Bordeaux 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Bordeaux Itinerary: Wine, History, & Gastronomy

Things to Know:

  • Language: French (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and crowded.

Transportation:

  • Bordeaux Airport (BOD): International flights, connections to city center by tram or taxi.
  • Tram: Extensive network covering the city center.
  • Bus: Convenient for reaching outer areas.
  • Bike rentals: Popular option for exploring the city.
  • Wine Tours: Many organized tours available from Bordeaux.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Hotel de la Cité, Le Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa
  • Mid-Range: Mama Shelter Bordeaux, Hotel Mercure Bordeaux Centre Gare
  • Budget: Generator Bordeaux, Airbnb options

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

  • Arrive at Bordeaux Airport (BOD), take the tram to your hotel.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a classic “plateau de fruits de mer” (seafood platter) at La Tupina.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the elegant Rue Sainte-Catherine, Bordeaux’s main shopping street.
  • Evening: Take a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed city center, admiring Place de la Bourse and the Grand Théâtre.
  • Dinner: Indulge in traditional southwestern cuisine at Le Petit Commerce.

Day 2: Wine Tasting & Historical Charms

  • Morning: Join a half-day wine tasting tour in Saint-Emilion, exploring vineyards and cellars.
  • Lunch: Savor a gourmet lunch paired with local wines at Château La Dominique.
  • Afternoon: Visit the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, explore its charming streets and the monolithic church.

Day 3: Museums & River Cruise

  • Morning: Explore the Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to wine culture and history.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many cafes around Place de la Bourse.
  • Afternoon: Take a relaxing river cruise on the Garonne River, admiring Bordeaux’s beautiful architecture from the water.

Day 4: Art & Architecture

  • Morning: Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures.
  • Lunch: Dine at Le Chapon Fin, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming neighborhood of Chartrons, with its art galleries, antique shops, and trendy cafes.

Day 5: Day Trip to Arcachon & Dune du Pilat

  • Morning: Take a train to Arcachon, a seaside resort town on the Atlantic coast.
  • Afternoon: Climb the iconic Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, for breathtaking views.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood dinner by the harbor in Arcachon before returning to Bordeaux.

Day 6: Farewell & Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Marché des Capucins, a bustling food market offering local delicacies and souvenirs.

  • Lunch: Have one last delicious meal at La Brasserie Bordelaise, known for its classic French dishes.

  • Depart from Bordeaux Airport (BOD).

Tips:

  • Book wine tours in advance, especially during peak season.

  • Learn some basic French phrases to enhance your experience.

  • Take advantage of the public transportation system.

  • Embrace the “art de vivre” (art of living) and enjoy leisurely meals and strolls.