friendly, Warm Staff, Beautiful Setting, Boutique, Great Wines, Bike Rentals

There are few things not to like about visiting Château des Tourtes . For starters, their most basic tour and tasting (of 5 wines might we add), is free. You can upgrade your tour to include small bites for just 6 euros. If you’re hungry, schedule a lunch or dinner (35 euros) while watching a movie that discusses the history of Bordeaux. Lastly, they also offer a guided tour with a the winemaker or one of their sommeliers, which includes a workshop on blending wine (40 euros).

RELATED: The Story of the Cabernet Franc Grape Variety

Unique Experiences, Festivals & Museums

Depending on the season, Bordeaux offers a number of special experiences travelers can partake in. These range from harvest festivals, grape stomping, cave tours and beyond. Below, we’ll list a few of our favorites and when they typically take place, and how you can take part.

Visit La Cite du Vin for a completely immersive museum experience into everything wine. The architecture of the facility is remarkable, but there are also a plethora of interactive, family-friendly experiences designed to utilize all of your senses to really get to know wine and wine production. There is a restaurant on-site also, but it closes by 4 so plan to have lunch if you’re looking to spend the day here.  Book your entry ticket here .

La Fête du Vin , or the annual Bordeaux wine festival offers a number of special events, experiences and shows over a 4 day period in June.

Embark on a running and drinking marathon (literally) during Marathon du Médoc. During this unique event, you’ll literally be running winery to winery tasting some of the finest wines on a pre-determined route. Check if you can register for the next marathon or get on the waiting list here .

The Bordeaux River Festival, or the Fête du Fleuve is one of our favorites. Also typically occurring in June every other year, local gastronomic-focused businesses showcase their craft to locals and tourists alike. This is a great way to immerse yourself in Bordeaux food culture right on the banks of the Garonne River.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux Wineries & Bordeaux Wine Tours

Can i do a bordeaux wine tour.

Absolutely! Bordeaux is one of the world’s most renowned wine regions and offers a wide variety of wine tours for all tastes and budgets. These tours can range from half-day to multiple-day excursions, offering you the chance to visit prestigious wine chateaux, learn about the winemaking process, and taste some of the world’s finest wines. Currently, our most popular, private and customizable tour of Bordeaux is offered by Atlas Bordeaux . Another popular and fun way to experience Bordeaux’s Saint-Émilion subregion is to do it on an e-Bike tour , allowing you to get outdoors, stop at vineyards along beautiful paths, with lunch included. Most tours will take you through the iconic vineyards of Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, or Sauternes, among others, where you can explore the picturesque landscapes and historic vineyards that have made Bordeaux wines famous. Some tours also offer gourmet meals, cheese and wine pairings, or combine wine tasting with other local attractions. Remember to book in advance, particularly during the high season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Also, be sure to check whether your tour includes transportation, as drinking and driving is not only dangerous but also strictly regulated in France.

When should I visit Bordeaux wineries?

If you’re interested in the winemaking process, consider visiting during the harvest season, which typically occurs from mid-September to early October . During this time, you can witness the vineyards in full activity. However, for the best weather and to enjoy the beauty of the vineyards, late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) are generally the most pleasant times to visit. The weather is usually mild and the vineyards are picturesque. Summer is the most popular, and it’s also beautiful. You can’t really go wrong with a visit to Bordeaux during any season. Even during winter, you might get a more personalized visitation experience due to fewer crowds and a chance to meet the winemaker. Bordeaux wineries are generally open for this year-round. However, it’s always a good idea to check in advance, as some smaller vineyards may have limited visiting hours during the off-season or may require an appointment.

What’s the best way to get around Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is well-equipped with various transportation modes for convenience. The city’s public transportation system, which includes trams, buses, and river shuttles, is efficient and connects key parts of the city, making it easy for tourists to navigate. For those who prefer a more active means of transport, Bordeaux is one of France’s most bike-friendly cities, featuring an extensive network of bike lanes. You can rent a bike through the city’s bike-sharing program, VCub. If you plan to explore the wider Bordeaux region, including the vineyards, you may find renting a car to be the most practical option. Be mindful of the local driving rules and parking regulations. Lastly, for shorter distances within the city center, walking is often a great choice, as Bordeaux boasts a compact and pedestrian-friendly city center.

What are the must try wines and wine styles in Bordeaux?

To start, you must try the Bordeaux Reds, primarily made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The Left Bank wines, hailing from regions like Médoc and Graves, are Cabernet-dominant, delivering robust, tannic wines that age gracefully. They are well-structured, exuding deep fruit flavors with hints of spice and earth. On the Right Bank, regions like Saint-Émilion and Pomerol offer Merlot-dominant wines. These are generally softer and more plush, with a generous fruit character and subtle notes of herbs and spices. The contrast between Left and Right Bank wines showcases the versatility and complexity of Bordeaux’s reds. For white wine lovers, Bordeaux doesn’t disappoint. Don’t miss out on the dry white wines, primarily produced from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon in regions like Graves and Pessac-Léognan. These wines balance refreshing acidity with a broad, rich texture, often layered with flavors of citrus, tropical fruits, and a delicate minerality. Lastly, a visit to Bordeaux isn’t complete without tasting the world-renowned sweet wines of Sauternes. Made predominantly from Sémillon grapes affected by noble rot, these wines are intensely flavorful and lusciously sweet, yet perfectly balanced by vibrant acidity. Winetraveler Tip: Noble rot wines are some of the most unique and exceptional wines on the planet with amazing age-ability. If you can find a sushi restaurant that serves Sauternes or other sweet Bordeaux regional wines, try a sushi and wine pairing with them, we promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

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Great list. Which, if any, of these are the most wheelchair accessible?

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Your Ultimate Guide To The Bordeaux Wine Region 2023 (with map)

Bordeaux wine region in southwest France is home to the five most famous Châteaux in the world. Get in on the best tours, wineries, hotels with map.

We’re taking you into the Bordeaux wine region of France for a deep dive into the appellations, winemaking and wine-travel (with a map!). Need a food pairing? We’ve got that too!

Table Of Contents

What grapes are used to make bordeaux wine, bordeaux wine region map, best bordeaux wineries, best bordeaux wine tours.

• Best Hotels In Bordeaux

French Wine Regions

Do you want to know the appellations and the districts of Bordeaux? We’ve got that covered.

Do you want to know about the grapes used and the winemaking process? If so, roll-up your pants cause we’re stomping all the grapes! 

Are you traveling to the region and want to know where to stay, what wineries to visit, what tours to take and how to get around? Jump in our compact car cause we’re taking you on the best joy ride of your life!

Ah, Bordeaux. The mere mention of this region in southwestern France is enough to make any wine lover’s heart skip a beat. 

With its picturesque vineyards, historic chateaus, and world-renowned wines, Bordeaux is a destination that should be on every oenophile’s bucket list. 

But what makes this region so special? Is it the terroir, the grape varieties, or the winemaking techniques? 

Or is it just the fact that the French really know how to make a good bottle of wine? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Bordeaux such a unique and beloved wine region, and why it’s worth a visit (or several). 

So grab a glass of your favorite Bordeaux and let’s dive in!

Is Cru the same as Classified Growths?

Yes, Cru literally translates to “growth” and refers to a great or superior growing site or vineyard. 

The most prestigious wines in Bordeaux are classified as the premier cru, or “first growth”. This is also referred to as the Bordeaux Classification of 1855. There are five châteaux that qualify: Haut-Brion, Lafite-Rothschild, Latour, Margaux and Château Mouton-Rothschild (added in 1973).

Map Of Bordeaux Wineries

Château latour.

Château Latour is part of the premier cru and located in the village of Pauillac in the Médoc region (left bank) about 30 mi north-west of the city of Bordeaux, France.

Documents mentioning Latour date back to 1331.

Picture yourself surrounded by vineyards that have been meticulously cared for, producing wines that have stood the test of time. But only picture it. Unfortunately, visits to the estate are offered primarily for professionals and are only available by appointment. Wah-wah.

Château Haut-Brion 

Château Haut-Brion is situated in the charming town of Pessac, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Bordeaux, this wine estate is a true gem.

Let’s talk white Bordeaux blends (Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc). Brace yourself for a taste bud explosion because Château Haut-Brion knows how to knock it out of the vineyard! These white blends are the stuff of legends, my friends. 

You can visit two of the three estates owned by Château Haut-Brion. The Château La Mission Haut-Brion and Château Quintus . 

Château Margaux 

Château Margaux is about to blow your mind with its Bordeaux wines. These bad boys have been rocking the wine scene for centuries, and let me tell you, they’ve aged like fine wine themselves (pun totally intended).

Now, these wines aren’t just for sipping on their own like a lone ranger. Oh no, no, no! Château Margaux wines are meant to be enjoyed with food, like a perfect dance partner that complements your every move. So, get ready to whip out your fanciest dinner spread and let these wines take center stage.

Tastings and tours of Château Margaux are reserved for professionals and are by appointment only. But you can drive by the estate while you’re in Bordeaux for a drive by selfie and then buy a bottle from L’Intendant Grands Vins de Bordeaux . No one will know you weren’t there 😉 

Château Lafite Rothschild

Château Lafite Rothschild is another OG member of the premier cru club. It’s right around the french corner from Cháteau Mouton Rothschild in the village of Pauillac in the Médoc region (left bank) about 30 mi north-west of the city of Bordeaux, France.

Their wines have earned their spot at the cool kids’ table, and they’re here to impress.

These Bordeaux wines are like the Olympic gymnasts of the wine world, balancing elegance with the precision of a sommelier performing a handstand. They’re so versatile that they’re great to drink young, like a wine prodigy that just won’t quit, but they also have the potential to age.

You can visit the property by appointment only.

Château Mouton Rothschild

In 1973 Château Mouton Rothschild was added to the most prestigious classification, premier cru. They joined the list of the other four original châteaux. This renowned wine estate, located in the village of Pauillac in the Médoc region about 30 mi north-west of the city of Bordeaux, France. From its breathtaking vineyards to its historic cellars, it exudes an undeniable charm. 

Want to visit Mouton Rothschild? You can’t just drive up. You need to make an appointment on their website and it’s subject to availability. If you get the opportunity you’ll love the museum. 

On the tour you’ll be able to see the old vineyards, the winery, cellars, and two amazing museums. 

There are three types of tours offered:

Full Tour – visit the Vat Room, the Museum of Art in Wine, the Paintings for the Labels Room, the Cellars, and the Great Barrel Hall.

Art and Wine Tour – visit the Vat Room, the Museum of Art in Wine, and the Paintings for the Labels Room.

Technical Tour – visit the Vat Room, the Cellars, and the Great Barrel Hall.

Don’t forget your veggies. Roast potatoes, mushrooms, onions and green bean casserole (you just found your next holiday wine pairing ).

The region is also well known for its dry white wines and sweet white wines (Sauternes).

The Garonne and the Dordogne rivers meet to form the Gironde estuary that flows into the Atlantic. The Gironde estuary is what divides the region into three sections: the Left Bank, the Right Bank and Entre-Deux-Mers.

There are loads of wonderful wineries to visit in Bordeaux. You already know this. But how to get to them? How do you know you’re going to have a great time? Do you speak French? Will the wine educator speak English? It’s unknown. 

You can absolutely rent a car and tour the region on your own. But you may not want to risk it. If this is your first (and maybe only) trip to Bordeaux we recommend booking a tour, whether it be a private or small-group tour.

These are our top picks.

• Remember what I said above? If you want to tour the Medoc and stand in front of the Châteaux Margaux and Lafite Rothchild this private tour will get you those oh so sweet insta-worthy shots. After the photo op of a lifetime, you’ll make three stops at other fantastic Bordeaux wineries. There are planned stops but it’s a private tour so you can literally do whatever you want. Remember to make time for lunch. $658 (buy a bottle of Margaux in town and make your buds back home soooo jealous).
• Bring your appetite. This 1 ½ hour intimate tasting session of Bordeaux wines and gourmet cheeses of the region will introduce you to the best cheeses of France. You’ll taste nine different spectacular cheeses in the restaurant’s 100 cheese cellar. $48 
• Lunch is included in this 3 ½ hour small group walking tour . Experience the pleasures of Bordeaux alongside a knowledgeable culinary enthusiast with no more than 10 explorers. Savor a glass of organic Bordeaux wine, indulge in delectable chocolate bonbons crafted by an acclaimed female chocolatier, delight in a hazelnut delicacy from a cherished local family enterprise, plus enjoy a traditional French bistro lunch nestled in the vibrant Saint-Pierre district. Listen to stories told about the city while strolling through its charming streets. $108
• Jump right into your trip feet first by taking a full day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Saint-Émilion . Taste amazing wine and enjoy sightseeing. You’ll explore Saint-Émilion on a 45-minute guided walking tour. You’ll have the opportunity to grab lunch after your guided walking tour. You’ll be sure to work up an appetite. Pro tip: eat breakfast. $170
• Over 500 Five Star reviews can’t be wrong. Visit the Medoc or Saint-Émilion in a small group wine tasting and Chateaux tour from Bordeaux. Taste four different wines and learn expert wine-tasting tips. Enjoy a French appetizer platter of local specialties including bread, cheese and cured meat. Hungry yet? $108
• Want to make your own wine? Of course you do! Make your own cuvée of Bordeaux wine in this 3 hour class. Yum! At $64 you’d be crazy not to.
• Full day tour with gourmet picnic lunch . Travel through Bordeaux’s picturesque vineyards and visit several wineries—an estate in Graves, and then onto the medieval village of Saint-Émilion. A gourmet picnic lunch in the vines complete with charcuterie, cheeses, and chateau wines is included! $186
• Have a slow morning in Bordeaux before your afternoon tour in Saint-Émilion. This afternoon tour of Saint-Émilion includes winery visits and tastings. Learn the secrets of winemaking and ‘terroir’ on a tour and tasting at a Grand Cru winery. $108

Best Hotels In The Bordeaux Wine Region

If you’re wanting to stay in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region, then the city of Bordeaux is you best option. Bordeaux is renowned for its exquisite wines (we know this), rich history, and vibrant culture. Bordeaux offers a delightful array of accommodations to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. From luxurious five-star hotels to charming boutique establishments, there is a perfect option for every discerning traveler. Even your mom.

Bordeaux boasts a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, reflected in its diverse range of hotels. Whether you seek a stylish retreat in the city center or a peaceful escape in the outskirts, Bordeaux offers a plethora of options to cater to your preferences.

Your accommodation can offer you world-class amenities, spa facilities and gourmet dining experiences.

For those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, boutique hotels in Bordeaux provide a unique charm. These hidden gems exude character and offer an authentic taste of the city’s local ambiance. Immerse yourself in cozy atmospheres, beautifully designed rooms, and personalized service, all crafted to ensure a memorable stay.

Budget-conscious travelers need not worry, as Bordeaux also offers a range of affordable hotels and guesthouses without compromising on comfort or quality. These accommodations provide a comfortable base to explore the city, with easy access to its iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and bustling streets.

No matter which hotel you choose, you can expect warm hospitality, amenities (some exceptional), and a convenient location to make the most of your Bordeaux experience. Most hotels offer complimentary wine tastings. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a cultural exploration, or a wine-filled adventure, Bordeaux’s hotels are ready to welcome you with open arms and provide a comfortable haven during your stay in this captivating French city.

The History Of The Region

Bordeaux wine region is one of the most famous french wine regions and in the world, and for good reason. Its history dates back to Roman times, when the area was known for producing wine. However, it wasn’t until the 12th century that Bordeaux really started to make a name for itself. 

At that time, the English had control of the region, and they were big fans of Bordeaux wine. They even started exporting it back to England, where it became a popular drink among the nobility.

Over the centuries, Bordeaux continued to grow in popularity and prestige. Winemakers in the region developed new techniques and methods for producing wine, and the area became known for producing some of the finest wines in the world. 

Bordeaux is still a major player in the wine industry today, with thousands of wineries producing a wide variety of wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of red, Bordeaux is definitely a region worth exploring.

Bordeaux’s Climate

Bordeaux’s climate is considered maritime. Compared to the Mediterranean, the west coast of France has higher humidity and rainfall with less sunshine. So the summers are cooler.

Bordeaux’s temperatures are still high enough to produce full bodied wines but also with significant acidity.

Bordeaux winemaking 

The Bordeaux wine growing area has about 287,000 acres of vineyards, 38 appellations (whoa mama), 10,000 wine-producing estates and 13,000 grape growers. 

Bordeaux produces about 61 million cases of wine every year. It produces everyday table wine as well as some of the most expensive wines in the world. 

Some of the most expensive wines are the area’s premier cru red wines from Médoc and Château Haut-Brion, from Graves.

The Bordeaux region produces both red, white and sweet wines. 

The red wines are mostly made from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Carménère .

White Bordeaux is made from Sauvignon blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. 

Sauternes is a sub-region of Graves known for its intensely sweet, white, dessert wines.

Grapes that are used to make red Bordeaux wine are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Carménère.

At least two of these grapes are blended to make red Bordeaux.

Did you know… Merlot is the most widely planted grape in France. Second and third are Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, respectively. 

Grapes that are used to make white Bordeaux are Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. The Sauvignon Blanc grape is the third most widely planted white grape in France, behind Chardonnay and Ugni Blanc. 

Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon are blended to make both dry and sweet white Bordeaux wines.

Did you know… Sémillon is the fifth most planted grape in France. In an attempt to lessen the effects of climate change on the wine industry in Bordeaux, in 2021 six new grape varieties were approved for limited use. However, the new grapes combined cannot exceed 10% of the blend. These grapes are (red): Arinarnoa, Castes, Marselen and Touriga Nacional; (white) Albariño and Lilorila.

What does Bordeaux wine taste like?

Bordeaux is primarily known for dry red wines. Red wines from Bordeaux have fruity and earthy notes and are medium to full bodied with aromas of plum and pencil lead. They are highly tannic (dry mouth feel).

Did you know… Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines originated in Bordeaux.

Want To Bring Your Bordeaux Wine Home With You?

That was rhetorical. Yes. Yes, you do.

We recommend the VinGardeValise  12 bottle wine suitcase . There are a couple ways you can use this suitcase. One is, when you come home you only pack half the suitcase with wine and the other side clothes; or, what we do is bring a duffle bag to carry our clothes home. You can still check a duffle bag home btw, you don’t have to schlep it around for all four connections.

Pro tip: you can also use the duffle bag to drop off your clothes to be laundered if you’re doing an extended trip. Multiple uses for one duffle bag.

The Left Bank Bordeaux

There are two areas of the Left Bank and those are Médoc to the north and Graves to the south. The classic sweet white wines come from Sauternes on the Left Bank. The best wines are coming out of the Médoc.

Médoc 

Produces all red wine. Margaux, Pauillac, St. Estèphe and St. Julien are the most esteemed villages in Bordeaux and arguably the world.

Haut-Médoc , Médoc , Listrac-Médoc , Margaux , Moulis-en-Médoc , Pauillac , St. Estèphe , St. Julien

Graves 

Graves produces a combination of dry white, sweet white, and red.

Graves , Graves Supérieures , Pessac-Léognan , Barsac , Céron , Sauternes

The Right Bank Bordeaux

This region is known as Libournais. The main town on the Right Bank is Libourne. The most coveted wines from this area of the Bordeaux wine region are from the Pomerol and St.-Émilion AOCs.

Long lived, top quality wines are coming from St.-Émilion. 

Produces all red wine. 

Canon-Fronsac , Fronsac , Lalande-de-Pomerol , Lussac-St.-Émilion , Montagne-St.-Émilion , Pomerol , Puisseguin-St.-Émilion , St.-Émilion , St.-Émilion Grand Cru , St.-Georges-St.-Émilion

Blaye, Bourg and Côtes

Blaye, Bourg and Côtes produces dry white, sweet white and red.

Côtes de Bordeaux , Blaye , Côtes de Blaye , Bourg/Côtes de Bourg

The Entre-Deux-Mers

Entre-Deux-Mers means between the two rivers, Garonne and the Dordogne. Entre-Deux-Mers primarily focuses on white wines but the vineyards do also contain a significant planting of red grape. (primarily Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon)

Entre-Deux-Mers , Cadillac , Côte de Bordeaux-St.-Macaire , Ste.-Croix-du-Mont

Bordeaux Food Pairing Tips

The most perfect food pairing with your Bordeaux wine is obviously steak frites. The big tannins in the Bordeaux wine that can sometimes be overwhelmingly drying are almost sweet when paired with the steak and the duck fat fries.

Any rich meaty pairing is a win with Bordeaux. Filet mignon, brisket, buffalo burgers, pâté, pot roast, venison and duck.

Looking for a cheese pairing? Your everyday grocery store cheese are manchego, swiss cheese (throw that on your buffalo burger), white cheddar, provolone, pepper jack and comté.

Check ‘em out!

Related articles, 10 crus of beaujolais: wineries, hotels, tours, the provence wine region is famous and for good reason, 2023 guide to the alsace wine region (with map), bordeaux wine region faq, what is the region of bordeaux wine, what are the 4 bordeaux wines.

The grapes most used in red Bordeaux wine are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec. Merlot is the most widely planted grape in France. Second and third are Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, respectively. 

What is Bordeaux region famous for?

Bordeaux is most well known for its wine. The Bordeaux wine region is the undisputed wine capital of the world and Bordeaux wines are often amongst the most expensive in the world.

Where is the best wine area in Bordeaux?

The Médoc, north of Bordeaux, produces wine from the most esteemed villages in Bordeaux and arguably the world. Those are Margaux, Pauillac, St. Estèphe and St. Julien.

Why is Bordeaux wine so special?

One of the reasons Bordeaux is so special and considered the most famous wine region in the world is because of to potential to age well. All of the red wines of Bordeaux are aged in barrels before bottling, but also are well in bottles because of the tannic Cabernet Sauvignon grape.

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Best Bordeaux Wine Tours

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Bordeaux is known worldwide for being France’s wine capital. It is a true mecca for wine lovers who will have a blast visiting wine châteaux and doing tastings.

Touring the Bordeaux wine region is one of the best things to do in Bordeaux ! There are many wine tours from Bordeaux, but if you have a car, you can also organize self-guided wine trips in the region.

The Bordeaux wine region is vast, and you will find excellent vineyards on both the Garonne River banks, where castle-like estates produce superb wine in fairy-tale settings. To help you decide which type of wine tour works best for you, we put together this comprehensive guide to the best Bordeaux wine tours.  

Are you planning a Bordeaux trip last minute?

Below are some of the best Bordeaux tours, hotels, and more!

• Book your flight tickets to Bordeaux (BOD) ; Book your train tickets to Bordeaux .
• Book your transfer from Bordeaux Airport to the city with Welcome Pickups

Looking to travel around Bordeaux independently? Click here for the best rental car rates in Bordeaux .

Top Experiences and Tours in Bordeaux

• Bordeaux Guided Bike Tour
• Cité du Vin Entry Ticket
• Garonne River Cruise with a Glass of Wine
• Day Trip to Saint-Emilion Wine Region
• Day Trip to the Médoc Wine Region

Want skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Bordeaux? Get your hands on a  Bordeaux City Pass !

Top Bordeaux Accommodation and Lodging

• InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel (historical 5-star hotel in the Old Town)
• Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa (lovely and central boutique hotel with seasonal pool)
• Meininger Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean (budget hotel ideal for long stays)
• Check the full list of our favorite hotels in Bordeaux

Don’t leave for Bordeaux without travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

Bordeaux Wine Tour vs Self-Guided Wine Trip

Joining guided Bordeaux wine tours has many advantages, like that it is more educational, as you are with an expert guide, and there is no planning to do on your part since the tour is fully organized.

Among the disadvantages of guided wine tours is that the schedule is not flexible since everything is already organized. Guided Bordeaux wine-tasting tours are usually more expensive than self-guided wine trips.

On the other hand, self-guided wine trips allow you to craft your own itinerary by selecting the wineries in Bordeaux where you want to stop and for how long, all for less money than a guided wine tour.

However, the biggest cons of self-guided wine trips is that you will have to do a great deal of research beforehand and then book everything by yourself. 

Bordeaux Left Bank vs Bordeaux Right Bank – Where to Go?

The  Bordeaux Wine Region  is not only one of the most famous French wine regions but is also one of the largest. Where to go for a Bordeaux wine tour? The Bordeaux wine area has three main wine production areas:

Rive Gauche (Garonne and Gironde Rivers’ left bank). Here, Cabernet Sauvignon is the main grape variety. North of Bordeaux is the area of the famous red wines of Médoc and Haut-Médoc (Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, Margaux, and more). South of Bordeaux, the AOC Péssac-Léognan and AOC Graves produce good and lighter reds and whites, while the AOC Sauternes produces botrytized sweet wines.

Entre-deux-Mers is the wine production area located between the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. This area produces good reds and whites. The AOC Entre-deux-Mers , however, only concerns the white dry wines while the rest of the production in this area is sold as AOC Bordeaux or AOC Bordeaux Supérieur.

Rive Droite (Dordogne River’s Right Bank). Merlot is the main grape variety here. This is the area where the famous red wines of AOC Saint-Emilion and AOC Pomerol are produced.

Guided Bordeaux wine tours explore the region’s most famous wine areas and include transportation and an expert guide. I have taken several Bordeaux wine tasting tours and I could never know in advance what châteaux we would visit during the tours. However, I was always satisfied with the places we visited.

Following is a handy table with the best wine tours from Bordeaux in the Bordeaux.

Best Wineries in Bordeaux for Self-Guided Wine Trips

When opting for a self-guided wine tour, you must remember that most wine tastings and visits to the wineries are available by appointment only. You won’t be able to show up to a château you like and count on someone being available to welcome you to the property and give you access to the tastings.

In addition to reserving your wine-tasting spots, you will need a car to get to the wineries. We suggest you check out DiscoverCars.com , a comparison site that will find the best car rental deals.

Following is a well-rounded list of the best wineries in the Bordeaux wine region. The Châteaux du Médoc are the most popular, but there are also beautiful wine estates in Saint-Emilion and the Right Bank in general. At the time of writing this article, all the wineries below offer tours in French and English with tastings, and you can book through the links below.

Bordeaux Left Bank

• Château Talbot – Grand Cru Classé (Saint-Julien /Haut-Médoc)
• Château La Haye (Saint-Estèphe /Haut Médoc)
• Château Saint-Hiliare-Domaine Uijjtewaal (Médoc)
• Château Ferrière – Grand Cru Classé (Margaux /Haut-Médoc)
• Château Kirwan – Grand Cru Classé (Margaux /Haut-Médoc)
• Château Haut-Bages Libéral – Grand Cru Classé (Pauillac /Haut Médoc)
• Château Malartic-Lagravière – Grand Cru Classé (Pessac Leognan)
• Château de Cérons (Graves)
• Château Gravas (Sauternes)

Bordeaux Entre-deux-Mers

• Château Le Grand Verdus (Bordeaux Supérieur)
• Château de Camarsac (Entre-deux-Mers)

Bordeaux Right Bank

• Château Cadet Bon – Grand Cru Classé (Saint-Emilion)
• Couvent des Jacobins – Grand Cru Classé (Saint-Emilion)
• Château Mazeyres (Pomerol)
• Château Taillefer (Pomerol)

Stay in a Château-Hotel for the Ultimate Bordeaux Wine Experience

To take your wine experience in Bordeaux to the next level, you should stay overnight in one of the stunning châteaux-hotels you will find in the countryside. 

Imagine waking up in a picture-perfect château surrounded by lush vineyards, breathing fresh air.

The best perk of staying in châteaux-hotels is that you will likely have private access to cellars, and you can do extensive wine tastings accompanied by seriously delicious food prepared in the on-site restaurant.

There are châteaux-hotels for every taste, from cottage-like accommodations to luxury options. Here is the list of the best châteaux-hotels to stay in Bordeaux.

• Château Meyre (Médoc)
• Le Château Réal (Haut-Médoc)
• La Maison d’Estournel (Haut-Médoc)
• Château Cordeillan Bages (Médoc)
• Château Hotel Grand Barril (Saint-Emilion)
• Clos 1906 (Saint-Emilion)

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Le Miroir d'eau - self drive tours Bordeaux France - Bordeaux tours Christophe Bouthé - OT Bordeaux

Self-drive tours in Bordeaux region

Bordeaux tours.

Stretched along the banks of the Garonne River, Bordeaux, also known as the Sleeping Beauty of France, will enchant you from the very moment you arrive.

Bordeaux is surrounded by vineyards whose names are known around the world, such as Médoc, St Emilion, Margaux and Sauterne. As well as Bordeaux wine tasting tours, we can help you discover the beautiful coastline too – the Atlantic Ocean and Bay of Arcachon are never far away. There is truly something for everyone here.

We are experienced travelers world-wide, generally organizing our own itinerary or having a travel group help us with a tour-for-two, and a personal guide, in several select …

We are experienced travelers world-wide, generally organizing our own itinerary or having a travel group help us with a tour-for-two, and a personal guide, in several select locations. This was our first visit to France. So to be on our own with the guidance and extremely comprehensive written support of France Just For You was just remarkable and very reassuring. We felt completely confident during our 26 day tour from Nice to Paris, and we were astounded by the range of experiences offered to us. The accommodation choices were lovely, and all of our hosts were extremely gracious. Do keep in mind that we are a long married couple, and a self-driving tour of this magnitude and length could be trying at times. But we are here to tell the tale. Highly recommended, and many accolades to France Just For You. With thanks,

Our Self-Guided Tours in Bordeaux

Enjoy wine tastings, stay at wine estates and take the opportunity to meet with French oenologists and sommeliers.

St Céré on market day Cochise Ory

Bordeaux & Dordogne's Heritage

The Bordeaux area and Dordogne are 2 very rich regions in terms of heritage . . . and of course gastronomy & wine. From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance (and even prehistoric times), you will find what you like here!

Villandry French style gardens France Just For You

The Loire Valley & Bordeaux UNESCO sites

Uncover every hideaway and detail of the Loire Valley and Bordeaux UNESCO heritage sites. Taste typical regional fo od at your hosts’ table and stay at Bed & Breakfasts with unique atmospheres .

La Liodière restaurant & chef ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

Scenic Roads & French Cuisine

Travel through three of the most fascinating regions in France. Let your friendly hosts introduce you to the French "sweet life" in their charming B&Bs.

Dentelles in Provence Alain Hocquel - CDT Vaucluse

The "Tour de France"

France Just For You has organized its own very special Tour de France. No need for a bike but be ready for a great deal of adventure! This itinerary will take you off the beaten path to all the must sees & dos in four of the most enthralling regions of France.

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The Authentic South West of France

This self-drive itinerary will take you to the South West of France, from the Basque coastline to authentic Dordogne, ending in the bustling city of Bordeaux.

Traditional costumes from the Basque Country OT Hendaye

Focus on the South West of France

From the Unesco city of Bordeaux and the surrounding world-famous vineyards, to the mythical beach towns of Biarritz and St Jean de Lu z, feeling the fresh air of the Pyrenees foothills, and ending in the mysterious medieval town of Carcassonne . . . what a program!

Martel covered market Cochise - OT Vallée de la Dordogne

Traditions & Heritage of the SW of France

This loop from Bordeaux will take you on a journey to the South West of France: vineyards, mountains, cliff-hanging fortresses and rolling hills. You will enjoy all the diversity of this unique part of France.

france itinerary 4 weeks CRT Bouches du Rhone

Self-Driving around France - from Paris to Nice

Spend about a month traveling from Paris to Nice on the French Riviera and get a real feel for the authentic France!

Lovely Dordogne town CDT Dordogne - Cochise

The Many Facets of France

This itinerary is for independent travelers who may already know the southern coast of France and who are looking for discovering the “inside” of the country. Five regions that are totally different from each other, showing you the diversity of France.

Surfers in the Basque Country Emmy Martens - Biarritz Tourist Office

Southern France from Bordeaux to Avignon

When the South of France is mentionned, many travelers think of Provence. But there is so much more to discover between the South-West and the South-East of France. This 26 day itinerary is designed to give you a very complete tour of the southern part of France, enjoying the gastronomy, heritage, wine, villages, and scenic roads . . . the best that France has to offer.

Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley ADT Touraine - Jean-Christophe Coutand

France for Wine Lovers

This itinerary is designed for gourmet travelers who aim at discovering and learning more about French wines. Our tours also mix heritage, culture, nice walks, gardens, etc. In this tour, you will stay in wineries, by vineyards & in wine towns. An absolute must for wine lovers !

How to Get to Bordeaux

If you are flying into  Paris  then getting to Bordeaux is a piece of cake. Simply hop on the TGV train at Paris Montparnasse and ride down to Bordeaux St Jean. The quickest train takes 3 hours 15 minutes. Next year, thanks to the installation of an extra fast TGV, travel time will be cut down to just 2 hours!

If you would rather focus your energy on the Southwest of France, you can fly straight there. Fly into Bordeaux Merignac or Toulouse Blagnac airports and you’ll save a whole lot of time and energy to start your Bordeaux region tour.

For those who prefer the freedom of taking their own vehicle down to Bordeaux, driving takes around five hours from Paris. If you plan on travelling by car, we recommend stopping off in the  Loire Valley  on the way.

Alternatively, Bordeaux is easily accessible by car from the  Dordogne  (2 hours),  Carcassonne (3 hours) and Toulouse (2.5 hours). Why not start your Bordeaux region tour in one of these magical cities ?

The Gironde Region

Bordeaux is just one part of the magnificent Gironde region. When the Garonne leaves Bordeaux, it widens and flows to the ocean. This wider stretch of water is known as the Gironde Estuary and gives the region its name.

The river is an important part of the city and is beautiful to walk along in the sunshine. Some travelers also enjoy river cruises along the Garonne, though we specialize in driving tours which include walking tours and bike tours for those who enjoy cycling.

Médoc Wine Region

Sitting between the Gironde and the Atlantic Ocean is Médoc – the Gironde’s famous wine country. The wines here are famous across the globe, so Bordeaux wine tours are very popular!

Within Médoc are a number of small villages that are well worth taking the time to explore. Pauillac, Margaux and St Estèphe are particularly beautiful with their cobbled streets and wine chateaux. This a real taste of France.

For something a bit different, you could head to Verdon, on the bank of the Gironde Estuary, and get the ferry across to Royan. The ferry runs throughout the day and only takes around 20 minutes. This short trip offers you the chance to see part of the  Loire Valley .

Le Bassin d’Arcachon

Known in English as Arcachon Bay, le Bassin d’Arcachon is a stunning section of France’s coastline. With fine sandy beaches and sparkling (albeit incredibly cold) water, it is easy to spend the day soaking up the sun here.

Of course, no trip to Arcachon is complete without climbing the Pyla Dune (Dune du Pyla). This monstrous sand dune measures 110m in height, making it the largest of its kind in Europe. The view from the top is utterly breath-taking and worth the sweating and panting as you clamber to the top.

Once you’ve exhausted yourself exploring le Bassin d’Arcachon’s natural wonders, it’s time to eat. Arcachon is famous for oyster farming so make the most of this by tucking into some at one of the region’s restaurants. Of course, you will need to wash it down with a glass of Bordeaux wine (or two).

Bordeaux - A Unesco City

Now we come to the  pièce de résistance  of the Gironde region: Bordeaux. This incredible city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has undergone massive renovations in the past decade or so.

Bordeaux is a city that exudes beauty, from its majestic architecture to the river that divides it in two. Walking along the quay when the sun is out is the perfect way to see the city and absorb Bordeaux’s laid-back atmosphere.

The city’s snazzy and unique new bridge is also a must-see, especially if you’re a fan of interesting architecture. Or, if your interests lie more in the world of wine, La Cité du Vin cannot be missed. This intricate building encompasses all kinds of wine-based exhibitions, workshops and events. A must for any wine-lover.

 We have made a shortlist of the 8 cities we like the most in France and of course, Bordeaux is one of them !

Entre-Deux-Mers

Located between the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, Entre-Deux-Mers is one of Bordeaux’s wine regions. This special region attracts people from across the globe who are interested in wine tasting tours in Entre-Deux-Mers, and in sampling the local produce so we warmly recommend making it a point to spend some time in this area.

Saint Emilion Vineyards

Saint Emilion is living proof that with great beauty comes great numbers of tourists. This staggeringly gorgeous little town is always jam-packed with visitors, but there are peaceful parts too, which we will direct you to in your personal guidebook.

We recommend taking a walk on the outskirts of the town so you can make the most of it without getting caught up in the crowds. You may like to spend a full day walking through some of our favorite vineyards and wine estates and have a picnic in one of them under the ever-present sun.

Bordeaux Wines

The main reason people go to Bordeaux is to sample its mouth-watering selection of French wines. However, while it is one thing to taste the wine, it is quite another to fully understand them.

Bordeaux wines have more detailed classifications than any other kind in the world. They have 57 appellations encompassed within 6 classifications:

• The 1855 Médoc Classification
• The 1855 Sauternes and Barsac Classification
• The 2012 St Emilion Classification
• The 1959 Graves Classification
• The 1932 Cru Bourgeois Classification
• The 2006 Médoc Crus Artisans Classification

You will learn all about these classifications and more on your guided tour with our special wine guide. Our guide comes from a wine-making family and will sculpt your itinerary to show you the best wines in Bordeaux. Thanks to our guide you will be able to access wine estates that are not usually open to tourists.

If you want something special, our guide can organise a lunch in a winery for you. Your meal will be presided over by a ” maitre de chai ” (cellar master). Alternatively, we can take you to a wine estate for a less in-depth wine experience. Here you will be welcomed with open arms and big smiles – this isn’t always the case with some of the bigger, more commercial wineries. To learn more about France Wine regions .

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

We have specially selected a few premium B&Bs for our guests who wish to stay in the city centre. From here it is easy to take public transport or walk to all of Bordeaux’s best districts. This is a great option if you want to enjoy the big city.

For those looking for something a bit quieter, we also have B&Bs available in the countryside. Guests can stay in Médoc or St Emilion – the perfect location to get acquainted with the local vineyards and self-drive tour the Bordeaux region.

Bordeaux is the pride and joy of southwest France. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side, the vineyards on the other and dozens of glorious chateaux in between, it simply cannot be missed. 

FAQ about Bordeaux

We recommend spending at least 3-5 nights touring Bordeaux region if you are visiting it as part of a self-drive tour of France, where you'll also be visiting other regions. This will give you time to enjoy the best of Bordeaux city, visit some of Bordeaux's wine regions, such as Médoc and Saint Emilion, and enjoy different wine-tastings at various wine estates. Longer Bordeaux region tours will also give you the time to visit the beautiful coastal area of Arcachon, and sample some of the best oysters in the world!

Bordeaux is most famous for its wine, its oysters, and for being the world's largest urban UNESCO world heritage site, which extends across an area of 1,810 hectares. 

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My wife and I traveled in Provence and Dordogne in early April 2018. Whie the weather was mostly on the rainy/windy side, the trip was so well planned and organized, with so much to see, that we did not pay much attention to the weather. All B&Bs were excellent in terms of accommodation, food (sic!) and very welcoming. All hosts were bi-lingual and provided lots of advice about the area. Car rental was a breeze, both pick-up and return. And we would not miss any of the pre-booked tours, like private tour in Aix en Provence, Gourmet tour in Avignon or a fun truffle hunt. We met so many good people on this trip. Thank you Emilie!

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The detailed guide to the Bordeaux wine region and how to visit it

Temperate weather, ocean views, a city packed with culture, and gorgeous architecture are just a few of the attractions of Bordeaux. But once you’ve really tapped into Bordeaux wineries? You might never leave. 

With so many delicious wines to sample in the Bordeaux wine region, how should you choose? The answer to that question will depend on the kind of wine you like, how you want to feel drinking it and what should be the setting.

In this article, I’m about the introduce you to all the Bordeaux wine regions. You will learn about the grapes used in every region and what type of wine they produced. And finally, I’ll provide detailed information about how to visit wineries in the Bordeaux region.

For every region, I also added a few recommendations of wineries to visit.  So by the end of this article, you should have a rough idea of where to go while visiting the Bordeaux wine region. If you want to stay the night in a winery, check out my article about the best vineyards accommodation in Bordeaux .

Bordeaux wine region- what you need to know

The 5 bordeaux wine sub-regions you need to know, how to visit wineries in bordeaux.

There are a stunning 7,000 wineries in Bordeaux and 57 appellations in the Bordeaux wine region. The appellations range from the world-famous Medoc appellation to the lesser-known but lovely Entre-Deux-Mers. Unbeknownst to many, the Bordeaux wine region produces delicious whites on top of its famous reds. Altogether, Bordeaux wineries produce 2.5 billion dollars worth of wine per year from 900 million bottles!

Over 86% of wines in the Bordeaux wine region are reds made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc grapes.

The Bordeaux wine region is arguably the most famous wine region on Earth. The unique nutrient-dense soil has filtered down over centuries from the Pyrenees mountains, through the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, into the ocean, forming the Bordeaux wine region.

You may also find that the people from this region of France are more down-to-Earth and welcoming than their Northern neighbors. This makes touring Bordeaux wineries a warm and pleasant experience.

For a closer look at the appellations, let’s pull out the Bordeaux wine map : 

South of the Gironde estuary, we have the Left Bank, which includes eight Medoc appellations (including Margaux, Haut-Médoc, Pauillac, etc.), Graves (including Pessac- Leognan), and Sauternes and Barsac.

To the north of the estuary is the Right Bank, which includes the Blaye, Côtes-de-Bourg, Fronsac, Pomerol, and Saint Émilion appellations. 

Finally, the Entre-Deux-Mers sub-region is between the two banks. That’s the biggest wine sub-region of Bordeaux and where most of the white wines are produced.

The amount of wineries here is overwhelming and it’s really to decide what region you should go to. 

However, here’s a tip from me! Check your visit falls on one of the portes ouvertes events in the region. These are open-door events organized by the different appellations where you have the opportunity to visit several wineries at once. The open-door events are free and open to all. Check out my article about the open days in the chateaux of Bordeaux , to see all the upcoming events.

Saint Emilion – the Most Famous Bordeaux Wine Region

Saint-Emilion is famous for the hillside architecture that makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site. But don’t let your eyes distract your taste buds. This region’s wines are made from deep Merlot and Cabernet Franc, making the wine soft, and tannin-light. It is home to around 800 wineries.

Saint-Emilion is a land, or terroir (break that out for your tour guide for brownie points), of contradictions. Its people and its wine are warm and approachable, but absolutely elite. The Saint Emilion appellation and its four satellite appellations ( Lussac-Saint-Émilion, Montagne-Saint-Émilion, Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion, and Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion.) are home to generational wineries. Think old-school families that bought the land years ago and saw the value skyrocket since. But also think of centuries of passed-down knowledge.

The strict guidelines that Saint-Emilion wines must follow are even presided over by the Jurade – a group of people that “bear witness to the traditions of the past.”

Pomerol is another rich red found in the Saint Emilion region. It is fruity, dark, and very drinkable. 

Consider visiting Chateau Pressac for beautiful views and rich family history, Chateau Bernateau for a family-run visit and open grounds, and Chateau Coutet for a 400-year-old winery and scenic view. More information on each can be found in my guide to the wineries of Saint Emilion here .

Before going be sure to check out my articles about Saint Emilion:

A detailed guide to Saint Emilion How to get to Saint Emilion from Bordeaux The best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion Where to stay in Saint Emilion

Medoc –  the most prestigious wine region

Instead of a heavy reliance on Merlot like Saint-Emilion, the 584 Medoc wineries grow a more diverse mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes. The Medoc is located on the peninsula between the Gironde estuary and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Over many years, the estuary carried mineral-rich water from the Pyrenees, through the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, to form the peninsula. As a result, the soil is resistant to moisture, and is ideal for slow-ripening grapes, resulting in some of the most expensive wines in the world. With good reason – they’re delicious.

Besides being prestigious, Medoc is a leader in innovation for winegrowers across the world. Medoc winemakers were the first to exclude rotten grapes from the vinification process and to age wine in oak barrels, for two of many examples.

Some of the comforting flavors of Medoc wines are red and blackberries, dark cherry, hints of vanilla, and roasted coffee with aging. A perfect wine to relax at home with once you leave the beautiful vineyards of the Medoc. You can imagine that you’re back to bright green vineyards overlooking the water as far as the eye can see!

Some suggestions of wineries to visit in the region are Chateau Loudenne (a chateau with a private port),  Château Beychevelle l , or Château Lamothe Bergeron . You can find out about visiting these chateaux in my article on visiting the Medoc region.

The best way to explore the Medoc is to rent a car but you can also visit many chateaux in Medoc by public transport . Read my article to discover all the wineries reachable by train from Bordeaux .

Graves and Pessac Leognan – The Oldest Wine Region in Bordeaux

The most unique feature of this region is its pine forests. The trees protect the vines from the humidity and wind native to the Bordeaux wine region. It is the only region that makes a significant amount of both red and white wines. If you love the outdoors, this is the region for you, with the beautiful vineyards and pines all around.

The red wines created by Pessac’s 29 wineries have a breadth of flavor that is unique to the region: from smoky and cassis-filled wines to light, drinkable wines. The reds are made from Cabernet Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. The whites are made from Sauvignon Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle.

The dry white wines produced here are crisp and citrus, green apples, and honey. Just the smell transports me to one of the oyster shacks in the Bassin d’Arcachon. Bordelais people flock to these incredibly cheap and high-quality oyster providers every spring, summer, and fall (whenever they can) to gorge themselves on oysters, shrimp, and glasses of Pessac. If you’re interested in combining these two great pleasures of the region – its wine and oysters – see my article on the Bay of Arcachon .

Some winery suggestions in Pessac Leognan are:

Château Pape Clément in Pessac

Château Pape Clément is a Grand Cru Classé wine labeled under the Pessac Leognan appellation. The château offers daily visits in both French and English as well as winemaking workshops where you can assemble your own wine. 

You can book the tour online – just click here . It’s also one of the most beautiful luxury hotels in Bordeaux . 

Château Larrivet Haut Brion

A beautiful estate with stunning gardens and a very artistic Vat room. The winery is located around 20 minutes’ drive from Bordeaux. Book your visit here . 

The best way is to rent a car but you can also visit many chateaux in Pessac Leognan by public transport. Find more details in my article on car-free winery visitin g.

Sauternes and Barsac -discover the white sweet wine of Bordeaux

To take a break from dry white wines and dive into sweet ones, Sauternes is your go-to. The subregion benefits from noble rot – the shrooms that form on the vines from the morning mist from the humidity of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. This gives the grapes a great variety of concentration, acidity, and complexity. The assemblages produced here include Semillion, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, and Muscadelle grapes.

As a fan of the occasional glass of sweet wine, I find the rich, amber color and the sweet flavors of peach and even “brioche” are the perfect end to a weekend spent among friends and family. A sweet – but not too sweet! – end to time spent enjoying myself before starting the working week.

My favorite wineries in this region include Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey if you’re feeling fancy, Chateau d’Arche for 17th-century views, and Chateau Guiraud , which has made it into the big leagues: Grand Cru Classé. There are only 27 wineries in this region. You can find more details on these vineyards in my guide to Sauternes here .

How to Get There

You have to have a car to visit this region. Otherwise, take a train to Langon and a taxi from there.

Blaye and Bourg

This region is actually two regions, named – you guessed it – Blaye and Bourg. It produces dry white wines from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes and drinkable red wines from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region contains another UNESCO world heritage site in Bordeaux – the Vauban Citadel. 

Both are two of the most beautiful villages around Bordeaux . 

What is unique about the region is the ability to see it from the boat, on the river. It is a quieter experience than some of the other subregions and has its own wonders. These include white stone buildings, valleys of green vineyards, water views, and roman churches. Imagine yourself as the hero or heroine in a movie about “remote” romantic wine regions in France. 

Wineries to Visit in Blaye and Bourg

In Blaye, think of visiting the Chateau Monconseil Gazin . In Bourg, consider the Château le Clos de Notaire with its amazing view (see their website ).

Entre Deux Mers – the white wine of Bordeaux

Entre-deux-Mers is located between the Garonne and Dordogne rivers and is bordered by the estuary formed by the two rivers in the North. Its soil is made of gravel and limestone. It classically produces dry white wines that are wonderful for a lunch on the terrace. 

 However, in the 20 th century, winery owners in the region saw the writing on the wall and many replaced their white grape plants with red. 

Only the white wines from the region can be labeled under the Entre deux Mers appellation. The red varieties produced in this region can only be called Bordeaux or Bordeaux Superior. Although wine experts claim that the wine in this region pales in comparison to that of the other wine regions, Bordeaux Superior is pretty good. It is soft, but not light, and makes me think of charcuterie boards shared with a loved one in a cramped Parisian apartment, vespa rides, and discovering France.

In the Entre Deux Mers region, you can also find excellent sweet wines like Sainte-Croix-du-Mont and Loupiac.

Entre Deux Mers is home to Chateau Biac , home to the Asseily family. Youmna, the matriarch, is well-known for her mastery of wine and French food and for her amazing hospitality. A visit to Chateau Biac feels like a visit between friends. Youmna is a perfect example of the warmth of the vineyard owners in this region. 

Another great estate to visit is Chateau Lestrille , which produces red, white, and rose wines.

There are many ways to visit wineries in the Bordeaux wine region. You can take a group tour, or a private guide, or do it on your own by train, car, or even biking. 

Let’s break down the options. 

Taking a tour guide in Bordeaux

Going on a group/ private tour will most probably leave you with better knowledge about the wines of Bordeaux. It also takes off the stress of organizing the visit and you can drink a lot of wine without worrying about driving back to Bordeaux. 

The downside of it is usually the price. Taking a guide can be pretty expensive. 

If you’re looking for a wine tour from Bordeaux, here are a few good options:

Saint-Émilion Food and Wine Tour – day trip to Saint Emilion that includes a visit to three different chateaux and a fun picnic. Book it here . 

Afternoon Wine Tasting in the Medoc Region – An afternoon trip to Medoc that includes two types of chateaux, a Great Classified Growth estate, and a small. Book the tour here . 

An electric Bike wine tour – a fun bike tour that includes a visit to two chateaux, a picnic, and a stunning ride in the vineyards of Saint Emilion. Book here .

Wine touring by public transport

Most wineries are located in very rural parts of the region and require a car to get to. Having said that, you have a few great chateaux in Saint Emilion, Medoc, and Pessac Leognan you can visit by train or buy. 

Read my article about the best wineries in Bordeaux to visit by public transport . 

Visiting wineries by car

Now let’s talk about my favorite option which is discovering the wineries of Bordeaux on your own by car. I feel like driving along the vineyards is an important part of the experience, which also allows getting to more distant chateaux. 

Also if you have a car or rent one in advance, it can be a rather cheap experience, compared to an organized wine tour. If you’re looking to rent a car, here’s a website to help you choose the best deal in Bordeaux . 

If you’re visiting Bordeaux for the first time, be sure to check up my  ultimate guide to Bordeaux , which will get you familiar with all the “must” places to visit in Bordeaux. To help you to choose a hotel in Bordeaux I’ve gathered a list of the  best hotels in the center of Bordeaux  as well as a  guide to the districts of Bordeaux  to help you choose your preferred location.

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France  via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

Facebook  | Instagram  | Email  |  Facebook group

* Note  – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

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Tours in Bordeaux

Food, Walking and Wine Tours in Bordeaux

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Join our walking tours in bordeaux, free walking tours bordeaux.

Book a free walking tour of Bordeaux

Explore the Enchanting Charm of Bordeaux with Our Unforgettable Free Walking Tour

Welcome to Bordeaux, the captivating gem of southwestern France, renowned for its exquisite wines, architectural marvels, and rich cultural heritage. Embark on an extraordinary journey through the city’s enchanting streets with our immersive Bordeaux Free Walking Tour, designed to unveil the hidden treasures and captivating stories that make this city truly exceptional.

Key Features of our Bordeaux Free walking tour:

Expert Local Guides: Our passionate, knowledgeable local guides are the true heart and soul of our walking tour. With their deep understanding of Bordeaux’s history, culture, and architectural wonders, they will take you on an engaging exploration of the city, revealing fascinating tales and insider secrets along the way.

Discover Bordeaux’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s architectural splendor as you stroll through its UNESCO-listed historic center. Marvel at the beautifully preserved buildings, elegant squares, and grandiose landmarks that transport you back in time to the golden era of this prestigious wine capital.

Inside knowledge :  Disover the historical and cultural background to city. Our guides have the local knowledge to advise you on your stay in the city. You will leave our tour fully briefed on the best places to eat and drink, best areas to discover and all the local secrets.

Cultural Gems and Local Hangouts: Experience the vibrant pulse of Bordeaux’s local life as our guides lead you to charming neighborhoods and hidden corners frequented by the city’s residents. From lively squares bustling with street performers to quaint alleyways lined with boutique shops and bustling markets, you’ll uncover the true essence of Bordeaux’s cultural fabric.

Flexibility and Affordability: We believe in making exceptional experiences accessible to all. Our free walking tour offers great value for your money, with no fixed price for joining. You decide the value of the tour at the end, based on your satisfaction and budget.

Why Choose Our Bordeaux Free Walking Tour:

Authentic Experiences: Delve deep into the soul of Bordeaux, away from the tourist clichés, and immerse yourself in the city’s authentic charm with the guidance of our passionate local experts.

Uncover Bordeaux’s Hidden Gems: Discover the lesser-known corners and off-the-beaten-path sites that often go unnoticed by traditional tours, allowing you to create lasting memories and unique experiences.

Interactive and Engaging: Our walking tour is designed to be interactive, ensuring you’re an active participant in the exploration. Ask questions, engage in discussions, and share your insights, making the journey an enriching experience for everyone.

Join us on this remarkable Bordeaux Free Walking Tour and let us introduce you to the undeniable charm of this exceptional city. Book your spot now and prepare to embark on an adventure filled with captivating tales, architectural wonders, and the finest wines that will leave an indelible mark on your Bordeaux experience.

Bordeaux Private Walking Tour

Bordeaux Food Tours

Gourmet Food Tour - Cheese, Wine, Chocolate & more!

Taste local products from local people

All food and wine included

From €109 per person

Boulangeries, Chocolate and Patisseries Food Tour

The best of Bordeaux Boulangeries

All food included

From €89  per person

Walking Tours

Book one of our w alking tours in Bordeaux  to experience the best of Bordeaux. Choose from our free walking tour of Bordeaux or a more relaxed private walking tour option.

Let’s go eat and taste our way through the streets of Bordeaux in search of the best food that France and Bordeaux has to offer. Our Bordeaux Food tours offer the best foodie experiences.

Wine Tasting Workshops

Discover Bordeaux wines with our own wine tasting workshops. Choose from our various workshops and enjoy your wine experience with a qualified sommelier.

Saint-Émilion Tours

Saint-Émilion Private Walking Tour with a Wine Tasting

Enjoy a 2 hour guided tour of Saint-Émilion discovering the main historic locations finishing off with a wine tasting i n a local wine store

Saint-Émilion Wine e-Bike Tour with Picnic Lunch

Discover the terroir of Saint-Émilion on an electrical bike on a 5h guided tour. Visit 2 x wineries, enjoy a picnic lunch and a tour of the town.

Bordeaux Bike Tours

Bordeaux Private Guided Bike Tour

Discover all of Bordeaux on this exclusive private bike tour. See all the main sights and locations in a leisurely cycle through the famous UNESCO site.

Bordeaux, a charming city nestled in the southwest of France, offers a captivating blend of history, culture and natural beauty that attracts travellers worldwide. 

Its wine: Famous as a world-class wine region, Bordeaux seduces oenophiles with its prestigious vineyards and exquisite wine tastings, making it a wine enthusiast’s paradise. 

The city’s architectural charm: with its elegant 18th-century façades and the impressive Place de la Bourse, it is a visual feast for history and art buffs. Bordeaux’s vibrant culinary scene, with many gourmet restaurants and local markets, guarantees a delicious gastronomic adventure.

The landscapes: the Garonne River and the nearby Atlantic coast invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore lush parks, enjoy leisurely boat rides or relax on the sand. 

Bordeaux’s charm lies in its wine heritage, architectural splendor and natural tranquillity, offering a complete and unforgettable travel experience. If you want to know more about if Bordeaux is worth visiting we suggest you to read this blog.

When to visit Bordeaux?

The best time to visit Bordeaux is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and enjoying outdoor activities.

In autumn, Bordeaux’s charm continues to shine with the arrival of the grape harvest. This is a unique opportunity for wine lovers to witness the winemaking process in action and even take part in grape-picking activities. The mild weather at this time of year makes it easy to explore the city.

Spring is a particularly enchanting time, as the city bursts into bloom with vibrant flowers and verdant landscapes. During this period, the renowned Bordeaux Wine Festival often takes place, offering an immersive experience of the region’s vinicultural heritage.

Choosing spring or autumn to visit Bordeaux also means avoiding the peak summer months, when the city can become overcrowded and temperatures can sometimes soar. Find more information about when to visit Bordeaux .

Book a Bordeaux Tour

Welcome to Tours in Bordeaux, the ultimate destination for travellers seeking an authentic experience in France’s wine country. Our walking, food, and wine tours offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Bordeaux, taking you on a journey through charming towns, lush vineyards, and the world-renowned Saint-Emilion wine region. Choose your Bordeaux tour and book today.

Our tours are designed to provide an immersive experience that combines the best of Bordeaux’s food, culture, and wine . We offer small-group tours that provide an intimate and personalized experience, and our local guides are experts in the region who will take you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and local favourites.

Book a walking tour in Bordeaux

If you want to explore the streets of Bordeaux, meandering down medieval passages learning about the history and culture of the area, our walking tours are perfect for you. Our knowledgeable guides will take you through picturesque streets and show you the hidden corners of Bordeaux, all while sharing the stories and legends of this fascinating region. You can book a walking tour easily on our website. We have many options for you so choose from our famous Bordeaux free walking tour or private tour options.

Book a free walking tour Bordeaux and admire the stunning landscape and neo classical architecture on a free tour with one of our local guides. Visit all the main monuments in the Port de la Lune UNESCO site and meet people from all over the world. Learn about Bordeaux past from the Roman reign to British rule to the slave trade. This 2 hour tour gives you all the information you need for your stay here in Bordeaux.

Join a food tour 

If you’re a foodie looking to discover the gastronomic delights of Bordeaux, our food tours are the perfect choice for you. From visiting the best bakeries and Boulangeries to nibbling on some cheese, our food tours offer a delicious and authentic experience that will delight your taste buds. You’ll get to sample the best food that the region has to offer, while also learning about the culinary heritage of Bordeaux. You can book a food tour on our website, and we also offer private food tours for groups or families.

Book a wine tour in Bordeaux

If you’re a wine lover, you can’t miss our limited wine experiences in Saint-Emilion. You’ll get to visit local vineyards and wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the best wines the region has to offer. Our wine tours are perfect for those who want to experience the famous vineyards and chateaux of Bordeaux, and our guides will share their knowledge and passion for wine with you. Book a wine tour in Saint Emilion and enjoy a picnic at a local chateau.

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Visiting the Bordeaux wine region by public transport

By tram, bus or train... discover the capital of gironde and its wine region without a car.

Located in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region, the city of Bordeaux is the perfect base for anyone looking to explore the surrounding vineyards without a car. Reach Saint-Émilion by train, the urban vineyards by tram, and other parts of the wine region on one of the many scheduled bus routes.

No car? No need to panic! Base yourself in Bordeaux and explore the wine region in a series of half- or full-day trips.

Just 2O minutes by tram from the city centre (line A), then a few minutes on foot, discover Château Luchey-Halde , which belongs to the École Bordeaux Sciences Agro, or Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion, a modern gem with a wine cellar designed by Starck.

A little further away, in the Pessac- Léognan region , Château Bardins is a family-run wine estate that can be easily reached by bus (line 15 departing from Place Gambetta). Close by you’ll find Château Bouscaut (line 15) and Château Olivier (line 5), two exceptional Graves classed crus that members of the public can visit after a pleasant stroll through the vines.

All of the beautiful Entre-deux-Mers vineyards can be reached by bus, but one of the easiest to get to is Château de Camarsac , a fortified château that can be visited by taking bus line 402 from Place Stalingrad.

As for the Médoc , climb aboard bus 29 departing from Place des Quinconces to reach Château Saint-Ahon , one of the finest urban vineyards, located in Blanquefort !

From Saint-Jean railway station , take a train heading to Verdon and alight at Margaux to spend a day discovering all of the wineries dotted in and around the train station:  Château Marquis d’Alesme , Château Ferrière , Château Lascombes , Château Marquis de Terme and Château Pontac-Lynch , to name but a few.

Also accessible by train are the wine estates of Pauillac and Moulis, notably Château Maucaillou and the unmissable Château Chasse Spleen , easily reached by line 33 (Verdon).

After a 35-minute train journey from Bordeaux’s Saint-Jean railway station, visitors can explore Saint-Émilion and its impressive Union de Producteurs, next door to the village’s train station. Heading uphill to the medieval village (20 min walk) you’ll pass by Château La Gaffelière, one of the appellation’s finest wine producers. Château Villemaurine and its spectacular underground cellars are also worth a look and can be found just outside the village.

And for a day exploring the world of sweet wines why not head to Château de Cérons , 1km from Cérons railway station via the Bordeaux-Agen line.

For the ultimate in peace of mind pick up a Bordeaux City Pass and take advantage of its unlimited access to Bordeaux’s public transport system.

Office de Tourisme & des Congrès de Bordeaux Métropole

 12 Cours du 30 Juillet

33000 Bordeaux

Tel.: +33(0)5 50 00 66 00

Email: [email protected]

Visit the châteaux of Bordeaux's wine region

“Hautement Provence”, a truly exceptional terroir

A break in Sancerre at Domaine Henri Bourgeois

Bordeaux VINEYARD : DISCOVER ALSO

Arnaud Le Saux

Getting to Know Bordeaux with Carol

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We’ll do our best to regularly send you some interesting bits about wine tourism in France.. We do hope to see you soon in French vineyards. In the meantime don’t forget to visit our sister site www.france.fr (the official source of inspiration to France).

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Exploring 10 Famous Vineyards and Wine Regions – Wine Tours Around the World

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

For wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike, exploring the world’s renowned vineyards and wine regions offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of wine culture. Each destination brings its unique flavors, traditions, and scenic landscapes. This guide will take you through ten of the world’s most famous wine regions, providing insights into what makes each of them special.

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is a region that has become a byword for fine wine. You’ll find yourself amidst some of the most esteemed vineyards globally. This region, famed for its sophisticated red blends, primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, offers more than just a wine-tasting experience. As you journey through Bordeaux, you’ll have the opportunity to savor some of the world’s most exquisite wines, each reflecting the area’s unique terroir and centuries-old winemaking traditions.

But there’s more to Bordeaux than just its vineyards. The region is also rich in history as evidenced by thee magnificent chateaux scattered across the landscape. These grand estates produce top-quality wines and serve as landmarks that tell the story of Bordeaux’s storied past. Your visit here is as much about immersing yourself in the culture and history of winemaking as it is about enjoying the wines themselves.

Insider’s Tip: Schedule visits to smaller, family-run vineyards for a more intimate experience.

When To Travel: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport or take a train from major cities in France.

Napa Valley, California, USA

In Napa Valley, a destination that echoes the acclaim of wine aficionados, you’ll be in the heart of one of the most famous wine regions in the world. This valley is a mosaic of hundreds of wineries varying from intimate, family-run estates to globally recognized wine brands. As you explore Napa Valley, you’ll discover that it’s mainly celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon. This varietal has put this region on the map.

The wine-tasting experience here is as diverse as the landscape, offering a range of flavors and styles to suit every palate. While you indulge in these tastings, you’ll be surrounded by the scenic beauty of rolling hills and lush vineyards, making your wine journey a culinary delight and a visual feast. Napa Valley is more than a wine destination; it’s a sensory experience that combines the best of nature, culture, and exquisite winemaking.

Insider’s Tip: Consider a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of the vineyards.

When To Travel: August to October for the harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly into San Francisco or Oakland and drive to Napa Valley.

Tuscany, Italy

You’ll find yourself in a region that epitomizes the essence of Italian charm, renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its distinguished wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. As you travel through Tuscany, the picturesque scenery unfolds before you – rolling hills adorned with rows of vineyards, interspersed with olive groves and dotted with medieval towns that seem frozen in time.

This setting creates the perfect backdrop for a quintessential Italian wine experience. Each glass of wine here is a reflection of the region’s rich winemaking heritage, deeply rooted in the soil and the culture. Tuscany offers more than just wine; it offers a journey into a landscape where every vineyard and hill tells a story, and every sip brings you closer to the heart of Italian tradition.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local olive oil along with your wine tastings.

When To Travel: May to October for pleasant weather and grape harvests.

How To Get There: Fly into Florence or Pisa and rent a car or join a guided tour.

Barossa Valley, Australia

Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s oldest and most esteemed wine regions; you’ll discover a world-renowned haven for Shiraz lovers. This region is celebrated for producing some of the finest Shiraz wines, characterized by their depth and complexity. As you explore Barossa Valley, you’ll notice the unique blend of rich German heritage intertwined with the quintessential Australian spirit.

This cultural fusion is reflected in the winemaking techniques and styles, contributing to a distinctive wine-tasting experience. The valley’s landscape, with its picturesque vineyards and historic towns, adds to the charm of your visit. Here, you’re not just tasting wines; you’re immersing yourself in a region that has shaped Australia’s wine history, offering a blend of tradition and innovation in every glass.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the Barossa Vintage Festival to experience local festivities.

When To Travel: February to April for the grape harvest and cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly into Adelaide and drive to Barossa Valley.

Rioja, Spain

Upon arriving in Spain through Bilbao or Madrid, your journey to Rioja, the country’s most acclaimed wine region, begins. Whether you choose to drive or take a train, the journey itself is a scenic introduction to the beauty of Spain. In Rioja, celebrated primarily for its exquisite Tempranillo-based red wines, you’ll find a region offering much more than exceptional viticulture.

Exploring Rioja, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of culture and history. The landscape is dotted with ancient monasteries and picturesque vineyards, each telling a story of the region’s past and deep-rooted wine traditions. Rioja is where every sip of wine is a taste of its heritage, and every view is a glimpse into the soul of Spanish winemaking. It’s a destination that invites you to taste its renowned wines and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history that make Rioja truly unique.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the region’s wine museums to deepen your understanding of Rioja wines.

When To Travel: September to October for the harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly into Bilbao or Madrid and drive or take a train to Rioja.

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s renowned wine country, you’ll find yourself in a region celebrated for its wide array of wines, with particular acclaim for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot varieties. As you journey through Stellenbosch, the diversity of the wines is matched only by the stunning beauty of the landscapes around you. The region is characterized by rolling vineyards against a backdrop of dramatic mountains, creating a picturesque setting for wine exploration.

The distinctive Cape Dutch architecture adds to the region’s allure, with its charming historic estates that dot the countryside. These architectural gems provide a unique backdrop to the wine-tasting experience, blending the region’s rich history with the pleasure of sampling its varied and exquisite wines. In Stellenbosch, every glass of wine reflects the region’s rich viticultural heritage, set in a landscape that captivates and enchants.

Insider’s Tip: Combine wine tasting with a safari for a unique South African experience.

When To Travel: February to April for the harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly into Cape Town and drive to Stellenbosch.

Mendoza, Argentina

You’ll find Mendoza, the epicenter of Argentina’s wine country, in a region synonymous with the celebrated Malbec grape. This area is not just about exceptional winemaking; it’s a place where the stunning natural environment enhances the entire experience. Situated at the foothills of the Andes, Mendoza provides a dramatic backdrop to your wine-tasting journey.

The towering mountains contribute to the region’s unique terroir and offer a range of outdoor adventures. From hiking and mountain biking to simply enjoying the panoramic views, Mendoza combines the pleasures of wine with the thrill of adventure. Here, you can savor some of the world’s best Malbecs while immersing yourself in a landscape that is as bold and robust as the wines it produces.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the Vendimia Festival to see the region’s wine culture celebrated.

When To Travel: March to May for the grape harvest and autumn colors.

How To Get There: Fly into Mendoza International Airport.

Douro Valley, Portugal

Douro Valley is renowned for its exquisite Port wine; you’ll step into one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world. This region is not just about the wine; it’s a visual masterpiece. As you explore, you’ll be captivated by the dramatic terraced vineyards that sweep along the banks of the Douro River. This stunning arrangement of vineyards creates a unique and spectacular landscape, so much so that the area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The beauty of the Douro Valley lies in its harmonious blend of natural scenery and centuries-old winemaking tradition. Here, you can indulge in the rich, fortified wines while soaking in the breathtaking views that have shaped the region’s history and contributed to its esteemed reputation in the wine world.

Insider’s Tip: Take a river cruise for stunning views of the terraced vineyards.

When To Travel: September to October for the grape harvest.

How To Get There: Fly into Porto and drive or take a train to the Douro Valley.

Mosel, Germany

Find yourself in an enchanting landscape known for producing some of the world’s finest Riesling wines. This region is characterized by its steep, terraced vineyards that cling to the hillsides, creating a striking visual contrast against the quaint, picturesque villages in the valleys. As you meander through the Mosel, the winding river that gives the region its name adds an element of serene beauty, enhancing the area’s overall charm.

This setting provides a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for your wine-tasting journey. Here, you can savor the crisp, aromatic Rieslings that the Mosel is celebrated for while taking in the peaceful river views and the quaint beauty of the surrounding villages. The Mosel region offers a wine experience as much about the stunning scenery and rich history as the exceptional wines.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the region by bike along the Mosel River for a unique perspective.

When To Travel: Late spring to early autumn for the best wine-tasting experience.

How To Get There: Fly into Frankfurt and drive or take a train to the Mosel region.

Central Otago, New Zealand

Located in the southern reaches of New Zealand, you’ll enter a realm renowned for producing some of the most distinguished Pinot Noir wines. Central Otago is celebrated for its viticulture and dramatic natural beauty. As you venture through Central Otago, you’ll be surrounded by a landscape of rugged mountains and deep, serene lakes, creating a backdrop that’s as dramatic as it is beautiful. This setting uniquely contrasts the delicate and nuanced Pinot Noir for which the region is known.

The experience of wine touring here is enhanced by the stark beauty of the terrain – from the vineyards nestled against the stark, craggy hills to the tranquil shores of the lakes. Central Otago offers a wine-tasting journey that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate, set in a landscape that captures the wild spirit of New Zealand.

Insider’s Tip: Pair your wine tastings with local cheeses for a delightful culinary experience.

When To Travel: March to April for the grape harvest.

How To Get There: Fly into Queenstown and drive to Central Otago.

The Bottom Line

Exploring the world’s famous vineyards and wine regions offers more than just wine tasting; it’s a journey into the heart of each region’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Each destination on this list promises a unique and memorable wine-tasting experience set against some of the most picturesque landscapes on the planet. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual wine lover, these destinations will surely enrich your love for wine and travel.

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The post Exploring 10 Famous Vineyards and Wine Regions – Wine Tours Around the World republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / DavideAngelini.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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The St.-Julien second-growth shows off the fruits of its new cellar with its 2023 Bordeaux barrel tasting

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Bordeaux's annual en primeur campaign is underway. Wine Spectator 's James Molesworth is tasting the 2023 wines from barrel at some of the region's top estates and sharing his tasting notes. At Château Léoville Barton in St.-Julien, he tasted the always excellent Cabernet-based grand vin , as well as the 2023 vintages from Châteaus Langoa Barton and Mauvesin.

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