Bordeaux is more than just the name on your favorite bottle of wine. Nestled along the Garonne River in southwestern France, this elegant port city offers a little something for everyone—whether you're a history lover, wine enthusiast or just someone who enjoys walking cobblestone streets with a pastry in hand. Bordeaux, France shore excursions are the perfect way to experience the city’s vibrant culture, lush countryside and timeless charm.
Best Bordeaux, France Shore Excursions
Whether you're spending the day in port or planning a longer stay, these Bordeaux excursions let you soak up the best of the region—no rushing required.
Discover Bordeaux at Your Own Pace
One of the most popular ways to explore the city is through a self-guided experience, often included in options like the “Bordeaux On Your Own” excursion. This type of outing gives you free time to roam the historic center of Bordeaux at your leisure. After a scenic drive through the Médoc region and its storybook vineyards, you’ll be dropped off in the heart of the city—free to wander, shop and dine as you wish.
Start your walk at the Place de la Bourse, home to the world-famous water mirror. Snap a photo as the shallow pool reflects the city’s grand 18th-century façade, then meander toward Rue Sainte-Catherine, Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy café, boutique shopping or just people-watching, this Bordeaux excursion is the perfect way to create your own story in the city.
Wine Country Dreams: Medoc and Saint-Émilion Tours
No visit to Bordeaux is complete without venturing into wine country. Bordeaux, France shore excursions often include half-day or full-day trips to the surrounding vineyard regions, including Médoc, Pomerol and the charming medieval village of Saint-Émilion.
In the Médoc, you’ll find some of the world’s most prestigious wine estates—think Château Margaux and Château Lafite Rothschild. Guided wine tours typically include tastings at two or three châteaux, with the chance to explore the cellars, learn about winemaking traditions and sample world-class vintages.
Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular stop on Bordeaux excursions. It’s a breathtaking village built on limestone hills and packed with Romanesque architecture, secret alleyways and, of course, more wine. Many tours offer guided walks through the village, followed by tastings in underground wine cellars that date back centuries.
Garonne River Cruise and Waterfront Views
For a more relaxing experience, consider a river cruise along the Garonne. These excursions offer a different view of the city, where you can glide past 18th-century façades, modern bridges and old trading ports while learning about Bordeaux’s maritime history. It’s an ideal way to rest your feet while still soaking in the sights—especially when paired with a glass of Bordeaux’s finest.
Some Bordeaux excursions include lunch or aperitifs onboard, making this a leisurely way to enjoy both local flavors and city views.
Culinary Walks and Market Tastings
Bordeaux is as much about food as it is about wine. Many shore excursions now offer gourmet walking tours that introduce you to local markets, artisan shops and classic Bordeaux delicacies. You might start at the Marché des Capucins, the city’s largest and most beloved food market, sampling cheese, bread, charcuterie and canelés—small caramelized pastries that are a Bordeaux specialty.
Some culinary excursions even include visits to chocolate makers, oyster stands and wine bars where you can pair your bites with just the right sip. It’s the perfect excursion if you're looking to eat like a local and bring home some edible souvenirs.
La Cité du Vin: A Modern Wine Experience
For a deeper dive into the region’s most famous export, La Cité du Vin is a must-visit. This modern, interactive wine museum is often included in Bordeaux, France shore excursions and is perfect for both beginners and aficionados. Its exhibitions take you through the history of wine—from ancient traditions to modern innovation—and its rooftop wine bar offers sweeping views of the city skyline along with international tastings.
If you're only in Bordeaux for a short time, this is one of the most efficient (and enjoyable) ways to explore wine culture in depth.
Day Trips to La Rochelle and Beyond
Some Bordeaux excursions also give you the option to venture farther afield. One popular option is a trip to La Rochelle, a picturesque harbor town on the Atlantic coast. Known for its medieval towers, bustling marina and charming old port, La Rochelle offers a different slice of French life—nautical, breezy and oh-so-walkable. Spend the afternoon exploring museums, waterfront cafés and cobblestone streets before heading back to port.
Biking Through Bordeaux
For active travelers, consider a bike tour through Bordeaux. With miles of flat, bike-friendly paths along the Garonne and throughout the city center, cycling is a fantastic way to take in Bordeaux’s architecture and atmosphere. Many guided bike excursions combine sightseeing with local stops for snacks or wine tastings, making it both a workout and a treat.
Plan Your Trip to Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux, France shore excursions offer more than just a taste of world-famous wine. From river cruises and market walks to medieval villages and urban exploration, the region is full of rich experiences that cater to every traveler. Whether you want to wander on your own or follow a guide into the heart of wine country, there's no shortage of unforgettable things to do in and around Bordeaux.
So lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera (and maybe a corkscrew) and get ready to fall in love with one of France’s most captivating cities.
Keep Exploring Bordeaux, France
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- What is Bordeaux, France Known For? - Learn more about the city's architecture, charm, food markets and medieval towns.
- When is the Best Time to Visit Bordeaux? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.
- What to Eat in Bordeaux - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
- What to Buy in Bordeaux - Discover the best souvenirs, from iconic bottles to handcrafted treasures.
