Thinking about spending a day enjoying Bordeaux’s celebrated wine culture? This full-day wine tour from Bordeaux promises to take you through some of the most scenic vineyards, with visits to three different wineries, a gourmet picnic, and a charming stroll through the UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion village.
It’s a package designed for wine lovers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive experience, with plenty of tastings and a chance to appreciate the region’s diversity.
What we really like about this experience? First, the small-group setting means you’ll get much more attention from your guide than on larger tours, often leading to more personalized insights. Second, the gourmet picnic lunch in the vineyards is a highlight, offering a real taste of local produce paired with estate wines—not just a quick snack, but a proper, memorable meal in stunning surroundings.
Francois was an incredible guide. He knew as much-if not more- than the guides at the vineyards we stopped at. The tour was exceptionally well planned, from the easy pickup in central Bordeaux to the thoughtfully chosen stops throughout the day. Francois was extremely knowledgeable, not only about the specific regions we visited, but about wine overall. From exploring vineyards south of Bordeaux to traveling east into Saint-Émilion—visiting both the town and two vineyards—every part of the experience felt intentional. The highlight was a wonderful stop at a second-generation, family-run vineyard (Systey) paired with a delicious picnic. It was truly a day well spent. Francois was also ve…
Excellent wine tour. Our guide was a sommelier who was very knowledgeable and helpful. We enjoyed going to small wineries and talking with the winemakers.
Perfect day! Exactly as advertised. Enjoyed our guide who was very knowledgable. The three chateaus we visited were lovely.
However, a word of caution—this is a full-day tour lasting about 9 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and a fair amount of walking and standing. Also, the tour is tailored mostly for those over 18, given the wine tasting element, so it’s not ideal for families with young children.
If you’re serious about Bordeaux wine, enjoy beautiful scenery, and want a well-rounded experience that includes both guided tastings and free time to explore, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s particularly good if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more intimate, engaging way to learn about the region.
- Key Points
- The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
- Starting in Bordeaux
- First Stop: Pessac-Léognan & Graves Wineries
- Lunch in the Vines
- Saint-Emilion Exploration
- Final Winery: Pomerol or Saint-Emilion
- Returning to Bordeaux
- What Sets This Tour Apart
- Personalized Approach & Small Group Size
- Expert Guides and Friendly Hosts
- The Gourmet Picnic Lunch
- Value for Money
- Practical Details That Matter
- Duration & Comfort
- Booking & Planning
- Cost & What’s Included
- Accessibility & Group Size
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- FAQ: Your Questions Answered
- Final Thoughts
- More Wine Tours in Bordeaux
- More Tours in Bordeaux
- More Tour Reviews in Bordeaux
Key Points
- Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 people enhances personalized attention.
- All-inclusive tastings and lunch mean you won’t need to worry about extra costs during the day.
- Visits to three wineries, including a family-owned estate, offer diverse wine styles and insights.
- Walking tour of Saint-Emilion gives a charming peek into one of France’s most picturesque villages.
Expert guides like Clem, Nate, and Mel make the experience friendly, informative, and engaging.
- Good value considering the number of tastings, lunch, and the overall experience, especially when booked in advance.
The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
You can also read our reviews of more wine tours in Bordeaux
Starting in Bordeaux
Your day kicks off at the Bordeaux Tourist Office around 9:05 am. Meeting your guide here is straightforward, especially if you’re staying nearby or using public transit. It’s a simple start, but it sets the tone for a well-organized day.
This tour was fun and informative. Our guide, Lola, was fantastic. She was high energy and funny but also had a lot of knowledge about wine. I appreciated that she contributed to the explanations at the wineries. The three wineries we visited provided a good variation to try different styles. The lunch at the second winery after the tasting was very nice and was accompanied by some wine. We also had some free time in St. Emilion to walk around the village, which was a pleasant stop. I would definitely recommend this tour.
In addition to this being a great day tour, I felt like I received quite the education in the field of wine. Wine tasting, wine making, wineries, etc. Gilbert, our guide, was magnificent. I look forward to another tour with him.
Gilbert was very knowledgeable about wine and the history of the region. He lives in St. Emilion and was able to show us many interesting places.
First Stop: Pessac-Léognan & Graves Wineries
The drive out of Bordeaux immediately transports you into a different world—vine-covered hills and peaceful countryside. Your guide will take you to Pessac-Léognan or Graves, renowned for both red and white wines. These areas produce some of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wines; expect to visit a highly regarded estate for a tasting that lasts over two hours.
The reviews highlight how engaging guides like Clem or Nate make these visits particularly enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned that the guides are “super informative, friendly, and polite,” making the experience feel more like a friendly chat than a formal tasting. You’ll taste both reds and whites, with insights into what makes Bordeaux wines unique—such as the terroir and winemaking techniques.
Lunch in the Vines
Next, you’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic-style lunch at a château, paired with wines selected by the estate. The meal typically includes charcuterie, cheeses, and locally made produce. It’s a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and sample more Bordeaux wines. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this part, calling it a “standout” experience.
For example, one reviewer said, “the lunch was authentic and a nice selection of wines,” adding that it was a great way to break up the day.
We had a wonderful day with our tour guide, Alex. He was entertaining and informative. We visited three wineries and lots of tastings! Picnic lunch at one was fun. A stopover in St. Emillion was a treat. Highly recommend if visiting Bordeaux.
I cannot recommend this tour enough. We did the full day tour with Alex, who had a wonderful, fun energy and is incredibly knowledgeable about the history and wine of the region. He took us to three very different wineries for an amazing and well- rounded experience. We wouldn’t hesitate to book again – thanks, Alex!
Amazing experience! Tried 10 different wines and had a lovely picnic lunch outside. Ben stopped to show us a stunning view and was very knowledgeable.
Saint-Emilion Exploration
After lunch, it’s time to wander the medieval streets of Saint-Emilion. This UNESCO-listed village is undoubtedly a highlight—think cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and vineyards everywhere. Your guide will give you a short, guided walking tour, pointing out key sights and sharing stories about the town’s history and its wine heritage.
Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and taking photos. Many travelers talk about Saint-Emilion being a “highlight,” and reviews consistently praise the charming streets and local vibe. It’s a perfect blend of sightseeing and wine appreciation.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bordeaux
Final Winery: Pomerol or Saint-Emilion
The tour wraps up with a visit to a château in Pomerol or Saint-Emilion, where you’ll enjoy one last exclusive tasting. These visits tend to be more intimate, often hosted by the family or the owner themselves, providing a real behind-the-scenes feel. One reviewer called the last stop “stellar,” highlighting how the host’s knowledge and friendliness made the experience memorable.
Returning to Bordeaux
After a full day of wine, views, and stories, your guide will bring you back to the starting point around 5 pm. It’s a well-paced schedule, with enough time at each stop to enjoy and learn without feeling rushed.
Fantastic tour!!! François was our tour guide and he was honestly the most educated sommelier I have met – truly knowledgeable and passionate about wine. I enjoyed learning about the history of wine in the Bordeaux area, the importance of supporting family owned wineries and how to pair wine. A wealth knowledge, on time, delicious picnic lunch, comfortable van with small group size of 8. I never write reviews but wanted to highlight that this one is worth taking. It started at 905 and even as we were driving to the wineries he told us about the history of Bordeaux and pointed out important landmarks. We had the opportunity to visit 3 very different vineyards and even a delicious gelato pl…
Very informative and fun activity! Our guide was super friendly and all the wineries we visited had amazing wines
Absolutely amazing tour! Lucille was out tour guide and was a delight to spend the day with! Very informative! The chateaus visited were beautiful and the wine was delicious! Great tour!
What Sets This Tour Apart
Personalized Approach & Small Group Size
One of the most praised aspects is the small group size, capped at 8 people. This creates a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing guides to tailor the experience, answer questions, and foster a sense of camaraderie. Multiple reviews mention how “the guide made everyone feel comfortable,” and how the intimacy enhanced the experience.
Expert Guides and Friendly Hosts
From Clem to Mel to Nate, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. They’re not just there to pour wine; they’re there to share stories, explain nuances, and keep the mood lively. One traveler said, “Annabelle kept the tour fun while being educational,” embodying the balance most guides strike well.
The Gourmet Picnic Lunch
The lunch in the vines is often highlighted as a highlight—authentic, well-made, and paired with quality wines. It’s a rare treat to get such a meal in a vineyard setting rather than just a quick snack, making this tour feel like an indulgent day rather than a rushed trip.
Value for Money
Considering the all-inclusive tastings, lunch, transportation, and guided experience, many reviews rate it as great value. The price of around $202.75 per person is reasonable for what you get, especially if you’re looking for a comprehensive, yet relaxed, Bordeaux wine adventure.
Great wine tasting at three wineries with lunch served. We toured the medieval town of Saint-Emillion too! Our guide was great, Clement I think.
The tour guide is knowledgeable and considerate. The picnic is also recommended, which i can try the food from local farm. The whole tour is fun and experienced different types of chateau!
We had an absolutely fantastic full-day wine tour in Bordeaux this May, and we can’t recommend Bordeaux Wine Trails enough! The experience was perfectly paced, incredibly informative, and a true highlight of our trip to France. Our guide, Jonathan, was everything you’d want in a host — easy-going, knowledgeable, and full of great tips not just about wine, but about Bordeaux itself. His passion and insight made the entire day feel both relaxed and enriching. We visited three charming vineyards, each with its own unique story and wine-making style. We sampled around a dozen different wines, mostly reds (as you'd expect in Bordeaux), but with a couple lovely whites and rosés as well. The…
Practical Details That Matter
Duration & Comfort
At roughly 9 hours long, this is a full-day experience, so wear comfortable shoes and plan for a day on your feet. The transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, which adds comfort, particularly during warmer months or in summer. The small group size means less waiting and more interaction.
Booking & Planning
Most travelers book about 74 days in advance, which is a good sign that it’s popular and worth planning early. The tour departs promptly at 9:05 am, so being on time is crucial. They recommend wearing comfortable shoes—Saint-Emilion’s cobbled streets can be uneven—and mention that vegetarian and gluten-free options are available if requested 72 hours ahead.
Cost & What’s Included
The price covers transportation, guide, visits, tastings, and lunch. It’s a pretty comprehensive package, so the only extra you might want to bring is bottled water—since they no longer provide it to reduce environmental impact.
Accessibility & Group Size
With a cap of 8 travelers, this is a cozy, personalized experience. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible if you’re staying in Bordeaux city center.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Bordeaux's different sub-regions without the hassle of planning individual visits. Its small-group format is perfect if you value personal attention and a relaxed pace. The gourmet picnic makes it attractive for foodies who appreciate pairing local cuisine with wine.
It's also suited for travelers who want a rundown in one day—the combination of wine tastings, sightseeing, and a charming village visit makes for a well-rounded trip. While not designed for families with young children, wine-drinking adults will find it both educational and enjoyable. If you're traveling solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit three wineries during the day, including a prestigious estate and a family-owned vineyard, with tastings at each.
What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, a local guide, up to 10 tastings, and a gourmet picnic lunch with wine.
Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available if requested 72 hours before the tour. Vegan options aren’t guaranteed, so check in advance.
How long is each stop?
Expect to spend around 2 hours at each winery, plus an hour exploring Saint-Emilion, with some variation depending on the day.
What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Booking early is recommended, especially if you want specific dietary accommodations. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your own water if desired.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s not suitable for children or teenagers.
What about the travel time?
The tour starts and ends in Bordeaux city center, with most of the day spent in the countryside and Saint-Emilion.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Bordeaux Full Day Wine Tour – 3 Wineries & Gourmet Picnic Lunch
"Francois was an incredible guide. He knew as much-if not more- than the guides at the vineyards we stopped at. The tour was exceptionally well plan..."
Final Thoughts
This Bordeaux full-day wine tour offers a balanced mix of scenic vineyard visits, expert-guided tastings, and charming sightseeing, all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting.
It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed experience without the feeling of rushing from place to place. The inclusion of a gourmet picnic in the vineyards adds a special touch that elevates the whole day.
If you’re eager to learn about Bordeaux wines, explore Saint-Emilion’s cobblestone streets, and enjoy local flavors in an authentic setting, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a thoughtfully curated way to spend a day in Bordeaux—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a memorable wine adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler wanting a taste of Bordeaux’s culinary and vinicultural treasures, this tour offers a well-rounded and genuine experience. It’s about quality, comfort, and discovering the region’s true essence, all in one satisfying package.
