Bordeaux: Nighttime Sidecar Tour with Wine Tasting

Bordeaux’s charm is undeniable during the day, but seeing its glowing facades and lively squares after sunset takes the city to a whole new level. For about an hour and a half at $129 per person, this Nighttime Sidecar Tour with wine tasting offers an intimate way to explore Bordeaux’s highlights in a vintage sidecar — a blend of adventure, history, and excellent wine. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience is perfect for those who love a touch of the unconventional and want to savor Bordeaux’s vibrant evening atmosphere.

One of the things we particularly love about this tour is the stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Place de la Bourse and the Saint-André Cathedral, all beautifully lit up against the night sky. Equally tempting is the chance to sample Bordeaux’s finest wines in such an atmospheric setting, making for a memorable sensory experience. The personalized nature of the tour — with private guides and small group sizes — ensures a comfortable, relaxed outing.

A potential consideration is that the experience relies on adventure — riding in a vintage sidecar can be exhilarating but might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more stationary experience. Also, since it is in a sidecar, space is limited, so comfort may depend on your height and comfort with open-air rides.

This tour is ideally suited for adventurous couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a unique perspective of Bordeaux at night. If you appreciate authentic local experiences, beautiful night views, and delicious wine, this tour will likely be a highlight of your visit.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Riding in a vintage sidecar makes this tour stand out from typical city sightseeing.
• Stunning Landmarks: See Bordeaux’s famous sights beautifully illuminated, including the Opera and Bordeaux Cathedral.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Fine Wine Tasting: Finish with a glass of Bordeaux wine, adding a perfect local touch.
• Flexible & Private: Small group or private, with options to swap seats and personalized service.
• Accessible & Safe: Helmets and gloves provided, with optional drop-off at a restaurant or hotel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Bordeaux Night Sidecar Experience

The Experience’s Setting and Atmosphere

Bordeaux at night is simply a different city, with a glow that transforms its grand architecture. The tour begins with hotel pickup, which means you won’t need to worry about finding your way to the starting point. Once on the vintage sidecar, you’ll feel a blend of thrill and nostalgia, as you glide past some of the city’s most iconic sights.

The illuminated landmarks are a real highlight. The Place de la Bourse, with its sweeping classical architecture reflected in the water, becomes even more dramatic under the night sky. The Bell Tower of St. Michael Basilica offers a charming contrast with its historic silhouette, while the Big Bell of Bordeaux adds a touch of local character. The Bordeaux Cathedral, with its impressive facade, is a stunning backdrop for photos and admiration.

The Stops and Their Significance

• Place de la Bourse: Historically a hub of commerce, now a symbol of Bordeaux’s elegance. The reflection of its lights in the water creates a picture-perfect scene.
• St. Michael Basilica: A Gothic marvel, its tower is easily recognizable and offers a glimpse into Bordeaux’s religious architecture.
• The Big Bell: An unusual stop that adds a bit of local flavor, its sound has historically announced important events.
• Bordeaux Cathedral: The largest religious structure in Bordeaux, its intricate facade and towering spires make for a dramatic photo stop.

Each stop is brief — around 10 to 20 minutes — but enough for quick photos, soaking up the atmosphere, and listening to your guide’s insights.

The Sidecar Ride: Comfort and Adventure

Riding in a vintage sidecar adds a sense of adventure missing from typical city tours. It’s a fun, open-air way to experience Bordeaux’s evening air and city lights. You’ll be with a private driver/guide, who typically makes the experience both entertaining and informative.

The seating arrangement is flexible — one person in the sidecar and the other behind the driver, with the chance to swap seats during the tour. This setup ensures both participants get a chance to enjoy the views and the thrill. Reviews mention that the sidecar is surprisingly comfortable and that guides like Alex and Luigi are excellent at making nervous travelers feel at ease.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Wine Tasting Finale

The tour wraps up with the opening of a bottle of Bordeaux’s finest wine. This is a lovely way to mark the end of your adventure, offering a taste of local excellence in a relaxed setting. The wine tasting is included in the price, and many reviews highlight how excellent the wines are, enhancing the overall experience.

You’ll also have the flexibility to be dropped off at a restaurant or your hotel afterward, making this a seamless part of your evening plans.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys unique experiences, this sidecar tour will appeal. The combination of spectacular night views, expert guiding, and wine tasting offers both visual and gustatory delights. It’s ideal for those seeking something less conventional than walking or bus tours, with the added thrill of riding in a vintage vehicle.

Travelers who have appreciated this experience describe their guides as brilliant, noting that they feel well-informed and entertained. Also, if you’re a fan of local wines, you’ll especially enjoy the tasting component.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, a perfect length for most travelers to fit into an evening without feeling rushed.
• Price at $129 per person is reasonable considering the personalized nature, the ride, the stops, and the included wine.
• The small group/private setting makes for an intimate experience, allowing for more personalized commentary.
• Remember that pregnant women are not suitable for this ride, and the experience involves helmets and gloves for safety.
• The maximum capacity is two passengers per sidecar, which means the experience is exclusive and tailored.

The Sum Up

This Nighttime Sidecar Tour in Bordeaux offers a wonderful blend of adventure, culture, and indulgence. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s most beautiful sights illuminated after dark, all while enjoying the thrill of riding in a vintage vehicle. The included wine tasting adds a genuine local flavor, making the experience not just visual but also flavorful.

Ideal for adventurous couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a memorable night out, this tour is a great way to see Bordeaux from a fresh perspective. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views ensure you’ll come away with lasting memories and beautiful photos. While the open-air ride might not suit everyone, those who embrace a bit of excitement, comfort, and elegance will find it well worth the price.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to add a dash of adventure to your Bordeaux trip, this tour provides a unique, authentic experience that’s sure to be a highlight.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end the experience comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including sightseeing stops and wine tasting.

Can I swap seats during the ride?
Absolutely. The sidecar is designed for two passengers, with the option to switch seats during the tour for both to enjoy the views and the ride.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see Bordeaux’s most iconic sights illuminated, including the Place de la Bourse, St. Michael Basilica, The Big Bell, and Bordeaux Cathedral.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with open-air rides and riding in a sidecar. Pregnant women are advised not to participate.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the ride, guided commentary, helmet and gloves, and a bottle of Bordeaux wine for tasting.

Can I be dropped off at a restaurant or hotel?
Yes, after the tour, you can choose to be dropped off at a restaurant or your hotel.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and French, catering to a broad range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: