Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $126.76 per person and lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized atmosphere.
• Inclusive Tastings: All food and wine are included, with highlights like local pastries, cheese, charcuterie, chocolates, and regional wines.
• Historical and Cultural Stops: The tour includes notable landmarks such as Place Pey-Berland, Saint-Andre Cathedral, and the Place de la Comédie.
• Expert Guide: Led by a friendly local guide who shares insights into Bordeaux’s history, architecture, and gastronomy.
• Family Friendly & Accessible: Tours are suitable for families and are conducted in English; vegetarians are welcome, but the tour isn’t suitable for vegans.

Bordeaux’s Best Food and Wine in a Walk

The Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the city in just 3.5 hours. Priced at $126.76, this tour is designed for those who want an immersive taste of Bordeaux’s culinary scene while soaking up its historic charm. The small group size, limited to 8 participants, guarantees personalized attention from a knowledgeable local guide who is passionate about sharing Bordeaux’s stories and flavors.

This tour is perfect for food lovers and cultural explorers alike, combining delicious local products with visits to iconic landmarks. Every stop is curated to highlight high-quality, regional specialties, with all food and drinks included—making it a convenient, all-in-one experience. Travelers typically book this tour 68 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction to Bordeaux.

Starting Point at Place Pey-Berland

The adventure begins in the historic Place Pey-Berland, a lively square bordered by stunning architecture and home to the Pey Berland Tower and Saint-André Cathedral. Here, the tour unfolds its first tasting session, featuring the best cannelés in Bordeaux, a sweet treat renowned for its caramelized crust and moist interior. This stop offers a glimpse into Bordeaux’s religious and social history, as the square is also known for the weddings that took place here.

The free 20-minute visit allows guests to admire the medieval buildings and take photos of this vibrant hub. The guide shares insights into the square’s significance and local stories that bring the area to life.

Visiting the Iconic Saint-André Cathedral

Next, the tour moves to the Cathedrale Saint-Andre, a masterpiece of architecture at the heart of Bordeaux. This historic religious site not only fascinates with its impressive design but also holds importance as part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The 5-minute stop provides a chance to admire its Gothic facade and learn about its role in Bordeaux’s spiritual history.

Inside or outside, the guide highlights the cathedral’s historical weddings and the medieval art that adorns its surroundings. It’s a significant landmark that enhances the city’s cultural narrative.

Exploring Bordeaux’s Administrative Heart at Hotel de Ville

A brief visit follows at the Hotel de Ville de Bordeaux, originally built in the late 18th century as the Archbishops Palace. Today, it functions as the city’s administrative hub, hosting official events and gatherings. The 2-minute stop allows guests to appreciate its classic architecture and learn about its evolution from a religious residence to a civic center.

This spot offers an understanding of Bordeaux’s architectural heritage and civic history, adding depth to the tour’s cultural insights.

Strolling Along Rue des Remparts

The tour then takes a 30-minute walk along Rue des Remparts, a charming street that reflects Bordeaux’s medieval past. Lined with artisanal shops, historic buildings, and local eateries, this street offers a sensory experience. The guide introduces stops at bakeries to sample bread and pastries, a honey tasting, and visits to shops selling charcuterie.

This section provides a hands-on experience, with guests tasting regional specialties and absorbing the lively atmosphere. The walk reveals how the city’s past walls and ramparts have shaped its modern identity.

Discovering Porte Dijeaux and Its Stories

Next, the group visits the Porte Dijeaux, a famous arched gate that once served as a city entrance dating back to Roman times. The site also hints at Bordeaux’s ancient religious history, with evidence suggesting it was once the site of a Jupiter temple. Today, it remains a key monument, symbolizing Bordeaux’s historical defenses.

The 5-minute stop sparks curiosity about the city’s ancient origins and military architecture. The guide shares engaging stories about its significance over centuries.

Exploring in Bordeaux’s Golden Triangle at La Galerie des Grands Hommes

The tour continues into Bordeaux’s golden triangle, a district famous for its refined architecture, luxury shops, and cultural venues. The La Galerie des Grands Hommes serves as a central point, once a marketplace in the 18th century, now a hub of shopping and dining.

Over 15 minutes, guests learn about the area’s transformation from a bustling market to an elegant district. The guide points out high-end stores and architectural details, enriching the understanding of Bordeaux’s urban development.

Visiting the Church of Notre-Dame de Bordeaux

A quick stop at the Church of Notre-Dame de Bordeaux offers insight into the city’s religious architecture. Built in the 17th century, the church is situated in a pleasant square and is notable for its historical significance. It was also the site of a funeral for a renowned 19th-century artist who called Bordeaux home.

The 5-minute visit provides a chance to admire the baroque facade and learn about the church’s role in Bordeaux’s art and cultural history.

Experiencing the Grand Théâtre and Chocolates at Place de la Comédie

The Place de la Comédie is the grandest square in Bordeaux, featuring the famous Grand Théâtre and the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux. Both buildings host Michelin-starred restaurants, emphasizing the area’s culinary prestige. The square offers spectacular views of the Monument aux Girondins at Place des Quinconces.

Here, the tour includes a 20-minute chocolate tasting at one of Bordeaux’s oldest chocolate institutions, adding a sweet note to the exploration. The lively square’s architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a perfect spot for photos and people-watching.

Relaxing in the Jardin Public

Known as the lungs of Bordeaux, the Jardin Public spans 11 hectares of lush greenery and diverse plant life. This peaceful oasis provides a perfect spot for a picnic or simply relaxing after a busy morning. The garden’s calm contrasts with the bustling city streets, offering a moment of tranquility.

The guide highlights the variety of plant species and the garden’s history, making it a cherished part of Bordeaux’s urban landscape.

Concluding with Bordeaux’s Wine Cellar

The tour concludes in a cozy wine cellar located at the beginning of Rue Notre Dame in Chartrons district. Here, guests enjoy a hour-long tasting of regional wines, paired with cheeses and charcuterie. The cellar holds thousands of bottles, offering a warm, private setting to savor Bordeaux’s famous wines.

All food and drinks are included in the tour price, making this a satisfying finish to the Bordeaux experience. This part of the tour has garnered praise for its intimate atmosphere and expert wine selections.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour departs from Place Pey-Berland and ends at 3 Rue Notre Dame. It runs Tuesday to Saturday, with options at 10:00 am to 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm. The total walking distance is around 3 km.

This small-group experience ensures personalized service, with all food and wine included. The tour is suitable for families and vegetarians, though it is not vegan-friendly due to the French cuisine offered.

Final Thoughts on the Bordeaux Gourmet Walking Tour

The Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour offers a well-balanced blend of culinary delights, historic landmarks, and local stories. The expert guidance and curated stops make it especially appealing for those eager to combine tasting experiences with an authentic look at Bordeaux’s architecture and heritage.

The all-inclusive nature of the tour, combined with its small group size, ensures a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a deep dive into Bordeaux’s food, wine, and culture in just a few hours.

While it caters well to families and foodies, those seeking a completely vegan experience may find it less suitable. This tour provides excellent value, memorable tastings, and insights into Bordeaux’s historic neighborhoods—an experience that many visitors will find both enjoyable and informative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarians are welcome to join. However, since the cuisine is traditional French, it may not be suitable for vegans.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering around 3 km of walking through Bordeaux’s historic streets.

What is included in the price?
All food and wine tastings, including regional wines, local pastries, cheeses, charcuterie, chocolates, and Dune Blanches cream puffs, are included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Place Pey-Berland and ends at 3 Rue Notre Dame in Chartrons district.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, the tour is family friendly and suitable for most ages, with a maximum of 8 people ensuring an intimate experience.

What is the cancelation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.