Bordeaux-7-day-itinerary
7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Bordeaux
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Bordeaux City
- Morning: Arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) or take the train to Bordeaux Saint-Jean station. Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel Le Boutique or La Grande Maison 1888.
- Afternoon: Explore the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Cathédrale Saint-André, Place de la Bourse, and stroll along the Garonne River.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Pressoir d’Argent, a Michelin-starred restaurant, or try some local cuisine at La Brasserie Bordelaise.
Day 2: Wine Tasting and Châteaux Visits
- Morning: Visit the Cité du Vin, a wine museum with interactive exhibits.
- Afternoon: Head to the Médoc region, famous for its wine production. Visit Château Lafite Rothschild or Château Latour.
- Evening: Return to Bordeaux and enjoy a wine tasting at Bar à Vin or dine at Le Haïtza, serving Basque-inspired cuisine.
Day 3: Arcachon Bay and the Dune du Pilat
- Morning: Take a day trip to Arcachon Bay, about an hour from Bordeaux. Visit the picturesque town of Arcachon and enjoy the beach.
- Afternoon: Hike to the top of the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, with breathtaking views of the bay.
- Evening: Return to Bordeaux and dine at Le Petit Commerce, serving fresh seafood.
Day 4: Saint-Émilion and its Vineyards
- Morning: Visit the charming medieval town of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its narrow streets, castle, and vineyards.
- Afternoon: Take a guided tour or wine tasting at Château Cheval Blanc or Château Figeac.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Grande Maison de Saint-Émilion, a luxurious restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.
Day 5: Relaxation and Leisure Activities
- Morning: Take a leisurely boat tour along the Garonne River or visit the Jardin Public de Bordeaux, a beautiful botanical garden.
- Afternoon: Treat yourself to a spa day at Les Bains du Nouveau Monde or relax at your hotel’s pool or wellness center.
- Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at Bistro 16, serving classic French bistro cuisine.
Day 6: Cognac and the Charente River
- Morning: Take a day trip to Cognac, about an hour and a half from Bordeaux. Visit the Hôtel de Ville and explore the charming town center.
- Afternoon: Take a guided tour or tasting at Henri IV Cognac or Remy Martin Cognac.
- Evening: Return to Bordeaux and dine at Le Gabriel, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
- Afternoon: Depart from Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) or take the train back home.
Things to Know
- The best way to get around Bordeaux is on foot, by bike, or using public transportation ( tramway and bus).
- Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties, such as canelés, Arcachon oysters, and Médoc wine.
- Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear.
Tips
- Book your accommodations, restaurants, and wine tastings in advance to avoid availability issues.
- Consider purchasing a Bordeaux Métropole City Pass, which grants access to many attractions and public transportation.
- Don’t overplan your itinerary – leave some room for spontaneity and relaxation.
Transportation
- Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is about 10 km from the city center. Take a taxi or bus (30-40 minutes).
- The train station, Bordeaux Saint-Jean, is in the city center.
- Rent a car if you plan to explore the surrounding regions extensively.
Other Things of Interest
- Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux for an impressive art collection.
- Take a stroll along the Quai des Chartrons, a picturesque waterfront area.
- Attend a performance at the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, a beautiful 18th-century theater.