Bordeaux isn’t just famous for its exceptional wine; it’s also a treasure trove for lovers of local markets, gourmet food, and lively shopping scenes. Whether you’re wandering through bustling markets, sampling oysters and cheese, or browsing artisanal crafts at festive stalls, this city offers immersive experiences that reveal its authentic flavor. Among the most memorable tours are those that combine culinary delights with cultural insights, like the Bordeaux: Market Food Tour all inclusive food & drinks, which gets rave reviews for its knowledgeable guides and mouthwatering tastings. For a seasonal twist, the Bordeaux Christmas Market Tour captures the festive spirit with local specialties and charming rides. If you’re interested in a scenic outing, the Farmers Market Tour & Gourmet River Cruise combines tasting local produce with a relaxing boat trip on the Garonne River. Each of these offers a different way to enjoy Bordeaux’s vibrant food scene and lively shopping streets.
Quick Overview
This list features three top Bordeaux shopping and market tours designed to suit different tastes and schedules:
- An all-inclusive food and market tour that dives into Bordeaux’s culinary traditions.
- A festive Christmas Market tour perfect for holiday cheer.
- A farmers market exploration combined with a scenic river cruise for a relaxed, scenic experience.
Each tour offers unique highlights, from tasting regional cheeses and oysters to browsing artisan crafts and enjoying river views. Now, let’s explore these options in detail to help you pick the best experience for your trip.
1. Bordeaux: Market Food Tour all inclusive food & drinks
At number one on our list, this all-inclusive food tour combines visits to vibrant markets, breakfast, wine, and cheese tastings, all in a relaxed 2.5-hour morning outing. The tour kicks off at Place de la Victoire, where you’ll meet your guide and start exploring Bordeaux’s culinary scene. The highlight is a guided visit to local markets, where you sample seasonal products, oysters, and regional specialties. The tour then moves to a cozy spot for breakfast, followed by a tasting session featuring Bordeaux wines, cheeses, and regional foods. It’s a full sensory experience that unveils the city’s gastronomic traditions in a lively, friendly setting.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach—covering history, food, and wine—plus the fact that it’s all inclusive. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Charlotte, whose passion for Bordeaux’s food culture shines through. The food on offer, such as the famous chocolatine, is genuinely memorable. Reviewers also appreciate the flexibility and attention to detail, making it suitable for serious food lovers and casual visitors alike. It’s an excellent way to combine city sightseeing with culinary education.
Bottom Line: If you want a deep dive into Bordeaux’s food and wine culture with expert-guided tastings, this tour offers fantastic value for its 2.5-hour duration. It’s especially suited for those keen to learn and taste in an informal, friendly atmosphere.
2. Bordeaux Christmas Market Tour
For those visiting during the holiday season, the Bordeaux Christmas Market Tour offers a festive day out. This 1.5-hour stroll takes you through Bordeaux’s Christmas market with around 150 stands, filled with local delicacies, artisan crafts, and seasonal treats. The market is beautifully decorated with lights, and there’s a charming wooden horse carousel that’s perfect for families or those looking to soak up the seasonal atmosphere.
While the tour doesn’t specify tasting details, expect to sample Bordeaux wines and French cuisine sold at the market’s many stalls. The lively environment, with festive music and local artisans, makes it a wonderful way to experience Bordeaux’s holiday spirit. It’s a shorter, more relaxed outing ideal for visitors who want a taste of local holiday traditions without a lengthy commitment. This tour may appeal most to families, couples, or those craving a seasonal ambiance with some local shopping.
Bottom Line: If you love holiday markets and want to enjoy Bordeaux’s festive charm, this 1.5-hour tour is perfect for a quick, cheerful outing in December or January.
3. Bordeaux: Farmers Market Tour & Gourmet River Cruise
At number three, this Farmers Market Tour & Gourmet River Cruise blends local market exploration with scenic river views. Starting at Cité du Vin, the tour offers a 45-minute visit to a lively Bordeaux market, where you’ll sample regional cheeses, charcuterie, and wines. It’s a taste of local life, with a guide explaining the significance of each product. Then, you’ll head to Les Bateaux Bordelais for a 90-minute private cruise along the Garonne River, where you can savor local produce paired with wines onboard. The cruise provides a relaxed, scenic view of Bordeaux’s historic architecture and bridges.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate culinary discovery combined with a peaceful boat ride. The inclusion of a market visit and river cruise in one package offers excellent value for around $198 per person, especially since it lasts 4.5 hours. Reviewers emphasize the quality of local produce and the calm, scenic nature of the cruise. It’s best suited for those wanting a more leisurely, scenic experience that combines tastings with sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For a scenic, relaxed introduction to Bordeaux’s local flavors paired with a boat cruise, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable outing for food and scenery lovers alike.
How to Choose
When deciding between these Bordeaux shopping and market tours, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. For a comprehensive food and wine experience, the Market Food Tour offers a deep dive into local gastronomy with expert guides. If you’re visiting during Christmas and want to enjoy seasonal festivities, the Christmas Market Tour provides a festive atmosphere in a short time. For those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with tasting and sightseeing, the Farmers Market & River Cruise combines local flavors with picturesque views.
Practical tips: Book early for popular tours during peak seasons, especially the Christmas Market. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking and standing, while others include boat cruises for a more relaxed pace. Think about your main interest—culinary immersion, holiday cheer, or scenic relaxation—and pick the tour that best matches your travel style.
Bordeaux offers a variety of tasty, lively, and scenic experiences to suit diverse tastes. Whether you’re a serious foodie looking to learn about local wines and cheeses, a holiday traveler eager to enjoy seasonal markets, or a scenic explorer wanting a peaceful boat ride, there’s a perfect tour waiting. Our top picks—ranging from immersive food tours to festive markets and scenic cruises—highlight the city’s rich culinary and cultural scene. To ensure you don’t miss out, especially during busy seasons, it’s wise to book your preferred tour well in advance. Enjoy discovering Bordeaux’s many flavors and vibrant shopping streets, and happy tasting!