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Planning a trip to Bordeaux but not sure how to fit everything in? Don’t worry, because we’ve mapped it all out for you!
After sipping, strolling, and sightseeing our way through this elegant French city, we’ve put together the ultimate two-day itinerary to help you experience the very best of Bordeaux. From tastings in nearby Saint-Émilion to café-hopping in the historic Old Town, this itinerary blends iconic highlights with plenty of time to slow down and enjoy the city’s laid-back charm.
Whether you’re here for the vineyards, the architecture, or just a beautiful escape, we’re confident you’re going to love every minute. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day tour. We explored Saint Emilion and Pomerol’s vineyards, learned about local production, and wandered the UNESCO-listed town. It’s such an unforgettable experience!
Itinerary Overview
Bordeaux is compact, charming, and made for wandering, and in this two-day itinerary, we’re really going to make the most of that! We’ve used our insider knowledge to make it fun, flexible, and easy to follow.
On that note, Bordeaux is a pretty easy city to explore because it’s so walkable. The Old Town is mostly pedestrianized, and public transport (especially the trams) is affordable and super easy to use. The Saint-Émilion tour includes pickup and drop-off, too, so you certainly won’t need a rental car!
Day 1: We’ll get to know Bordeaux’s elegant historic center with a walking city tour of the historic center, and then the afternoon will make the most of the museums before you spend the evening on a fun food tour.
Day 2: A visit to Bordeaux wouldn’t be complete without exploring its countryside, so you’ll head to the stunning village of Saint-Émilion to tour historic estates and taste some of the region’s best reds. Then it’s back to the city for fine dining and a final evening stroll.
Day 1
Breakfast – Paul
Start your morning off with a croissant and a strong coffee at Paul. It’s a chain sandwich spot, but I will say that Paul is definitely better in France! Plus, it’s just a 6-minute walk from the tour’s start point, so it’s a convenient place to grab some fuel for today’s adventures.
Morning – Learn about Bordeaux’s history and culture on a private tour
A walking tour is the ideal way to get to know a new city, and this private guided experience lets you dive deep into Bordeaux’s history and culture. There are multiple departure times, but we suggest booking this tour for 10 am so that you’ll finish up around 1 pm, just in time for lunch.
We met our guide, Nicolas, outside the elegant Grand Theatre in the historic Place de la Comédie, and from there the tour flowed seamlessly through Bordeaux’s heritage, leading us to landmarks like Place Gambetta and the iconic Porte Dijeaux.
For me, a huge highlight was visiting the Grosse Cloche, a beautiful and dramatic bell tower that stands above a former medieval dungeon. We also loved exploring the Capuchins Market, where we got to sample local cheese and other regional specialties. After all, when in Bordeaux, right?
We also had a blast exploring the vibrant Saint Michel neighborhood and admiring its famously flamboyant basilica. Then, the tour wrapped up at the Water Mirror, which is a pool of water that mirrors the beautiful Place de la Bourse. It’s pretty stunning, and the kind of thing you have to see for yourself!
This tour really delivers the full Bordeaux experience. It’s the perfect way to get acquainted with the city and all of its historic highlights. Plus, it’s great value for money for a private sightseeing tour!
Be sure to book this popular private tour before it sells out!
Lunch – Epicentre
I’m sure you’ll be hungry after your walking tour, so head to Epicentre, a highly rated lunch spot that’s just a 7-minute walk from where the tour ends. This place is small and cozy but still chic, and the food is nothing short of exceptional. They do a set lunch menu and there are only a few choices, but whatever’s on offer that day, it’s sure to be both creative and delicious, and it will be cooked right in front of you!
We highly recommend making a reservation because this place is in demand thanks to its stellar reputation. And trust me, you really don’t want to miss out on this unique dining experience.
Afternoon – Museums
Cité du Vin (Immersive Wine Museum)
Of course, Bordeaux is home to a fascinating museum dedicated to its world-famous vineyards! Even the building is shaped like a decanter. If you’re eager to dive into the art of local viticulture this afternoon, this fun and immersive museum is a must-visit.
After you’ve finished your lunch, it should take about 20 minutes to get here from the restaurant. The Grand Theatre tram stop is just a 3-minute walk from Epicentre, and then you can hop on a B Line service to La Cité du Vin. Once you arrive, admission costs €22 per person and you’ll need about 2–3 hours here.
Inside, this immersive museum explores the region’s rich history, culture, and production traditions from around the world through interactive exhibits, audio guides, and sensory experiences. It’s modern and creative, and we had so much fun exploring! Best of all, your journey through the museum includes a tasting session at a bar with panoramic views, so we think the ticket price is well worth it!
Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts
If you would rather not drink this afternoon, then head to the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts instead. Housed in a beautiful 18th-century building, it features a strong collection of European paintings from the 15th to 20th centuries, including works by Delacroix, Matisse, and Rubens. It’s a peaceful and compact museum that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon indoors.
Conveniently, this museum is just a 13-minute walk from lunch. I’d say that you need about 2 hours here, but keep in mind that it’s closed on Tuesdays.
Evening – Enjoy Bordeaux’s famous cuisine on a food tour
Bordeaux is world-renowned for its excellent food, so this small-group food tour is a must! It’s a true culinary adventure, and it’s easily one of the best experiences we’ve ever had here. Book the 5:30 pm option so that this tour serves as your dinner tonight.
The tour meets in the central area of Bordeaux that you explored this morning. If you finish up at the museums early, then you can always get there early and spend a little time exploring by yourself before you meet your guide.
We had the best time on this tour! It began with a tasting at a local bar, where we learned how regional flavors are crafted and how to detect different notes and aromas.
Then, our guide, Alexandria, took us on a guided stroll through the city. We stopped to try unique Bordeaux treats, like handcrafted hazelnut treats, and chocolate delights from an award-winning chocolatier!
Of course, the highlight of the tour was a leisurely lunch at a classic French bistro in the chic Saint Pierre neighborhood. We won’t spoil too much, but we will say that the meal was the epitome of French cuisine: simple, fresh, and full of flavor. And the desserts were incredible!
This is a small group tour, so it feels intimate and personal. It felt more like exploring the city with friends than a formal tour. So whether you’re a tried and true foodie or just curious about French cuisine, this is the perfect way to wrap up your first day in Bordeaux.
Be sure to book this food tour before it sells out!
Day 2
Breakfast – KURO espresso bar
KURO espresso bar is just a 2-minute walk from the starting point for this morning tour, and their coffee is sure to get you going this morning! We really like their breakfast sandwiches, too. The only downside is their opening hours tend to change quite a lot, but they update them on Google regularly, so double-check the night before. If not, eat at your hotel if you’re staying somewhere that offers breakfast, or grab a quick bite on the way to the meeting point.
Full day – Go wine tasting in the famous Saint-Émilion region
When in Bordeaux, you have to explore the local vineyards and enjoy a tasting! Our favorite way of doing that is visiting the Saint Emilion and Pomerol regions on this top-rated tour, so that’s how we’re spending day two in Bordeaux.
On this tour, you’ll visit two historic estates to learn about the region’s traditional production process and have time to explore the charming, UNESCO-listed town of Saint-Émilion. It’s a truly dreamy experience!
At the first estate of the day, you’ll do a tour of the vineyards and learn about how the region’s unique soil and climate create world-class varietals. But of course, we loved the tasting the most, since we got to sample some of the estate’s top reds.
Next up, it’s onto the town of Saint Emilion itself for a historic walking tour. There’s also free time to explore the cobblestone streets by yourself. We used this time to savor a yummy local lunch at a café that our guide, Carol, recommended.
The third and final stop of the day was another chateau in Pomerol, where we got to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the cellar and vat house. We gained an even deeper appreciation for the production process and got to do another delicious tasting.
We can’t say enough good things about this tour, and we aren’t alone—just check out over a thousand 5-star reviews here! It’s perfectly paced, educational, and a total blast from start to finish.
Book this top-rated tour here and enjoy free cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Berthus
Of course, it’s only right to end your time in Bordeaux with dinner at a stylish bistro! You should get back from your tour at around 5:30 pm, and Berthus doesn’t open until 7 pm, so you’ll have time to head back to your hotel and get changed before dinner.
I highly recommend booking a table here because this place is very popular among locals and visitors alike. It does a great job of showcasing the best of Bordeaux’s cuisine with an incredible seasonal menu. When we visited, I had a salmon fillet with roasted apricots and fennel, and it was incredible. And make sure you leave room for one of their amazing desserts, too!
Evening – Stroll through the charming squares
After dinner, walk off your meal with a stroll through Bordeaux’s famous squares, which really come alive at night. As you wander through Place du Palais, Place du Parlement, and Place de la Bourse, you’ll come across plenty of charming bars and sweet little dessert shops, so stop wherever takes your fancy. There are lots of historic buildings to see, too, so just take the walk at your own pace and enjoy soaking in the atmosphere of this magical French city. Bon soir!
Related Read: For even more inspiration during your trip, check out our guide to the 8 best things to do in Bordeaux here, from scenic strolls to unforgettable local experiences!
Where to Stay in Bordeaux, France
Finding the perfect place to stay in Bordeaux is just as important as planning what to do! This stunning city offers a variety of options, from luxury hotels in historic buildings to chic boutique stays and affordable gems.
To help narrow it down, I’ve handpicked the top accommodations to suit every budget and travel style, so you can focus on enjoying this world-famous cultural capital! These popular spots tend to book up fast, so if they’re still available for your travel dates, you’ll want to reserve early.
Luxury – $$$
For a truly luxurious stay in Bordeaux, the Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa is an exceptional choice. Set in a stunning historic building near the city center, this five-star boutique hotel features elegant rooms and suites with stylish decor, some offering private terraces or plunge pools. Guests can unwind at the relaxing spa, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or savor exquisite French cuisine at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant.
Prices vary depending on the season and room category you select, but usually range from €250–€400 per night. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Pullman Bordeaux Lac is a fantastic mid-range option for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Located near Bordeaux’s Lac district, it’s just a short ride away from Bordeaux’s city center, making it a great base for exploring while staying slightly removed from the hustle and bustle. The hotel offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious French and international cuisine.
Prices are around €120 per night on average. You can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-friendly accommodation, the MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean is a great pick! Located near the Saint-Jean train station, this modern hotel offers clean, stylish rooms with en-suite bathrooms and free Wi-Fi, making it ideal for travelers looking to explore Bordeaux on a budget. The hotel also features a shared kitchen, a bar, and a relaxed lounge area, perfect for socializing or unwinding after a day of exploring.
Prices for a private room start as low as €60 per night, which is great value for such a nice hotel! Visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Bordeaux’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in France
France is a dream to explore by car—think lavender fields in Provence, medieval villages in the Dordogne, and coastal drives along the Côte d’Azur. While the train network is excellent, having your own wheels lets you uncover those hidden gems at your own pace. Plus, French drivers are generally courteous, making road tripping here a breeze!
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in France
- Know the local rules: In France, they drive on the right-hand side, and some intersections follow priorité à droite—meaning cars from the right have the right of way, even if you’re on the main road. It’s also mandatory to carry a reflective vest and warning triangle in your car.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in France are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. We love how easy it is to filter for exactly what you need on Discover Cars.
- Watch for restricted zones (LEZs): Many major French cities (like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille) have low-emission or restricted driving zones. These areas often require special permits or advance registration, and driving into them without authorization can lead to fines. Always check ahead if you’re planning to drive into a city center.
- Be prepared for toll roads: France has an extensive network of toll roads (autoroutes). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with a toll transponder for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in France
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Some rental companies may require one.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring France on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this two-day itinerary helps you make the most of your time in beautiful Bordeaux! From exploring its elegant Old Town to discovering the nearby villages and scenic countryside, this trip blends history, culture, and unforgettable moments into a perfectly paced getaway.
Before you go, check out some of our other France blogs here to help plan your next adventure! We’ve explored many incredible destinations across the country and love sharing our tips and favorite experiences with fellow travelers. Or, browse some of our most popular travel guides below for even more inspiration to plan your next trip.
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