If there’s one weekend away that you’ll still be talking about in 10 years time, it’s a wine tasting weekend in Bordeaux. Think elegant streets, golden light bouncing off limestone buildings, impossibly good food and vineyards that feel like they’ve been plucked straight from a film set. And the best part? You can do it all in a long weekend without feeling rushed.
It’s one of those places that’s perfect for a Friday-to-Sunday escape. Bordeaux is easy to get to, compact enough to explore without stress, but rich enough that you’ll leave feeling like you’ve properly experienced somewhere special.
So let me talk you through exactly how to do Bordeaux right.
How to get to Bordeaux for a weekend break
Getting to Bordeaux is refreshingly easy, which is exactly what you want when you’re squeezing in a weekend escape.
By plane
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport is well connected to the UK and Europe, with direct flights from London, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh and more. The airport is only about 30 minutes from the city centre. You can hop on a tram (Line A) straight into town or grab a taxi or Uber for extra ease.
By train
If you’re already in France or you’re coming via the Eurostar then the TGV is a dream. From Paris, Bordeaux Saint-Jean station is also very central, so you can walk or tram to most hotels easily.
Getting around
When you’re in Bordeaux you can either walk or take public transport. The city is flat, walkable and has an excellent tram system. For vineyard visits, you may be able to arrange transport or use a combination of public transport and taxis.
Where to stay in Bordeaux
Bordeaux has accommodation for every kind of traveller, whether you want boutique luxury, charming apartments or something affordable but stylish.
City centre stays
For a weekend, I’d recommend staying somewhere central around Saint-Pierre, Chartrons, or Triangle d’Or. These areas are packed with restaurants, wine bars and beautiful streets, and they’re perfect for wandering without a plan.
Saint-Émilion option
If you want to lean fully into the wine experience, staying in or near Saint-Émilion is magical. This medieval village surrounded by vineyards feels worlds away from city life.
Why Bordeaux is the wine weekend destination
Yes, other places do wine. But Bordeaux does wine with context.
This isn’t just about swirling a glass and nodding politely. Bordeaux is where wine, history, architecture and trade are completely intertwined. The city itself was shaped by wine commerce and the surrounding regions are defined by their grape blends and traditions.
If you’ve ever felt intimidated by French wine, Bordeaux is actually the perfect place to learn, especially when you’re guided by locals who know how to explain things without making you feel like you’re back in school.
Which brings me neatly to…
Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim: the best way to experience Bordeaux wine
If you do one organised experience during your weekend, make it Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim.
They’re a Bordeaux-based wine tour company specialising in small-group and private wine tours, with a particular focus on Saint-Émilion. This isn’t a conveyor belt tour where you’re rushed from château to château. It’s thoughtful, personal and genuinely fascinating.
What makes Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim different?
Local expertise
These guys live and breathe Bordeaux wine. Every tour is rooted in local knowledge, historical context and an understanding of why Bordeaux wines taste the way they do so it’s not just about what you’re drinking.
Accessible wine education
Whether you’re a total beginner or someone who already knows their Merlot from their Cabernet Franc, the tours are designed to be inclusive. You’ll come away understanding labels, appellations and blends without feeling overwhelmed.
Small-group and private tours
This is the best part. Smaller groups mean more questions, better conversations and a far more relaxed atmosphere. They also specialise in private custom tours across the entire region, with access to châteaux that aren’t open to the general public.
The Premium E-bike wine tour (a highlight)
One of their standout experiences is the Premium electric bike and wine tour through the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and, honestly, it’s hard to beat.
You glide through rolling vineyards on top-quality electric bikes, stopping at carefully selected châteaux for tastings. The pace is gentle, the scenery is gorgeous and the wine… well, it’s Saint-Émilion, so you’re in very good hands.
New Saint-Émilion office
This year, Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim opened a beautiful new office right in Saint-Émilion village, which now hosts:
- Premium E-bikes for public rental
- Two elegant rooms for private tastings
- A welcoming base to start and finish your tour
It feels polished but relaxed — exactly the vibe you want on a wine weekend.
Exclusive access
One of the biggest perks is their access to off-market hotels and châteaux. These are places you simply wouldn’t discover on your own, and they add that “how did you even find this place?” magic to the trip.
A little gift for Travel Hack readers
If you book with Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim, you can get 5% off by entering the code Thetravelhack5 at checkout.
Trust me, it’s worth it.
Bordeaux Free Walking Tours: the perfect city introduction
Before you head out to the vineyards, you need to understand Bordeaux itself and Bordeaux Walking Tours is the best place to start.
They offer guided walking tours of Bordeaux’s city centre that cover:
- The city’s history
- Architecture and urban design
- Bordeaux’s wine trade legacy
- The modern identity of the city
These tours teach you so much about Bordeaux in a fun and engaging way. The guides are brilliant storytellers who clearly love their city and they’re fantastic at answering questions, whether that’s about history or where to get the best glass of wine later!
The tour works on a free, pay-what-you-wish model so you’ll pay what you think the tour was worth.
At the end of the tour, you’ll also get:
- A coupon for a free glass of wine
- A curated list of Bordeaux recommendations
- Personal help and advice for the rest of your stay (so it’s worth doing this on the first day of your trip!)
For a first-time visitor, this is gold.
Other things to do in Bordeaux (between wine tastings)
While wine is obviously the star of the show, Bordeaux has plenty more going on.
Wander the historic centre
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it shows. Walk along the Garonne River, explore Place de la Bourse, and don’t miss the Miroir d’Eau,especially at sunset.
Visit Marché des Capucins
This wonderful market is where the locals go for their fresh produce so it’s full of farmers and local vendors. It’s a colourful and lively experience and the market is often referred to as ‘the belly of Bordeaux’ for a good reason! Arrive hungry, curious and ready to take plenty of foodie souvenirs home with you.
La Cité du Vin
Even if you’re doing vineyard tours, this interactive wine museum is worth a visit. It puts Bordeaux wine into a global context and finishes with a tasting overlooking the city.
Dune du Pilat
If you’re looking for an active and adventurous day trip then Dune du Pilat ticks all the boxes. You can visit Europe’s largest sand dune by the ocean as it’s just 45 minutes by train from Bordeaux. The sand dune is a short bus or bike journey from Arcachon and you’ll find stunning views over the Atlantic and pine forests. Make some time for an oyster lunch in Arcachon.
Eat well (very well)
Bordeaux is a food city. Expect excellent bakeries, seafood, cheese and refined French cooking without Paris-level prices. Don’t leave without trying:
- Canelés (crispy, custardy little cakes)
- Steak-frites with local red wine
- Oysters from Arcachon
Wine bars
There are so many brilliant wine bars, from casual spots to sommelier-led experiences. Ask your walking tour guide or Wine Pilgrim host for recommendations; they know the best ones.
Visit the speciality coffee roasters
Bordeaux may be famous for its wine but the local coffee roasters are making a name for themselves too. There are over 20 specialty coffee shops in Bordeaux. Try Phia, a beautiful coffee shop where you can also pick up some coffee to bring home.
The perfect Friday–Sunday Bordeaux itinerary
Friday: Arrival & city vibes
- Arrive in Bordeaux and check into your hotel
- Early evening stroll through the historic centre
- Dinner at a local restaurant
- A relaxed glass of wine at a wine bar to kick things off
Saturday: City discovery & wine
- Morning Bordeaux Free Walking Tour to get your bearings
- Lunch in the city
- Afternoon with Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim: vineyard tour, tastings, and learning the ropes
- Evening dinner back in Bordeaux or in Saint-Émilion
Sunday: Slow and scenic
- Late breakfast or brunch
- Visit La Cité du Vin or wander Chartrons
- Pick up a few bottles to take home
- Head back to the airport or train station, already planning your next visit
Final thoughts: why Bordeaux works for a weekend
Bordeaux manages to feel indulgent and accessible. It’s cultured without being snobby, relaxed without being boring and perfect for a short escape where you want to come home feeling refreshed rather than exhausted.
So if you’re craving a break that involves beautiful scenery, excellent wine, and that warm glow of having learned something new then you really do need to take a wine tasting weekend in Bordeaux!
