Bordeaux: Wine, Sweet and Savory Food Walking Tour

If you’re considering a way to truly get to know Bordeaux, this Wine, Sweet and Savory Food Walking Tour from Original Food Tours offers a taste of the city’s culinary and vinous delights, all wrapped into a three-hour journey. While we haven’t personally been on it, the reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, engaging way to explore Bordeaux’s iconic food scene and historic streets.

Two things we really like about this tour are its small group size, which promises a more personalized experience, and the expert local guide who’s passionate about sharing Bordeaux’s hidden gems. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to plan your start and end points, which isn’t a big deal if you’re already in the city center.

This tour seems particularly suited for travelers who enjoy sampling both food and wine in a relaxed, friendly setting, and who appreciate learning about local traditions through guided storytelling. If you’re hungry for a well-rounded taste of Bordeaux beyond just the wine, this might just hit the spot.

Key Points

• Explores both sides of Bordeaux—the historic old town and the more modern part of the city
• Includes tastings of food and wine, offering a complete culinary experience
• Led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about Bordeaux’s gastronomy and history
• Small group setting enhances interaction and personal attention
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Ideal for foodies and wine lovers looking for a compact yet comprehensive tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Bordeaux Food and Wine Walk

From the moment you join this three-hour adventure, you’ll get a chance to see both sides of Bordeaux—the charming, UNESCO-listed old town and the newer, more contemporary parts of the city. The tour is designed to highlight Bordeaux’s long-standing wine tradition, which dates back nearly 2,000 years, starting with Roman vineyards. You’ll learn how the region’s wines, especially during the Middle Ages, gained fame on the English market thanks to Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry Plantagenet, giving Bordeaux its status as a world-renowned wine hub today.

The tour begins at a central meeting point, 12 Cours du 30 Juillet, which is conveniently located for most travelers staying in Bordeaux. From there, your guide, a local food and wine expert, will lead your small group through the lively streets, pointing out iconic spots and sharing stories about Bordeaux’s history, culture, and gastronomy.

Visiting Both Sides of Bordeaux

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on covering both the old town and the modern city. Expect to stroll through historic squares, admire architectural marvels, and visit popular food spots that are favorites among locals. These stops are carefully selected to showcase Bordeaux’s artisan food establishments—think gourmet shops, traditional markets, and cozy cafes.

Your guide will help you understand the significance of each place, making history and culture come alive. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) means you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.

Food and Drink Tastings

The core of the tour is the food and drink tastings. While the specifics aren’t detailed, reviews highlight the quality and variety—expect to try a mix of sweet and savory items, plus some of Bordeaux’s signature wines. The guide’s expertise shines in selecting authentic, well-paired foods and wines that showcase the region’s best.

One reviewer mentioned trying new foods and cheeses they hadn’t encountered before, which suggests the tastings are both delicious and educational. Others appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guide (Marie and Margot have been praised for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills).

The Experience for Travelers

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy hopping into different shops and tasting rooms, sampling local specialties while learning about their origins. The interactive nature is especially appealing, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone eager to explore Bordeaux’s culinary scene.

Since the tour is only 3 hours, it’s quite manageable even for those with tight schedules. Plus, the cost of $126 per person seems reasonable considering the quality of tastings and personal guidance, especially if you value a curated, insider perspective.

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The Value of Guided Food and Wine Tours

Many reviews note how guides enhance the experience—Marie, Deone’s guide, was “very knowledgeable and passionate,” and Margot was praised for her storytelling and shop knowledge. This personalized element turns what could be a simple tasting into a much richer learning experience. You’re not just sampling—you’re hearing stories, discovering local traditions, and understanding Bordeaux’s gourmet culture.

Another reviewer mentioned trying a lot of new food and cheese, indicating that the tour balances familiar favorites with local specialties. That kind of variety makes the experience more memorable and worthwhile.

Practical Details and Considerations

Since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, you’ll want to plan your meeting point at 12 Cours du 30 Juillet. The tour runs in a small group setting, limited to 10 people, which is perfect for those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere rather than large crowds.

The duration of 3 hours makes it easy to fit into a day of exploring Bordeaux without feeling overwhelmed. You’ll be walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended, especially as you’ll be covering different parts of the city.

Booking is flexible—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—which is great if your plans change unexpectedly. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you peace of mind.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for food and wine enthusiasts who enjoy guided explorations, are curious about Bordeaux’s culinary scene, and want a taste of local life. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small-group settings for a more personal touch.

If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling and expert insights, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children or teenagers with an interest in food and wine could enjoy it as well.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a balanced, engaging introduction to Bordeaux’s food and wine culture, this tour hits many of the right notes. The combination of delicious tastings, expert guides, and the chance to see both sides of town makes it a worthwhile addition to your Bordeaux itinerary.

While it doesn’t include transport or extensive time, the value lies in the quality of the experience—tasteful, educational, and friendly. If you want to understand Bordeaux’s culinary soul beyond just visiting vineyards, this tour offers a cozy, insightful taste.

It’s a fantastic option for culinary travelers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to connect with Bordeaux’s local flavors in a relaxed setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
The tour offers food and drink tastings, but specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed. If you have particular needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly to see if they can tailor the experience.

How much of Bordeaux will I see during this tour?
You’ll visit both the old town and the modern city, exploring iconic places and local food spots. The focus is on the culinary side, but you’ll get a good sense of the city’s vibe and history along the way.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the cost covers food and drink tastings, as well as the guidance of a local expert. Expect to try a variety of sweet and savory items and regional wines.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, making for a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guide.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour good for someone who doesn’t drink wine?
While wine tastings are included, the focus is on both food and wine. If you’re not a wine drinker, you can still enjoy the food tastings and the guided city walk.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just comfortable shoes and an appetite for discovering local flavors. The meeting point is central, so plan to arrive ready to explore and taste.

Overall, if you’re looking for a friendly, flavorful way to experience Bordeaux, this Wine, Sweet and Savory Food Walking Tour seems like a dependable choice—informative, delicious, and well-reviewed.

You can check availability for your dates here: