Full-Day tour to Saint-Emilion and Medoc, from Bordeaux

Explore Bordeaux’s Premier Wine Regions in One Day

This full-day tour to Saint-Emilion and Medoc from Bordeaux offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s renowned wine world. At $208.54 per person, the nearly 9-hour experience features visits to three wineries, tastings of eight glasses of wine, and a delicious picnic lunch. The tour departs from 2ter Rue Mably in Bordeaux at 9:10 am and operates with a small group of up to 8 travelers, ensuring plenty of personal attention from the guide.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of expert-led wine tastings, walking tour of Saint-Emilion—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and a photo stop at Château Margaux. It’s designed for those who want a deep dive into Bordeaux’s wine regions without the hassle of driving, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

While the tour is packed with highlights, it’s important to consider that children under 16 and pets are not allowed, and weather conditions can influence the experience. This tour balances educational content, relaxed pacing, and scenic beauty, making it a valuable choice for anyone eager to taste Bordeaux wines and explore its charming villages.

Key Points

• Guided small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Visits to 3 wineries featuring a Grand Cru Classé and biodynamic wines.
• Tastings of 8 wines across the day, including specialized Bordeaux labels.
• Includes a picnic lunch with local cheeses, charcuterie, and a glass of wine.
• Photo stop at Château Margaux offers a perfect souvenir moment.
• Tour operates in all weather conditions, so packing appropriately is recommended.

Starting Point and Transportation in Bordeaux

The entire experience begins at 2ter Rue Mably, centrally located in Bordeaux, with near public transportation options available. Visitors are advised to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure smooth departure. The air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transport throughout the day, with the guide leading the group from stop to stop. This setup eliminates the need for a designated driver while allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Saint-Emilion: The UNESCO Village and Wine Tastings

The tour kicks off with a guided walking tour of Saint-Emilion, a village famed for its medieval architecture and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors explore the village’s monuments, narrow streets, and historic sights, gaining insights into its long-standing wine culture. This one-hour walk is free of charge and sets the tone for the day.

Following the walk, the group visits a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru estate for tastings and a picnic lunch. The Château varies daily, offering a chance to learn about terroir, wine blending, and the art of winemaking in a convivial setting. The lunch lasts about two hours and features local cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, and fruit compote, accompanied by a glass of wine. Visitors appreciate the informative explanations and the relaxed atmosphere at each estate.

Discovering Margaux’s Grand Cru Château

The afternoon begins with a visit to Margaux, a famous appellation known for producing Bordeaux’s most esteemed wines. The highlight is a tasting at a Grand Cru Classé Château, part of the 1855 classification. This one-hour visit provides a glimpse into what makes Bordeaux wines so revered globally.

A quick photo stop in front of Château Margaux offers an excellent opportunity to capture a souvenir shot of one of the most iconic wineries in the Medoc region. This 10-minute stop is free of charge and allows for a brief moment of appreciation at this legendary estate.

The day concludes with a final tasting session at another famous Château within Margaux. Over 45 minutes, the group samples 3 wines, gaining insight into the distinct characteristics that define Bordeaux’s reputation for quality and complexity.

Wineries, Tasting Experiences, and Educational Highlights

Throughout the day, guests visit three different wineries—each offering a unique story and wine style. At each estate, visitors enjoy tastings of multiple wines, including Grand Cru labels and biodynamic options, with expert guides explaining terroir, blending techniques, and wine classifications.

The tastings include 8 glasses of wine, giving ample opportunity to compare different styles and appreciate the diversity within Bordeaux. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable, engaging manner, with reviews highlighting their fun personality and ability to explain complex concepts simply.

The Lunch and Photo Stops

The picnic lunch is a central feature, served at the Château during the Saint-Emilion visit. It includes local cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, a fruit compote, and a glass of wine, offering a relaxed social setting with scenic views. Guests find this a delightful break that complements the wine tastings.

At the photo stop in front of Château Margaux, travelers can capture memorable images of the estate’s majestic architecture—an ideal keepsake of the day’s experience.

Logistics and Tour Quality

This air-conditioned tour vehicle provides comfortable transport between stops, with the guide leading and sharing informative commentary in English. Since the group size is limited to 8 participants, the experience feels intimate and tailored.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately and bring essentials like a water bottle. Early arrival at the meeting point is recommended, as no delays are permitted to stay on schedule.

Reviews and Overall Satisfaction

The tour maintains a stellar 5.0 out of 5 rating from 312 reviews, with 95% recommending it to others. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Vincent, Margot, and Xavier often highlighted for their enthusiasm and storytelling.

Guests note that the wine tastings are generous and the lunch is delicious, with many appreciating the relaxed pacing and personalized attention. Some mention that Chateau Margaux is a highlight, and the small group size creates a more engaging experience.

A few reviews point out minor issues, such as driver communication or weather, but overall, the consensus is highly positive, making this tour a top choice for Bordeaux visitors seeking a comprehensive wine day.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day experience suits wine enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those wanting a relaxed yet educational overview of Bordeaux’s most famous wine regions. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups that value personalized guidance, as well as visitors who want a combination of sightseeing, tasting, and leisure in a scenic setting.

While children under 16 and pets are not permitted, the scenic villages, historic châteaux, and tastings make it a rich experience for adults eager to learn about Bordeaux wines without the stress of self-driving.

This guided tour to Saint-Emilion and Margaux offers a comprehensive exploration of Bordeaux’s most celebrated wine regions. The eight-hour schedule balances wine tastings, educational insights, scenic stops, and a relaxed picnic lunch, creating a fulfilling day for both novices and seasoned wine lovers.

The small group size and expert guides make the experience particularly engaging, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and learn about the region’s wine-making traditions. The inclusion of visits to both Bordeaux’s left and right banks ensures a varied and well-rounded perspective.

What sets this tour apart is its attention to detail—from the delicious local cuisine during lunch to the photo opportunity at Château Margaux, every element contributes to a memorable day. Despite some minor considerations, such as weather conditions, the overall quality and value make this a recommended choice for those wanting to enjoy Bordeaux’s esteemed wine culture.

Is this tour suitable for children or pets?
No, children under 16 and pets are not allowed to ensure the comfort and safety of the group.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 50 minutes, starting at 9:10 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers wine tastings at 3 wineries (8 glasses), transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided walk of Saint-Emilion, lunch with wine, and a photo stop at Château Margaux.

Are the wineries visited of a specific classification?
Yes, one visit is to a Grand Cru Classé estate in Margaux, part of Bordeaux’s prestigious wine classification.

How many people are in each group?
Group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to arrive early, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a water bottle for the day.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What guides lead the tour?
The guide conducts the tour in English and is praised for their knowledgeable, engaging style.

Are the stops flexible or can the schedule vary?
The schedule may vary depending on the winery availability, but the quality of the experience remains consistent.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The walking tour of Saint-Emilion involves some walking on cobbled streets, so accessibility may be limited.