Bordeaux isn’t just about the wine; it’s also a city bursting with great lunch options that combine food, drink, and scenery in a way that makes your day truly memorable. Whether you’re savoring a picnic amid vineyards, sampling oysters by the sea, or exploring medieval villages with a glass in hand, Bordeaux offers a range of experiences that elevate lunchtime into a local adventure. One tour that stands out is the From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch, which combines wine, history, and a picnic in a way that’s hard to beat. It’s a perfect way to indulge in the region’s renowned wines while enjoying authentic French flavors.
If you prefer a full-day journey through Bordeaux’s wine regions with multiple tastings and a scenic exploration of the charming Saint-Emilion village, there’s a St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour including Wine Tastings and Lunch that offers an immersive experience. For those seeking a more intimate, small-group vibe, the Saint-Emilion Small Group Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch ensures personal attention and a relaxed pace. For a seaside twist, the Arcachon Bay Full Day Trip from Bordeaux with lunch and Pyla Dune combines oyster tasting, climbing Europe’s tallest sand dune, and fresh sea air. Lastly, for an active option, the Bordeaux: St. Emilion Wine and E-Bike Tour with Lunch lets you pedal through vineyards while sampling some of the best wines in the region.
1. From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch
At number 1 on our list, this popular wine and food tour offers a well-rounded day in one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated regions. Starting from Bordeaux, you’ll drive through the rolling vineyards of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit three distinguished wineries. One of the best features of this tour is the picnic lunch at a château, which provides a relaxed setting amid vines, allowing you to taste local cheeses and bread alongside your wines. The tour is known for its lively guides, like Emmanuelle and Jeremy, who share detailed stories about Bordeaux wines and the region’s history.
What makes this experience shine is the blend of cultural exploration and wine tasting, with visits to châteaux that confidently showcase Saint-Emilion’s signature wines. Reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to taste a variety of wines in small group settings. With a duration of around 7 hours, it’s ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing, wine, and a picnic without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: If you love a friendly, comprehensive tour that combines wine, history, and a picnic, this tour hits all the right notes.
2. St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour including Wine Tastings and Lunch
Number 2 on our list offers a full 9-hour exploration of Bordeaux’s legendary wine regions. This combine tour takes you from Bordeaux to both Médoc and Saint-Emilion, with stops at iconic vineyards like Château Margaux and Château Siran. The highlight here is the seamless round-trip transportation, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery as your guide educates you about wine production.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on multiple wine styles and regions, giving you a broader taste of Bordeaux’s diversity. The guided visits include tastings at family-run vineyards, and a picnic lunch with wine in a château adds to the indulgence. You’ll have free time in Saint-Emilion to wander its medieval streets—perfect for picking up souvenirs or snapping photos. Travelers note the expert guides, relaxed pace, and the variety of wines tasted—often over four different wineries.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an in-depth Bordeaux wine experience with a scenic drive, multiple tastings, and a gourmet picnic.
3. Saint-Emilion Small Group Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch
If an intimate experience appeals to you, this small group tour is a fantastic choice. It’s limited to just eight guests, which means personalized attention and a less hurried feel. The tour includes visits to two wineries for in-depth, guided tours and tutored tastings, plus a classic French picnic lunch with cheese, charcuterie, and fresh bread—perfect for pairing with the wines.
Tour guides like Julie and Remi are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun. The day also includes a walk through the UNESCO-listed medieval village of Saint-Emilion, giving you a chance to soak in its historic charm. Reviewers mention how this tour offers a balanced mix of wine, scenery, and cultural sights for around $191.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a relaxed, personalized wine experience in the beautiful setting of Saint-Emilion.
4. Arcachon Bay Full Day Trip from Bordeaux with lunch and Pyla Dune
Number 4 on our list is a delightful seaside escape that includes climbing the famous Pyla Dune, the tallest sand dune in Europe. This full-day trip offers scenic views of Arcachon Bay, known for its oyster shucking and charming architecture. After a short drive from Bordeaux, you’ll hike the dune, which provides panoramic views of the coast and the Atlantic.
A highlight is the oyster tasting at a local port, where you can sample fresh oysters or shrimp with a glass of local wine. The tour also explores Arcachon’s historic villas and seaside towns, giving a glimpse of the area’s upscale past. Reviewers appreciate the professional guides, the opportunity to climb the dune, and the fresh seafood lunch. The 6.5-hour trip is perfect for a day away from Bordeaux’s city buzz.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a combination of nature, seaside scenery, and fresh oysters, with a manageable day trip format.
5. Bordeaux: St. Emilion Wine and E-Bike Tour with Lunch
For active travelers, the E-bike tour offers a fresh way to experience Saint-Emilion’s vineyards. Over 7 hours, you’ll pedal through the rolling landscape, visiting two distinguished châteaux and one merchant. The tour includes tasting at least 10 different wines, giving you a broad palate of the region’s best.
Guided by an expert, you’ll learn about the winemaking process while enjoying the scenery, with stops for a picnic lunch among the vines. The electric bikes make the ride accessible even for those who aren’t seasoned cyclists, and the small group ensures personal attention. Reviewers find this tour ideal for combining exercise, education, and excellent wines in a fun, memorable way.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active wine lovers who want a hands-on experience blending cycling with wine tasting in a beautiful setting.
How to Choose
Choosing among these Bordeaux lunch experiences depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a classic, comprehensive day with multiple wineries and a scenic drive, the St-Emilion & Médoc Tour is ideal. For a more intimate, personal tasting session, the Small Group Tour offers relaxed charm.
Seeking seaside views and oysters? The Arcachon Bay Day Trip combines nature, seafood, and coastal scenery perfectly. And if you’re an active traveler who wants to combine cycling with tasting, the E-bike Tour makes for an energetic and fun day in Saint-Emilion.
Consider your budget, preferred pace, and interest in cultural versus outdoor activities. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
In summary, Bordeaux offers a range of excellent lunch experiences that go beyond just the food—blending wine, scenery, culture, and activity into memorable outings. Whether you prefer a guided bus tour, a small-group tasting, seaside oysters, or an active e-bike adventure, there’s something to elevate your midday meal into a true regional highlight. With so many options, planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your time in Bordeaux’s delicious landscape.