Bordeaux: 5 Days of Wine Tasting and Cheese Eating

Europe
Written By Waddle Wanders

Having such short flights from Portugal to Bordeaux made it a no-brainer when the idea of ringing in the New Year in France popped up. Not only were flights direct and affordable, but the prospect of spending time in an historic European city renowned for its wine was irresistible.

Sara, our meticulous planner, was tasked with making this wine-soaked dream a reality. So, buckle up for a week in Bordeaux filled with wine, cheese, and all the French charm you can handle!


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Time of the Year

We ventured to Bordeaux in December, right at the end of the year, to enjoy the festive holiday season. December is an enchanting time in European cities—twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and festive cheer. For Vasco, a self-proclaimed Christmas fanatic, this was a perfect choice. However, if you’re not a fan of winter’s chill, consider these other times:

  • Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. It’s ideal for strolling through vineyards and exploring the city without the summer crowds.

  • Autumn (September to November): The grape harvest season makes it a prime time for wine lovers. 

Budget

Accommodation:

  • Budget Options: For a wallet-friendly stay, check out Hotel ibis Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean or Mama Shelter Bordeaux. Prices start around €60-€90 per night. They’re basic but provide all the essentials.

  • Mid-Range: Consider renting an Airbnb for a more personal touch, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. To give you a range, we found a cozy place for about €120 per night per person. 

  • Splurge: If you really want to live like royalty, book a stay at Les Sources de Caudalie or Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa. Rooms start around €300 per night, so just keep in mind that it might be better to save the money for wine tours!

Transportation and City Pass:

  • Public Transport: Bordeaux’s public transport is efficient. A single tram or bus ride costs around €1.70. For unlimited travel, consider a 7-day pass at about €18.

  • City Pass: The Bordeaux Metropole City Pass, which we immediately got once we got to Bordeaux,  gives you access to public transport, discounts on various attractions, and a free wine tour. It’s a great deal for around €40 for three days. Perfect if you plan to see all the sights and sip some fine Bordeaux wine.

  • Car Rental: If you are looking into exploring the surrounding wine regions, renting a car might be a good idea. Expect to pay around €30-€50 per day. Just remember to enjoy the wine responsibly!

Food and Restaurant Budget:

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Initial Impressions

  • Place des Quinconces: Start your adventure at one of Europe’s largest squares. Admire the beautiful fountains and statues.

  • Historic Center: Wander through the charming streets of Bordeaux’s historic center. Some points of interest are Monument aux Girondins, Opéra National de Bordeaux - Grand-Théâtre, Place de la Comédie, Church of Our Lady of Bordeaux, Place de la Bourse, Miroir d'eau, Place du Parlement, Porte Cailhau and Pont de Pierre.

  • Dinner at Le Petit Commerce: Enjoy some seafood for around €20. Fresh and tasty, it’s a great introduction to Bordeaux.

  • Evening at a Wine Bar: Try Bar à Vin for a relaxed evening of wine tasting. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a glass of local wine though.

Day 2: Wine, Wine, and More Wine

  • Wine Tour: Spend the day exploring the renowned vineyards of Bordeaux. Tours like Medoc Wine Tours or Saint-Émilion Wine Tours cost around €100-€150 per person and include tastings and a look into the winemaking process, so if you are a fan, we can recommend it.

  • Lunch in Saint-Émilion: You can enjoy lunch at La Terrasse Rouge for around €25.

Day 3: Historical and Cultural Immersion

  • Cité du Vin: Visit this modern wine museum for around €20. It’s a unique experience with interactive exhibits and tastings.

  • Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeaux

  • Halle des Chartrons

  • Église Saint-Louis des Chartrons

  • CAPC Musée d'art Contemporain de Bordeaux

  • Jardin Public

  • Bordeaux’s Museum of Fine Arts: Here you can explore classic and contemporary art for around €7.

  • Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux

  • Pey Berland Tower

Day 4: Day Trip to Arcachon (Optional, make sure you check the weather first!)

  • Arcachon Bay: Take a short trip to this coastal town known for its stunning beaches and oyster farms. A train ticket costs around €20 round-trip. If you have a car you can definitely go there very easily as well.

  • Oyster Tasting: If you are an oyster fan, try the local oysters at Bar à Huîtres L’Oyster Bar. Prices vary, but expect to pay around €30 for a platter of fresh oysters.

  • Dune du Pilat: Climb Europe’s tallest sand dune for breathtaking views. The entrance is free, but you’ll need to pay for transportation to get there.

Day 5: Shopping and Farewell

  • Marché des Capucins: Visit this market to pick up some local goodies and souvenirs. It’s a great place to grab some last-minute gifts and enjoy a casual breakfast. If you have an Airbnb, it’s a nice place to grab some groceries and cook local food at home like we did!

  • Place de la Victoire

  • Basilique Saint-Michel

  • Saint Eligius Church

  • Grosse Cloche

  • Musée d'Aquitaine

  • Shopping on Rue Sainte-Catherine: Spend your last day shopping along Bordeaux’s main shopping street. 

  • Porte Dijeaux

 

Since we all in the family are wine lovers, spending the New Years Eve here was nothing short of delicious! From delightful wine tours to charming streets and festive holiday decor, this city gave us some great family memories. Pack your appetite, bring a comfy pair of walking shoes, and get ready for a week of indulgence. Remember, in Bordeaux, calories don’t count—especially when there’s wine involved (according to Sara at least)! Cheers to a fantastic French adventure!

Waddle Wanders
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