Imagine spending a day wandering through France’s most celebrated wine regions, sampling both legendary reds and charming historic villages. This full-day tour in Bordeaux takes you from the lush vineyards of Saint-Emilion to the prestigious Margaux appellation, with stops at family-run wineries, historic châteaux, and a picturesque village that will leave you dreaming of French wine country. Priced at $293 per person, this experience lasts around 6 to 7 hours and promises a blend of authentic wine tasting, cultural discovery, and scenic beauty.
Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the chance to visit small, artisanal wineries in Saint-Emilion, where you can see firsthand how wine is crafted from grape to bottle, and the opportunity to walk through Saint-Emilion’s renowned architecture and historic streets—a true highlight for those interested in France’s timeless charm. Plus, the visit to Château Margaux provides a glimpse into Grand Cru Classé wines and an iconic photo stop, making the day truly memorable.
A potential consideration is the pace of the day—with several stops packed into a single day, some might find it a bit rushed, especially if they wish to linger longer at each site. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a busy schedule and are eager to pack in multiple experiences into one trip.
This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Bordeaux’s different terroirs, history buffs interested in medieval villages, or anyone looking for a comprehensive, guided day that combines culture, wine, and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning.
Key Points
- Authentic Visits: Small family chateaus in Saint-Emilion offer a personal look at wine making.
- Diverse Tastings: Expect to sample 5-6 wines from Saint-Emilion and Pomerol, plus a cheese and sausage platter.
- Cultural Highlights: Walk through the ancient streets of Saint-Emilion and visit the legendary Château Margaux.
- Comfort & Convenience: All transportation is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Local Flavors: Tasting local cheeses and charcuterie enhances the wine experience.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides speak multiple languages and make the experience engaging and educational.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Planning more time in Margaux? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at Villas Foch Bordeaux, a central and convenient meeting point. From there, comfortable transportation whisks you into the heart of Bordeaux’s wine regions. Having transportation included means you can focus on enjoying the scenery and learning without the worry of navigating unfamiliar roads or buses.
Saint-Emilion: First Stop for Wines and History
The first part of your day takes you to Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its medieval architecture and world-class wines. The tour includes a visit to a family-run artisanal winery, where you’ll see how wine is crafted from vineyard to bottle. According to reviews, guides like Kareem lead these visits with enthusiasm and depth, explaining the wine-making process in detail while making it accessible.
Expect to taste 5 to 6 different wines, including those from Saint-Emilion and Pomerol. These tastings are often accompanied by local cheeses and sausages, which add an extra layer of pleasure and help cleanse the palate. One reviewer praised the professionalism of the process, commenting, “The process of wine making was detailed in the tour by professionals. Love it!”
Walking through Saint-Emilion’s streets is akin to stepping into a fairytale. The village’s beautiful architecture, with its ancient stone buildings, narrow alleys, and scenic views, offers plenty of photo opportunities and a real sense of stepping back in time. Many travelers enjoy this part of the tour for its charming atmosphere and historic ambiance.
Cellar Visits and Wine Tasting
The tour includes a visit to cellars where you can see and taste different types of wines—a hands-on experience that makes the process of wine appreciation more tangible. The tasting of 5 to 6 wines from prestigious regions like Saint Emilion and Pomerol is a highlight, especially since guides often share insights about what makes each wine unique.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Drive to Margaux and Château Visits
After the Saint-Emilion experience, you’ll head to Haut-Médoc, specifically the Margaux appellation, renowned for its Grand Cru Classé wines. Among the stops is a visit to Château Margaux, one of the most iconic wineries in Bordeaux. While the tour may not include a full inside visit to Château Margaux (depending on availability), the photo stop is a real treat, giving visitors a chance to snap pictures of this majestic estate.
At the other châteaux, guided tastings focus on the characteristics of Margaux wines, often considered some of the finest Bordeaux has to offer. Many reviewers note that the personalized approach and the chance to meet local winemakers make this part of the tour especially rewarding.
Food Pairings and Local Flavors
A special feature of this tour is the cheese and sausage platter, which provides a delicious complement to the wines. This addition allows you to enjoy a bit of local gastronomy alongside your tastings, elevating the overall experience.
The Guides and Group Size
The reviews highlight Amin and Kareem as knowledgeable, friendly guides who keep the day flowing smoothly. Their ability to explain wine-making and regional history adds depth to your understanding. The tour typically operates with a small group, fostering a more intimate and engaging atmosphere—ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch.
Practicalities and Value
For $293 per person, this tour covers transportation, multiple wine tastings, entrance fees, a local cheese and sausage platter, and a professional guide—all in one day. Considering the cost of visiting these regions independently, with the added benefit of expert insights and hassle-free logistics, it offers solid value.
The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later make it easier to plan this experience into your Bordeaux trip.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is best suited for wine lovers eager to understand Bordeaux’s different terroirs and taste a variety of wines in one day. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate historic villages and picturesque scenery. If you’re traveling with a group that enjoys a lively, engaging guide and a relaxed but busy schedule, this tour will suit you well.
It’s particularly appealing for visitors who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Bordeaux’s wine regions without the hassle of organizing multiple visits on their own. Be aware that the day can be quite full, so if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each site, you might consider a different, more leisurely option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Villas Foch Bordeaux to the wineries and back is included, making it easy and stress-free to focus on the experience.
Can I join if I don’t speak French?
Absolutely. The guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Arabic, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.
How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit at least five wineries, including artisanal family-run estates in Saint-Emilion and a grand château in Margaux.
Is there a minimum age for participating?
Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in wine tastings.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking around charming villages and vineyards, your camera, and a sense of curiosity. Bottled water is provided.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is food included?
The tour features a cheese and sausage platter to accompany the tastings but does not include a full meal.
Will I have enough time at each site?
The schedule is quite full, with about 6 hours of activity, so some stops might be brief but should give you a good overview of each location.
Final Thoughts
This Full Day Wine Tour in Saint-Emilion and Margaux packs a lot into one day—wine tastings, scenic drives, historic villages, and the chance to meet local producers. It’s well-suited for enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Bordeaux’s diverse wine landscape and appreciate the region’s cultural richness.
The tour’s personalized approach and professional guides make it a comfortable, educational adventure, especially if you’re looking for a balanced mix of tasting, sightseeing, and storytelling. The inclusion of local food pairings enhances the experience, giving you a true taste of regional flavors.
While the day might be intense for those wanting a more relaxed pace, it offers excellent value for travelers who want to maximize their Bordeaux visit with a comprehensive, hassle-free experience. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour promises an engaging, authentic slice of Bordeaux’s winemaking world.
Enjoy discovering Bordeaux’s hidden gems, historic charm, and world-renowned wines—all in one memorable day.
You can check availability for your dates here: