7 days in Bordeaux, France: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Get ready to sip into Bordeaux, an elegant French city renowned for its wine and majestic architecture. With its picturesque streets lined with lush gardens and historic landmarks, Bordeaux truly has something for everyone. Discover its famous Wine Museum, designed like a futuristic wine bottle, and stroll through the enchanting Miroir d’eau, an impressive city landmark offering stunning views of Palais de la Bourse reflected on its surface. Trust me, friends, you don’t want to miss out on the countless marvels Bordeaux has to offer!
Things to consider before arriving to Bordeaux
Amazing wine tastings in the city and nearby vineyards
Rich architecture and UNESCO-listed city center
Can be quite expensive, especially in popular tourist areas
Ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, and foodies
What to bring with you
– Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
– A bottle opener and wine stopper to enjoy your Bordeaux wine finds
– An umbrella, as the weather in Bordeaux can be unpredictable
– A reusable grocery bag for shopping at local markets
Best time of the year to visit
The best time to visit Bordeaux is from April to June and September to October. These months have milder weather, making it perfect for sightseeing and wine tasting, while avoiding the summer crowds.
How to get into the city
1. By Plane : Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is located about 12 km west of the city center, with international and domestic flights. A shuttle bus or tram line can efficiently transport you to the central city.
2. By Train : Bordeaux is well connected with major French cities like Paris, Toulouse, and Marseille by train. The high-speed TGV can get you from Paris to Bordeaux in just 2 hours, arriving at Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station.
3. By Car : The city is accessible by car from several major highways including the A10 (toward Paris), A62 (toward Toulouse), and A63 (toward Spain). Keep in mind, parking in Bordeaux can be tricky, so plan accordingly.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Bordeaux, France
Day 1: Arriving in Bordeaux
Welcome to Bordeaux! After checking in at your hotel, head to the historic district of Saint-Pierre for a leisurely walk, admiring the beautiful architecture and stopping for a glass of local wine at one of the many charming cafes. For dinner, indulge in some delicious French cuisine at the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Pressoir D’Argent.
Day 2: Wine Tasting in the Medoc Region
Take a day trip to the nearby Medoc region, famous for producing some of the world’s best wines. Visit some of the region’s most beautiful chateaux and enjoy tastings of their fantastic wines. Don’t forget to stop by the charming town of Pauillac for lunch and a stroll along the waterfront.
Day 3: Exploring the City Center
Spend the day exploring the city center of Bordeaux. Visit the Cité du Vin, a stunning wine museum with interactive exhibits and tastings. Take a stroll through the Jardin Public, a beautiful park with a pond and plenty of walking paths. For dinner, try the local specialty, canelés de Bordeaux, at the quaint bakery Les Caprices d’Isa.
Day 4: Day Trip to Saint-Emilion
Take a day trip to the charming town of Saint-Emilion, known for its picturesque streets and delicious wine. Visit the underground cellars and caves of some of the town’s most famous wine producers and enjoy tastings of their excellent wines. Take a walk up to the top of the town’s hill for stunning panoramic views.
Day 5: Market Day in Chartrons
Head to the neighborhood of Chartrons for the weekly market, offering a wide array of local produce and various goods. After, take a leisurely bike ride or walk along the Garonne River, admiring the lovely views along the way. Stop for lunch at Le Petit Commerce, a cozy bistro known for its fresh seafood.
Day 6: Bassin d’Arcachon Day Trip
Take a day trip to the Bassin d’Arcachon, a beautiful bay area known for its oysters and stunning beaches. Take a boat tour of the bay, stopping at the famous Île aux Oiseaux to see the charming cabins and wildlife. For lunch, try the freshly caught oysters at one of the local restaurants.
Day 7: Departure from Bordeaux
On your final day in Bordeaux, take a relaxing walk through the Parc Bordelais or visit the Musée d’Aquitaine to learn more about the region’s fascinating history. Before heading to the airport, stop by the charming Rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe, for any last-minute souvenirs.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Bordeaux
After exploring Bordeaux and its surrounding areas, why not continue your travel to some nearby cities?
Toulouse
Just a two-hour train ride from Bordeaux, Toulouse is a charming city known for its pink-brick architecture and lively atmosphere. Visit the impressive Basilica of Saint-Sernin, explore the narrow streets of the old town, and indulge in some delicious French cuisine at one of the many wonderful restaurants.
Biarritz
A three-hour train ride from Bordeaux takes you to the beautiful coastal city of Biarritz. Known for its world-class surfing, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife, Biarritz is a must-visit destination. Take a stroll along the famous Promenade de la Plage, enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the many excellent restaurants, and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches.
