St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour including Wine Tastings and Lunch

A day spent exploring Bordeaux’s world-famous wine regions is a dream for many travelers, especially when it’s all comfortably arranged in a small-group tour. For about nine hours, you’ll visit both the Médoc and Saint-Emilion, two of the most renowned wine areas in France, with plenty of tastings, a guided walk, and a delightful picnic lunch included. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Maude, Suzanne, or Theo—this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historical charm, and wine education.

What we love most is the carefully curated vineyard visits that range from family-run estates to famous names like Chateau Margaux. Plus, the charming medieval village of Saint-Emilion is a highlight, with its narrow streets and UNESCO designation. The all-in-one convenience of transportation, tastings, and a delicious lunch makes this a practical choice for those wanting a full experience without the hassle of planning.

A potential consideration is that the schedule can feel a bit tight, especially if you want more time to wander Saint-Emilion. If you’re a slow walker or a serious wine enthusiast craving in-depth visits, you might find the pace a little rushed. But for most, the value comes from the variety—both in scenery and wine—and the expert guidance that makes the region’s complexity accessible.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Bordeaux who want an overview of the Bordeaux wine landscape, enthusiasts eager to taste different wine styles, and those who appreciate small-group experiences with personalized attention. If you love stories behind wine and enjoy picturesque towns, you’ll find this tour an engaging way to spend a day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Visits both Médoc and Saint-Emilion, giving you a broad view of Bordeaux’s wine regions.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Maude and Suzanne are praised for their knowledge, making the day both informative and fun.
• Authentic Visits: Tour stops include family-run vineyards and iconic estates like Chateau Margaux, blending tradition and fame.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, water, and multiple tastings are included, providing excellent value.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and hassle-free round-trip from Bordeaux.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Suitable for those new to wine or Bordeaux, with a well-paced schedule and engaging commentary.

Exploring Bordeaux’s Finest Day Tour: A Complete Breakdown

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

Starting from the Rustic Vines meeting point in Bordeaux, you’ll head out in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to the Médoc region, the land of prestigious wineries and historic chateaus. The first stop is a quick photo opportunity at Chateau Margaux, one of the most famous 1855 First Growth estates. While there’s no admission fee, the view of this iconic winery sets the tone for the day’s elegance.

Next, you’ll visit Chateau Siran, where a guided tour delves into the Médoc’s wine production. Here, you’ll get a close look at the vineyard’s operations and taste wines directly from the estate—an experience many reviews highlight as a real highlight. Guests mention that “we learned a lot about the wine-making process,” and that the tastings here help connect the dots between grape, bottle, and flavor.

Afterward, the focus shifts south to Saint-Emilion, where your first winery stop is Chateau Bonalgue. This is the first in a series of tastings that introduce you to the distinctive style of Saint-Emilion wines, known for being more fruit-forward and often more approachable. The guided visit here gives insight into the French “terroir” and the unique characteristics of the wines from this region.

The Picnic Lunch and Why It Works

Choosing a French-style picnic with wine at Chateau Bonalgue is a stroke of simplicity and charm. It’s a generous meal, with water included, and wine flowing freely—an experience highlighted as “absolutely delicious” in reviews. Instead of hauling food around all day, you get to relax in the vineyard, savoring local flavors and enjoying the stunning surroundings. This meal also provides a nice break in the day’s rhythm, recharging your energy for the afternoon’s explorations.

Saint-Emilion Village: A Walk Through Time

The medieval UNESCO-listed town of Saint-Emilion is the jewel of this tour. A guided walking tour takes you through its lanes, past ancient stone buildings and quaint shops. Guests frequently describe it as “fascinating,” with some wishing they had more time to explore independently. Among the highlights is the panoramic view from the top of the town, offering quintessential postcard scenery.

Afterward, a separate wine tasting session in the heart of the village allows you to sample wines while soaking in the atmosphere. Many reviewers mention that “the wines are magnificent,” and that the guides’ explanations made the experience significantly richer.

Finishing Strong and Returning to Bordeaux

The return journey is smooth, with the guide sharing more insights about the region’s wine culture. You’ll arrive back in Bordeaux after about 45 minutes, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Most travelers agree the experience leaves them feeling more knowledgeable and with a newfound appreciation for Bordeaux wines.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, this tour maintains an intimate feel that’s hard to match. Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, noting that they made the day both educational and entertaining. Some reviews say they “met the same group for dinner,” highlighting how the shared experience fosters camaraderie.

The pace is generally described as well-balanced—enough time at each stop to learn, taste, and enjoy without feeling rushed. The included water and lunch help keep everyone comfortable, especially during the warm months.

Transport and Logistics: Why They Matter

The round-trip transportation from Bordeaux takes about 45 minutes each way, which is a smart way to maximize your time in the region without the fatigue of driving. Having a dedicated driver and air-conditioned vehicle means you can relax and enjoy the views as the vineyards roll past—an underrated perk worth noting.

Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $226.76 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You get multiple winery visits, tastings, a guided tour of Saint-Emilion, and a full meal—considering all this, it’s a good-value option, especially given the small group setting and expert guides. Several reviews mention that the experience is “fun and relaxing” and that the wine tastings are plentiful, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking to taste a good range of Bordeaux wines without the hassle of arranging everything independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you adore beautiful scenery, historic towns, and varied wine styles, this experience is a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors to Bordeaux, as the guides do a great job explaining the region’s complexity. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the multiple tastings and visits to both family-run and renowned estates, offering a well-rounded perspective.

Travelers who value small-group intimacy and professional guides will find this tour a highlight of their Bordeaux trip. If you prefer to spend a day learning rather than rushing from place to place, this tour’s balanced schedule and engaging commentary will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation provided to and from Bordeaux?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free round-trip transportation from a designated meeting point in Bordeaux, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the early evening.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all tastings at the wineries, guided visits, a picnic lunch with wine, water, and transportation.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options are available and can be requested during the booking process.

How many wineries do we visit?
You’ll visit four wineries: Chateau Siran, Chateau Bonalgue, and two others in Saint-Emilion, plus a photo stop at Chateau Margaux.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is fixed in its schedule and stops, but the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, so feel free to ask questions or engage during the visits.

Is this tour suitable for kids or non-drinkers?
While the main focus is wine, the scenic villages and cultural insights make it enjoyable for those interested in history and local traditions. However, the tastings are only for those of legal drinking age.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This combined day tour of Saint-Emilion and Médoc offers an accessible and well-rounded experience of Bordeaux’s wine scene. The carefully selected vineyards, expert guides, and a charming medieval town make it an ideal choice for those who want a taste of everything—without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and plentiful tastings mean you’ll leave feeling satisfied, educated, and with a deeper appreciation of the region’s wine culture.

If you’re after an authentic, fun, and educational day in Bordeaux’s wine country, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors, casual wine lovers, and anyone who appreciates a cozy group atmosphere and expert storytelling. Just remember, the pace can be brisk, so come prepared to enjoy a full, engaging day.

In essence, this tour strikes a great balance between fun and learning, offering a window into both Bordeaux’s famous wines and its enchanting villages. It’s a smart choice if you want a comprehensive, enjoyable, and value-packed way to explore Bordeaux’s best in a day.