Bordeaux isn’t just about wine—though it does boast some of the world’s most famous vineyards—but it’s also a city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re eager to explore the UNESCO-listed streets of Saint-Emilion, cruise along the Garonne River, or enjoy a foodie adventure through Bordeaux’s local markets and boulangeries, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. We particularly like the From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch for its comprehensive wine tasting and scenic picnic, and the Bordeaux City Pass for making city exploration both easy and affordable.
If you’re craving a deep dive into Bordeaux’s wine culture, the half-day Saint-Émilion Tour and Wine Tasting or the full-day Saint-Emilion Small Group Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch stand out for their personalized approach. For a taste of Bordeaux’s vibrant street life and culinary scene, the No Diet Club Food Tour is perfect. Planning your trip? Read on for an honest, detailed look at the top tours that will help you make the most of your visit.
Quick Overview
Bordeaux offers a variety of tours, from immersive wine experiences and city walking tours to food tastings and river cruises. Whether you’re interested in exploring the medieval streets of Saint-Emilion, enjoying a private guided tour of Bordeaux, or sampling local fare at bustling boulangeries, there’s something for every traveler. For a full list of options with detailed insights, check out our complete guide to the best Bordeaux tours here. Now, let’s explore each of these experiences in detail.
1. From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch
Starting with an easy favorite, this 7-hour tour delivers a taste of the iconic Saint-Emilion region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes visits to three wineries, where you’ll sample some of the world’s best wines, and a picnic lunch at a château. The drive through Bordeaux’s vineyards is stunning, and the guided visits give insight into Bordeaux’s wine-making traditions. The highlight is exploring the charming medieval streets of Saint-Emilion, where cobblestone alleys and historic sites make it one of the most picturesque villages in France.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the convivial atmosphere. One reviewer said, “Emmanuelle was an excellent guide who demonstrated great knowledge of the wines as well as patience and tolerance for old folk like us.” This tour is perfect for those wanting a full day of wine, history, and beautiful scenery for around $105 — a solid value for the experience.
Bottom Line: If you love wine and want a comprehensive day trip, this is a top choice that combines tasting, sightseeing, and a relaxed picnic.
2. Bordeaux: City Pass for 48 or 72-Hours
For travelers keen to explore Bordeaux’s museums and monuments without fuss, the Bordeaux City Pass offers unlimited public transport and free entry to many attractions for 2 or 3 days. You can hop-on, hop-off, and customize your sightseeing with options to take a city tour on foot, a boat, or a tourist train. Highlights include the Cité du Vin, the Bassin des Lumières, and scenic river views. The pass also includes a free cruise along the Garonne, making it an excellent way to see Bordeaux from multiple angles.
Reviewers love how easy it is to get around and how much value they get. One comment notes, “The trams are dependable, and we enjoyed wandering the streets, popping into shops and cafes.” At around $60 for 48 hours, it’s a practical choice for those who want flexibility and access to Bordeaux’s top spots.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer a flexible schedule and want to experience Bordeaux’s culture and sights at their own pace.
3. From Bordeaux: Half-Day Saint-Émilion Tour and Wine Tasting
This around 4-hour tour offers a condensed but rich experience of Saint-Émilion’s vineyards and medieval charm. The expert guide takes you through the village’s narrow streets and into one of the region’s historic châteaux, where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting paired with cheese and charcuterie. Small-group size ensures an intimate experience, and the scenic views of rolling vineyards make this tour ideal for those short on time but eager to learn.
Guests rave about the personalized service and the tasting experience, with one reviewer stating, “The wineries offered unique wines and experiences, and we appreciated the knowledge of the guide.” At $105 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between depth and convenience.
Bottom Line: Great for wine lovers wanting a taste of Saint-Émilion with a focus on quality over quantity.
4. St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour including Wine Tastings and Lunch
For those wanting to cover more ground, this 9-hour full-day tour blends key highlights of Saint-Émilion and Médoc. You’ll visit Château Margaux for a photo and guided tours at two wineries in Saint-Émilion, with tasting sessions that include multiple wines. The trip includes a picnic lunch at a Château, providing a true taste of French country life.
The reviews are glowing, with one saying, “Everything was fun and relaxing, and the picnic lunch was delicious.” The tour’s value comes from visiting prestigious estates and enjoying multiple tastings in one day, perfect for wine enthusiasts who want an in-depth experience without the hassle of organizing transport.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine aficionados who want a comprehensive taste of Bordeaux’s viniculture with a relaxed, all-in-one day.
5. Saint-Emilion Small Group Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch
This 7-hour tour emphasizes personal attention — limited to just eight travelers — for a true insider experience. It includes visits to two wineries with tastings and a leisurely picnic lunch featuring local cheeses and charcuterie. The guide expertly combines guided tours of Saint-Emilion’s medieval streets and tastings at well-selected wineries.
Guests have described it as “a fun, educational, and very personal experience,” with one adding, “We met a friendly group and had a great day.” It’s excellent for travelers who prefer smaller groups and want a relaxed, in-depth exploration of Bordeaux’s wine culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a personalized, small-group experience with a focus on quality and comfort.
6. Saint Emilion Morning Wine Tour – Winery & Tastings from Bordeaux
For a shorter, half-day adventure, this 5-hour tour combines a Grand Cru winery visit with a guided stroll through Saint-Emilion’s scenic streets. The tour’s intimate size ensures a tailored experience, and guests enjoy tastings of red wines directly from a renowned winery.
One reviewer remarked, “The winery was cozy, and the wine was excellent. I even shipped some home,” highlighting the quality of the tastings. This tour is perfect for those with limited time but eager to see both the vineyards and the charming village.
Bottom Line: Great for a swift, taste-focused trip that combines wine with sightseeing in Saint-Emilion.
7. NO DIET CLUB – Unique food tour in Bordeaux !
If your stomach comes before your wine glass, this 3.5-hour food tour is a must. It takes you into Bordeaux’s best boulangeries and eateries, where you’ll sample cheese, pastries, mussels, and canelés. The guide shares insider tips and local stories, making this a lively culinary adventure. The group size keeps things intimate, and you’ll dine on enough food to consider it a hearty lunch.
One reviewer called it “a delicious way to explore Bordeaux’s local side,” and noted the guide’s humor and extensive knowledge. At $72, it’s an affordable way to pair food, culture, and city exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want to taste Bordeaux’s culinary soul in a relaxed, convivial setting.
8. Bordeaux Super Saver Wine Tasting class and St Emilion region
This 7.5-hour combo tour offers great value, combining a morning wine class in Bordeaux with a visit to a prestigious Saint-Emilion winery. The morning session features tastings of 11 different wines paired with bread, cheese, and meats. The afternoon takes you into the vines of Saint-Emilion for a guided tour and tastings.
Guests say, “The guide was very knowledgeable, and we tasted over 11 wines,” emphasizing the educational nature of the experience. It’s suited for travelers who want both instruction and winery visits without traveling all day.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a thorough, educational wine experience across Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion at a reasonable price.
9. Bordeaux City – Private Guided Walking Tour with Local Sophia
For a personalized touch, this private walk with a local guide is perfect. Over 2-3 hours, you’ll see key landmarks like Cathedrale Saint-Andre and Grand Theatre, with the route tailored to your interests. The flexibility makes it great for those with limited time or specific things they want to see.
Guests describe Sophia as “warm, engaging, and highly knowledgeable,” making this tour feel like exploring with a friend. It’s ideal if you want a custom, intimate introduction to Bordeaux’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a private, flexible overview tailored to their interests.
10. Bordeaux: Guided Walking Tour
This 2-hour group tour covers Bordeaux’s major landmarks like Place de la Bourse, Grosse Cloche, and the Old Town. It’s a budget-friendly option at just $17 per person, ideal for those wanting a quick overview. The bilingual guide helps you get the most out of your visit, with a focus on Bordeaux’s architecture and history.
One review noted, “Very informative and well organized,” confirming it’s a reliable introduction. It’s a good choice for travelers on a tight schedule or those wary of large group tours.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, economical introduction to Bordeaux’s main sights.
11. Bordeaux: Guided River Cruise
See Bordeaux from a different perspective on this 1.5-hour cruise along the Garonne. With live commentary, you’ll learn about the city’s architecture and river history while floating past landmarks like Place de la Bourse and Cité du Vin. The cruise is relaxing and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Reviewers appreciate the scenic views and informative guide, with one saying, “The views of Bordeaux from the river are stunning.” It’s perfect for a leisurely break and a chance to unwind after sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a gentle, scenic overview that complements city walking and wine visits.
12. Bordeaux: Mystery and Myths Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour walk reveals Bordeaux’s lesser-known legends and stories, adding an intriguing layer to your visit. The guide shares local myths and explores medieval neighborhoods, making history come alive.
Guests say, “It was filled with fascinating facts and legends,” and appreciate the local perspective. It’s well-suited for those who want a fun, story-driven tour that’s different from standard sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of stories, legends, and a slightly spooky twist on Bordeaux’s history.
13. Bordeaux’ Best Boulangeries & History Tour
Food plays a big role in Bordeaux, and this 3-hour tour takes you into the city’s top award-winning boulangeries. Along the way, you’ll learn about French baking traditions and explore historic neighborhoods. Tastings include pastries, bread, and local specialties.
One reviewer remarked, “Great selection of patisseries, and a good overview of the city.” It’s ideal for foodies wanting to combine culinary delights with cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want to indulge in Bordeaux’s pastry scene and learn its history with a knowledgeable guide.
14. Bordeaux Guided Walking Tour with a Private Guide
Wrapping up our list, this private tour offers tailored insights into Bordeaux’s historic sites like the Cathedral and Grand Theatre. The 2-3 hour walk allows for personal questions and a relaxed pace, making it perfect for travelers who prefer personalized attention.
Guests describe their guide as “knowledgeable and friendly,” making this a memorable way to see Bordeaux without the rush of larger groups. It’s especially good if you want a flexible itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, customizable introduction to Bordeaux’s core attractions.
How to Choose Your Bordeaux Tour
When selecting the perfect Bordeaux experience, think about your budget, interests, and travel pace. If you’re a wine enthusiast, the From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour or the Full-Day Saint-Emilion & Médoc Tour provide immersive tastings. For those wanting to explore the city, the City Pass or the Private Guided Walking Tour offer flexible, insightful options. Food lovers should consider the No Diet Club Food Tour or Bordeaux’s Best Boulangeries & History Tour to indulge locally.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure spots in popular tours like the Small Group Saint-Emilion Tour or the private options. Also, check if you prefer a guided, educational experience or a self-guided exploration with passes.
Final Thoughts
Bordeaux’s combination of world-class wines, historical streets, and lively gastronomy creates a perfect setting for a variety of tours. Top picks include the From Bordeaux: Saint-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch for full immersion, and the Bordeaux City Pass for flexible city exploration. For a more intimate experience, the Small Group Tours excel, offering personal attention and deeper insights.
No matter your style or budget, Bordeaux offers unforgettable experiences that will deepen your appreciation of this elegant city and its legendary wines. Book early, plan your interests, and get ready to enjoy Bordeaux’s charms firsthand.