Saint-Émilion is not far from Bordeaux center. It is easily accessible by train from the main station Gare Saint Jean. The journey costs around 10€ ($10.50) and takes about 60 minutes. There are also taxis and Uber is available but they can cost anywhere from 50 - 100€ one way. So lets say you decided to take the train into Saint-Émilion. You arrive at the base of the hill and its a short 30 minute brisk walk uphill to the edge of town. Once in town you'll find lots of cafés, restaurants and of course wine shops. The tourist office offers guided tours of the underground monuments which can be reserved on the day. But be careful, in high season they fill up quickly. Its easy enough to get around the town by foot. There are even one or two vineyards you can visit by foot from the center of town. These however are best reserved well in advance. The majority of the Chateau around Saint-Émilion are only accessible by car however.
The town founded in the 8th century boast many buildings and the ramparts circle the village. There is a kings tower and a dungeon which can all be visited.
Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating destination that blends history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Its historic center boasts winding cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Legend has it that Saint-Émilion himself, a hermit, carved out his hermitage in the soft limestone cliffs of the region. A visit to the caves is a must for everyone. For wine enthusiasts, the region's iconic vineyards produce world-class wines. Beyond wine, immerse yourself in the region's cultural heritage, visit local art galleries, and enjoy the peaceful countryside and sit in a garden and discover the local Crémant de Bordeaux sparkling wine produced in the caves below the town. Discover the magic of Saint-Émilion and create unforgettable memories
Saint-Émilion's wines are renowned worldwide for their exceptional quality and unique character. A key factor contributing to their distinctiveness is the region's unique terroir. The town is built on limestone hills covered with clay. The limestone-rich soils of Saint-Émilion play a crucial role in shaping the wines, imparting minerality and structure. In the whole of the Bordeaux wine region we tend to blend our wines and Saint-Émilion is no exception. The two predominate grape varieties grown here are merlot and cabernet franc.
Traditional Vinification Methods: Saint-Émilion winemakers adhere to traditional vinification methods, which involve careful grape selection, gentle pressing, and long aging periods in oak barrels. These techniques help to develop the wines' complex flavors and smooth tannins. Ageing can be anywhere from 6 - 24 months depending on the vintners taste.
Distinction from Other Bordeaux Appellations: Saint-Émilion wines stand out from other Bordeaux appellations due to their distinctive terroir, grape varieties, and winemaking styles. While the Left Bank of Bordeaux is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines, Saint-Émilion's Merlot-dominant blends offer a softer, more approachable style. They are wines to be drunk young (5 - 15 years) thanks to the predominance of Merlot.
The Prestigious Classification of Saint-Émilion Wines: The Saint-Émilion wine classification started almost 100 years after the prestigeous 1855 Classification of the Medoc and Graves. It is a rigorous system that ranks the region's chateaux based on the quality of their wines. The classification is revised every 10 years, ensuring that it reflects the current quality hierarchy. There can be some confusion about about the wording on the bottles and what they mean. The following may help.
By understanding the unique terroir, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques of Saint-Émilion, wine enthusiasts can appreciate the complexity and elegance of these exceptional wines.
The proximity of Saint-Émilion makes it an ideal location for a day trip from Bordeaux. Saint Emilion is 40 kilometers or about 25 miles from the center of Bordeaux. It is an easy short 45 - 50 minute journey by car. By train, from the Gare Saint Jean train station the journey takes about an hour. For the budget conscious, there are few local busses that can take you to Saint-Émilion but they take over an hour and have many stops along the way. Ideally it is best time to go to Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux outside the major rush hours of 8:30-9:30 AM and 4:30 - 6:30 PM. These times can be very busy and leaving Bordeaux within these hours will eat into your wine tasting time.
When planning your trip to Saint-Émilion, consider these transportation options to make the most of your experience:
Taking a bus to Saint-Émilion is affordable but it is not an easy task. You can buy tickets directly on the TBM (Transports Bordeaux Metropole) app. Routes and schedules are also available there.
Booking tickets are easy via the SNCF website or you can buy tickets from the machines in the train station. The machines take all major credit cards and cash and they offer English translation making the whole process very simple. Trains run every hour throughout the day.
Cycling to Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux is a fantastic way to see the French countryside up close. There is a cycle path which cuts through rolling hills and vineyards, quaint local towns and vast fields. The 4 hour journey by bike is definitely rewarding. Of course electric bikes are available also and can easily be rented. There are a few companies who organize direct rentals in the area. One way collection fees will be imposed should you not cycle back to your starting point.
Driving yourself can be fun but does not come without its challenges. Renting a car in Bordeaux is one option, either at the train station or at the Bordeaux airport. Driving in Europe can be daunting for some but really its not that different. Parking is the most complicated. Knowing when to pay and when your are in a taxi stand can be confusing.
Our expert guides will enhance your experience in the heart of this prestigious wine region, providing insider knowledge and exclusive access to some of the most renowned vineyards in Saint-Emilion. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, our personalized tours are designed to cater to your interests and preferences. Decanter Tours' guided tours provide insider knowledge, exclusive access to vineyards, and a personalized experience, making them ideal for both wine connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts.
Description: Describe a typical wine tour, including visits to prestigious wineries, private vineyard access, tastings, and behind-the-scenes experiences in wine production. Highlight the personalized nature of the tours led by expert sommeliers, catering to both beginner and experienced wine lovers.
A typical Saint-Émilion wine tour with Decanter Tours includes:
Description: Promote specific tours offered by Decanter Tour, such as luxury private tours or small group excursions. Highlight the unique features of these tours, like tailored itineraries, VIP access, and transportation options..
Decanter Tour offers a variety of wine tours to Saint-Émilion, tailored to suit different tastes and budgets. Combine Saint Emilion with Fronsac or Pomerol and throw in a winemakers' lunch. Or just concentrate on a Saint Emilion wine tour with either 2 or 3 wineries visited in a day. All our tours have the following advantages:
While Saint-Émilion is undoubtedly renowned for its world-class wines, the region offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions that make it a truly captivating destination.
A Glimpse into the Past:
Saint-Émilion offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, this enchanting region has something for everyone.
To experience the best of Saint-Émilion, consider booking a guided wine tour with Decanter Tours. Our expert team will curate a personalized itinerary, ensuring you have a memorable experience.
Immediate Online Booking is Available Or let us curate your tour in Bordeaux with your input. Click below for more information.
By Train it takes one hour. By car 45 mins to an hour depending on traffic. By bike it takes 3 - 4 hours depending on your pedal speed.
By far yes! There are no problems with drinking and driving. You will be dropped off and accompanied in the center of town so no problems with parking. And when you take one of Decanter Tours' guided wine tours the learning curve is enormous. Our guides are all trained in wine with either an Master of Wine, the WSET diploma or the local Bordeaux oenology faculty's DUAD qualification.
Yes you certainly can. Its an easy trip and the perfect day out when you visit Bordeaux.
Experience the finest private wine tours in Bordeaux and beyond. With over 20 years of expertise, we craft tailor-made wine journeys to iconic regions like Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Burgundy, and Champagne. Explore exclusive chateaux with expert guides and seamless planning for a truly unforgettable experience.
