How to See Bordeaux in 5 Days: Things to Do & See Itinerary
Wondering if 5 days in Bordeaux is enough? Not sure what to see or do?
This is your guide to spending five perfect days in Bordeaux, complete with a detailed itinerary and practical tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. From must-see attractions to hidden gems, we’ve got you covered on how to experience the best of Bordeaux, stress-free and full of fun discoveries.
Bordeaux is in France’s renowned wine country. It is a city that blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. Known for its elegant architecture, world-class vineyards, and rich cultural scene, Bordeaux offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
This daily itinerary is based on our experiences in Bordeaux. Feel free to adjust it to create a personalized adventure that fits your style.
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5 Days in Bordeaux: Things to Do & See Itinerary
This 5-day itinerary will guide you through the best places to visit within the city, as well as suggest tours and day trips to the surrounding vineyards and charming nearby towns. Get ready to immerse yourself in the essence of Bordeaux!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Historic Heart of Bordeaux
You can reach Bordeaux via the train station (Gare Saint-Jean) or Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport. We took the TGV from Paris to Gare Saint-Jean, enjoying a fast and scenic ride through the countryside. Our friends flew in from the UK to Bordeaux and conveniently took the tram from the airport to meet us at the train station.
We found that Bordeaux is easy to explore without a car, thanks to its efficient tram system. The tram stop is outside the train station and tickets can be purchased at the kiosk on the platform. Depending on where you are staying in Bordeaux, below is a map of the tram lines.
Once you have settled into your accommodations, it is time to explore the city. Bordeaux is an easy city for walking.
Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul Areas
You can explore the historic heart of Bordeaux around the Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul areas on foot. These neighborhoods are rich in history and offer charming streets to wander. Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Place de la Bourse and Miroir d’Eau
Along the Garonne River stands the Place de la Bourse, an 18th-century masterpiece of neoclassical French architecture. Directly opposite is the Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
On sunny days, it offers a stunning reflection of the Place de la Bourse, creating a breathtaking visual effect. The shallow water and intermittent misting make it an ideal spot to relax and take in the amazing views.
Grosse Cloche (The Big Bell)
You can visit the Grosse Cloche, the city’s belfry and the only remaining part of the 13th-century defensive gate. The golden lion, on top, symbolizes the kings of England, who owned Bordeaux for 300 years.
Snacks and Wine Tasting
Be sure to enjoy a treat from a local bakery or pastry shop, where you’ll find an array of beautiful pastries to choose from. Additionally, make time to visit a wine bar and sample a variety of wines from the Bordeaux region. We particularly enjoyed several glasses of wine and cheeseboards at La Talenquère, sitting outside near the Église Saint-Pierre.
Day 2: Walking Tour of the City and Cité du Vin
The best way to truly understand a city is by exploring it on a walking tour led by a local guide. These tours are incredibly informative, allowing you to discover hidden gems and decide which sites you want to revisit later. For a perfect start to your day in Bordeaux, consider a morning Private Guided Walking Tour with Sophia. You can tailor the tour to your interests or simply enjoy her expert recommendations.
➡️ Book A Private Walking Tour with Sophia
Here are some of the places you will see during your walking tour, which you can also explore on your own, if you prefer to discover the city without a guide.
Monument aux Girondins and Esplanade des Quinconces
The Monument aux Girondins, a prominent landmark in Bordeaux, stands as a tribute to the victims of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. This impressive monument features a tall column topped with a statue of Liberty breaking its chains, surrounded by ornate fountains and sculptures representing the triumph of the Republic.
It is located on the expansive Esplanade des Quinconces, one of the largest city squares in Europe. The Esplanade, with its tree-lined paths and open spaces, serves as a central hub for cultural events, festivals, and leisurely strolls.
Flatiron Building and Carousel
The Flatiron Building, locally known as La Maison du Zinc, is a distinctive architectural landmark in Bordeaux’s historic area. This early 20th-century building stands out with its triangular shape and zinc-panel façade, reminiscent of New York City’s iconic Flatiron Building. Next to the building is the charming Carousel of Bordeaux. This vintage-style merry-go-round, with its horses and carriages, is a favorite among locals and tourists.
On the ground floor of the Flatiron Building is Bar À Vin (Wine Bar). A perfect place to stop to taste local Bordeaux wines by the glass.
National Opera House and InterContinental Hotel
The National Opera House of Bordeaux, known as the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, is a stunning example of 18th-century architecture. Designed by architect Victor Louis, the opera house has a grand façade with Corinthian columns and an opulent interior.
Across from the Opera House is the InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel, a luxurious establishment offering elegant accommodations and exceptional service. Housed in a historic building dating back to the same period, the hotel combines classical charm with modern amenities.
Rue Saint Catherine
This is the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe. It is ¾ of a mile long (1.2km) and has plenty of shops and places to eat.
The northern part of the street, closest to the InterContinental Hotel, has high-end French classic stores. While the southern part of the street is closer to the university and caters more to students.
Church of Notre-Dame de Bordeaux
The Church of Notre-Dame de Bordeaux, also known as Église Notre-Dame, is a beautiful Baroque-style church, completed in the late 17th century. The church features an impressive façade adorned with ornate sculptures, intricate details and stained-glass windows. There is also a relief of the Virgin Mary giving a rosary to St. Dominic.
Palais Rohan
The Palais Rohan, serving as the Town Hall of Bordeaux, is an example of French classical architecture. It was built in the 18th century as the Archbishop’s Palace.
This grand building features an elegant façade with neoclassical elements and a beautifully landscaped courtyard. Today, the Palais Rohan houses the city’s administrative offices and serves as a venue for official ceremonies and events.
Cathedral Saint-André and Pey-Berland Tower
The Cathedral of Saint-André, a majestic Gothic masterpiece in Bordeaux, is renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance. This grand cathedral, with its soaring spires and detailed façade, dates to the 12th century and has been the site of numerous significant events, including royal marriages. The exterior is quite impressive!
Inside, you will be amazed by the awe-inspiring nave, magnificent stained-glass windows, and intricately carved stone details. Adjacent to the cathedral stands the Pey-Berland Tower, a 15th-century bell tower named after the archbishop who commissioned it. For a fee, you can climb the tower’s 231 steps to enjoy panoramic views of Bordeaux and its surroundings, offering a breathtaking view of the city.
Porte Cailhau
The Porte Cailhau, a striking Gothic and Renaissance-style gate, is one of Bordeaux’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the late 15th century to commemorate King Charles VIII’s victory at the Battle of Fornovo, this historic gate once served as the main entrance to the city.
Inside, you can explore exhibits detailing its history and significance. At the top, the Porte Cailhau offers stunning views of the Garonne River and the surrounding cityscape. Tickets are required for entry.
Cité du Vin
During our stay in Bordeaux, we visited the Cité du Vin, an impressive wine museum that offers an amazing journey through the world of wine. The museum features a series of immersive exhibits, including the fascinating “Dinner is Served,” which explores the cultural and historical significance of wine in dining traditions.
You follow a carefully designed path through the museum, engaging with interactive displays and learning about wine production, regions, and tasting techniques. The experience culminates on the top floor, where a wine tasting awaits, accompanied by breathtaking panoramic views of the Garonne River.
Wine Tasting Room
This unique combination of education and sensory delight makes the Cité du Vin a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. You should allow for two to three hours to fully enjoy the museum.
➡️Visit: Cité du Vin / Open Monday to Sunday 10:00 to 19:00 / Advance Ticket Purchase
Day 3: Day in Saint-Émilion
During your 5 days in Bordeaux, you need to take a trip to see the lovely town of Saint-Émilion. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this charming medieval village is perfect for exploring cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and historic ruins.
If you like wine, you will enjoy the prestigious vineyards and wine cellars. Additionally, the breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside make Saint-Émilion a picturesque and memorable day trip from Bordeaux.
How to Get to Saint-Émilion?
The best way to get to Saint-Émilion is by train from the Gare Saint-Jean in Bordeaux. While at the train station, go to the ticket office under the huge map of the region to purchase your round-trip tickets. The staff is very helpful and speak English.
The train ride to Saint-Émilion takes about 35 minutes and generally departs each hour. From the station in Saint-Émilion, you can walk into the town. It took us about 25 minutes and the scenery along the way is lovely. If you do not like to walk, I did see a golf cart riding through the parking lot at the train station and it looked like they were offering rides into town.
Things to Do in Saint-Émilion
When visiting Saint-Émilion for a day, there are several must-do activities to make the most of your trip.
1. Explore the Monolithic Church (Eglise Monolithe)
The Monolithic Church, from the 12th century, is one of the main attractions in Saint-Émilion and is worth a visit. The Church is underground and is carved into one solid piece of limestone rock. It is the largest underground church in Europe.
The only way to visit the church is through a guided tour provided by the Tourist Office (Office de Tourisme). During the one-hour guided tour (in English), you will visit the hermitage of Emilion (place where the monk, Emilion, lived), the Chapel of the Trinity, the catacombs and the Monolithic church. Photography is not permitted during the underground tour.
You can purchase your tickets during a time slot best suited for you online. The tour will begin in front of the Monolithic Church. If you also want to visit the Bell Tower, you will have to go to the Tourist Office to pay an access fee.
➡️ Visit: Monolithic Church / Open Monday to Sunday 11:30 to 17:00 / Advance Ticket Purchase
2. Tuk-Tuk Visit to Vineyards and Les Cordeliers Cellars
During our visit, we took a 1.5-hour electric Tuk-Tuk tour through Saint-Émilion. The Tuk-Tuk can hold up to 6 passengers and is driven by a guide who can speak English. We met at the Les Cordeliers and were driven around the surrounding vineyards to see the renowned châteaux producing exceptional wines (from the road).
After the scenic tour, we descended 20 meters underground in the Tuk-Tuk into the 3 km of Cordeliers tunnels. (Practical Tip: it is quite cool underground, remember to bring a jacket or sweater.) Here, our guide explained the traditional wine-making methods used in these historic cellars.
Our visit concluded with a tasting of three different Crémant sparkling wines and one of the famous Saint-Émilion macarons, making for a truly memorable experience.
➡️ Book: Tuk-Tuk Tour and Les Cordeliers Cellar / Open Monday to Sunday / Advance Ticket Purchase
3. Wander the Medieval Streets
The best way to see Saint-Émilion is to stroll the picturesque cobblestone streets through the village. You can take in the beautiful medieval architecture and stop to explore the charming shops.
Throughout the village there are plenty of places to eat and to taste wines. Make sure to stop in Macarons de Saint-Émilion – Nadia Fermigier, the birthplace of the original French macaron, to purchase a box of these amazing macarons.
Guided Tours to Saint-Émilion and Wineries from Bordeaux
If you would like to see Saint-Émilion and visit a winery or two but do not want to take the train, I would recommend the following tours. You will meet in Bordeaux and travel by van to the locations.
- Saint-Émilion Half-Day Trip with Wine Tasting & Winery Visit from Bordeaux
- Saint-Émilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings from Bordeaux
- Saint-Émilion Afternoon Tour – 2 Wineries, tastings & delicacies
- Saint-Émilion: visit of the Village & Château with wine tasting
Day 4: Private Wine Tour of the Médoc Region
For a truly unique and personalized experience, I highly recommend arranging a private wine tour of the Médoc region. After exploring various planned tours, I decided to create my own itinerary with a private guide, allowing me to visit specific chateaux and indulge in a chocolate tasting paired with wine at one of the vineyards.
Our day began with our driver picking us up at our apartment in a comfortable Mercedes van. The driver provided us with maps of the region, water bottles, and a delightful surprise: a box of canelé, the delicious Bordeaux delicacy.
Morning: Château Pichon Baron
Our first stop was the magnificent Château Pichon Baron. We enjoyed a personal tour of the property, learning about its rich history and winemaking process. The tour concluded with a wine tasting in a beautiful room overlooking the vineyard, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
Lunch: Maison D’Estournel
After our visit to Château Pichon Baron, we headed to lunch at Maison D’Estournel, a very special restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and charming ambiance. We sat outside with a lovely view of the garden. The setting was perfect for a leisurely and memorable lunch.
Afternoon: Chocolate Tasting and Château Siran
Post-lunch, our next stop was a delightful chocolate store where we tasted a variety of delicious chocolates, including caramel sticks and cherries covered in chocolate. We couldn’t resist making a few purchases to take home.
Our final stop was Château Siran, where we were treated to another tour of the property. This tour included a unique red wine and chocolate tasting, expertly pairing the flavors to enhance our experience. It was a perfect way to conclude our private tour of the Médoc region.
Château Siran
Wine Tasting with Chocolate
The entire day was flawlessly designed just for us, and it was truly a fabulous experience. I highly recommend creating your own private wine tour and using My Private French Travels to plan your very special day. Their attention to detail and personalized service made our tour unforgettable. I also recommend contacting Bacchus Tours as another source for private wine tours as well as Aquitaine Limousine for car transportation services.
Practical Tip: When planning your private tour, be sure to specify any châteaux you wish to visit or special experiences you desire, such as a chocolate tasting.
➡️ Plan your Private Wine Tour with My Private French Travels / Contact: Cyrielle Nau / email: cyrielle@mpfrenchtravel.com
➡️ Hire your own Private Transportation with Aquitaine Limousine / Contact: Catherine Caquelot / email: catherine.caquelot@aquitaine-limousine.com
Day 5: Jardin Public and a Cruise on the Garonne River
Stroll through the Jardin Public
Start your final day in Bordeaux with a relaxing visit to the Jardin Public. This beautiful public garden, established in the 18th century, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Stroll through the manicured lawns, admire the picturesque ponds, and enjoy the lush greenery. The garden is perfect for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo-worthy spots.
Shopping Therapy on Rue Sainte-Catherine
After a serene morning at the Jardin Public, head over to Rue Sainte-Catherine, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe. Stretching for 1.2 kilometers, this bustling street is lined with a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to popular chain stores and charming local shops. Whether you’re looking for fashion, souvenirs, or just window shopping, Rue Sainte-Catherine has something for everyone. Take your time exploring the different stores and perhaps treat yourself to a special find.
Cruise on the Garonne River
As the day winds down, make your way to the Garonne River for a relaxing and scenic cruise. I highly recommend taking the hour and a half cruise that departs from the Ponton d’Honneur dock near the Place de la Bourse. This cruise offers a unique perspective of Bordeaux from the water, providing stunning views of the city’s architecture and landmarks.
One of the highlights of this cruise is the complimentary canelé, a delicious local pastry with a caramelized crust and a soft, custardy interior. Paired with a glass of Bordeaux wine, it’s a delightful treat to start the cruise.
As you sail along the Garonne, you’ll be able to see iconic sites such as the Pont de Pierre, the Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, and the stunning facades of the historic buildings along the riverbank.
You may also see several river cruise ships docked along the Garonne, such as Viking. Later in our trip, we took a 2-week Viking River Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.
➡️ Book a Garonne River Cruise with a Glass of Wine
A morning in the Jardin Public and cruise along the Garonne River in the afternoon is a wonderful way to cap off your five days in Bordeaux.
Practical Tip: To make the most of your cruise, arrive a little early to secure a good spot on the boat.
Where to Eat in Bordeaux
Bordeaux’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its history, offering a blend of traditional French cuisine and innovative dining experiences. In the charming historic centers of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul, you’ll find plenty of restaurants that cater to every palate, from cozy bistros to upscale gourmet establishments.
The menus for most restaurants in Bordeaux are based on seasonality. Here are some of our top dining spots to explore during your stay.
- Le Chien de Pavlof – Cuisine: French Bistro Description: A quaint and cozy bistro known for its warm atmosphere and delicious French dishes. Located in the heart of the Saint-Pierre historic center, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. Must-Try: Duck confit, beef bourguignon, fish of the day and crème brûlée.
- Restaurant Les Voûtes – Cuisine: Traditional French Description: Nestled in a historic vaulted cellar, Restaurant Les Voûtes offers an intimate dining experience with a menu that highlights classic French cuisine. The unique setting adds to the charm of this hidden gem. Must-Try: Foie gras, rack of lamb, hangar steak, and the tarte Tatin.
- Le Petit Commerce – Cuisine: Seafood Description: A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Le Petit Commerce is known for its fresh seafood dishes. The casual, bustling atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed meal. Must-Try: Grilled prawns, seafood platter, and oysters.
- Le Wine Bar – Cuisine: Wine Bar with Small Plates Description: Nestled in a cozy corner of Saint-Pierre, Le Wine Bar offers an impressive selection of wines accompanied by a variety of small plates and charcuterie. Must-Try: Local Bordeaux wines, cheese board, and the charcuterie platter.
Additional Tips for Dining in Bordeaux
- Reservations: Many popular restaurants in Bordeaux can get busy, especially in the evening, so it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.
- Local Specialties: Be sure to try local specialties like local oysters, Entrecôte à la Bordelaise (rib steak cooked in Bordeaux wine, shallots and herbs), and Bordeaux wines.
- Outdoor Seating: Take advantage of the pleasant weather and opt for restaurants with outdoor seating to enjoy the beautiful plazas and pedestrian alleyways.
Where to Stay 5 Days in Bordeaux
Finding the perfect place to stay in Bordeaux depends on your budget and preferences. Here are some recommendations for every budget level.
📍Luxury Range
- InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel – Located in the heart of Bordeaux, this five-star hotel offers opulent rooms and top-notch amenities, including a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a spa, and gourmet dining at Le Pressoir d’Argent by Gordon Ramsay. Our niece and her husband stayed here and loved it. Highlight: Prime location opposite the Grand Théâtre and luxurious accommodations.
- Hôtel de Sèze – Combining elegance and comfort, Hôtel de Sèze features refined rooms, a spa, and an excellent restaurant, Le Comptoir de Sèze. It’s located near the Place des Quinconces, making it a perfect base for exploring the city. Highlight: Stylish decor and proximity to major attractions.
📍Mid-Range
- Quality Hotel Bordeaux Centre – This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities at a reasonable price. It’s located in a historic building just a short walk from Sainte-Catherine Street, Bordeaux’s main shopping thoroughfare. Highlight: Excellent location and great value for money.
- Hôtel de Tourny Boutique Hôtel Bordeaux Centre – A boutique hotel offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere, Hôtel de Tourny is known for its personalized service and tastefully decorated rooms. It’s conveniently situated near many of Bordeaux’s attractions. Highlight: Boutique charm and friendly service.
📍Budget Range
- Mama Shelter Bordeaux – A trendy, budget-friendly hotel that offers vibrant decor and a lively atmosphere. The rooftop bar is a great place to unwind with a cocktail while enjoying views of the city. Highlight: Fun, eclectic vibe and affordable rates.
- Ibis Bordeaux Centre Bastide – Located across the river in the Bastide district, this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an economical price. It’s a short tram ride away from the city center. Highlight: Budget-friendly accommodation with easy access to the city center.
📍Airbnb
- Chic and Stylish Apartment in the Historic Center – For our trip, we selected this Airbnb because it had 2 bedrooms, and it was in the heart of the Saint-Pierre historic area. This allowed us to share space with our UK friends and was more affordable than two hotel rooms. The apartment had all necessary amenities for a pleasant stay including a washing machine and was within walking distance to many attractions. The tram stop at Place de la Bourse, was less than a 10-minute walk to the apartment.
My Trip Planning Resources
These are the companies that I use when planning our trips:
– Flights: WayAway
– Hotel Reservations: Booking.com & Hotels.com
– Vacation Rentals: VRBO
– Portable Wi-Fi: Ryoko Pro
– Rental Cars: DiscoverCars.com
– Train Tickets: Rail Europe
– Tours: Viator, Get Your Guide and GuruWalk
– Travel Insurance: VisitorsCoverage
– Airport Lounge Access Program: Priority Pass
If you choose to buy through any of the provided links, we may receive a commission without any extra charges to you. Explore our Travel Resources page for additional service suggestions.
Want to learn how to pack like a pro? Check out our post on How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip: Travel Light with Just a Carry-On & Personal Item!
5 Days in Bordeaux: FAQ’s
What is the best time of year to visit Bordeaux?
The best time to visit Bordeaux is during the late spring (May and June) or early autumn (September and October). During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and the beautiful vineyards in full bloom or harvest. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter is quieter but cooler and wetter.
Is Bordeaux worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bordeaux, France, is a must-visit destination known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and world-famous wine culture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bordeaux has beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings and picturesque streets that invite exploration. The city is vibrant. There are so many places to eat with numerous wine tasting opportunities, making Bordeaux a perfect destination for anyone seeking both relaxation and adventure.
How long should you spend in Bordeaux?
To fully appreciate Bordeaux and its surroundings, plan to spend at least three to five days. This will give you enough time to explore the city’s historic districts, visit a few of the nearby vineyards, and enjoy the local cuisine. If you’re a wine enthusiast, consider extending your stay to visit more of the famous châteaux.
Is Bordeaux very expensive?
Bordeaux can be moderately expensive, especially in terms of dining and accommodations. However, there are plenty of options to suit different budgets. You can find affordable eateries, budget-friendly hotels, and free or low-cost attractions to enjoy without “breaking the bank”.
How far are vineyards from Bordeaux?
The vineyards are conveniently close to Bordeaux, with many famous wine regions such as Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Pessac-Léognan are just 20 to 45 minutes away by car or train. Organized wine tours and public transportation make it easy to visit these stunning vineyards and enjoy tastings.
Final Thoughts: 5 Days in Bordeaux
Our five days in Bordeaux were filled with fun experiences, from exploring the historic heart of the city to tasting world-renowned wines in the surrounding regions. The city’s charm lies in its beautiful architecture, walkable streets, and the lively atmosphere that permeates its neighborhoods.
Strolling through Bordeaux, you can’t help but be taken back by its stunning 18th-century buildings, busy squares, and the picturesque Garonne River that winds its way through the city. The ease of navigating Bordeaux on foot allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in its ambiance and discover hidden gems at every turn.
Bordeaux is a city that promises a diverse and enriching experience. Whether you are a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for a picturesque destination to relax and unwind, Bordeaux has something to offer. It is worth visiting. We left Bordeaux with fond memories and a deep appreciation for its unique charm, and we look forward to returning to this beautiful city.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about visiting Bordeaux. Also, please refer to our Travel Planning services if you would like assistance in planning a trip.
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