A sunny day among the vines at Les Sources de Caudalie, Smith Haut Lafitte, perfect for a Bordeaux wine holiday experience

December 26, 2024

Bordeaux Wine Holidays: What to do, where to stay and when to visit

Senior Travel Designer

Bordeaux isn’t just a destination — it’s the epicentre of the wine world. And if you’re looking for the ultimate tasting weekend, a Bordeaux wine holiday should be at the top of the list.

Home to the most sought-after Cabernet and Merlot blends, this iconic region is a must-visit holiday destination for anyone passionate about wine.

Thanks to France’s high-speed TGV line from Paris to Bordeaux, it’s never been easier to explore the wine world’s capital. Whether cycling through picturesque vineyards, sipping your way through a private French wine tour, or making it a highlight of a longer adventure, Bordeaux is a viticultural experience like no other. Simply put, it’s unmissable.

Best Bordeaux vineyards

You can’t go wrong with a wine tasting holiday Bordeaux. If you’re looking to brush up on the very best vineyards to visit while you’re here, we’ve got you covered.

On the Left Bank, the Médoc is celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon-based blends. These wines are bold, tannic and structured. Esteemed appellations include Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Margaux, with standout châteaux including Château Palmer, Château Pontet-Canet, and Pichon Baron. Graves and Sauternes, also on the Left Bank, are famed for dry whites and sweet wines made from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.

On the Right Bank, Saint-Émilion and Pomerol offer a different charm. Here, Merlot-dominant blends that are lighter, floral and fruit-forward reign supreme. Top estates here include Château Canon-la-Gaffelière, Château Troplong-Mondot, and Château Angélus.

Things to do in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city and region brimming with culture, history and unforgettable experiences. At SmoothRed, we combine all three with unmatched wine tasting experiences. After you first get in touch, our expert Travel Designers will work closely with you to craft the perfect itinerary. Keep reading for a taste of what you could expect.

Start in Bordeaux City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can stroll along the Garonne River, and visit a wide range of historic and cultural attractions. Foodies will adore the city’s bustling markets – we’re big fans of Marché des Capucins and its Michelin-starred dining scene.

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Bordeaux Attractions

The city of Bordeaux itself is a treasure trove of sights, from the 18th-century Place de la Bourse and its enchanting Miroir d’Eau to the awe-inspiring Bordeaux Cathedral. Art lovers should head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, with an unforgettable collection of classics. Or there is the CAPC Contemporary Art Museum for those with more modern taste.

As wine travel specialists, we’d be remiss not to recommend an afternoon amongst the immersive exhibits at the Cité du Vin. An impressive and organic flowing structure, it offers interactive insight into the ancient and modern culture of winemaking – a perfect complement to your tastings.

Where to pair with Bordeaux

For those keen to explore further, a day trip to Saint-Émilion is unmissable. Wander through its medieval streets, visit its monolithic church and sip wine in the shadow of centuries-old vineyards. One of our must-dos? A leisurely lunch at Les Belles Perdrix, a Michelin-starred gem tucked in the heart of the village. Ask for a table right by the bay windows and make sure to save room for dessert — chef Adrien Salavert’s pastries are a true highlight.

Alternatively, you could head west to the Bay of Arcachon for fresh oysters, sandy beaches and panoramic views from the Dune of Pilat. Pair your oysters with a crisp, citrusy Entre-Deux-Mers white wine — a local favourite that perfectly complements the briny notes of the seafood.

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Bordeaux wine holidays: Our top trips

The Classic Bordeaux Wine Holiday Experience

Immerse yourself in the charm of Bordeaux with this three-day Bordeaux Wine Experience. Begin by exploring the vibrant streets of Bordeaux City before venturing into the Médoc region for a private wine tour.

Discover legendary vineyards, enjoy tastings at prestigious châteaux and soak up the beauty of the Bordelaise countryside. Perfect for both wine novices and seasoned connoisseurs, this tour is an affordable and enriching way to experience Bordeaux’s winemaking heritage. From £881pp.

The One-Day Fly-By Tour

If you’re after something a little more intimate – and luxurious – there’s always our fly-by, one-day gourmet tour. Fly from London and head straight to the Médoc for exclusive tastings at an esteemed Pauillac château.

Dig into a gourmet three-course meal paired with exceptional wines at a vineyard restaurant before visiting another iconic château. With optional private jet upgrades, this is the ultimate whirlwind tour for those craving an indulgent escape. From £788pp.

The Saint-Émilion Cycling Adventure

For the active wine lover, this cycling tour of Saint-Émilion is a perfect blend of adventure and indulgence. Pedal through stunning vineyards, stopping for tastings at celebrated châteaux along the way.

Enjoy al fresco lunches in picturesque winery gardens and unwind each evening at a boutique hotel in the heart of Bordeaux City. It’s a refreshing and immersive way to explore Bordeaux’s renowned terroirs from a new perspective. From £449pp.

The Full Bordeaux Luxury Experience

Looking to go all out? Experience Bordeaux at its very best with this five-day luxury escape. Part of our French Luxury Collection, you’ll stay at a vinotherapy spa hotel in the Smith Haut Lafitte vineyards, where you’ll enjoy private tastings and a countryside tour.

Feast upon a two-star Michelin dining experience with expertly paired wines, then retreat to the romantic seaside town of Arcachon. Relax in a five-star hotel as you explore the Bay of Arcachon’s coastal charm. When it comes to the best Bordeaux wine holidays, this trip truly is the region at its finest. From £2,950pp.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux Wine Holidays

When should I visit Bordeaux wineries?

The best time to visit Bordeaux wineries is during the harvest season from September to October, when the vineyards are their most beautiful, and winemaking is in full swing. For fewer crowds and a relaxed pace, we recommend choosing May or June, when the vines bloom and tours are readily available.

What time of year is best for Bordeaux?

Late spring to early autumn (May – October) is the best time to visit Bordeaux. The weather is mild, vineyards are at their peak and events like the Bordeaux Wine Festival promise a brilliant Bordeaux wine holiday for all. Autumn, during the harvest, is particularly magical for wine lovers looking for a deeper experience.

Where is Bordeaux wine festival?

The Bordeaux Wine Festival takes place along the scenic Garonne River in Bordeaux City. Held biennially, this must-visit event features tastings, food pairings and plenty of cultural activities, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. It’s the perfect time of year for a Bordeaux wine holiday.

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Here at SmoothRed, our expert Travel Designers are on-hand to craft the perfect trip to Bordeaux and beyond. Get in touch today to start planning your dream holiday now.