Bordeaux: St. Emilion Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Lunch

If you’re considering a day in Bordeaux that combines beautiful scenery, some of France’s best wines, and a chance to soak up a UNESCO-listed village, this St. Emilion day trip is worth a look. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, the reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a well-organized experience that seems to hit the sweet spot for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

Two things that stand out to us about this tour are the quality of the wine tastings—up to ten wines sampled in a relaxed, guided setting—and the charming village walk through Saint Emilion, with its medieval streets and stunning vistas. A possible drawback? The tour clocks in at around seven hours, so if you’re not into a full day of activity, it might feel a little packed. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive introduction to Bordeaux’s wine culture, this trip is likely to tick many boxes.

This experience seems especially suited to travelers who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable hosts and want a taste of both the countryside and the historic town. It’s not ideal for children under 16, but for adults keen on wine, scenery, and good company, it offers a memorable slice of Bordeaux.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, guided visits, tastings, and lunch.
• Up to ten wines tasted across two wineries and a wine shop.
• Beautiful scenery and historic charm in Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Expert guides who share insights into the region’s wines and history.
• Small group setting (limited to 8 participants) for more personal attention.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later features.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Bordeaux: St. Emilion Experience

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux and want to go beyond just tasting wine at a local shop, booking this day trip offers a chance to explore the heart of one of France’s most famous wine regions in a structured, engaging way. The 7-hour schedule includes visits to two wineries, a delightful picnic lunch, and a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Saint Emilion, giving you a well-rounded experience.

How the Day Unfolds

Your adventure begins in Bordeaux, where you’ll meet your guide at 26 Rue de la Devise. From there, it’s about 45 minutes in a comfortable van to reach your first winery. The drive itself offers a lovely preview of the grape-growing landscape, with rolling vineyards and scenic views. It’s worth noting that the small group size—only 8 people—means you’ll get a more personalized experience and plenty of chances to ask questions.

Visiting the Wineries

The first stop is a guided tour of a winery, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process, and the chance to taste several wines. Reviews from past participants highlight the generous hospitality and local expertise of the hosts. One reviewer noted, “The guides at each winery were so welcoming and knowledgeable,” which is key because wineries often have specific stories about their vineyards, terroir, and winemaking techniques that add depth to the tasting.

Following this, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at the château, which includes a glass of wine and a selection of cheese, bread, and charcuterie. Many reviews praise this part of the day as “delicious,” and a fantastic way to relax and enjoy the scenery. Considering the price, this lunch adds significant value—an authentic Provençal picnic with good wine in a stunning setting.

Next, the tour continues to a second winery for another guided visit and a second tasting session. The variety of wines—up to ten—means you’ll likely sample a range of styles, from more traditional blends to perhaps some more unique varietals, depending on the wineries visited.

Exploring Saint Emilion

The highlight for many is the walking tour of the village. Saint Emilion’s medieval architecture and winding streets make it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll. The town is UNESCO-listed, and many travelers comment on its charm and history. One review mentions, “Saint Emilion is so beautiful, with cobblestone streets and picturesque views,” making it clear why visitors are drawn back.

The guide often arranges a final wine tasting in the village, often in a wine shop, where you can browse and pick up bottles to take home. It’s a chance to see the diversity of wines from around the region and learn about their unique characteristics.

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Returning to Bordeaux

The day wraps up with a 45-minute van ride back to Bordeaux, arriving around evening time. Most reviews describe the trip as “well-paced” and “organized,” with many mentioning their appreciation for the informative guides who made the day educational and fun.

What Our Reviewers Say

Feedback from past travelers paints a pretty positive picture. They highlight the guides’ knowledge, the quality of the wines, and the beautiful scenery. One reviewer noted, “Dante was an excellent guide, and the wineries were very generous,” while another shared that they “learned so much about wine from our guide, Yev.” Many rave about the welcoming attitude of the winery hosts and the delicious lunch, describing it as a highlight.

Some travelers mention minor inconveniences, like the van being small for 8 people or the price seeming steep at first glance. However, most agree that the value is solid considering the number of tastings, the guided visits, and the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip works best for adults who enjoy wine and history, and who prefer a guided experience over independent exploring. It’s perfect for those wanting a rundown of Saint Emilion, without the hassle of organizing transport and tastings themselves. If you’re into small-group tours with personalized attention, you’ll find this very appealing.

While not suitable for children under 16, it offers an immersive experience for couples, friends, or groups of wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their appreciation of Bordeaux’s best offerings.

The Balance of Price and Value

At $211 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest day trip, but considering the guided tours at two wineries, multiple tastings, the picnic lunch, and the expert guide, many find it justifiable. Several reviews describe it as “worth the money” and “very well organized,” emphasizing the quality of the visits and the friendliness of the hosts.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Bordeaux’s wine region, with expert guides, beautiful scenery, and plenty of tastings, this Saint Emilion day trip offers a dependable and enjoyable option. The small group size ensures more personal interaction, making it easier to ask questions and really connect with the experience.

The combination of guided winery visits, a charming village walk, and a delicious picnic make this a fulfilling day for those who want more than just wine tasting—they want to understand the region’s culture, history, and what makes its wines so special.

This tour is especially recommended if you value good organization, knowledgeable hosts, and authentic experiences. It’s a solid choice for those who realize that exploring Bordeaux’s wine country is about more than just the tasting—it’s about the stories, the scenery, and the people behind each glass.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from Bordeaux, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

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

Is this tour suitable for families?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 16, mainly because of the wine tastings and adult-oriented activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since you’ll be walking around Saint Emilion and visiting vineyards.

Are the wine tastings at wineries extensive?
Yes, you will taste up to ten different wines across the two wineries and a wine shop, providing a broad experience of regional varietals.

If your idea of a perfect day involves discovering beautiful villages, sampling fantastic wines, and learning from passionate guides, this Bordeaux: St. Emilion trip might just be what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: