Bordeaux: Saint-Emilion and Medoc Full-Day Wine Experience

Planning a day trip that combines wine tasting, historic charm, and scenic views in Bordeaux? This full-day experience, offered by Olala Bordeaux, promises just that — and surprisingly, it lives up to the hype. With a solid rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 545 reviews, this tour consistently wins hearts for its knowledgeable guides, quality wines, and beautiful settings.

We love how this experience manages to balance education with fun, making it suitable whether you’re a dedicated wine aficionado or just curious about Bordeaux’s famed vineyards. The small group size often means more personal attention and a relaxed vibe. The highlight for many? Tasting 8 different wines across three wineries paired with a delicious picnic.

However, a potential consideration is the full-day length of around 8.5 hours, which might be a long stretch for some, especially if you’re not used to such active touring. Also, this tour is not ideal for children under 16, focusing primarily on adult wine enthusiasts. For those who love history, scenic drives, and top-tier wines without the hassle of planning, this tour really hits the mark.

If you enjoy learning about wine, visiting scenic villages, or simply want a well-organized day exploring Bordeaux’s best vineyards, this experience might be perfect. It’s especially great for those who appreciate local food, as it includes a picnic with fresh products and regional charcuterie.

Key Points

• Small group setting ensures more personalized attention and an intimate experience.
• Visits to 3 wineries with guided tastings provide a comprehensive look at Bordeaux’s diverse wine styles.
• Highlight visits include the UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion village and a photo stop at Château Margaux.
• Delicious picnic lunch in a Château, pairing regional specialties with a glass of wine.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with in-depth knowledge and friendly commentary.
• Transportation by air-conditioned minivan makes the day comfortable and hassle-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Bordeaux’s Top Wine Regions in a Day

This tour hits the sweet spot for anyone eager to see both banks of Bordeaux in one go. You’ll start by heading to Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its picturesque streets and historical ruins. Here, the tour includes a guided walk through the village, giving you a chance to appreciate its medieval charm and learn about its significance in Bordeaux wine culture.

The real highlight in Saint-Emilion is the visit to a Château where you’ll taste 3 wines and learn about the unique aspects of Saint-Emilion wine production. The guide often shares insider insights, making each tasting more meaningful. The picnic lunch served at this Château is a standout: fresh, regional products, including Basque charcuterie and cheese, all enjoyed outdoors with a glass of local wine.

Post-lunch, the tour heads over to the Médoc region, famous for its prestigious Château Margaux. This part of the day features a visit to a family-run winery with a tasting of another 3 wines. The guides at these wineries are often personable and eager to share their love of winemaking, which many guests have noted as a highlight. You also get to snap photos at Château Margaux, adding a special touch to the experience.

The final stop is at a classified estate from 1855, where a guided tasting provides deeper insights into Bordeaux’s famed wine classification system, enriching your understanding of what makes Bordeaux wine so notable worldwide.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, who are not only friendly but also deeply informed about Bordeaux’s wine regions, history, and the production process. As one reviewer put it, “Jeremy was an exceptional guide; his knowledge of wine was fantastic.” This makes a genuine difference, especially for those looking to learn rather than just taste.

The variety of wineries offers a good mix of small, family-run estates and grand, historic châteaux. This variety ensures you get a well-rounded picture of Bordeaux wines and the chance to compare different styles and traditions. Plus, the inclusion of a photo stop at Château Margaux is a real treat for lovers of iconic wine estates.

The lunch in a scenic outdoor setting is consistently praised. It’s a carefully curated picnic, emphasizing local flavors, and paired with a glass of wine, it feels like a special moment amid the vineyard surroundings. Guests often mention the food as “fresh and tasty,” enhancing the overall value of the tour.

Transportation & Duration

The tour uses an air-conditioned minivan, which keeps everyone comfortable during the roughly 8.5-hour duration. Some reviews mention that the van can get a bit noisy or that it’s sometimes hard to hear the guide from the back seats, so bringing a portable speaker or asking for a front seat can help. The small group (limited to 8) helps keep the experience intimate, but it also means early arrival is key to securing a spot.

Starting from the Bordeaux city center, the pick-up spot at Olala Bordeaux is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or traveling by tram. The schedule is flexible, and you can reserve with the peace of mind that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Real Value for You

Considering the cost of around $211 per person, this tour offers a lot. It’s not just about tasting wine; it’s about understanding Bordeaux’s wine culture, strolling through historic villages, and enjoying a relaxing day with knowledgeable guides. The variety of wines, the scenic routes, and the included lunch elevate it beyond a simple tasting trip.

Many guests, including seasoned wine enthusiasts and first-timers, have raved about the friendly guides and the quality of the wines. The tour’s focus on region diversity—visiting both Saint-Emilion and Médoc—means you get a broad perspective that’s hard to replicate on your own.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re someone who appreciates good wine, wants to see both the Right and Left Banks of Bordeaux, and enjoys learning about the wines and history of the region. The small group size suits travelers who prefer a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. It’s also a good choice if you’re keen on scenic villages and beautiful châteaux.

However, if you’re traveling with children under 16 or seeking a more casual, less structured experience, this might not be the best fit. Also, for those with limited mobility or who prefer a shorter excursion, the full-day length might be challenging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are very knowledgeable and explain the wine-making process in an accessible way. Even if you’re new to wine, you’ll learn a lot and enjoy the tastings.

How many wines will I taste?
You’ll taste a total of 8 glasses across three wineries, with three wines at each visit, plus a glass at the picnic.

What’s included in the picnic?
It’s a selection of fresh local products, including Basque country charcuterie, cheese, and regional specialties, served outdoors at a Château with a glass of wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Are the wineries family-friendly?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 16, as it’s focused on wine tasting and adult experiences.

How comfortable is the transportation?
The tour uses an air-conditioned minivan, which many guests find comfortable. Keep in mind that some reviews mention difficulty hearing the guide from the back seats.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around villages and wineries. Also, a reusable water bottle helps stay hydrated throughout the day.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is available in English and French, with guides capable of delivering the experience in both languages.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux wine tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore some of the region’s most celebrated vineyards and villages. It’s perfect for travelers eager to deepen their knowledge of Bordeaux wines while enjoying beautiful scenery and good company. The combination of guided visits, tastings, a scenic village walk, and a picnic makes for a memorable day.

While it’s a full-day commitment, many find the experience worth every minute, especially with the expert guides and the chance to taste a variety of wines from both Bordeaux banks. If you’re looking for an authentic, educational, and delicious way to spend a day in Bordeaux, this tour is definitely worth considering.

In Summary

• Ideal for wine lovers and curious travelers wanting a comprehensive Bordeaux experience
• Small-group format fosters intimacy and personalized attention
• Visits to 3 wineries plus the UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion village
• An included picnic adds regional flavor and a relaxed vibe
• Expert guides make the learning engaging and accessible
• Full-day length offers a rich, immersive experience—be prepared for a long but rewarding day

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to learn more about Bordeaux’s famous wines, this tour is a great way to see the region without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: