How to Plan a Day Trip to Bordeaux from Paris: Your Ultimate Guide
A day trip to Bordeaux from Paris offers a delightful escape from the bustling city. With high-speed TGV trains connecting the two cities in just under two hours, Bordeaux is an easily accessible destination for a day of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and culinary delights. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a cultural adventure, Bordeaux promises unforgettable experiences. As the heart of France's renowned wine region, Bordeaux boasts world-class vineyards and charming châteaux, inviting visitors to embark on unforgettable wine tours and savor exquisite vintages. Beyond the vineyards, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its elegant 18th century buildings, vibrant cultural scene, and captivating museums. From exploring the iconic Place de la Bourse to indulging in a gourmet meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Bordeaux offers a captivating blend of wine, culture, and culinary delights, making it an ideal getaway for discerning travelers.
A captivating blend of history, wine, and culture, stands as an accessible day trip destination from Paris. This UNESCO World Heritage city boasts elegant 18th and 19th-century architecture, exemplified by the magnificent Place de la Bourse and the grand Saint-André Cathedral, the Tourny Alleys and the Opera Building to name just a few. For wine enthusiasts, the surrounding vineyards offer a world-renowned experience, with opportunities to visit prestigious châteaux like Château Margaux, Palmer, Talbot and Château Lafite Rothschild. Whether you're exploring the city's charming streets, indulging in a gourmet meal, or embarking on a vineyard tour, Bordeaux promises an unforgettable day trip.
What to Expect from a Private Wine Tour in Bordeaux
A private wine tour in Bordeaux with Decanter Tours offers an exclusive and personalized experience led by expert sommeliers. You'll have the opportunity to visit prestigious wineries, sample some of the world's finest wines, and gain insights into the mysterious world of Bordeaux wines. Decanter Tours provides tailored itineraries, allowing you to explore the region's most renowned appellations at your own pace. You have the choice of wine regions to discover such as Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion, Graves, Sauternes, Cognac and the Médoc.
Indulge in the ultimate luxury with a private wine tour curated just for you. From vertical tastings in historic cellars to food pairing lunches and vineyard visits with breathtaking views, your bespoke experience will be tailored to your specific interests and preferences. Our expert Master Sommelier guides will lead you through the world of Bordeaux wine, sharing their expertise and passion, whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice.
The most convenient way to reach Bordeaux from Paris is by TGV high-speed train, offering a scenic journey of approximately two hours. For those seeking flexibility, car rental is an option. While it is possible to use a connecting flight upon your arrival in France, if you stay over in Paris first, you will have to take another form of transportation. Domestic flights from Paris to Bordeaux are not readily available. With the French governments stance on sustainability and lowering our carbon footprint, they acted on short haul flights. Compared to driving the same distance, taking the train saves about 87% carbon emissions per passenger. According to google travel site.
The most convenient way to reach Bordeaux from Paris is by TGV high-speed train, offering a scenic journey of approximately two hours. This efficient mode of transportation allows you to maximize your time in Bordeaux, minimizing travel time and maximizing your exploration.
To book your TGV tickets, visit the SNCF Connect website or app . Be sure to check the train schedule in advance, as it may vary depending on the day and time. Consider booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred departure time and potentially benefit from early-bird discounts.
The TGV offers a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience, with spacious seating, ample legroom, and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and food services. By opting for a TGV, you can relax and unwind during your journey, arriving in Bordeaux refreshed and ready to explore. Dont forget you will have to carry your own luggage. There are few elevators in French stations so pack light if you plan to use the train.
For those seeking a more flexible and leisurely journey, renting a car offers a great way to explore the French countryside and reach Bordeaux at your own pace. The drive from Paris to Bordeaux can be a scenic adventure, with opportunities to stop at charming villages, local bistrots and vineyards along the way.
Scenic Stops:
Parking in Bordeaux: While parking in Bordeaux can be challenging, especially in the city center, there are several options available. Consider using public parking garages or seeking out designated parking areas near the tourist attractions you plan to visit.
A Word of Caution: It's important to remember that drinking and driving is dangerous. If you plan on wine tasting during your trip, this should be taken into consideration. Additionally, be mindful of speed limits and traffic laws, as French roads are heavily monitored by speed cameras, some hidden and some not so.
By choosing to drive, you have the freedom to customize your itinerary, explore hidden gems, and indulge in spontaneous detours.
Top Things to See in Bordeaux on a Day Trip
Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions that can be easily explored in a day trip. The city’s iconic Place de la Bourse, with its stunning water mirror, is a must-see. The magnificent Saint-André Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is another highlight. To immerse yourself in the city's history and charming atmosphere, explore the historic neighborhoods of Saint-Pierre and Chartrons.
The Place de la Bourse, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture, is one of Bordeaux's most iconic landmarks. Its elegant facades and harmonious proportions create a striking visual impact. At its center lies the Miroir d'Eau, a vast reflecting pool that creates a mesmerizing optical illusion, reflecting the surrounding buildings and sky. This modern addition to the historic square has transformed it into a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
To truly understand Bordeaux's rich history and wine culture, it's worth exploring the historic districts of Saint-Pierre and Chartrons. These neighborhoods, once bustling centers of the city's wine trade, are now charming and vibrant areas to wander through. Most of the merchant buildings have been converted to restaurants and small boutiques. The architecture of Chartrons reflects its diverse past, with influences from Bordeaux's maritime and colonial history.
After a day of wine tasting, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the beautiful buildings and stopping at charming cafés for a coffee or a glass of wine.
To delve deeper into Bordeaux's rich cultural heritage, consider visiting some of its renowned museums. For wine enthusiasts, the Cité du Vin offers an immersive experience, exploring the history and culture of wine. Art lovers will appreciate the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. For a unique and visually stunning experience, visit the Bassins de Lumières, where digital art projections transform the historic docks into a mesmerizing spectacle.
For those interested in decorative arts, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and Design, housed in a charming 18th-century mansion, offers a fascinating collection of furniture, ceramics, and textiles. This museum provides a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of Bordeaux's past.
To explore the broader history of Aquitaine, the Musée d'Aquitaine is a must-visit. This comprehensive museum showcases the region's past, from prehistoric times to the present day. You can discover archaeological artifacts, historical documents, and interactive exhibits that bring the history of Aquitaine to life.
For the discerning wine enthusiast, a private tour is undoubtedly the most rewarding way to experience Bordeaux's renowned vineyards. Unlike larger group tours where you are thrown in with strangers, private experiences offer unparalleled flexibility and personalization. You'll enjoy exclusive access to prestigious domaines, often unavailable to the general public, and indulge in intimate tastings led by passionate winemakers. From exploring lesser-known appellations to savoring rare vintages, your itinerary can be tailored to your specific interests and pace. With a private driver at your disposal, you'll enjoy the freedom to linger at your favorite spots, have time for a leisurely lunch at a charming vineyard restaurant creating a truly unforgettable Bordeaux adventure.
Indulge in a truly bespoke Bordeaux experience with Decanter Tours. Our private wine tours are meticulously crafted to your desires, offering access to prestigious domaines like Château Margaux, Château Lafite Rothschild, and Château Cheval Blanc. Imagine a day curated around your passions, whether it's exploring the intricacies of Médoc blends, discovering the elegance of Saint-Émilion, or delving into the world of organic and biodynamic viticulture. Our expert guides will ensure an unforgettable journey, providing insightful commentary, arranging exclusive tastings, and even securing private vineyard walks. As one recent guest shared, 'Decanter Tours exceeded all expectations. The personalized itinerary, knowledgeable guide, and access to exceptional wines made for an unforgettable day.' Trust Decanter Tours to orchestrate a Bordeaux wine adventure that will linger in your memory long after you've returned home.
For a truly memorable lunch, indulge in Bordeaux's culinary delights. Savour regional specialties like succulent magret de canard (duck breast) and delicate canelés (rum and vanilla pastries) at top-rated establishments. We highly recommend Les Belles Perdrix in Saint-Émilion, renowned for its refined cuisine and charming ambiance. In Margaux, Au Marquis offers a delightful taste of Bordeaux heritage with its classic French dishes. For a more intimate and elegant setting, enjoy a light lunch at the charming Château Marquis d'Alesme. And in the Graves region, La Table du Lavoir at les Sources de Caudalie provides a charming setting for a memorable meal.
The high-speed TGV train journey from Paris Montparnasse to Bordeaux Saint-Jean typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. This makes Bordeaux easily accessible for a day trip from the French capital.
Yes, you can certainly visit Bordeaux in one day from Paris. While a full immersion requires more time, a well-planned day trip allows you to either experience the city's highlights, focusing on key attractions like the Place de la Bourse, the Saint-André Cathedral, and the charming Saint-Pierre district, or dive quickly into the vineyards for a private wine tour in either the Médoc, Graves or St Emilion wine regions.
Absolutely! A private wine tour is an excellent option for a day trip to Bordeaux. With a customized itinerary and a dedicated driver, you can efficiently visit several prestigious vineyards and enjoy a personalized wine tasting experience. This flexibility allows you to make the most of your time and create a memorable day trip.
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.
