Bordeaux Full Day Wine Tour – 3 Wineries & Picnic Lunch

If you’re considering a day in Bordeaux dedicated to wine, this Full Day Wine Tour promises an engaging, relaxed look into the region’s best offerings. From visiting prestigious vineyards to wandering the medieval streets of Saint-Emilion, it’s designed to give you a taste of Bordeaux’s wine heritage alongside some beautiful scenery. We’ve looked into what travelers are saying and how the experience stacks up, so you can decide if it’s a fit for your trip.

Our favorite aspects include the chance to sample a diverse range of Bordeaux wines—from reds to whites and sparkling—and the opportunity to explore three distinct wineries. Plus, the guided walk through Saint-Emilion offers a charming glimpse of this UNESCO World Heritage site. A potential downside? The tour is quite structured, so if you’re someone who prefers super-flexible days or independent wine tasting, this might feel a little regimented. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized overview with expert guidance, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn without the fuss of planning.

Key Points

• In-depth wine tastings across three reputable Bordeaux wineries, including sparkling wine.
• Expert-guided experience that balances informative commentary with ample tasting time.
• Beautiful setting in the Graves and Saint-Emilion regions, with a chance to stroll through Saint-Emilion’s historic streets.
• Delicious picnic lunch featuring local cheeses, cured meats, and tarts, paired with Château wines.
• Small group size (max 8 participants), ensuring a personalized experience.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Day

This 8-hour guided tour is a thoughtful way to spend a day if you want to see multiple facets of Bordeaux’s wine scene without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple visits yourself. Starting at the Bordeaux Tourist Office, the journey kicks off with a scenic drive through the region’s vineyards, setting the tone with rolling views and a relaxed pace.

The first stop is a prestigious winery in the Graves region, where you’ll get to sample both red and white wines. The reviews mention that the wineries are high-quality and offer a good variety—”The wines of Graves and Saint-Emilion were especially elegant,” shared one happy guest. It’s a great way to understand the different expressions Bordeaux can produce.

Next, you’ll travel to Saint-Emilion—a fascinating medieval town that’s worth wandering even outside of the tour. As part of the experience, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch of local cheeses, cured meats, and salads, paired with a selection of wines from the vineyard. Many reviews, including one that called it “better than a busy restaurant,” highlight how this picnic adds a personal touch and a tasty break in the day’s itinerary.

Exploring Saint-Emilion

The visit to Saint-Emilion is a highlight for many. You’ll get a guided walk through the narrow streets, soaking up the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town’s postcard-worthy views and historical architecture make for memorable photos and a true sense of place. The tour includes a short shopping stop—perfect for picking up local wines or souvenirs.

One of the top praised aspects of the day is the guided commentary. Guides like Jonathans and Christelle are noted for their knowledge and engaging style, making the wine tastings informative without feeling like a lecture. “Jonathan’s passion for wine shines through,” one review says, and many appreciate the balance of education and fun.

The last vineyard visit takes place in either Pomerol or Saint-Emilion, where you’ll be welcomed for an exclusive tasting at a chateau. This final stop allows for a more intimate look at Bordeaux wines and helps cement your understanding of the region’s diversity.

Transportation & Group Size

Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, with a typical schedule allowing for around 1 hour between stops. The small group limit of 8 participants ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere. This setup is a big plus—your guide can tailor the experience and answer questions more readily than on larger tours.

Reviews emphasize the quality of the guides and drivers. “Clement was personable and knowledgeable,” one reviewer notes, highlighting how the courteous service really enhances the day. The tour runs on a strict schedule, so punctuality is important—appointments are time-sensitive, and the guide will leave if you’re late.

The Cost & Value

At $205 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—visits to three wineries, tastings of multiple wine styles (including sparkling), a scenic drive, and a gourmet picnic lunch. When you consider the quality of wine tastings, the personalized nature of the tour, and the inclusion of a guided walk, it’s a fair price for a comprehensive day out.

Reviewers consistently mention how much they learned and enjoyed—and many say it exceeded expectations. The variety of wines tasted (up to 10, including reds, whites, and bubbles) provides good value, especially considering the small-group setting and expert guides.

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Practical Details & Considerations

• The tour starts at the Bordeaux Tourist Office at 12 Cr du 30 juillet, with strict departure times.
• You’ll need comfortable shoes for walking, especially in Saint-Emilion’s cobblestone streets.
• The picnic lunch is mainly local cheeses, cured meats, and salads, so inform the tour operator of dietary needs beforehand.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pets, or wheelchair users due to accessibility issues.
• Luggage or large bags are not permitted on the tour, so plan accordingly.
• The experience is in English and French, and the small group size adds a friendly, intimate vibe.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for wine lovers who want a structured, educational day with expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and top-quality wines. It’s perfect if you love exploring charming villages like Saint-Emilion and enjoy tasting a variety of Bordeaux wines—reds, whites, and sparkling. The small group format makes it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience, and the pacing works well for those comfortable with walking and a full schedule.

If you’re traveling with kids under 12, pets, or have mobility restrictions, this tour might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you prefer a very flexible, independent day with less guided commentary, you may want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Bordeaux Full Day Wine Tour offers a balanced mix of vineyard visits, sightseeing, and tasting—all wrapped in a well-organized, friendly package. The combination of excellent guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to sample Bordeaux’s best wines makes it a strong choice for anyone looking to get a genuine taste of the region without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour will leave you feeling more knowledgeable about Bordeaux wines and with plenty of memorable moments—whether it’s the beautiful streets of Saint-Emilion, the flavor of a perfectly paired picnic, or that last exclusive château tasting. Highly recommended for curious wine fans and those wanting an authentic, small-group experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan is included for the entire day, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit three wineries—each offering a different style and experience, from prestigious châteaux to family-owned vineyards.

What’s the picnic lunch like?
The lunch includes local cheeses, cured meats, salads, and tarts, paired with wines from the wineries visited. Dietary requirements can be arranged if notified beforehand.

How many wine tastings are included?
Up to 10 tastings are included, covering red, white, and sparkling wines, giving you a good variety to enjoy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 or pets, mainly due to the nature of the visits and the walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just wear comfortable shoes and bring any dietary requirements to the tour operator. Be punctual—timing is strict.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging way to explore Bordeaux’s wine-rich landscape with expert guidance and a charming village stop, this tour hits most marks. It’s a thoughtful choice for those eager to deepen their wine knowledge while soaking in the region’s beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: