paris bordeaux nice trip

Journey of Doing

8 Day Paris and Bordeaux Itinerary

I love surprises. Really, I do. And, I especially love them when they come in the form of booking last minute travel. This year has been a whole adventure when it comes to work, and as a result, we ended up booking a spring break trip at the very last possible minute. The cheapest option was to use airline miles was on a flight from DFW-Paris. And, to keep our expenses lower, we opted for a Paris and Bordeaux itinerary instead of just staying in Paris for a week. We figured it would be fun to visit both cities again, even though we were just there in December and Bordeaux is part of our summer trip itinerary.

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

How to Get to Bordeaux from Paris

I am the type of person who wants to get where I’m going. This trip was no exception. As soon as we decided that we wanted to go to Bordeaux, I looked into trains. When we went to Bordeaux at Christmas , we landed at CDG at 9:05am, took the RER and Metro, and were on the 12:04pm train to Bordeaux from Paris Montparnasse. Given that we would be traveling during spring break, I decided to book the same train with a flexible ticket, just in case we ran into any delays. (I highly recommend booking train tickets in France in advance. Trains do sell out.)

Our flight arrived into Paris at 9:00am. We were out of CDG with our luggage by 9:45am. While on the RER into Paris, I decided to see if the 11:04 train to Bordeaux was available. It was, and we would get a (small) refund. I decided to chance it and changed our tickets. By staying focused and moving quickly, we were able to make the earlier train to Bordeaux. The train between Paris and Bordeaux takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. By 1:15, we were in Bordeaux. And, by 2:00pm, we were firmly ensconced in our hotel room.

While not quite as easy as taking the train directly from the Paris airport to the Alsace , connecting at Montparnasse isn’t difficult. By going directly to Bordeaux, instead of spending one night in Paris, we were able to spend 4 nights in Bordeaux and hit the ground running. At some point, we aren’t going to be able to travel like this, so for now, I’m going to embrace it.

Four Nights in Bordeaux

We arrived in Bordeaux on early Sunday afternoon. Bordeaux tends to follow a more traditional French schedule than Paris, so many stores and restaurants are closed. (We learned this when were in Bordeaux in December.) As such, we opted to make a grocery store run and enjoy a in-room picnic dinner. We bought charcuterie, a bottle of Saint-Estephe wine, and enjoyed some fresh macarons, an arrival gift from FirstName Bordeaux, for dessert. (To be honest, they might be the best macarons I’ve ever had.)

Day One in Bordeaux – Introduction to Bordeaux Wines

We always start (and end) our first full day in Bordeaux with wine. We really love Le Sobre Chartrons wine bar for dinner. Not only do they have some great wines by the glass to try, but their full bottles are very fairly priced. You can choose to uncork a bottle at the wine bar or take bottles to go. (We’ve done both.) I LOVE their charcuterie platters.

Le Cite du Vin

If this is your first time visiting Bordeaux and you are interested in wine, make sure to book a skip the line ticket to Le Cite du Vin (the city of wine) museum. It’s about an hour walk along the Garonne river from Hotel FirstName, but you can also take the tram.

This museum and accompanying audioguide will take you through interactive exhibits about winemaking throughout Bordeaux and around the world. I thought the exhibits on the various perfumes of wine was extraordinarily well done, though I’m not sure I’ve ever recognized any of those scents in my wine! The ticket includes a glass of wine at the rooftop wine bar that overlooks the Bordeaux.

Old Vintage Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

If you know a lot about wine, I suggest booking a Bordeaux wine tasting with old vintages . We did this on our second trip to Bordeaux, and it helped open us up to more wines. This tasting takes place in a wine cave in the Bordeaux city center. This particular shop specializes in older, affordable Bordeaux vintages. Though there are some expensive wines in the shop, our guide was very passionate about finding wines that were accessible to locals, as well as the international tourist market. That passion truly showed in the collection that the shop cultivates.

This tasting focused on Bordeaux wines, though they also sell a few bottles from other regions of France. (They even have pommeau from Normandy, which isn’t that easy to find outside of the area!) We tried vintages from 1989, 2002, 2009, and 2012 and purchased bottles from 1989 and 2010. I was particularly struck by the affordability of the wines. It would be impossible to find the same vintages at the same price point in the US.

Day Two in Bordeaux

Monday seems to be a pretty difficult day to book tours in Bordeaux. Usually, we would book a city tour on our first day in a new place. Since we’ve arrived in Bordeaux on Sunday on both trips, we have always ended up taking tours later a couple days after arriving. Very few of the popular English guidebooks offer extensive information on Bordeaux, so I definitely recommend taking a tour.

We had dinner at La Taniere , which is a French restaurant along the riverfront. It was so good that we went back two nights in a row and ordered different dishes. Tom’s favorite dish was the duck breast, and my favorite dish was the haches de bouef le feu, which was served with a green pepper cream sauce. The staff was extremely kind and made great recommendations on beer and wine.

Walking Tour of Bordeaux

Our second day in Bordeaux has always involved a walking tour of the city. We’ve done two walking tours in Bordeaux, and they covered different parts of the city. I highly recommend taking the  free walking tour of Bordeaux first. Because we were traveling in December, the tour didn’t make and the othe option didn’t work with our schedule. However, the guide allowed us to book him for a  private tour of Bordeaux . It started at Place des Quinconces and meandered through the city center (including the Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux). Caz covered the history, architecture, and food and wine extensively. It was definitely the best introduction to Bordeaux that we could have asked for, especially in the winter.

Bordeaux Walking Tour & Wine Tasting

On our second trip to Bordeaux, we decided to book a walking tour with a wine tasting. (We really wanted to learn more about Bordeaux wines. If you’re short on time, I recommend booking this walking tour and wine tasting .

Our guide, Ani, led us through a completely different part of the city and we learned so much more about the founding and history of Bordeaux. Our tour focused on the Chartrons neighborhood and the northern part of Bordeaux along the Garonne. Ani was an incredible guide – very interactive, constantly asking and encouraging questions, and making the tour much more informative. We were able to visit Église Saint-Louis des Chartrons, which is an absolutely beautiful cathedral that is a bit off the beaten path of Bordeaux.

After our tour, Ani led us to Le Sobre Chartrons for a blind tasting of Bordeaux wines and cheeses. We learned SO much from him about how to identify Bordeaux wines. While we had done several wine tastings in Bordeaux on our own, we didn’t really understand the biggest differences between the right and left banks. Ani helped close a lot of the knowledge gaps that we had about wines from Bordeaux. He also showed us how wines change with food pairings, which further underlines my desire to learn more about how to appropriately pair the two. No matter your experience with French wines, I feel certain that you can read a lot from Ani!

Day Three in Bordeaux

With a more firm understanding of Bordeaux wines, we opted to put our learning to the test on our third day in Bordeaux.

Blind Bordeaux Wine Tasting

After such a great introduction to Bordeaux wines from Ani, we were excited to try a blind wine tasting in Bordeaux . Shaun was our host, and he was SO great. Like Ani, he helped us to engage all of our senses to figure out what we were tasting. (He also gave us the option to tailor our wine tasting to our interests. We chose to focus mostly on red wines.) This wine tasting is hosted at a woman-owned wine bar and focused exclusively on wineries owned by women. They aren’t your typical run-of-the-mill Bordeaux wines. These wines were special and interesting. They are small producers and unique wines that you won’t find at other wine tastings in France. We ended up buying about half of the wines we tried.

Day Four in Bordeaux

Unfortunately for one of us (hi, it’s me!), one of our days in Bordeaux was dominated by meetings. That means that my day was interrupted by meetings. This means that we weren’t able to take advantage of taking a day trip to Saint Emilion, something we’ve wanted to do since our first trip to Bordeaux. However, if you want to visit Saint-Emilion, I have a great recommendation for you. Our first tour guide from Bordeaux, Caz, launched an e-bike tour of Saint Emilion . You’ll visit two wineries, enjoy a picnic lunch, and experience Saint-Emilion by e-bike. We’ve done e-bike tours through the vineyards in Alsace, and it’s just stunning. E-bikes make it super easy, so even if you’re not used to riding, it’s a great way to do it. (We had traditional bikes when we stayed in Mont St Michel , and it was an adjustment after trying the e-bikes, lol!)

If you decide to stay in Bordeaux, I recommend heading to Max Wine Gallery or Le Bar a Vin to try more Bordeaux wines. Max Bordeaux has an extensive list of wines by the glass, including some older vintages. (The list changes often, so if you find a bottle you like, buy it! I missed out on a 2015 Pomerol, and I’m still sad about it!) The city wine bar, Bar a Vin, has a more curated list and serves charcuterie planches alongside their inexpensive wines. (We love the cheese plate, as well as the chocolate assortment!) Both wine bars serve an assortment of bubbles, white wines, red wines, and sweet wines.

Day Five in Paris

We chose to take an early train from Bordeaux to Paris so that we would have a little bit of time to relax before heading out in Paris. The morning train from Bordeaux to Paris takes almost 3 hours, so it was a bit longer than the train to Bordeaux. (There were three stops along the way.) We arrived at Montparnesse and decided to take a cab to our hotel. (Since we were carrying two wine suitcases (partially filled), it seemed safer and easier than navigating the metro. We arrived at our hotel around noon and headed out for about an hour-long walk while we waited for our room to be ready.

Paris Wine Tasting

As with almost every trip to Paris we’ve taken in the last few years, we started with a French wine and cheese tasting . Erwan runs one of the best wine tastings in Paris , with a focus on small producers from different regions around France. Drawing customers from all over the world, he fosters a convivial atmosphere where you can connect with others and learn a lot about wine and French cheese. I credit my growing interest of French cheeses to Erwan. He’s also part of the reason that we started traveling to Bordeaux.

Each tasting offers 2 white wines and 3 red wines from different regions. The list changes frequently, if not daily. We usually purchase wines from Erwan to enjoy while we are in Paris and to bring home. When we first started, we would bring home wines we tried and loved, but now we let Erwan pick out a few things for us that we might enjoy. (We brought home some really interesting wines from him on this trip, so I’m excited to share those.)

Another one of our traditions in Paris is to book our first dinner at Sacre Fleur in Montmartre . We’ve been coming to this restaurant since 2019, and I think it gets better every time we visit. Like Erwan, they are comfortable making wine recommendations and have helped us explore more of the lesser known wines in Southwest France. We tend to order an entree (I love their onion soup and Tom loves their beef tartare), split a cote de boeuf, and split a dessert. This time, they surprised us with some sauteed mushrooms that were UNREAL. Tom and I both LOVED them. For dessert, I love the apple sorbet and Calvados, the tarte tatin with Calvados, and the chocolate cake with black currant sorbet. (I think they have the best Calvados I’ve ever had; I definitely prefer it to the versions that we had when visited Honfleur last summer!)

Day Six in Paris

We started our second day in Paris with a visit to one of my favorite museums in Paris, the Musee d’Orsay. If this is your first trip to the museum, I highly recommend booking this guided tour and skip the line ticket for the Musee d’Orsay . Rather than just focusing on the “big” Impressionist works, it starts on the ground floor of the museum and helps you understand why and how the Impressionist movement started. From there, you’ll wind through the museum and see the evolution of art into the widely recognized works that you’ve probably seen. I strongly recommend visiting the Musee d’Orsay before heading to Montmartre. Remember, the museum is closed on Monday, but you can head to L’Orangerie to see Monet’s water lilies and a smaller exhibit of Impressionist works. (I love the special exhibits at L’Orangerie.)

However you choose to visit museums in Paris , I strongly recommend reservation a time slot at the beginning or the end of the day. This will help you avoid the largest crowds. I also like the late night hours at the Musee d’Orsay (on Thurdays) and the Louvre (on Friday).

Explorinig Saint Germain des Pres

After you get your fill of art, I recommend gallery hopping through the streets around Saint Germain des Pres. We ended up at one of my favorite galleries, Carre d’Artistes , and we splurged on a beautiful souvenir to commemorate our (many) trips to Paris. We purchased a painting by French artist, Alan Dessapt , and I can’t wait for it to arrive. It reminds me of our honeymoon in Paris and the first time I took Tom to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle at blue hour.

If you’re looking for a great traditional French restaurant in the 6th arrondissement , we have a couple of favorites. You can read more about our favorite restaurants in Paris, but I recommend Chez Fernand Christine , Les Antiquaries , or Le Petit Chalet. The food at Chez Fernand is incredible, and they have extensive wine list. Les Antiquaries offers outdoor tables and is very close to the Musee d’Orsay. And, Le Petit Chalet has a great view of Notre Dame if you’re lucky. You can’t go wrong with any of these restaurants.

Day Seven in Paris

On every trip to Paris, I like to choose a neighborhood to further explore. I will book a tour and happily wander my way back to my hotel. As you probably noticed from my frequent trips to Musee d’Orsay, I love the Impressionists. If this is also you, I recommend that you head to Montmartre. Once you’ve finished exploring, head back down the hill and make your way to L’Orangerie for Monet’s famous water lilies . They often have a special exhibit focused on other Impressionists works that is worth exploring, too. I love going at the end of the afternoon when the light is softer and the museum starts to empty out.

MontMartre Food Tour

Food tours in Paris have been transformative for us, both in getting us to try new things and learning more about different arrondissements. What I love about this food tour in Montmartre is that it focuses on introducing you to local restaurants. Some food tours are more balanced with places where you can buy foodie souvenirs. This tour is all about the cafes and restaurants of the 18th arrondissement. While it provided more pastries than some of the other food tours in Paris, we still tried some savory snacks, including French wine, cheese, and charcuterie. We made our way from the Moulin Rouge, wound our way up the hill, visited Place du Tertre (with its amazing artists), and ended at Sacre Coeur. While our guide didn’t take us into Sacre Coeur, we did opt for a self-guided tour of the church on our own after the tour.

Walking Tour of MontMartre

If you are more interested in a historical walking tour of Montmartre, I highly recommend taking this tour by Paris Walks . Our guide was a Paris resident who has lived in the Montmartre neighborhood for many years. She regaled us with stories about the Impressionists’ studios and the history of the Paris Salon and the emergence and history of the cabarets in Paris. She pointed out quiet gardens to take a moment of respite from the crowds. And, she showed us the only vineyard in Paris proper. And, perhaps most importantly, she gave us a better understanding of the history of Paris and how Montmartre came to be a haven for artists.

Note: If you’re just looking for instagrammable Paris, this is not the tour for you. Yes, many of the iconic Emily in Paris filming locations are in Montmartre, but this is not that tour. This is really for the people who are interested in learning more about this arrondissement.

Where To Eat and Drink in MontMartre

It’s no secret that our favorite restaurant in Paris is Sacree Fleur . I mentioned it above. This tiny steakhouse offers a small menu of French entrees, delicious steaks, and tasty desserts. They have a great wine list and make exceptional recommendations. You should make a reservation in advance to avoid being disappointed. You can’t go wrong here. It’s cozy, comfortable, and feels like home for us.

If you are looking for a place for a great aperitif, we love Le Montmartre, which is a short walk from Sacree Fleur. This unassuming neighborhood bar is at 18 Rue Custine and offers tables inside and outside. They have local French beers, reasonable cocktails, and an easy menu. We’ve gone for charcuterie and really love their cheese. I have no idea what they were, but they were all different and very tasty!

If you want to be closer to the action, La Boîte aux Lettres (LaBaL) is in the heart of Montmartre. It has a great wine list, an innovative French menu, and delicious desserts.

Day Eight in Paris

The last day of any trip is always hard for me. There’s always so much more that I want to fit in, but I also like to slow down a bit before heading home. If I’m feeling really overwhelmed, I’ll book a spa treatment for my last day in Paris. I love Le Spa at the Park Hyatt Paris . Gabriel’s massages are life-changing!

Visit Chateau de Versailles

However, if you’re up for more sightseeing, I I recommend heading to Versailles for the day. You can book a bus tour (which I do not recommend) or you can take the RER C and pick up a tour at the Chateau (which I highly recommend!).  I do think that it is super helpful to a have a guide, which gives important context to what you are seeking. I have noticed that what is open to the public changes quite a bit. The last time we were there, we were able to see the king’s apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and only took a short walk around the gardens.   

After the tour, you are free to wander the grounds or rent bikes to cover more ground. I strongly recommend visiting the Trianon Palace, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes. The grounds are so much bigger than you can imagine.  

If you happen to be in Paris on a Saturday from June – September, make sure you plan to attend the Versailles fountains and fireworks experience .  This is one of the coolest things we’ve done. The gardens are lovely, and at the end of the night, there are amazing fireworks.  

Experiencing Versailles in Paris

If you aren’t up for a day trip, there are a couple of ways to experience the grandeur of Versailles in Paris. 

To see the a little bit of the grandeur of Versailles, you can head to the Louvre, and more specifically, the Richelieu wing. (The most famous works of art in the Louvre are in the Denon wing.) This lesser visited “corner” of the Louvre houses some of the same opulence that you’ll find at Versailles. While nothing truly compares with the over-the-top opulence of Versailles, you’ll still find beautiful textiles, stunning chandeliers, and plenty of gold in the Richelieu wing. If you want to get a little further off the beaten track in Paris, visit  Hotel de la Marine .    

If you opt to stay in Paris and are looking for a traditional French meal near the Louvre or Hotel de la Marine, I recommend making a reservation at Le Souffle in the 1st arrondissement . This restaurant serves up an assortment of sweet and savory souffles. It’s also home to one of my favorite aperitifs, a kir vin rouge, which I’ve never seen anywhere else. It’s red wine with a shot of violet liquor.

Understanding the French Revolution

Once you experience Paris’s grandeur, it’s time to learn what contributed to the fall of the monarchy. If you don’t know anything about the French Revolution, I highly recommend taking a  tour about the French Revolution .  This will give you a basic understanding of what was going on in France and why Versailles is considered to be so over the top. It also will provide more context on why the movement to abolish the monarchy started and the many factors that lead to the rise of Napoleon. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be ready to visit Bayeux on your next trip to France and see some of the effects of the French Revolution there!

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

Firstname bordeaux.

On both trips to Bordeaux, we opted to stay at FirstName Bordeaux. On our first trip, I booked a Hyatt Prive rate that included a property credit and 4th free night. We opted to use our credit in the hotel bar, but they also have an outstanding restaurant, Le Bada , on site. On Sundays, there is live music We loved the hotel so much that we stopped looking for anywhere else to stay in Bordeaux.

FirstName Bordeaux is a Hyatt jdv property, which means it feels more like a boutique hotel than a Hyatt. It’s a 10-15 minute walk from the heart of Bordeaux, and it’s on the tram line if you don’t want to walk as far. The staff is incredibly kind and friendly. On our second stay, I had a package delivered to the hotel in advance of our stay, and they immediately brought up upon arrival.

We had the same corner king room on both stays. The room was huge with large windows that offered plenty of light on the short winter days. Our windows opened, which helped us regulate the temperature in the room. And, there was plenty of artificial light, which helped with zoom calls during that time. (Just keeping it honest as a full-time professional who loves to travel.) The linens were very high quality, and the mattress and pillows were very comfortable. I was very impressed.

The bathroom has an amazing soaking tub, as well as a great hand shower that allows you to adjust the water pressure as necessary. There is a separate toilet from the dual vanities and shower, which is really nice. The hotel offers bathrobes, a large walk-in closet, and plenty of space for storage.

While there are a few other luxury hotels in Bordeaux, at this price point, I don’t think anything can beat FirstName Bordeaux. It’s hard to imagine we’ll stay anywhere else.

Where to Stay in Paris

We have largely been creatures of habit on our trips to Paris, opting to mostly stay in the 2nd arrondissement. We regularly stay the multiple Hyatt hotels in Paris . We’ve spent the most nights at the Park Hyatt Paris , and I still love it for the spa. We’ve also spent several long weekends at Hotel du Louvre , which Tom loves. For longer trips in the summer and trips with our parents, we’ve stayed at Hotel Dress Code in the 9th arrondissement . In summer 2024, we stayed at Hotel de Seze on the right bank , which is similar to Le Tourville. Tom has really wanted me to find more hotels like the Hotel Dress Code, which is an excellent mid-range hotel.

Hotel Le Tourville Paris

In an attempt to not only try a new hotel but also a new neighborhood. I booked an executive room at Hotel Le Tourville in the 7th arrondissement. It is located on a busy street between the Hotel des Invalides and the Eiffel Tower. It worked very well for getting around the Left Bank. We walked to the Musee d’Orsay and explored St Germain on foot. One night, we headed to the Latin Quarter for aperitif, made our way to St. Germain for dinner, and walked all the back to the hotel. On our last night, we walked from the Golden Triangle back to the hotel.

The staff was very friendly and tried to be as helpful as possible. They arranged a cab for us on the morning of our departure, which was much appreciated. When we travel with our wine suitcases, it can be difficult to find a car large enough for our luggage.

We did not add breakfast to our room rate, but you do have that option. There are several grocery stores near the the hotel as well.

Room 20 – Executive Room at Le Tourville

Thinking about the hotel specifically, it’s a perfectly good hotel at the right price point. I feel like the staff is one of its best selling points. They are so very kind to everyone. There are small gestures that make it feel special, like gummy Eiffel Towers and a personal note upon arrival.

The executive room is a pretty standard size for Paris, which to say, they will feel small for Americans. We’ve had smaller rooms at Hotel Dress Code though. The bathrooms at Le Tourville are updated. Our executive room had a soaking tub and a hand shower. The water pressure was great and we never ran into an issue with hot water.

The bed was comfortable and they had pillows of varying firmness, which was really nice. We had a small desk, a mini-fridge, and a wardrobe with plenty of space. The windows opened, which helped regulate the temperature, though our street facing room was pretty loud. (There is currently construction in front of the hotel. It was on-going throughout the week.) If you want a quiet room, I would definitely confirm a courtyard view in advance.

Overall, the room was nice for a few nights in Paris. Our room could use a paint touch up, but it was clean, functional, and comfortable. If you’re looking for a solid and comfortable hotel on the Left Bank, Hotel Le Tourville could be a great mid-range hotel in Paris.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Paris and Bordeaux

Depending on who you talk to, they may tell you that Paris is a giant Bordeaux – or Bordeaux is a smaller Paris. The truth is somewhere in the middle. They have similar, grand architecture. The availability of green space in both cities is something that we always enjoy. Food and wine are outstanding in both cities.

The pace between the two is the most obvious difference. I love how easy it is to walk through Bordeaux. I’ve never been when it felt extraordinarily crowded. However, you can find the same experiences if you spend time exploring the arrondissements of Paris, too. A few blocks away from any major attraction can yield amazing restaurants, local wine bars, and unique experiences.

I like creating an itinerary for Paris and Bordeaux because it allows me to go deeper. Paris provides us the opportunity to explore many things because of how big it is. It’s allowed us to try Bordeaux wines, try Alsatian food, and learn more about the history of France. Taking trips to the smaller cities in France allows us to peel back the onion and experience things on a deeper level. If I can give you any advice for traveling to France, it’s to skip the day trip . Find a way to squeeze in a couple days in a city beyond Paris. You’ll find plenty of France content here to choose the best place for you. And, if you love wine, Bordeaux is a great place for you – and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Bon voyage!

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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TwoStomachs

When one stomach is just not enough…, two week driving road trip from paris to bordeaux along the coast of france – itinerary & travel tips.

Northern and Western France has some of the most romantic beaches, breath-taking cliffs and leisurely rivers. It is deep in history and you will be tracing the footsteps of William the Conqueror, Joan of Arc, François-René de Chateaubriand, Victor Hugo, Claude Monet and many more. You will be transported back into medieval times in pristinely preserved towns, forts and ports. Enjoy fantastic wines in the greatest wine regions of the world. Indulge in sumptuous meals with the freshest of ingredients.

Below is another one of our thoroughly-researched and personally tested itinerary & travel tips. A two weeks driving road trip from Paris/ Calais to Bordeaux along the coast of France covering 2,974 km and 13 amazing French cities/towns.

Disclaimer: For your convenience, we have included affiliate links to items which we have found useful. We will receive a commissions from the seller if you purchase through these links.

Day 1: Getting to Rouen

Fly into Paris and pick up your rental car to begin this road trip. Drive 150 km or 2 hours to Rouen with a stop-over at Giverny ( normandie-tourisme.fr ), to visit where French artist Claude Monet spent the final 40 years of his life. Tour the home and painting studio of the founding father of the Impressionist movement. Enjoy the natural, lush and colourful garden that was the subject of the famed “Water Lily” series. Do note that the garden is only open from April to October.

If you are starting from the United Kingdom, plan accordingly to reach Folkestone Eurotunnel for some lunch. This will get you to your 1st stop, Rouen, a couple of hours ahead of dinner. Allowing you to checkin, freshen up and flirt with the city before sitting down for a meal.

Rouen ( rouentourisme.com ), the capital of Normandy region in Northern France, used to be one of the wealthiest cities in medieval times. It is a fitting start to the two weeks driving road trip. The richness from the heydays have been diligently preserved and restored in this beautiful city. Joan of Arc, Victor Hugo, Richard the Lionheart, King of England and Duke of Normandy, the Hundred Years War all have significant linkage to this magnificent city.

Travel Tips:

Make sure you fill up the tank before embarking on the driving road trip. As in the UK, petrol station along the highways in France are 20-30% more expensive than those you find in towns/cities.

If travelling from Southeast England, we recommend using Eurotunnel ( eurotunnel.com ) instead of taking the ferry as it is much quicker (35 minutes vs. 90 minutes) and less waiting time in between.

You will be spoilt for restaurant choices in Rouen, but please make sure you book in advance. For dinner, we would recommend the classy one-Michelin star Rodolphe ( restaurant-rodolphe.com ) or the sophisticated two-Michelin star Gill ( gill.fr ). You will also be well taken care of at homely, dog-friendly La Petite Auberge ( restaurant-la-petite-auberge.metro.rest ).

Day 2: A day of medieval history in Rouen

Start the day at the Church of Joan of Arc at Place due Vieux Marche. This is allegedly the square where the martyr, Joan of Arc, was burned for her sins against the English. Be awe-struck with the 13 large Renaissance stained-glasses inside. From the church, walk down Rue du Gros Horloge to find the famous 14th century astronomical clock – one of the oldest clock in Europe. Spot and count the number of sheep on the tower, a tribute to wool, which was an important trading commodity for the city in medieval times.

Click here to read our guide on “All you need to know about driving in France from UK”

At the end of the street, you will find Rouen’s Notre-Dame Cathedral. This is a Gothic architecture masterpiece – big and imposing with countless life-like statues and meticulously intricate carvings. With an iron spire peaking at 151m, it is the tallest cathedral in France. From there walk over to Dame Cakes ( damecakes.fr ) on Rue Saint Romain for some indulgent cakes and cookies. Wonder about the medieval quarter with endless rows of half-timbered shophouses. Take a break with some galette or crepe at La Crêperie Rouennaise ( @crêperierouennaise ) on Rue du Père Adam. The savoury galettes are fresh and crunchy.

Day 3: Magical Mont Saint-Michel and charming Saint-Malo

Set off after breakfast to travel 255 km or 3.5 hours on the A13, passing by Caen, to arrive at the magical Mont Saint-Michel.

This is fairytale land on Earth, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island, crowned by a sky-reaching Gothic abbey, is the inspiration behind the Rupunzel’s kingdom in Disney’s Tangled and it is just as magnificent and grand. Through the city wall, climb the uphill cobble-stoned path, with intermittent stairs towards the abbey. The street is lined with well-preserved buildings now occupied by shops, cafes and restaurants. This place gets really busy at high-season, but don’t let the crowd get to you and enjoy this marvel that is trapped in time.

Mont Saint-Michel is a vehicle-free island. Leave your car at the large open space car park ( map ) on the mainland. There are different sections for private cars, motorhomes, motorbikes, etc. There are clear sign-posts to guide you to relevant sections. It charges a flat day rate of €14.20.

Get a quick download about the island at the Tourist Information Centre in the carpark, which is also where you board the free shuttle to the island.

The climb to the abbey is steep. Make sure you wear comfortable sports or walking shoes. If you are travelling with older folks, make sure you plan for regular stops.

We haven’t come across an amazing restaurant here. Hence, will recommend picking up a picnic or a travelling lunch from Rouen to make the most of time given the packed schedule today.

Another 60 km later, you will be at Saint-Malo ( saint-malo-tourisme.co.uk ), the birthplace of François-René de Chateaubriand and the town where Jacques Cartier set sail to “discover” Canada in 1534. Saint-Malo has one of the most amazing 15th century old town surrounded by an imposing rampart. Spend time exploring the cobbled streets in the old town, wondering in and out from the shops and admiring the magnificent hotels/buildings. There are plenty of crêperies and we had an almighty pancake with ice-cream and whipped cream at Duchesse Anne ( map ) Cafe to carry us through to dinner.

Walk along the walkways of the rampart to soak in the panoramic view of the English Channel. Make your way up to the cathedral and to the two viewing points – Fort La Reine and Bastion de la Hollande. After all the walking, we bought some Kouign Amann ( @lesdelicesdugouverneur ) and found a spot on Bon Secours beach ( map ) just outside the wall to enjoy the seaside. Relax to the gentle lapping of the waves while the kids enjoyed themselves fishing at the rock pools. After watching the sunset, wrap up the day with a sumptuous dinner at Cafe de L’Ouest ( cafedelouest.maisonhector.com ).

Be sure to pack some fishing nets, shovels and buckets to maximise your time at the beach. There will be many more to come on this driving road trip in the Northern & Western coast of France.

Day 4: Long drive to majestic La Rochelle

Pack some lunch from Intermarché SUPER in town before a 5 hours drive covering 320 km as you move from Northern to Western France. La Rochelle ( larochelle-tourisme.com ) is another beautiful coastal town. Start your adventure at the old harbour, where your attention will be captured by two majestic medieval towers that have stood guarding the entrance to this historic maritime square for the last 700 years. Pay for a visit to the taller Saint-Nicolas Tower, named after the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Learn about it’s rich past and gaze out onto Bay of Biscay from it towering top.

Admire the sunset from the rampart towards the 3rd tower, the Lantern Tower. After that, browse through handmade crafts at the Artisans Craft Market on Cours des Dames along the port (available from mid-June to mid-Sept). Satisfied, kick back and enjoy a delicious French dinner at one of the many bars & restaurants overlooking the harbour or walk further a field to try one of the many gastronomical restaurants that puts La Rochelle on the foodie map.

For dinner or lunch, we would recommend trying Le P’tit Nicolas ( lafourchette.com ) for some classic French-fares or try the more fanciful Ginger ( ginger-larochelle.com ). Alternatively indulge in seafood at the basic but friendly Le Panier de Crabe ( le-panier-de-crabe ). Make sure you book in advance.

Day 5: Food market in La Rochelle and a lazy river cruise

If you are here on Wednesday or Saturday, spend your morning wondering the fresh food market of Marché des Halles ( map ) (Central Market). It is a 10 mins walk into the old town from the Old Port (Vieux Port). Immerse in the lively buzz of stallholders marketing their products and locals catching up on the week. Be fascinated by endless rows of fresh food, from oysters, lobsters, langoustines, fishes, meat to tomatoes, peppers, greens, fruits and ready-to-eat pies, cheeses, breads, charcuterie and, of course, foie gras. Breakfast and lunch sorted in the indoor market, outdoor market or one of the many cafes/restaurants around the market.

After lunch, take a little worthy detour by going east to Marais (Marsh) Poitevin ( map ). This is one of the highlight of the road trip. Take a relaxing and casual riverboat ride in Green Venice (Venise Verte). Float gently on the quiet river flanked by greenery. Look out for the herd of cows/bulls. Listen to the rustling of the leaves and hums from the wilderness. We would recommend taking the barge with a local guide for 1.5 hours for €52 (for 4 person).

Pack some cocktail or a bottle of wine to enjoy along the blissful boat journey. Do bring along sun protection wear and creams if you are there on a sunny day.

From there, drive for another 200 km to get to majestic Bordeaux. Checkin and relax before putting on your best outfit for dinner at a classy restaurant.

Day 6: Laid-back oyster heaven in Cap Ferret and Arcachon

Today is all about oysters, fresh prawns, refreshing chilled white wine and the seaside. Your destination, Cap Ferret, is a long peninsular in between Bassin d’Arcachon and the Atlantic Ocean. Bassin d’Arcachon is a shallow bay, the heart of oyster farming and produces 2/3 of the oysters consumed in France. Cap Ferret has a sleepy fishing village feel to it and it is home to oyster farmers – some of whom have set-up fabulously relaxing oyster shacks along the coast. Spend the afternoon enjoying the succulent and juicy fresh oysters washed down with white wine chilled in a plastic ice bag. Look out into the lazy horizon of gently lapping waves.

After lunch, find a spot on the beach and enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea. Alternatively, you can head back to the car and drive over to Plage de l’océan for a bigger beach. The waves are much stronger here coming from the Atlantic Ocean. On the way back to the car from the fishing village, strike a pose and snap a few insta-worth photos against the brightly coloured homes.

Traffic can get quite busy at peak season. A one hour drive from Bordeaux can easily take two hours. Do plan accordingly.

From Cap Ferret, we drove around the bay into Arcachon town. Arcachon is like your typical Mediterranean seaside town. Manicured promenade run along the shores and it is lined with cafes, restaurants, hotels and of course, a casino. Plage Thiers in Arcachon is one of the most beautiful beach on this trip. Kick back with a cup of coffee at Grand Café Victoria ( restaurant-grandcafevictoria-arcachon.com ) overlooking the beach. Choose from a variety of fresh seafood restaurant in Arcachon to wrap up the day.

Day 7: More Oysters and the Out-of-this-World Sand Dunes

It will be a blasphemy not to indulge in more oysters. Hence, after breakfast and some loiter about Bordeaux, drive over to Avenue des Ostreiculteurs, which translates to Avenue of Oyster Farmers, in La Teste-de-Buch in time for lunch. There are at least a dozen of oyster huts to choose from and we would highly recommend La 12Zen ( @la12zen ). It is a simple place built on a platform over the edge of the lake, offering a blissful view. You will know that you have gone to the right place, when you are welcomed by a sign saying “This is not a restaurant, but an oyster farmer’s hut!”. A dozen nº2 oysters goes for €12, coupled it with 6 crevettes for €7 and chilled bottle of white wine for €10 and your lazy afternoon is complete.

Next up is a hot afternoon of trekking followed by some sand castles and a romantic sunset. A 15 mins drive from lunch will bring you to the Great Dune du Pilat ( bassin-arcachon.com ). It is an out of this world sight. It is as if a huge chunk of the Saharan Desert has been teleported across thousand of miles. The sand dune is massive, 110m tall, 500m wide and about 3km long – tallest dune in Europe. You have lush green pine forest on one end and deep blue of Arcachon Bay on the other. Reward yourself on the beach at the other end of the climb with a picnic and a splash in the ocean waves. Trek back to the top of the dune in time for a romantic moment at sunset. If you haven’t tried it before, this is a great place for paragliding.

Buy some food and drinks in Bordeaux in the morning for a picnic on the beach of Dune du Pilat. Don’t buy too much as you will have to carry it across the giant sand dunes. Bring a picnic map fitting for the beach.

Wear good walking shoes, bring a cap/hat, sunglasses, sunblock and bring at least a litre of water per adult for the trek. The sand is extremely soft and there are no running away from the hot sun on the dunes.

There is a large outdoor parking space, but it does get busy in peak seasons. Be patient and you will eventually find a spot.

Day 8: Fresh food, wine culture and grandeur in majestic Bordeaux

There is no better way to start the day in any respectable city than with a visit to the local fresh food market. In Bordeaux, that’s Marché des Capucins ( marchedescapucins.com ), known as the Belly of Bordeaux and it’s history can be traced back to 1525. The alleys are named after the 4 most famous wine appellations in the Medoc wine region. This place buzzes with locals and stall holders trading over fresh local meat, seafood, cheese, fruits, vegetables, charcuteries, patisseries and more. Some of the sellers have been here for generations. Nothing beats slurping some oysters and washing it down with some wine white in a fresh oyster stall. Graze on the multitude of selection as you wonder about for an early lunch.

From there, hop into a taxi and traverse the city to La Cite du Vin ( laciteduvin.com ) – the wine museum. It looks like a giant decanter from the outside with a mirror and metallic finish. The stunning visual continue throughout the interior. The museum employs interactive and engaging modern video and audio technology to take you through an educational history and scientific lesson of wine globally. Don’t miss the wooden replicas of the most famous chateaux and the section on different scents/smells. Finish on a high at the top-floor bar with a panoramic view of the city, though this is not the historic part of the city.

Head back to the city centre onto the most iconic building in Bordeaux – the Grand Théâtre ( opera-bordeaux.com ), built in 1780, for a pre-booked guided tour. With its imposing 12 Corinthian columns, majestic staircase, grand reception hall and intricately decorated concert hall, it is one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world.

Take a gentle stroll to towards the river and enjoy the Water Mirror. It is picture perfect with the majestic and symmetrical Place de la Bourse in its background. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade next to River Garonne before going for dinner.

Wrap up the night with some drink at “Night Beach” on the rooftop of Intercontinental Bordeaux ( bordeaux.intercontinental.com ).

Most of the attractions in Bordeaux are within walking distance. You won’t be needing the car for today. The furthest attraction is Cite du Vin and that’s can be solved with a ride in the taxi.

Marché des Capucins is closed on Monday. Open from 6am to 2pm on Tuesday to Thursday, till 9pm on Friday and till 2.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowd.

Guided tours of the Grand Théâtre are available (apart from in summer months) at 2.30pm, 4pm or 5.30pm for €6. Booking through Opera National de Bordeaux’s website ( opera-bordeaux.com ).

Day 9: First growth & Premier Grand Cru Classes on the Left Bank

The next 2 days is dedicated to the world famous wines of Bordeux. There are 62 appellations and more than 7,300 châteaux/wine houses. The 1st day is dedicated to the most famous of them all, on what is known as the Left Bank, as it sits on the left of River Garonne on a typical map. This is home to the who’s who of Bordeaux wine with names like Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux and Château Mouton-Rothschild. The area is famous for it’s cabernet sauvignon and merlot grape varieties.

For the best experience, we highly recommend booking a private full-day wine tours. They have access to wine châteaux that are not open to public and tonnes of knowledge/insights. And most importantly, they will drive you around, leaving you to indulge in a few tipples.

If you do want to do-it-youself, all you have to do is head down to the scenic D2 highway, known as Route des Châteaux, just north of Bordeaux. From there, drive slowly and admire the grandeur of all the châteaux. Prebook a wine tour in a château of your choice before lunch and one after, unfortunately, you won’t have time for more than that.

One of the first you will come across is the famous Château Margaux ( chateau-margaux.com ). It is one of five first-growth châteaux, an honour it carried since the classification was introduced in 1855. It will be a surreal experience to come face-to-face with the grand Palladian-style château that graced the most coveted red wines in the world. The building is nicknamed “Versailles of the Médoc” and it is quintessential. It is the definition of quality and class.

Next, you will enter Haut-Médoc appellation. Pay a visit to Château Lamothe-Bergeron ( lamothebergeron.fr ) – generally recognised to have one of the best wine-tasting tour on the Left Bank. The château is charming with the unmistakably French conical turrets. The tasting tour includes tasting of different grapes and wine in different stages of the process. They offer 3 types of tours and we would recommend the VIP WineTour for €25/person which includes tasting of 5 vintages.

From there, head into Saint-Julien appellation, the smallest in the Left Bank. Visit top-rated “Super Second” Château Léoville Poyferré ( leoville-poyferre.fr ) (€10/person for a 2 wines walk-in tasting) or the grand Château Beychevelle ( beychevelle.com ) and its French-style garden.

Last but not least is the Pauillac appellation, home to the other three first-growth châteaux in the Medoc – Lafite, Latour and Mouton Rothschild. Pay an unforgettable visit to another “Super Second” Château Pichon Baron ( pichonbaron.com ) in Pauillac, where its vineyard runs alongside the more well-helled Château Latour.

Most château wine tours must be pre-booked months in advance, especially for peak seasons. They are generally open from April to October, but most are closed on the weekends, public holidays and in August.

Where you don’t have an appointment, ask politely and some of them will allow you to walk around the grounds or maybe even the main building.

For lunch, be surprised at the restaurant in a garden, Le Saint Julien in Saint Julien, or be pampered at Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux’s Restaurant Cordeillan-Bages in Pauillac.

Look out for Les Portes Ouvertes en Médoc. It is an open house weekend normally in April where over 70 châteaux will have their doors opened for tours/tastings with accompanying events like food, music, wine workshop and games for kids.

Day 10: Onto the Right Bank and a day in Saint-Émilion

Day 10 is the final day in the Bordeaux and we will capped it off with a visit to the Right Bank and north of Dordogne river, to Saint-Émilion ( saint-emilion-tourisme.com ) wine appellation. It is home to fine wine houses like Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc. At the heart of it is a medieval village that is bursting with timeless character and charm – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is 50km, about an hour, from Bordeaux. There are 147 châteaux or houses, famous for its merlot and cabernet franc grape varieties.

Begin at the sophisticated rooftop restaurant of La Terrase Rouge ( laterraserouge.com ) in the uber-modern Château La Dominique. It is right next to the famous Château Cheval Blanc. With it’s uninterrupted panoramic view, soak in the natural beauty of the miles and miles of Saint-Émilion and neighbouring Pomerol vineyards. The distinctively French menu is equally amazing and mandatory for it to be enjoyed with a bottle of their house wine.

After lunch, best to go to for a couple of château visits for wine tasting before heading into the village centre. You will need to book these in advance. For convenience, why not just head downstairs after lunch and join Château La Dominique’s exclusive 90-mins VIP tour of the château (€30/ person and by appointment only).

For a grand and mesmering experience, visit Chateau Soutard ( chateau-soutard.com ). Be awe-strucked by it’s majestic building, chandelier adorned fermentation room and enormous underground cellar. They offer 4 tour types ranging from €12 – €80/ person, depending on how in-depth you want to go. For a more intimate and personal touch, you will be right at home at Château Cantenac ( chateau-cantenac.fr ). It is a family-run winery and the tours are often guided by a family member – €25/person for the 90-mins prestige tour, includes tasting of 4 wines with bread and cheese.

Now as a wine expert, you are ready to head into the village centre. Start with a trip to the tourism office to pick up a map and some information leaflets. Then, pop next door to Maison du vin and scrutinise the large collection of vintages from the 250 wine growers who own this shop/museum. Head over to the Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion for a pre-book 45-mins guided tour. After that, head over to Rue Guadet, a street lined with distribution offices of the châteaus, for more wine tasting and purchases to fill the car boot. From there, turn into Rue de la Cadène and head towards the village centre. Don’t forget to wonder about down Rue de la Porte Bouqueyre to check out more shops, wine shops and restaurants.

Wrap up the day in wine heaven with dinner at food heaven Michelin-starred Logis de la Cadène ( logisdelacadene.fr ), helmed by Alexandre Baumard. Book in advance and ask for a table in the wisteria-decorated terrace. Indulge in local food ingredients paired with the best wine from Saint-Émilion.

There is a small car park at the end of Grand Pontet road, 15 mins walk to the village centre. But, do make a loop into village centre to find if there is a closer car park. Car park in town has a maximum stay of 5 hours, €2/hour

Visit to the Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion is only permissible with a 45-mins guided tour from the tourism office. Pre-book it online months in advance for peak season travel. Last tour starts at 4pm.

Visit to the Bell Tower of the church must be booked at the tourism office, but likely to be sold-out for the day in the morning. It is unfortunately not available for pre-booking online.

Day 11: 600 km north to Paimpol

This is the longest driving day in the whole trip as you track back north to Brittany.

Day 12: A tail in the Channel, white sandy beach & giant pink boulders at Perros-Guirec

As Britanny is all about the coast, start the day with a leisurely stroll on the quiet bay at Loguivy. There isn’t much here. Walk out toward the little lighthouse and climb up the yellow mustard colour rocks. It gives you a perfect vantage point to admire the channel and relax. Walk back to the car park and stop by the creperie hut for a mid-morning snack.

Hop back into the car and drive 28 km to Sillon de Talbert ( brittanytourism.com ), one of the most extraordinary natural landscape on earth. It is a 3 km narrow stretch of sand and rocks, like a tail, extending into the Channels. Unreal to the eyes and surreal to be walking on it. Continue back on the car to beautiful Perros-Guirec ( tourisme.perros-guirec.com ) to meet the most beautiful beach (Plage de Trestraou) this side of France. The cove is home to a long stretch of sandy white beach with gentle waves. But before that, wonder around the hilly town centre before the shops close at 6pm. Grab some lunch, make a dinner reservation and pop into some of the shops on Boulevard Georges Clémenceau near the Tourism Office.

Plage de Trestraou is lined with a modern promenade of restaurants offering alfresco cheese burger and beer lunch while enjoying the calming sea breeze. Alternatively, grab a spot on the beach, lay out your picnic map and relax for the afternoon. If you are feeling active, like we did, rent a canoe or a dinghy from the Nautical Centre of Perros-Guirec ( nautisme.perros-guirec.com ) and take it out to admire the big pink boulders at Côte de Granite Rose. €18/hour for a two-seater canoe or €39/hour for a double-handed dinghy. It is a good one-hour roundtrip to the Phare de Men Ruz (lighthouse) on the canoe. If you are even more adventurous, hike along the coastlines to the lighthouse. It takes an hour each way.

We have not found an amazing restaurants here, but found Les Calculots Creperie lively for lunch and Le Bleu Marin Restaurant ( restaurant-le-bleu-marin.fr ) a good option for a seafood dinner.

Day 13: Paimpol to Dinan to Caen

The 2nd last stop on this driving road trip of Northern and Western France is the most beautiful city in Brittany, Dinan ( britannytourism.com ). It is 100 km from Paimpol. The old town is one of the most well preserved medieval village with rows and rows of half-timbered houses/shops, cobble-stoned streets and fortified ancient ramparts dating back to the 13th century. Park at Place du marché and start at Rue Sainte-Claire. Walk up Rue de l’Horloge and climb up the 46m fifteenth century clock tower (Tour de l’Horloge) for a panoramic view of this village that is trapped in time.

Continue to be marvelled on Place des Merciers and then onto Rue du Jerzual toward River Rance. Here half-timbered houses give way to stone houses, thinner crowd and you will find a couple of art/sculpture galleries. By River Rance is the old port of Dinan and there is now a stretch of gorgeous riverside restaurants. Perfect place to grab lunch before the climb back to the village centre. Make sure to grab some biscuits from La Mère Poulard before you head off.

Start the 175 km or 2 hours drive to the final stop at Caen to get there for check-in/ dinner.

Day 14: Caen back to the UK or Paris

Spend the final morning in Caen ( normandie-tourisme.fr ), the final resting place of William the Conqueror and his wife Matilda. Most of the town was destroyed in the world wars but three monumental architecture still stand. Pick one as the finale of trip. William’s remains is buried in the grand Abbaye aux Hommes. Next to it is the Château de Caen – William’s 11th century masterpiece which is now a museum. A stone’s throw away is Abbaye aux Dames where Matilda’s remains lie.

After lunch is the final 350 km or 3.5 hours drive back to Calais enroute to the United Kingdom or 260 km or 3 hours back to Paris’ airport.

Please do share what you think about the exhaustive itinerary above. As always, love to hear from your experiences of travelling in the region.

Travel Guides:

For additional reading on this epic journey, you may want to check out my selection of top books on Northern and Western Coasts of France from our Amazon Associates links below.

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Paris & Bordeaux Itinerary

• Brunch @ Carette
• Explore Le Marais area & checkin to Airbnb
• Happy hour @ Nelson’s
• Dinner @ Loup
• Drinks @ Hotel Costes
• Espresso & Macaroons @ Pierre Hermes
• Walk through Tularies Garden
• Lunch @ Monsieur Bleu
• Walk to Eiffel Tower
• Champs de Mars
• Arc de Triomphe en route to Champs-Elysees
• Dinner @ Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
• Drinks @ Little Red Door
• Half day at Louvre
• Brunch @ Cafe Marly
• Photos @ Palais-Royal
• Shopping nearby
• Dinner @ Brasserie Dubillot
• Eiffel Tower after dark
• Train to Reims
• Tasting & tour @ Mason Ruinart
• Lunch @ Les Jardin des Crayeres
• Tasting @ Pommery
• Train back to Paris
• Explore Le Marais
• Dinner @ L’as du Falafel
• Eiffel Tower after dark (this time with wine)
• Train to Versailles
• Palace of Versailles and Gardens tour
• Snack @ Angelina (in palace)
• Drinks @ Cafe de Flore
• Shopping in St. Germain (Le Bon Marche)
• Dinner @ Le Grand Vefour
• Train to Bordeaux
• Check in to Airbnb
• Brunch @ Les Sauvages
• Explore city, public garden, and old town
• Drinks @ Books & Coffee
• Dinner @ Le 7
• Train to Saint-Emilion
• Pastry & aperol @ Cordelier
• Explore town
• Lunch @ L’envers du Decor
• Pick up bikes at tourist center
• Chateau Cantanac wine tasting & tour
• Bike through vineyards
• Dinner @ Michel’s
• Train to Paris
• Check into Hotel Basss in Montmartre
• Explore Montmartre
• Brunch @ Breizh Cafe
• Shopping at CityPharma (skincare!)
• COVID tests 24-hour before flight
• Eiffel Tower golden hour
• Dinner @ Chez Janou

Where We Stayed:

Le Marais (6 nights) – we stayed in a quaint Airbnb steps away from the Republic train station and dozens of restaurants and cafes! Hotels are pricey and you don’t get a lot of space for your money. This Airbnb was perfect for traveling with a friend because we had a common space and kitchen area to spread out in.

Montmartre (1 night) – I wish we had more time in this area of Paris! Montemarte was bustling during our one day stay there. We stayed at the Hotel Basss which was perfect for our last night before heading to the airport. I wouldn’t recommend for any longer than 1-2 nights as the space is extremely tight.

Bordeaux (2 nights) – when I say we stayed in the cutest Airbnb I am not exaggerating! This spot was beautifully decorated and designed. Our hosts, Marc & Gwendoline, were so kind and had great suggestions for our short stay in Bordeaux. They also had an adorable little cat who greeted us every morning!

What To Do:

Paris is a huge city with so much to do and see, but being our first trip, we had to get to all of the main tourist attractions like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triumph, Champs-Elysees, Tuileries garden, Luxembourg Gardens, Palais-Royal, and Notre Dame. We unfortunately did not make it to the Musee d’Orsay, but so many people recommended it over the Louvre. Next time!

Some neighborhoods we spent the most time in include St. Germain, Le Marais, Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, Les Halles, and Place Vendome. Make sure you dedicate some time to just wander around and explore.

We took a day trip to the Versailles and it was 100% worth the train ride (which is only about an hour!). We did a self guided tour of the Palace of Versailles and the gardens. It’s so beautiful and grand! Highly recommend getting there early.

We also spent a day in Reims, located in the Champagne region of France. If you’re looking for a great tasting and tour, I highly recommend Maison Ruinart. The tour was extremely well done! We got to see the cellars, learn about the bottling process, and then finally taste some of their best known champagne classic and vintage bottle. We also stopped at Pommery for a tasting and were a bit disappointed in the champagne house. Veuve Clicquot is another famous champagne house in Reims, but they were closed for a private event during our visit.

Transportation within Paris:

At the beginning of the trip we were strictly using Uber (in our defense it’s a LOT more affordable than in NYC), but towards the end of the trip we mastered the Metro. If you’ve ever taken the NYC subway you can easily handle the Metro. It’s clean, runs very frequently, and has ample signage at every station.

We took the SNFC (or high speed train) to Bordeaux, Reims, and Saint-Emilion. The larger trains run out of Gare Montparnasse which was relatively easy to navigate. We cut one train very, very close and were somehow still able to make it running through the train station with our heavy bags.

Where to Eat:

When I say I ate some of the best food I’ve ever had Im really not exaggerating! French food is incredible and we were able to eat at some pretty amazing spots. Shout out to my travel mate, Eleonora, for finding and making nearly ALL of these reservations!! Our master list below:

• Carette – brunch & croissants
• Hotel Costes – this didn’t blow us away, but a cool spot for drinks (although a bit pricey) and their famous berries and cream.
• Chez Janou – after receiving over 20 recommendations for this restaurant we had to try and get a reservation. We had no luck calling leading up to the trip, but on the last day, went to the restaurant in person and had no issue securing a table! If you decide to go, get the chocolate mousse.
• Little Red Door – coolest bar!! This speakeasy has great vibes and even better drinks.
• Loup – traditional French brasserie, very affordable.
• Breizh Cafe – crapes & galettes
• Monsieur Bleu – get the croque monsieur and thank me later! This spot was delish and gets you within eyeshot of the Eiffel Tower.
• Cafe Marly – expensive, but you’re paying for the view of the Louvre and it’s totally worth it!
• Cafe de Flore – if you’ve ever searched ‘Paris’ on Pinterest then you’ve probably seen at least a dozen photos of Cafe de Flore. We weren’t blown away by the drinks, but hey, you’re going to say you went!
• Brasserie Dubillot – great dinner spot with lots of sharing options! Cute interior.
• Le Jardin Les Crayeres (Reims) – Another one of my favorite meals! Modern French cuisine with a unique twist of flavors. Within walking distance of many champagne houses. Beautiful outdoor eating space!
• L’as du Falafel – arrive hungry! Incredible Israeli food available for casual dining or take away.
• Grand Vefour – a historic restaurant in Paris, the meal didnt really hit for me, but Eleonora loved her meal!
• Le Syndicat – cocktail bar with unique drinks, good vibes, and good music!
• Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond – delicious traditional French cuisine. Very affordable – does not take reservations so arrive early. We waiting in line for about 30-mins which was not too bad.
• Le 7 (Bordeaux) – number one meal of the tip! Located on the 7th floor with a panoramic view of Bordeaux. We both did the chef’s tasting menu and it was unreal. Not one bad thing and we licked our plates clean. Also surprisingly affordable for a Michelin star.
• Les Sauvages (Bordeaux) – affordable, trendy brunch spot with delicious sweet & savory options.
• Books & Coffe e (Bordeaux) – more like wine and espresso, but close enough! Located in Bordeaux old town amongst many adorable cafes.
• Mitchel’s (Bordeaux) – The best French Onion soup I’ve ever had! Covered in pastry dough and big enough for two people.
• Cloitre des Cordeliers (Saint-Emilion) – A former monastery with a beautiful outdoor space. Build your own picnic basket and eat in the gardens. We arrived a bit early, but I could see this being a very fun spot on weekends. Great aperol sprits and right in the heart of Saint-Emilion.
• L’Envers du Decor – Wine bar and bistro in the heart of Saint-Emilion. Traditional French cuisine.

Lessons Learned:

This was our first trip to Paris and we learned a lot during our time there. Here were some of our biggest takeaways:

• Parisians eat d inner late, like 9pm. We made a lot of reservations for 7:00-7:30pm and would often be the first people there. Of course you can eat when you want, but the crowd doesn’t show until later in the evening.
• Make reservations for popular spots . For example, Chez Janou had a 2-hour walk in wait time at 9:30 at night… On top of that, don’t be too late, we got rejected after we were 1 minute later than the grace period. Our fault, but still a bummer.
• Coffee to go is not a thing . We planned a lot of early excursions and were not happy humans when we couldn’t get coffee until we sat down for brunch.
• Not everything requires a full or half day ! We blocked out main tourist attractions for a full or half day depending on their size. We quickly learned that a lot of these spots could be accomplished in just a few hours (or less) like the gardens.
• Paris is very walkable , but wear the right shoes! I messed this up big time and destroyed my feet wearing boots on day 2. Dont make the same mistake as me! Wear sneakers, comfortable sandals, or worn in shoes that you know you’ll be comfortable in! Part of the beauty is seeing the side streets and weird routes while walking.
• Don’t forget your VAT/Tax refund forms!! If you’re planning to shop, this is critical! Any purchase of 150 euro is eligible for tax back. Most designer stores will do it at checkout, but malls require you to take a second step in getting your tax forms. This is generally a 12% savings so it’s well worth the time. Also, most stores will not honor your purchase after 1-2 days so make sure you do it day of.
• If you visit Saint-Emilion, get a driver or do a group tour. We thought it would be adorable to ride bikes, and it was, but not at all practical for seeing multiple winery’s. We were also beyond exhausted by the end of the day.
• Visit the Eiffel Tower at different times of day. Mid day vs. golden hour vs. after dark give entirely different perspectives on the tower. I didn’t expect to be such a sucker for it, but it was truly so beautiful to see at all times of day. If you go after dark, bring your own wine or have Euro on hand to purchase from the dozens of people walking around selling wine and beer.
• Pack less! You will shop. Don’t end up like me and have to buy a second suitcase to keep your checked bag from being overweight.

Photo Worthy Spots:

• Passerelle Debilly – bridge just before the tower with the perfect Seine River and tower view. You can also walk down to the riverside for a similar photo moment!
• Rue de l’Universite – this is the equivalent of Washington Street in DUMBO (you know, the Pinterest popular spot with the perfect view of the manhattan bridge). You get up close to the tower and the beautiful Parisian homes frame the tower.
• Trocadero – this was sadly partially under construction during our visit so much of the steps were blocked up. This area is insanely crowded day and night so go at off hours if you’re looking for a clean shot of the tower.
• Domaine National du Palais-Royal – you’ve probably seen photos of the black and white columns in the palace courtyard. A garden and art installation, this was a great spot for photos and a stroll through the park.
• Luxembourg Gardens – IMO this was more of what I expected of Parisian gardens (compared to Tuileries Garden).
• Montmartre – This entire area is pretty photo worthy, but Rue Cortot has beautiful, greenery covered homes.

Oh man, I was struggling with what to pack for this trip! I had initially packed a much warmer wardrobe, but after speaking to friend who was currently in Paris she told me it was HOT. She wasn’t lying! It was hot most days.

Pants and a light shirt were perfect for mid day. Adding a duster, blazer or light cardigan was necessary for the early mornings and evenings. Don’t bring heels unless it’s for a special occasion (or you plan to Uber). The cobblestones were not made for heels. I mainly wore sneakers and platform sandals. Bring a belt bag or crossbody that leaves your hands free. Between my phone and camera my hands were always full, a shoulder bag wold have been a pain.

One thing I noticed is that no one was dressed in skimpy clothing or was showing much skin (even in the evenings). I wore a skirt with a high slit and heels one evening and felt like I was standing out in the wrong way. Dont get me wrong, wear WHATEVER you want. This was just my observation!

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Wonderful Paris to Bordeaux Day Trip by Train 2024: All You Need to Know

• March 4, 2024
• by Jenoa Matthes

Considering taking a Paris to Bordeaux day trip when you’re in France? We’re sharing all you need to know, including how to get there by train, what to do, and where to eat.

As the desire to visit Bordeaux for its famous wine region and historical charm grows, it’s becoming a popular day trip from France’s capital. With the train only taking 2-2.5 hours each way, a day trip is definitely doable.

While Paris boasts romantic charm, museums galore, and endless activities, Bordeaux allows you to escape the hustle and bustle, delving deep into French culture.

We spent two weeks in Bordeaux during the fall harvest and were surprised by how young and vibrant the city is. With plenty of hip store and incredible restaurants, not to mention charming wine bars, you’re sure to have a wonderful day here.

In just one day, you can discover stunning vineyards, enjoy delicious cuisine, and explore the picture-perfect old town. With so much to see and do in the city, planning your day-long getaway to Bordeaux can be an overwhelming challenge.

While it’s impossible to see it all, this guide shares a complete itinerary to help you make the most of your day trip to Bordeaux from Paris.

Know before you go: Paris to Bordeaux day trip

Before you travel from Paris to Bordeaux, there are a few things to consider to help make your day trip as seamless as possible.

You’ll spend a lot of your day on a train

The high-speed trains between both destinations take 2-2.5 hours each way. On a Paris to Bordeaux day trip, this means you’ll spend around 4-5 hours on public transport at a minimum. Even longer if you’re staying far away from Montparnasse train station in Paris.

To keep yourself entertained during your long train journeys, make sure you come prepared. While traveling by train in Europe often boasts scenic views, you’ll want something to keep you busy.

Books, mini-games, and even your phone (for Netflix marathons) can make your journey go faster. Snacks and water are also a must!

Travel to Bordeaux early

To make the most out of your day in Bordeaux, you should consider taking an early morning high-speed train. This allows you to maximize your time in the city and see as much as possible in a short space of time.

There are plenty of trains to Bordeaux from Paris that leave early in the morning allowing you to arrive around 9am. Try to get one of these trains to provide you with the most time on your day trip.

Consider booking a tour of the Bordeaux vineyards

Visiting the vineyards and going wine tasting is one of the top things to do in Bordeaux, but it can be a little tricky if you’re short on time. Booking a half-day tour gives you a chance to see other sights as well as experience this unique activity. That way, you get a reel feel for the city and what it has to offer.

By booking a tour, you’ll take the stress and hassle out of your day with everything planned for you. All you need to do is turn up at the pickup point and you’re good to go!

Don’t cram everything into one day

While it can be tempting to cram in as much as possible, rushing around means you won’t truly experience each attraction. Prioritize what you want to see instead of running from place to place.

Is Bordeaux worth a day trip from Paris?

Absolutely, spending a day in Bordeaux is well worth doing if you’re short on time. In a day, you can explore the main highlights in Bordeaux and get a taste of what the city has to offer.

Not in a rush? Then consider staying for a minimum of two nights. A longer trip to the bustling city of Bordeaux means you can discover more attractions, sample more local foods, and gain a stronger understanding of this popular French favorite.

How to get from Paris to Bordeaux by train

The best way to get to Bordeaux from Paris is by high-speed train. In fact, it’s the most convenient and budget-friendly way to travel between both cities.

Tickets can be bought in advance online via the SNCF website , or at the train station.

We highly recommend purchasing your train tickets to Bordeaux in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Try to buy them at least 3-weeks before your travel date to get the best prices, as they go up the closer you get to your departure date.

When traveling from Paris to Bordeaux by train, you’ll want to arrive at Paris Montparnasse train station a little early. For long-distance trains, we always try to arrive at least 30 minutes beforehand.

How long is the train journey from Paris to Bordeaux

The high-speed train from Paris to Bordeaux takes around 2-2.5 hours depending on the train.

In no time at all, you’ll be sipping on glorious wine, trying the local delicacies, and people-watching in serene gardens.

How to get from the Bordeaux Train Station to the City Center

Getting from Gare Saint-Jean to Bordeaux city centre is super easy with the most convenient options being by tram or by foot.

Taking the Bordeaux Tram

Firstly, Bordeaux has a highly efficient tram system. From the train station, jump on the tram to your destination in the center of Bordeaux. We recommend using Google Maps to find the best trams and routes for your day trip.

You can purchase your tram tickets at the ticket machine outside of the stop. A single-ride costs €1.70.

Walking to the center

The walk from the train station to the city center takes around 40-minutes, so we recommend taking the tram due to limited time.

What to do on a day trip from Paris to Bordeaux

Below, we are sharing two itineraries that you can choose from for your day trip to Bordeaux from Paris. The first itinerary is for those looking to spend a full-day in Bordeaux visiting the city’s main highlights with time for a wine tasting.

The second itinerary includes wine tour options for those looking to spend a day in the Bordeaux vineyards wine tasting and visiting different chateaux.

Itinerary #1: Spend the day in the city

Start the day at the grosse cloche.

The best way to start your Paris to Bordeaux day trip is to head straight to the Grosse Cloche. This impressive historical monument stands tall above the city and showcases the city’s rich heritage.

Dating all the way back to as early as the 13th century, it’s one of the top Bordeaux highlights that needs to be on your itinerary.

The structure is not only a symbol of Bordeaux’s medieval past but also a stunning example of Gothic architecture, featuring intricate carvings and a majestic clock face.

Our favorite way to admire Grosse Cloche is to grab a hot drink from Books & Coffee . With unobstructed views of this incredible structure, it’s the perfect spot to get your coffee fix.

Visit the Porte Cailhou Gate

Less than 10 minutes away on foot, Porte Cailhou is your next stop in Bordeaux. Offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past, this unique structure was built in the 15th century.

For just €5, you can climb to the top of the gate and admire beautiful views of the city below. Inside, you’ll also find an intriguing exhibition that showcases the story behind this architectural beauty and how it was constructed.

Check out the Place de la Bourse

Just up the road, Place de la Bourse is one of the city’s main squares making it a must-see during your day trip to Bordeaux. Located in the heart of the city, the square is known for its beautiful buildings. More notably the Palais Rohan which reminds me a lot of the Louvre in Paris.

This spot is also known for the Mirror of Water; a stunning water feature that reflects the grand architecture to create a magical effect, especially at night. If you’re on the hunt for fab photo opportunities, I highly recommend visiting this place both during the day and as night falls.

This impressive square is the perfect spot for leisurely strolls, photography, and taking in the city’s rich cultural heritage. If you do one thing in Bordeaux, make it this!

Place des Quinconces

After a glass of wine or two, head straight to Place des Quinconces to admire one of the prettiest squares in all of Europe. Not only is it one of the most imposing squares in the continent, but it’s bursting with history, charm, and photo opportunities.

This extensive open space offers a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. The grand square is filled with majestic statues, fountains, and historical monuments, making it a hub of cultural activities in the bustling city of Bordeaux.

Visit the Jardin Public

Fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle? Then continue on to Jardin Public, a beautiful public park that’s open daily until 7 p.m. If you’re visiting Bordeaux on a budget, this is one of the best free things to do in the city.

During the summer, the flowers are gorgeous and in bloom. It’s a wonderful spot to take a break from all of the walking and enjoy a bit of nature for a moment.

Wander through the streets of the old town

Europe is known for picture-perfect old towns and Bordeaux is no different. During your Paris to Bordeaux day trip, make sure you save some time to take a leisurely wander around this part of the city.

As you take each step, you’ll be treated to stunning architecture, unique charm, and French allure that draws in travelers from across the globe. With its narrow winding streets, centuries-old buildings, and photo spots around each corner, it’s the best place to experience the atmospheric vibes of Bordeaux.

Saint-Andre Cathedral

The Saint-André Cathedral in Bordeaux, France, stands as a prime example of Gothic architecture, with its detailed facade and intricate stained glass windows.

This historical monument, dating back to the 11th century, has been a vital religious and cultural center in the city. It famously hosted the wedding of Louis VII of France and Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1137, an event of great historical significance.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral is a must visit during your Paris to Bordeaux day trip.

There is a €2 fee to visit the cathedral, which can be purchased upon entry. It is open Wednesday to Saturday from 2:30pm to 5:30pm.

Climb Pey Berland Tower

After a visit to the cathedral, make your way to the Pey Berland Tower.

This unique 12th-century tower used to be one of the tallest structures in Bordeaux. However, part of the building was destroyed by a storm in 1617. Despite that, it’s still one of the best places to go if you’re looking for panoramic views of Bordeaux.

For €6, you can climb the 229 steps to the top where you’ll be greeted with the most spectacular views of the entire city.

Make sure to purchase your tickets and reserve your time slot in advance on the official website.

Pey Berland Tower Opening Hours

• June to September everyday from 10:00am to 6:00pm
• October to May everyday from 10:00am to 12:30pm | 2:00pm to 5:30pm

Grab some lunch at a French restaurant

After a busy morning, it’s time to reward yourself with some delicious French food. Here are a few spots that we recommend trying for lunch:

• La Table Dereulle – This family-owned restaurant focuses their entire menu around cheese. They own a cheese shop down the street, so they take inspiration from that and create the most savory and delightful dishes. This is our top choice for lunch if you are in this area.
• L’Entrecôte – A French institution, this restaurant focuses mainly on two things: steak and fries. Worth a visit if you’re looking to try this classic French dish that is served with a flavorful sauce.
• Chez Dupont – A classic French restaurant serving typical dishes from the region.
• Le Loup – A lovely restaurant serving regional French dishes at an affordable price.

Make sure to call ahead and reserve in advance. Some restaurants may offer reservations online as well.

Taste some of the city’s delicious foods

We hope you still have room for more food because you have to try these Bordeaux sweet treats! You can’t leave the city without trying:

●  Canelé from La Toque Cuivrée: There is always room for dessert and if you try just one in Bordeaux, opt for Canelé! This well-loved French pastry was born in Bordeaux and is a small, caramelized cake with a tender custard-like interior and a dark, caramelized crust. You can find them throughout the city, but the best ones are from La Toque Cuivrée.

●  Cream puffs from Dunes Blanche’s Chez Pascal: Can you squeeze in one more dessert? Then head to Dunes Blanche’s Chez Pascal for some cream puffs. We know what you’re probably thinking – cream puff? That sounds boring. Well, these are the best cream puffs we’ve ever tasted. Try one of their classic flavors and one of their specialty flavors. Trust us, it won’t disappoint.

Wine Tasting in the City

If you’ve decided against a wine-tasting tour or don’t have enough time in Bordeaux, there is no need to miss out! With several options when it comes to wine tasting in the city, you can sample some of the best wines in between visiting main attractions.

●  Taste some wine at the Bar a Vin : Known as the best wine bar in the whole region, you simply must try a glass of wine or two at Bar a Vin!

●  Rent a bike and ride to the Cité du Vin : This intriguing wine museum not only showcases tons of information about the local wine, but it also offers wine tastings everyday. This is without a doubt the next best thing if you have no time to do a dedicated wine tour. Make sure to sign up for a tasting in advance!

Shop along Rue Saint-Catherine

End your Bordeaux day trip with a spot of shopping along Rue Saint-Catherine. As one of the longest shopping streets in all of Europe, it’s the best place to go for a spot of retail therapy.

You’ll find a variety of products for sale including interior treasures, boutique clothing, and vintage gems.

Itinerary #2: Go on a Bordeaux wine tour in the countryside

If you are heading to Bordeaux solely for wine tasting, you’re in for a treat! This captivating experience allows you to admire blissful countryside views as you sip on delicious wines.

Renowned for its centuries-old traditions and prestigious wine estates, this iconic region in southwestern France has a lot to offer!

Consider booking one of the following Bordeaux wine tours:

1. Bordeaux: Saint-Emilion and Medoc Full-Day Wine Experience

If you’re looking for a charming wine-tasting tour at some of the region’s top vineyards, this full-day adventure to Saint Emilion and Medoc is well worth checking out!

Upon departing from central Bordeaux, you’ll make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Saint Emilion where you’ll visit historical attractions.

Next up, you’ll stop by a Château to sample local Bordeaux wine as you discover more about this unique French region before stopping for a tasty picnic lunch in Margaux.

Once your hunger is satisfied, you’ll head straight to Château Margaux for a quick photo stop before continuing on your journey.

Your last stop takes you to one of the top wineries in the area where you’ll enjoy more delicious wine and hear all about the craft of winemaking.

2. Saint Emilion Half-Day Trip with Wine Tasting & Winery Visit from Bordeaux

Fancy checking out Bordeaux and doing a wine tour as well? Then a half-day wine tasting tour is a great way to do both. While your visit will be a little rushed, you’ll get a real feel for the local area. If you’re short on time, this is the best way to decide whether or not you’ll come back in the future.

This particular tour starts in Bordeaux city center, picking you up from 12 Cr du 30 Juillet. You can opt for either a morning or afternoon tour, the choice is yours!

As you hit the road, you’ll head straight to Saint Emilion; a picture-perfect historical town in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region. Starting your day at a Château, you’ll receive a guided tour of the winery before sampling the local produce.

With some free time afterward, you have the chance to discover the town’s charming cobblestone streets and the Monolithic Church before heading back to Bordeaux.

For more tour options, check out these posts dedicated to wine tours in the region:

• Saint Emilion Wine Tours
• Medoc Wine Tours

How to get around Bordeaux

During your day trip from Paris to Bordeaux, there are a few options for getting around Bordeaux.

• Walking – Bordeaux is fairly small and is very walkable, especially in the city center. In fact, many of the city’s attractions are easily reachable on foot.
• Tram – The tram system in Bordeaux can get you pretty much anywhere in the city. You can purchase a day pass at one of the ticket machines if you plan to take it a bunch; otherwise a single-ride costs €1.70.
• Bikes – There are plenty of self-service bikes around Bordeaux that you can rent. These are called V3 bikes. We recommend renting one if you want to visit the Cité du Vin, as it’s a lovely ride along the riverbank.

Is one day enough in Bordeaux?

With one day in Bordeaux , you’ll be able to see the city’s main highlights, eat a delicious local lunch, and have time for either a wine tour or a tasting in the city.

While we think Bordeaux deserves a minimum of 2 days , you’ll be able to get a taste of what the city has to offer on this day trip from Paris.

Tips for your day trip from Paris to Bordeaux

Plan ahead and book things in advance: Before heading off on your Bordeaux day trip, consider booking train tickets, restaurants, wine tours, and any activities that we specifically listed to reserve in advance. That way, you can rest easy knowing that the important things are covered!

Wear comfortable shoes : With a lot of walking ahead of you, wearing comfortable shoes is a must. Nobody wants sore feet or blisters slowing them down when time is limited in a new and exciting destination!

Arrive early in the morning : As we mentioned before, try to arrive in Bordeaux by 9:00am, so you can make the most out of your day trip. While it does mean an early start in Paris, it will be worth it, so you don’t feel as rushed throughout the day.

FAQs: Paris to Bordeaux day trip

What is special in bordeaux.

There are a number of things that Bordeaux is famous for, but two that stand out most; wine and food.

Located in the southwest of France, the city is known for its fine wines. Wine lovers can’t resist visiting the local vineyards. After all, what better way to delve deep into local culture than to sample what’s on offer?

Next up, we’ve got delicious food! Local dishes such as Aquitaine caviar, Arcachon Bay oysters, and Bordeaux steak are a must-try while in the city.

If you’d prefer something sweet, you can’t leave without trying canelé; a tasty treat made with vanilla, rum, custard, and a rich caramelized finish.

Is Bordeaux a mini Paris?

Paris and Bordeaux have some definite similarities in terms of architecture and vibe, but the latter is a lot less crowded and more chilled out than the French capital. Despite their similarities, Bordeaux has its own unique charm meaning it’s well worth visiting both on a trip to France!

More information for your trip to Bordeaux

• Planning to explore more of the Aquitaine region? One of the best day trips from Bordeaux is to visit the Dune du Pilat – Europe’s largest sand dune.
• Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?

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2 Weeks in France: 3 itineraries

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Do you know that France is the most visited destination in the world ? Year after year, France receives 90 million tourists from all over the world. It’s undeniable that choosing where to spend 2 weeks in Europe is difficult.

There are so many to see with so little time. But with France, a person has to visit it at least once in their lifetime. If there are other places in Europe you want to see, you can plan a 2-week South Europe trip .

France is a country well-known for many things, including fashion, food, wine, football, and of course, Paris, the city of love. The French language is even dubbed the most romantic language.

Europe’s highest mountain can be found here, and their gastronomy was even granted a UNESCO World Heritage status. For cheese lovers, France has 1,600 different types of cheese, so you’ll never run out of options. Escargot is also something distinctly French that is a must-try for those who are adventurous in terms of food exploration.

Aside from that, a lot of people include France in their bucket list of places they want to visit, that’s why it’s the world’s most popular tourist destination. The reasons are endless, whether it’s because of the museums or the Eiffel Tower.

Below, you will see three different itineraries for those who want to stay for 2 weeks in France. Aside from that, we’ll also provide you with travel tips on how to make your vacation more seamless.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING FRANCE

Before we get into the itineraries, there are a few things that you need to know first, such as getting around, the best time to go, as well as the language and currency.

It is imperative to know the modes of transportation available in various locations to account for the time it would take you to travel from one place to another. The information below will help you plan and write your own itinerary for 14-day France.

When is the best time to go to France

The best time to go depends on what season you prefer. April to May is their springtime, June to August is summer and September to October is their autumn seaso n. Their winter season is from December to February, so this is perfect for those who love or want to do winter activities.

However, please take note that summer is a peak season. There are more tourists, and the prices of accommodations and tours skyrocket. If you prefer the off-peak season, this is during February, right after the end of the winter season or sometimes after summer.

The shoulder seasons in France are spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). These periods offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and often lower prices for accommodations and flights compared to the peak summer months.

Getting around

There are various modes of transportation in France, including riding a train, ferry, taking a bus or coach, or boarding a plan e and of course, you can use a bicycle, rollers, or segway.

Taxis are the most commonly used mode of transport in the city. On the other hand, city buses are another option and more affordable.

Renting a car to travel around France is actually one of the most affordable and convenient modes of transportation. You will have control of your time and the freedom to change your mind about the destination. You don’t need to book domestic flights and buses beforehand.

Just remember that in France, most cars are still using a stick or manual transmission. So, make sure that you are comfortable using that.

Language and currency

I’m sure you already know that France’s main language is French . Now, it’s time to learn some of the most common phrases that each tourist should know

• bonjour – hello
• merci – thank you
• pardon – excuse me/sorry
• parlez-vous Anglais – do you speak English
• s’il vous plait – please
• au revoir – goodbye

France’s currency is the Euro, which can also be used in 18 other countries that are a part of the EU. The euro replaced France’s previous currency, which was called Francs, in 2002.

It’s easy to get around France and pay using your bank card. However, it is still best to bring cash in case your card doesn’t work or the terminal is glitching.

Cost of a 2-week France trip

France is one of the most popular destinations in the world making it one of the most expensive in the world especially during the peak season (summer and Christmas). Here are some ideas on what to budget:

• Affordable: Budget travellers might spend around €1,200 to €1,800. This includes hostel stays, supermarket meals or street food, public transportation, and free attractions.
• Mid-Range: For a comfortable experience with mid-tier hotels, some restaurant meals, domestic travel, and paid admissions, expect to spend about €2,500 to €4,000 .
• Luxury: A luxury trip with top hotels, fine dining, private tours, and exclusive experiences can cost €7,000 to €12,000 or more .

If you narrowed down the dates you plan to go, it’s best to make travel arrangements in advance – more specifically accommodation booking.

France implements the same visa policy as the entire EU . This means that if your passport is from North America, some Latin America, some East and Southeast Asia, and most of Oceania. Of course, if you have a passport from an EU member, you don’t need a visa to enter France, and you can stay for as long as you want.

Other travel tips

Top things to see in france (pinned map).

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN FRANCE ITINERARIES

France is one of the largest European countries regarding landmass and population. It is well-known for its culinary reputation, backed by the fact that it has the most Michelin-starred restaurants and chefs.

France is also famous for its historic towns, rich culture, and ancient waterways. 2 weeks in France might not be too much, but it’s enough to get a glimpse of its culture, history, and delicious food.

There are a few travel itineraries for 2 weeks in France below and you can decide which one you prefer or you can simply get some ideas and create your own .

Itinerary #1: First-time (Paris, Calais, Dunkirk, Nice, Marseille)

The first itinerary option for your 14 days in France includes the cities of Paris, Calais, Dunkirk, Niece, and Marseille.

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Aside from the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre Dame, it is also well-known for the terraces in its cafes. A family trip to Paris is also a great plan since you have Disneyland to visit together.

Calais, on the other hand, is a transport hub, a fishing port, and a centre for fish marketing. It is also France’s gateway to England. It’s also a known historical place, an awesome destination for history enthusiasts.

Nice is popular among tourists for its beautiful scenery , Mediterranean climate, and annual festivals and parades, one of which is the Carnival de Nice.

Marseille is the sunniest major city in the country , and since the historic sights are well-preserved, expect to be amazed by the castles, museums, churches, and old streets. It also has some local dishes, including Bouillabaisse and Pastis, which are both must-try.

Paris for 3 days

If you need further convincing to visit the city of love, then prepare to be amazed. For art enthusiasts, you’ll find one of the most famous paintings in the world here, in the Louvre Museum, it’s Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci.

It also has an underground city called The Catacombs, and if you love taking long walks or going for a run and exploring nature, then you’re in for a treat because they have 450 parks and gardens.

If you’re going to spend two weeks in France, you can allot 3 days in Paris and then spend the rest doing day trips around the city.

The capital can be an expensive city to explore, but there are many free things you can do in Paris . this includes visiting artworks and historical sites, all at no cost.

Calais and Dunkirk for 3 days

You can get to Calais from Paris by riding a bus, boarding a train, or drivin g. The fastest option would be to drive, and the cheapest would be to ride a bus. Both destinations are popular for having a lot of historical sites, including places related to World War II.

To reach Dunkirk, if you’re from Paris, you could either ride the train or drive. Some of the top tourist attractions here include Musee Portuaire, Beffroi de Dunkerque, Dunkirk 1940 Museum, and Parc Zoologique de Fort Mardyck, among others.

Nice for 4 days

From Calais to Nice, you could ride the train, ride a bus, drive, or a combination of taking a train and boarding a plane, which is the most recommended option as it is the fastest.

If you’re coming from Dunkirk to Nice , you could also board the train, ride a bus, drive, or a combination of a train ride and boarding a plane, which, like the Calais to Nice route, is also the most recommended option.

Marseille for 4 days

You can go to Marseille from Nice by train, bus, or drive. The cheapest option would be to use a bus, and the fastest would be to drive.

Marseille is a popular destination because it is a lively and vibrant city . It has a well-known port that also carries a lot of historical value and still plays a big part in France’s economy. You can even take a ferry from Marseille all the way to Algiers in Africa. You can take boat trips or go on a cruise in Marseille.

However, if you want a true beach destination, Nice and Montpellier are the two best places to have stunning beaches near Marseille.

Itinerary #2: City, Beach, Wine (Paris, Bordeaux, Nice)

The second itinerary option for your 2 weeks in France includes the cities of Paris, Bordeaux, and Nice. Aside from being dubbed the city of love, Paris is also called the city of lights because it is among the first major cities in Europe to adopt street lighting.

Aside from the world-famous tourist attractions previously mentioned, Paris is also well-known for its contribution to world literature. Bordeaux is famous for its wine, so much so that it is considered the wine capital of the world.

It is also well known for its mansions, art museums, and cathedrals. It is even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wealth of architectural treasures. Plus, it’s the region to go surfing.

Nice is famous not only for its beaches and natural scenery but also because of its museums, food, and Roman archaeological sites.

Paris for 5 days

You’ll already be able to enjoy a lot of famous sights and sceneries in Paris. However, it only gets better from there as it is also close to Calais and Dunkirk, cities filled with traces of history.

Some of Calais’ famous tourist attractions include Burghers of Calais, Town Hall, La Cite de la Dentelle et de la Mode, Calais Lighthouse, and Musee des Beaux-Arts de Calais, amo

Bordeaux for 4 days

To reach Bordeaux from Paris, you could take a train or bus or fly. The most recommended option would be to ride the train, but the fastest is to board a plane.

Bordeaux is perfect for wine connoisseurs and surfers. Some of the most famous tourist destinations in this area are Cathedral St. Andre, Chateau de la Brede, guided winery tours, Pont de Pierre, River Garonne cruise, Cote d’Argent surfing spot, and much much more.

Nice 4 days

If you’re coming from Bordeaux, you can go to Nice by train, bus, or plane. You will save a lot of time if you take a domestic flight.

This French Riviera coastal city is popular for many reasons. Beautiful sandy beaches, museums, historical sites, and a port that will take you to many places in the Mediterranean Sea. From Nice, you can also reach the famous Cannes and Antibes.

Itinerary #3: City Enthusiast (Paris, Lyon, Nice)

The third itinerary option consists of the cities Paris, Nice, and Lyon. Whether you’re sipping coffee or tea on one of the cafe terraces of the Boulevard of Saint Germain or having a cruise at the Seine River, you could do all of these in Paris.

Aside from having world heritage sites, Lyon is also known as the gastronomy capital of France and is famous for the production and weaving of silk. While Nice is a Mediterranean seaside city with a temperate climate all year round and looks most like Southern Italy.

Paris for 6 days

We couldn’t get enough of Paris, just like everyone else, and for a good reason. We fell in love at first sight upon seeing the Eiffel Tower, but that’s not all there is with this magical city. Each neighbourhood (also known as a quartier) has its own charms.

The Latin Quarter has a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and pedestrian streets. Champs Elysees, on the other hand, is brimming with energy, and Montmartre has an old-world village charm. Aside from that, Paris is close to both Dunkirk and Calais, which are both havens for history buffs.

Lyon for 4 days

You can go to Lyon from Paris by train, bus, driving, or boarding a plane. The travel time would take two to six hours, depending on your choice of mode of transport. The most recommended option would be riding a train.

Aside from all of the wonders Lyon offers, you could even have a day trip to Geneva, Switzerland, as it is only 2 hours away. Visiting two countries in a day is such a cool thing to experience.

Ending your trip in Nice is a good decision since you can go hiking, enjoy the local food, and enjoy the beach – a true relaxing way a vacation should be .

The modes of transportation from Lyon to Nice include boarding a train, riding a bus, using rideshare, driving, and boarding a plane.

The travel time would take anywhere between three hours to eight hours, while a plane ride would be the fastest.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN FRANCE

Now that you have an idea of places to include in your 2 weeks in France itinerary, it’s time to show you the top and most popular attractions in each city.

Paris and around

• Opera National de Paris
• Boulevard du Montparnasse
• Jardin du Luxemburg
• Eiffel Tower – you can skip the line and hike up the stairs or take the elevator
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Louvre Museum – get a skip-the-line ticket without a guide or with a live guide
• Arc de Triomphe – scale the rooftop
• Pompidou Centre
• Seine River Cruise – you can book a 1-hour cruise or a cruise with a yummy gourmet dinner
• Champs-Elysees
• Sacre-Coeur
• Musee de Montmartre
• Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show – enjoy with champagne or a dinner
• Musee d’Orsay
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Catacombs of Paris – explore with an audio guide
• Sainte-Chapelle
• Grand Palais
• Versailles – join a guided tour
• Tuileries Garden
• Shakespeare and Company

Lyon and around

• Quartier Saint-John and Quartier Saint-Georges
• Musee de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine
• Colline de la Croix-Rousse
• Presqu’ile District
• Parc de la Tete d’Or
• La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere
• Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
• Rhone Valley – book a wine-tasting tour
• Place Bellecour
• Musee des Confluences – get your ticket in advance
• Teatro Galo-Romano
• Vieux Lyon – join a food tour or an Old Town walking food tour
• Lake Geneva, Switzerland – 2 hours from Lyon
• Musee Cinema et Miniature
• Saone River – get on a cruise and visit UNESCO sites or a cruise with a dinner
• Musee de l’imprimerir et de la
• Musée des Arts de la Marionnette
• Fresqye des Lyonnais
• Bartholdi Fountain
• Lyon Botanical Garden
• Vieille Ville
• Promenade des Anglais
• Castle Hill Park
• Musee Matisse
• Jardin Albert 1er
• Marc Chagall National Museum
• Villefranche Bay – enjoy a 1-hour cruise or have fun snorkelling
• Castle of Nice
• Modern and Contemporary Art
• Foundation Maeght
• Field of Lavender and Gorges of Verdon – best if visiting from spring to summer, then you must book a tour of the Lavender fields
• Cathedrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
• Parc Phoenix
• Cimiez Monastery
• Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption
• Opera de Nice
• Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
• Abbaye Saint-Victor
• Chateau d’Ilf
• Mucem – Museum of Civilizations of Europe, you can skip the line and save some time
• Old Port of Marseille
• Cathedrale La Major
• Massif des Calanques – have fun on a 5-hour cruise or explore with an e-bike
• Palais Longchamp
• Parc National des Calanques – sign up for a kayak tour
• Calanque de la creme
• Do a day trip to Provence – best if you have a max of 7 people in your group or book a wine tour to Provence
• Winery tours
• Place de la Bourse
• La Cite du Vin
• La Grosse Cloche
• Porte Cailhau
• La Cité du Vin – learn everything about the wine of Bordeaux by joining this tour
• Bordeaux Cathedral
• Saint Emilion – book a day trip sightseeing with wine tasting
• Musee d’Aquitaine
• Gran Teatro de Burdeos
• Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts
• River Garonne – enjoy a cruise with a glass of wine
• El Espejo de Agua
• Jardin Public
• Book a walking tour to hit up the top sites in one go or a tour of Bayonne and Biarritz together
• Basque Museum
• Bayonne Cathedral
• Saint-Esprit
• Cathedrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne
• Cerreau des Halles
• Bayonne Botanical Garden
• L’Atelier du Chocolat-Musee du Chocolat – book a chocolate tasting
• Plaine d’Ansot de Bayonne
• Miramar Beach
• Milady Beach
• Marinella Beach
• Plage d’Ilbarritz

ACCOMMODATIONS

Below is a compilation of places to stay in France, categorised by city. This list will help you find accommodations for your trip, depending on your budget. You should be able to find hotels, from budget ones to luxury resorts.

• Affordable: Hotel des Belges or City Inn Paris
• Mid-range: B&B Hotel Paris or Au Pacific Hotel
• Luxury: Pullman Paris or citizenM Paris
• Affordable: Alter’hostel or Away Hostel & Coffee Shop
• Mid-range: Bayard Bellecour or Hotel Edmon W Lyong Part-Dieu
• Luxury: Hotel Le Roosevelt or Cour des Loges Lyon
• Affordable: Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel or Hostel Ozz Nice
• Mid-range: Hotel Byakko Nice or Villa Berlioz or Centrum Nice
• Luxury: Hotel de France by AMMI or Hotel La Villa Nice Victor Hugo or Hotel Florence Nice
• Affordable: Hotel du Theatre or Central Hostel
• Mid-range: ibis Hotel or B&B La Maison Galiene or Gabylou
• Luxury: Maison Ferdinand B&B or Best Western Premier or Quality Hotel or Hotel de Tourny
• Affordable: Toyoko INN or Montempo Marseille Centre Dome
• Mid-range: Best Western Hotel or Maison Juste
• Luxury: La Residence Du Vieux Port or Hotel Belle-Vue Vieux-Port

Calais/Dunkirk

• Affordable to Mid-range: Holiday Inn Calais or Hotel Les Jardins Dunkirk or B&B Hotel Dunkirk or ibis Dunkirk
• Affordable to Mid-range: Hostel 20 or ibis Hotel or Hotel Cote Basque
• Luxury: Hotel Villa Koegui or Hotel des Basses Pyrenees or Boutique Hotel Un Appart en Ville or Libertitu B&B

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN FRANCE

2 weeks in France sounds like not a lot of time, and it’s true. However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have a good time in only 14 days. Thankfully, France has a pretty good transportation system making it easier for visitors to get from one place to another.

When making your own itinerary for France, don’t try to see and do everything. If you really like this country, leave some for your future visit. During this upcoming trip, list only 3-4 cities to see so you have plenty of time to enjoy it all without rushing yourself.

I hope that you found this 2 weeks in France itinerary helpful.

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The Perfect Bordeaux Day Trip From Paris By Train

Desperately want to visit Bordeaux during your time in Paris? I got you covered!

Although this idea may sound wild, discovering Bordeaux in just a day from Paris is well and truly feasible! France is blessed with a highly-developed high-speed rail network, which means that you can cover the distance from Paris to Bordeaux in only 2 hours. So why not?

And Bordeaux is not only a wonderful city renowned for its history and heritage but also boasts amazing monuments. So even if this short trip won’t be all restful, it’s definitely well worth it.

In this guide, I take you with me on the perfect Bordeaux day trip from Paris. Get all the info and tips you need to make your adventure a success.  

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Is it Worth Taking a Day Trip From Paris to Bordeaux?

How to get from paris to bordeaux, best itinerary for a day trip to bordeaux from paris, alternative itinerary in bordeaux for wine lovers, faq about the paris to bordeaux day trip.

Bordeaux is also well worth visiting for its attractions. The city features an incredible number of monuments, several of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and can be visited all year round . And if you’re a Bordeaux wine lover, a visit to this town is almost like a pilgrimage!

Clearly, this day trip isn’t for the slow-travelers. It’s for those who want to make the most of the day, explore beyond Paris, and catch a glimpse of another gem in France. By train of course, otherwise, it’s just not possible!  

View of Bordeaux from Pey Berland Tower

To make this one-day trip, there’s no better option but to take the train. Driving to Bordeaux is possible, but be ready for a minimum of 6 hours on the road!

Fret not; hopping on the train from Paris is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through it all right here.  

Booking Your Paris to Bordeaux Train Tickets

Fares for Paris-Bordeaux trains are extremely variable, ranging from 20€ to over 150€, depending on when you book and when you travel. The key, much like booking flights, is no mystery: the sooner you purchase your train tickets, the cheaper they will be.

To buy your train ticket, head over to the SNCF website , the French train network’s online hub. Once there, enter your travel dates and times, and you’ll have a choice of around twenty direct trains running daily. All trains depart from Paris Montparnasse train station and arrive at Bordeaux Saint Jean train station .

Be careful when choosing your train, as travel durations can vary. Opt for the fastest route, the 2-hour one, which comes at the same price as the others.

Tickets will be sent to you by email after purchase. No need for a printer; your ticket is a QR code that you’ll flash for validation when boarding. So make sure you have it as a screenshot in case you have an internet connection issue.

Tip : I recommend choosing the 6.10 am or the 7.11 am direct train so you can get to Bordeaux by 9.15 am at the latest. This will give you enough time to wander the city at a reasonnable pace. For the return trip to Paris, you should opt for the 8.50 pm direct train so you can enjoy a local wine bar before leaving.

Arriving and Getting Around Bordeaux

At Paris Montparnasse station, you’ll have no trouble finding the train platform, as everything is well signposted in English. But make sure you’re there at least half an hour in advance, to give yourself plenty of time in case anything goes wrong.

Once you’ve arrived in Bordeaux, you’ll need to take a bus or tram into the city center, as the Bordeaux Saint Jean train station is about 10-15 minutes by public transport from the old town. The easiest solution is to take the tram line C, which takes you straight to Porte de Bourgogne, the entrance to downtown Bordeaux.

You have several options for using the public transport in Bordeaux for a day:

• Bordeaux City Pass : For 34€ or 19€ for 6-17-year-old kids, this pass not only gives you free use of public transport for 24 hours but also free access to some +20 attractions. 👉 Book your pass here .
• 24-hour ticket : This pass costs only 5€ and grants you free access to public transport for a day. You can buy it on the vending machines available at the tram stations or online on the TBM app
• Single ticket : The one-way ticket costs 1,8€ and is valid for one hour only. You can buy it on the vending machines available at the tram stations or online on the TBM app .

Porte Cailhau

Here’s a tailor-made itinerary for those who love to discover a new city by wandering and getting lost in the streets all day long. I’ve naturally included the best things to do in Bordeaux.

To make the most of your day and avoid wasting time, I recommend eating breakfast on the train. Grab something at Gare Montparnasse (you’ll have plenty of bakeries to choose from) and hop on the train!  

Morning in Bordeaux

When arriving at Bordeaux train station, take the tram line C for 10 minutes to Porte de Bourgogne station. Then get off the tram and walk 10 minutes to reach the first attraction, La Grosse Cloche.

• 9.45 am at the latest : Discover La Grosse Cloche, an iconic clock tower and entrance to the old town of Bordeaux.
• 10 am : Stroll Rue Sainte-Catherine, Europe’s longest pedestrian street and popular shopping hub.
• 10.45 am : Enter the UNESCO site of Saint-André Church and climb Pey Berland Tower to discover Bordeaux from above.
• 12 am : Wander around the maze of streets in the old town and stop for lunch. This is the time to take a well-deserved break in a good restaurant. I recommend Berthus or Pacific , but don’t hesitate to go in anywhere – there’s loads to choose from!

Afternoon and Early Evening in Bordeaux

After lunch, let’s continue discovering the wonders of Bordeaux’s old town.

• 2 pm : Head to Place de la Comédie to check out the stunning architecture of the Opera.
• 2.20 pm : Keep walking to the Monument aux Girondins located on the largest square in Bordeaux, Place des Quinconces.
• 2.50 pm : Head towards the Garonne River banks to discover Bordeaux’s most iconic landmark, the Miroir d’Eau.
• 3.20 pm : Visit my favorite gate in Bordeaux, Porte Cailhau. You can enter if you like, which I recommend as it’s a quick tour for 5€ only.
• 4 pm : Have a coffee break in town to try some Canelé, the local vanilla, and rum-flavored little cakes. Cassonnade is one of the best coffee shops to sample Canelés.
• 5 pm : End the day with an unforgettable 1-hour wine-tasting session on a cruise along the Garonne River . You’ll be back on the ground by 6 pm, just in time for a light dinner in the city center or to catch your train back to Paris.

Book the best Garonne River cruise with wine tasting session here .

If you’re passionate about wine and prefer exploring the Bordeaux region over the city, I suggest going to Saint-Emilion, one of the most popular day trips from Bordeaux and the most famous wine town in the area.

You’ll first need to get to Bordeaux city center as most of the wine tours to Saint-Emilion start from there. Make sure to catch the right train from Paris Montparnasse in the morning to be on time for the tour.

Here are the 2 best-rated wine day tours to Saint-Emilion, book one or the other:

• Saint-Émilion Food and Wine Tour From Bordeaux : A van will take you to Saint-Emilion for the whole day, including a tour of the village, wine tasting, a picnic, and visits to 3 chateaux.
• Saint-Emilion and Medoc Full-Day Wine Experience From Bordeaux : A bit longer than the previous one, this tour not only takes you to Saint-Emilion but also to Médoc, another great wine region. Picnic, wine tasting, and winery visits are included.

These tours will take you back to the starting point in Bordeaux city center at the end of the day. A quick tram ride will then take you to Bordeaux Saint Jean train station to take your train back to Paris.  

Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Still have some unanswered questions about this day trip to Bordeaux from Paris? Hope this section will make things clearer to you.  

How far is Bordeaux from Paris?

The distance between Bordeaux and Paris is 600 kilometers! This means no less than 6 hours drive.  

How long is the train from Paris to Bordeaux?

The fastest train takes you from Paris to Bordeaux in 2 hours only.  

How much is a train ticket from Paris to Bordeaux?

Train tickets from Paris to Bordeaux vary a lot according to the season you’re traveling and how far in advance you make your booking. You can find tickets as low as 20€ or go up to over 150€!

In general, prices are cheaper if you visit Bordeaux in winter than in summer. Exception made for the Christmas season, when prices can really take off. Also, prefer booking at least a month or 2 in advance to find interesting rates.  

What can I do next if I have extra time?

If you find yourself with more time in Bordeaux, you should definitely take advantage of it! If you want to discover more of the city, check out my 2-day or 3-day in Bordeaux guide to put this extra time to good use.

If you’re looking to explore beyond Bordeaux and your visit falls between April and October, then head to the Atlantic coast to discover Arcachon and the Dune du Pilat . Only an hour train ride from Bordeaux, it’s a destination that’s truly worth experiencing at least once in your lifetime!  

The Garonne River in Bordeaux

  I hope you enjoy your Paris to Bordeaux day trip; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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Hey, I'm Kevin

I'm a professional photographer, with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. I worked with countless travel brands, and my travel advice has been featured in major publications such as CNN, Forbes & the New York Magazine. But the best travel advice is definitely found here on my website! I'm all about adventure travel, hiking and exploring the outdoors - even if I often find myself exploring cities with my wife Nesrine. If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out by email at: [email protected]

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This French Wine Country Region Has Idyllic Vineyards, Stunning Speakeasies, and Luxury Hotels

Here's where to stay, eat, and explore in Bordeaux, France's wine capital.

Over the past decade, Bordeaux has been steadily drawing more Parisians, who are infusing the formerly soot-stained shipping center on the Garonne River with a new jolt of art, culture, and culinary excellence. The new life being breathed into the city is intoxicating — and we promise, it’s not just the wine talking (although you’ll drink plenty of it, whether at luxury hotels set into historic vineyards, a new crop of natural wine bars downtown, or at the famous Cité du Vin museum). 

Rabi Merizak/Getty Images

Made more easily accessible in 2017 by the extension of Paris’s high-speed train network, the TGV, it lies just a two-hour ride from the City of Light — technically quick enough for a day trip , although we’d suggest allowing a weekend at the very least, as there’s plenty to sustain your interest (and appetite) in France’s wine capital.

From vineyard tours to seductive speakeasies and psychedelic art exhibitions set in former submarines, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Bordeaux.  

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Best Time to Visit Bordeaux

Bordeaux is at its best from May through October, when the weather warms and the days are long and sunny. In August and December, many businesses close for their annual vacations, so there will be markedly less to see in the city itself — which, on the bright side, means fewer tourists. If you do find yourself here on a winter visit , be sure to pack waterproof layers, as the weather tends to be rainy and gray. 

Oenophiles and budding wine lovers alike are in for the trip of a lifetime if they come around harvest season, which generally runs from late August or early September through October. You can get a peek at the winemaking process and stroll through the vineyards before tasting the fruits of the labor you’ve just witnessed. 

How to Get Around Bordeaux

Getty Images

In terms of getting to Bordeaux, the simplest way is to hop on the TGV from Paris’s Montparnasse station and take it directly to Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean, which takes around two hours. While you can technically fly into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport, it’s more cost- and time-efficient to take the train (not to mention, more sustainable). You can also drive here, but be warned that it can be slightly tricky to find parking downtown — you’ll want to check with your hotel to see if they have on-site spot. 

Once you’ve arrived, it’s easy to rely on the public transit system (the TBM, or Transports Bordeaux Métropole), which includes bicycles and motorized scooters, an extensive bus network, river shuttles, and a tram system, all of which are navigable with the Bordeaux CityPass . The contactless card, which also includes access to 15 museums (including the pricier Cité du Vin) and a guided city tour of your choice, is a great option if you’re staying for a few days or more; it allows unlimited travel on the trams, buses, and river shuttles over 24, 48, or 72 hours (for 34 euros, 44 euros, or 50 euros, respectively). You can order it online or pick one up from the tourist office upon arrival. 

While public transit is convenient, the tourist center of Bordeaux is pedestrian-friendly and you’ll spend plenty of time on foot appreciating the beauty of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region's capital.

In terms of private transportation, taxis, Uber, and other ride-share options (like Bolt, which you can download for Apple and Android) are all readily accessible.

Best Places to Stay in Bordeaux

Les sources de caudalie.

If you’re familiar with the cult-favorite French skin care brand Caudalie, you may have heard of their idyllic vineyard retreat , a hotel just 30 minutes away by car from downtown Bordeaux. This is a self-care destination not to be missed: Nestled in the Château Smith Haut Lafitte vineyard, the 40 rooms and 21 suites are bright and airy, appointed with natural materials, antique fixtures, and jacuzzi-sized bathtubs. After a day spent wine tasting, indulge at the on-site two-Michelin star restaurant, La Grand’Vigne, or pamper yourself at the Vinotherapie Spa, home to a hammam and natural hot spring. 

Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa

Courtesy of Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa

Once ensconced in this luxury hotel , it’s easy to imagine you’ve been whisked into the French countryside — and yet, it’s located right in the heart of downtown Bordeaux. This is one of those rare city hotels that strikes the perfect balance of old-school charm and modern convenience, with an oasis-like backyard pool, an inventive rooftop cocktail bar, and jewel-sized rooms that boast period furniture plus private terraces with jacuzzis. 

Le Boutique Hôtel & Spa

Set in an 18th-century mansion, this sophisticated 25-room boutique hotel offers an ideal location in the city center, just a stone’s throw from the Triangle d’Or. With vintage parquet floors and design-focused pieces from Philippe Starck, no two rooms are the same — but most offer spectacular city views. There’s a cozy outdoor terrace centered around a large tree trunk, which is a perfect place to sip your morning coffee or kick back over an early-evening apéro . During your stay, be sure to take advantage of the Nuxe spa. 

With just 12 rooms, the intimate Yndo Hôtel in the city center takes a streamlined, modern approach to its decor. Set in a timeless 19th-century mansion, the interplay of old and new world is enough to make your jaw drop. Sleek furniture pops against antique fixtures like molded fireplaces and parquet floors. Frankly, the property is worth a visit just to check out owner Agnès Guiot’s eclectic selection of chairs, which includes whale-shaped seats, sequined floral couches, and more.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Bordeaux

Black list café.

For an artisanal caffeine fix or a memorable slice of creamy Basque cheesecake, pop into Black List Café . Tasty brunches are on the menu at this trendy indoor-outdoor spot, where you can tuck into goat cheese risotto or savory French toast with sweet potatoes while looking out over the Hôtel de Ville (town hall). 

Madame Pang

Dim sum may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you’re planning a trip to French wine country, but Madame Pang is a worthwhile stop on nights when you’re looking for something different. This elevated Cantonese spot serves inventive dishes like octopus croquettes with yuzu mayo and curry pork dumplings alongside vibrant cocktails. The best part? The kitchen is open until 1 a.m. 

Le Chien de Pavlov

A standout among the wave of neo-bistros sweeping the French city, Le Chien de Pavlov offers superb dishes in a cozy atmosphere (think: fish carpaccio with wasabi and green apple, or lamb cooked two ways and set atop a green pea and mint purée with delicate roasted artichoke and a bright burst of confit lemon). A five-course dinner tasting menu will only set you back 49 euros, an absolute steal once you’ve admired the artful plating. Run by a young French couple, the space itself is warm and welcoming, serving high-quality cuisine without any of the traditional fine-dining stuffiness. 

Recommended by the Michelin Guide, Symbiose is more than what meets the eye as you step into the riverside cafe (which has its own garden from which it plucks much of its produce). Beyond the handful of tables lining the wall of the blonde-wood room, there’s an antique clock that reveals a not-so-secret speakeasy. There, you’ll find a candlelit, cave-like bar where locals and in-the-know travelers sip local wine or edgy cocktails and flirt with the handsome French bartenders. 

With a focus on natural and low-intervention wines, this ultra-cozy wine bar and bistro calls to you from the street, where tables are set up in warmer weather and you can glimpse an intriguing collection of bottles perched invitingly in the window. Inside, a bar and a few tables are typically bustling with a young, local crowd enjoying well-priced by-the-glass wines and slabs of paté topped with caramelized onions. 

Best Things to Do in Bordeaux

Vineyard tours and wine tastings .

If you’re visiting Bordeaux, chances are you’re looking to drink some wine. Known as the wine capital of France, there are 57 appellations (known as AOCs) and some 6,000-plus vineyards producing primarily red wines made from merlot and cabernet sauvignon, although the region also produces whites. That can make choosing a wine-tasting destination a little daunting, but luckily the Bordeaux Tourism & Conventions website simplifies it. Choose between half- or full-day tours of vineyards and chateaux in Saint-Émilion or Margaux, a bit east or north of the city center. 

Place de la Bourse

One of the city’s most famous landmarks, Place de la Bourse is a jaw-dropping 18th-century square built during the reign of King Louis XV. Located near the charming Chartrons neighborhood, it’s a must-visit in order to glimpse the impressive Miroir d’Eau, a 37,000-square-foot reflecting pool (which happens to be the largest in the world).

Cathédrale Saint-André

You haven’t really been to a French city if you haven’t gaped in awe at its most famous cathedral, and in this case, it’s Cathédrale Saint-André , known locally as Bordeaux Cathedral. Worth a visit for its magnificent architecture alone, this Gothic-style Roman Catholic church features two impressive spires and is also home to the Marcadé Collection, which comprises a treasure trove of famous medieval paintings.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux

Following an extensive renovation, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux reopened in 2019, boasting a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and more from famed European artists (including the likes of Picasso and Renoir) and local painters, with works spanning the 15th to the 20th century. In addition to their permanent collections, there’s typically a few temporary exhibitions of local art on display. 

Marché des Capucins 

A food tour through the fragrant delight of the Marché des Capucins is a must during your trip to Bordeaux. Wandering through the hectic mix of locals buying their weekly groceries and vendors selling fresh fruit, local cheese, and cream-filled pastries is a feast for the senses. Make a point of seeking out Chez Jean-Mi , an oyster bar with a mouthwatering selection of freshly shucked oysters from nearby Arcachon, one of France’s primary oyster farming centers. 

Sunset River Cruise

Take in the UNESCO banks of the city from the water as you float down the Garonne River at sunset. While river cruises often have a touristy tang to them, this one from Les Bateaux Bordelais makes up for it by whisking you beneath the illuminated bridges of the city — including the Pierre, Jacques Chaban-Delmas, and Aquitaine bridges — while exploring their history and treating you to a gourmet dinner of locally inspired fare, prepared freshly on board. 

La Cité du Vin

One of the addresses that’s redefined the city’s physical and cultural landscape in recent years is the interactive La Cité du Vin , a sort of mecca for oenophiles. But you don’t have to be a wine aficionado to appreciate the strikingly modern architecture of the decanter-shaped building, or the palate-expanding wine tastings held on the property. Exhibitions include flyovers of vineyards from all around the world, plus an introduction to terroirs, grape varietals, the winemaking process, and more. 

Bassins des Lumières 

Discover the works of Dalí and Gaudí like you’ve never seen before at this former submarine base, reconstructed into a cultural center that puts on trippy, immersive projections throughout the year. The Bassins des Lumières building underwent an extreme overhaul, having been bombed during the war and submerged in water. Now, it’s one of the city’s most exciting art destinations. Lose yourself in Dalí’s melting clocks and imagine you’re entering into some of Gaudí’s most famous architectural works, lit up in technicolor on the walls around, above and below you. 

Related Articles

39 Best Stops Between Paris and Bordeaux

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How long is the drive from Paris to Bordeaux?

The direct drive from Paris to Bordeaux is 362 mi (582 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 53 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Paris to Bordeaux, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Versailles , Amboise , Chartres , Blois , Orleans , Tours , Rochefort , Poitiers , and Royan , as well as top places to visit like Marie Antoinette's Grotto and Palace of Versailles, or the ever-popular Fontainebleau.

Top cities between Paris and Bordeaux

Best stops along Paris to Bordeaux drive

Fontainebleau.

Marie Antoinette's Grotto

Palace of Versailles

Hall of mirrors.

Thoiry ZooSafari

Our lady of chartres cathedral, cathédrale sainte-croix d'orléans, château de chambord.

Château de Cheverny

Château royal de blois, zooparc de beauval, château du clos lucé, château royal d'amboise, château de chenonceau, cathédrale saint-gatien, château de loches, château de villandry, château d'azay-le-rideau, spa source la roche-posay, château du rivau, futuroscope, la vallée des singes, remy martin cognac, amphithéâtre gallo-romain de saintes, hôtel mercure rochefort la corderie royale, association hermione la fayette, les antilles de jonzac, eglise sainte-radegonde, l'ange bleu, top searches in bordeaux, other popular road trips from paris, explore nearby places.

• Villenave D'ornon
• Artigues-pres-Bordeaux
• Carbon-Blanc
• Carignan-de-Bordeaux
• Blanquefort
• Le Taillan-Medoc
• Camblanes et Meynac
• Sainte-Eulalie
• Saint-Louis-De-Montferrand

All related maps of Bordeaux

• Map of Bordeaux
• Map of Le Bouscat
• Map of Talence
• Map of Begles
• Map of Cenon
• Map of Floirac
• Map of Merignac
• Map of Pessac
• Map of Bruges
• Map of Lormont
• Map of Villenave D'ornon
• Map of Bouliac
• Map of Artigues-pres-Bordeaux
• Map of Eysines
• Map of Gradignan
• Map of Carbon-Blanc
• Map of Bassens
• Map of Le Haillan
• Map of Carignan-de-Bordeaux
• Map of Latresne
• Map of Tresses
• Map of Blanquefort
• Map of Le Taillan-Medoc
• Map of Canejan
• Map of Cadaujac
• Map of Camblanes et Meynac
• Map of Sainte-Eulalie
• Map of Parempuyre
• Map of Quinsac
• Map of Saint-Louis-De-Montferrand
• Map of Leognan

Bordeaux throughout the year

• Bordeaux in January
• Bordeaux in February
• Bordeaux in March
• Bordeaux in April
• Bordeaux in May
• Bordeaux in June
• Bordeaux in July
• Bordeaux in August
• Bordeaux in September
• Bordeaux in October
• Bordeaux in November
• Bordeaux in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Bordeaux?

Get inspired for your trip to Bordeaux with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Bordeaux Itinerary
• 2-Day Bordeaux Itinerary
• 3-Day Bordeaux Itinerary
• 4-Day Bordeaux Itinerary
• 5-Day Bordeaux Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from paris to bordeaux.

Yes! You can drive from Paris to Bordeaux.

How far is Bordeaux from Paris by car?

The drive from Paris to Bordeaux is 362 miles (582 km).

How long does it take to drive from Paris to Bordeaux?

Driving from Paris to Bordeaux should take you 4 hrs 53 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Paris to Bordeaux?

Gas from Paris to Bordeaux would cost around $32 to $74 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Paris to Bordeaux?

You could check out Marie Antoinette's Grotto and Palace of Versailles, or the always popular Fontainebleau!

What are the best cities to visit between Paris and Bordeaux?

People love visiting Versailles, Amboise, and Chartres, among others.

What's the weather like in Paris?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Paris in January
• Weather in Paris in February
• Weather in Paris in March
• Weather in Paris in April
• Weather in Paris in May
• Weather in Paris in June
• Weather in Paris in July
• Weather in Paris in August
• Weather in Paris in September
• Weather in Paris in October
• Weather in Paris in November
• Weather in Paris in December

What are some other road trips from Paris?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Paris.

• Paris to London drive
• Paris to Amsterdam drive
• Paris to Barcelona drive
• Paris to Rome drive
• Paris to Brussels drive
• Paris to Berlin drive
• Paris to Prague drive
• Paris to Madrid drive
• Paris to Milan drive
• Paris to Bruges drive
• Paris to Dublin drive
• Paris to Florence drive
• Paris to Edinburgh drive
• Paris to Venice drive
• Paris to Vienna drive
• Paris to Lisbon drive
• Paris to Budapest drive
• Paris to Munich drive
• Paris to Turin drive
• Paris to York drive
• Paris to Lyon drive
• Paris to Copenhagen drive
• Paris to Antwerp drive
• Paris to Cologne drive
• Paris to Istanbul drive
• Paris to Valencia drive
• Paris to Seville drive
• Paris to Liverpool drive
• Paris to Birmingham drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

For Wine Lovers: A Day Trip to Bordeaux from Paris

If you are looking for an exciting day trip from Paris , look no further than Bordeaux. This beautiful city is known for its world-class wine. But Bordeaux is also a World Heritage Site with impressive architecture, great museums, and an outstanding culinary scene.

And the best? The train Bordeaux Paris only takes 2 hours!

This article guides you through organizing a day trip from Paris to Bordeaux. It covers activities in Bordeaux, planning a wine tour, and booking train tickets.

Drawing from my own trip there with my husband, I offer insights from our experience. To streamline your planning, you’ll find two ready-to-use itineraries that serve as templates for your Bordeaux adventure.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

Paris to Bordeaux Day Trip: Your Complete Guide

A day trip to Bordeaux from Paris offers you plenty to see and do and allows you to explore more of France’s cultural diversity. All you need to do is hop on a train to Bordeaux from Paris and enjoy a 2h ride through the French countryside.

Plus: the renowned wine headquarters of Saint Emilion is just a short drive away from Bordeaux. Making it easy to join a half-day tour while in Bordeaux to visit this gem of a village.

You might also like these articles:

• Quick Weekend Guide to Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion, and Arcachon !
• 21 Best Day Trips by Train from Paris
• A day trip to Champagne from Paris – All you need to know!
• Monet’s Garden – visit Giverny from Paris (2024)

Enjoy a leading wine Region: St. Emilion

Combine your trip to Bordeaux with a half-day trip to Saint Emilion , one of the top French wine regions.

Take a train from Paris to Bordeaux , enjoy Bordeaux in the morning, and join this afternoon tour to Saint-Emilion. You will return to Bordeaux in time to catch the train to Paris in the evening.

This tour includes

• Visit 2 beautiful Châteaux
• Taste 4 wines of Saint-Emilion
• Guided tour through the medieval village of Saint-Emilion
• Enjoy an aperitif platter with French products
• transportation & tour guide

Is a Day Trip to Bordeaux from Paris worth it?

Truth be told, It sounds a bit like a crazy idea to visit Bordeaux for one day. Especially considering that Paris and Bordeaux are almost 600 km apart. But France has the TGV!

The high-speed train manages the distance between Paris and Bordeaux in just a little more than 2 hours! Which makes Bordeaux perfect for a day trip by train from Paris !

If you wonder about the time in Bordeaux, it’s the same time zone as Paris 🙂 

Many Parisians moved to Bordeaux during the past years while still working in Paris. They just hop on a train when needed and go back to Paris for the day. Working from home made things easier in this regard, but by French standards, 2h on a train is nothing and a rather normal commuting time.

Why You Should Visit Bordeaux From Paris

Many are saying that Paris is not France. And it’s kind of true.  The French understand France as consisting of two areas: Paris and not Paris, also known as “La Province”, not to be mistaken with “Provence”, a region in the south of France, that you easily visit as a weekend getaway from Paris . 

That being said, if you wonder which places to visit in France , Bordeaux should be on that list. Bordeaux is a great and easy-to-reach destination from Paris. Plus, it’s so far away from the capital, that it grants an entirely different experience and will complement your impression of France.  

#1 A Day Trip From Paris to Bordeaux – Visit for the Wine

Bordeaux is one of the leading wine regions worldwide, and nothing is better than enjoying a wine-tasting locally. Together with the folks that produce it, and that put their heart and soul into it. As you can guess, there are plenty of wine tours in Bordeaux. Get a complete overview of all wine tours and activities in Bordeaux here.

Did you know that no wine is actually produced within the city limits of Bordeaux? But don’t worry, the famous wine regions St.Emilion and Medoc are just outside town, and most wine tours from Bordeaux are aiming for exactly those stunning regions.

#2 Bordeaux is a World Heritage Site

But even though wine is omnipresent in Bordeaux, there are more reasons to visit. Because Bordeaux is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The historic part of the city got included in the list of heritage sites as one of Europe’s biggest 18th-century urban and architectural areas. After all, Bordeaux is the city in France – after Paris – with the most preserved historical buildings. 

Did you know that Bordeaux was voted the top destination in Europe in 2015? And that’s not without reason. There is plenty to do in Bordeaux and not everything has to do with wine even.

Some of the best things that you can do in Bordeaux and that make your day trip to Bordeaux from Paris an unforgettable experience are:

• Take a River Cruise on the River Garonne ( more info and booking and ticketing here )
• Visit the Cité du Vin ( Skip the Line Entrance possible )
• Explore Bordeaux’s most charming neighborhoods by Bike ( get more info here )
• See the enchanting Bassins des Lumières Museum ( secure your tickets here )

If you need more ideas, refer to the full range of attractions and activities in Bordeaux .

#3 Bordeaux is a Paradise for Food Lovers

In Bordeaux, the food scene is as delightful as it is diverse. You’ll find everything from charming bistros serving classic French dishes to sophisticated restaurants offering gourmet experiences.

Each meal is an opportunity to taste the region’s culinary heritage, enhanced by its famous wines. It’s a straightforward yet enriching experience, adding a special touch to your visit.

Indeed, on my last visit to Bordeaux, I had one of the most extraordinary meals ever. It was at Symbiose .

How to get to Bordeaux from Paris

Bordeaux lies roughly 600 km southwest of Paris . The ride from Paris to Bordeaux by train will take you only a bit more than 2 hours, though . Thanks to the famous French high-speed train TGV , long-distance traveling in France is super convenient and easy. 

You can of course also rent a car or take the plane, but those options will definitely take longer much longer in travel time, cost you a pretty penny, and spoil your carbon footprint. They are no good option for a Bordeaux day trip from Paris.

If you are traveling on a shoestring budget and the good train deals are already sold out, you also can take a bus to Bordeaux from Paris. However, this will take significantly longer, and you need at least one overnight stay in Bordeaux.

The best value for money if you’re on a budget offers the hotel Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide

Transportation

Trip duration : 2h15

First train to Bordeaux: 6:06 am

Last train to Paris : 8:50 pm

Tickets from €25

Plan your day in Bordeaux

• #1 Visit the Cité du Vin ( get tickets here )
• #2 Stroll through the Quartier Chartrons

#3 Spend a half day in Saint-Emilion ( book it here )

#4 Book a Cruise on the Garonne River

How to take the train to Bordeaux from Paris

The TGV is the French high-speed train that connects French major cities at up to 320 km/h (200 mph) and transports more than 110 million passengers per year. The TGV is also one of the safest ways of traveling. It is unarguably the best way if you are looking into how to get from Paris to Bordeaux for a day trip.

Paris Montparnasse Train station

If you are traveling from Paris to Bordeaux by train, you need to head to the Montparnasse train station in the south of Paris. The station is reachable by Metro lines 4, 6, 12, and 13. It is also serviced by the Transilien suburb train that connects communes in the southwest to Paris.

Where’s the TGV leaving at Montparnasse?

When arriving at the train station, head to the train platforms on Level 2. The TGVs are leaving usually from Platform 1-9, on the very left. Please make sure to arrive 30 minutes before the train departure and have your mobile vouchers ready for the ride. If you are not sure if you’ll have an internet connection, simply take a screenshot of the QR code

Purchasing tickets for your trip from Paris to Bordeaux by train

Book your Bordeaux train tickets here in advance to get a better price

To avoid super expensive train tickets or – and more likely – sold-out tickets, plan your trip to Bordeaux in advance. You easily can purchase train tickets here . Make sure that your purchased ticket is a mobile ticket, so you only need to have them on your phone and don’t need to print them out.

However, if you are not sure if you’ll have an internet connection, take a screenshot, just to be on the safe side.

Interesting read: 15 mistakes most tourists make in Paris – how to avoid them!

You can purchase your train tickets also at the ticket office on Level 2, directly next to platform 1, or at the yellow ticket vending machines that you find all over the station. However, buying your ticket on the day will be expensive, and you risk that the train you plan to board is sold out.

Better: Purchase your tickets in advance online !

To assist you effectively in organizing your day trip from Paris to Bordeaux, I’ve crafted two detailed itineraries that can serve as your guide.

Additionally, I’ve included links for each step of the journey to simplify and expedite your booking process for a hassle-free Bordeaux trip.

#1 Itinerary: Full-Day Wine Tasting From Bordeaux

Click here to see the best wine-tasting experiences in Bordeaux!

This is your perfect itinerary if you are traveling to Bordeaux because you are a wine lover and want to visit one of the best wine regions in France !  

➲ Leave Paris first thing in the morning

In order to make the most of your day in Bordeaux, hop on the first train that leaves Paris direction Bordeaux. The earliest train is at 6:06 am from Montparnasse. You’ll be at the Bordeaux Saint-Jean train Station at 8:14 am. Click here to book your train ticket for the lowest price.

There is an earlier train leaving Paris for Bordeaux at 05:55 am but it is a slower one and you arrive only after 9 am. Hence, not a good choice.

➲ Take the tram or walk to the Center of Bordeaux

Arriving early in Bordeaux leaves you with enough time to take the Tram to the center from the train station Bordeaux Saint-Jean. Don’t worry, it’s a very short ride of 15 Minutes.

You could even walk there in 35 Minutes if you fancy seeing a bit of Bordeaux.

The pickup location of your full-day wine tour is 12 Cours du 30 Juillet. Take the tram Tram C and Tram D and get out at the station Quinconces. The ride costs 1,70€ and you can purchase a ticket at one of the vending machines at the station.

➲ Join a Wine Tour and Have a Fantastic Day

As you arrive at 8:14 am in Bordeaux, I recommend booking a tour that starts at 9:30 am to avoid stress and have a little buffer. Here you have two choices:

#1 Option: Full-Day St. Emilion Wine Tasting Tour

This tour is limited to 8 participants and includes

• visit of 3 Châteaux
• wine tastings
• a walking tour of the beautiful St. Emilion village
• transports and tour guides

#2 Option: St. Emilion Vineyards eBike Tour with Wine & Lunch

This fantastic tour includes

• transportation to Saint-Emilion & e-Bike rentals
• the visit of 2 Châteaux
• Picnic lunch at a Château
• Wine tastings
• walking tour of the medieval village of Saint-Emilion

➲ Return to Bordeaux and take the train back to Paris

Both tours last in total around 8,5h and you’ll be back in Bordeaux in the late afternoon. Enough time to either visit Bordeaux or to return to Paris right away. However, the last train from Bordeaux to Paris leaves at 8:50 pm.

#2 Itinerary: Half Day Wine Tasting and Sightseeing in Bordeaux

Take a look at these wonderful half-day wine-tasting events in Bordeaux!

Are you keen to visit Bordeaux but also don’t want to miss the vineyards? Then this itinerary is for you. It combines both: sightseeing in Bordeaux and a half-day trip to the beautiful vineyards of Saint-Émilion.

➲ Leave Paris for Bordeaux in the morning

To make the most of your day in Bordeaux, hop on one of the first train that leaves Paris direction Bordeaux.

The earliest train is at 6:06 am from Montparnasse but as you are not on a schedule, you can also take a train that leaves a bit later. Click here to book your train ticket for the lowest price.

Just don’t arrive too late for not to have too little time to explore Bordeaux.

➲ Explore and Enjoy Bordeaux

After arriving in Bordeaux, spend the morning sightseeing or stroll around. There are many things to do in Bordeaux.  I recommend you head over to the Place de la Bourse, the world’s biggest mirroring pool, and then take a walk through the historical part of Bordeaux. 

The most popular things to do in Bordeaux are:

• #3 Book a Cruise on the Garonne River

➲Join a Half-Day Tour of St. Emilion

After you spent the first half of your day in Bordeaux sightseeing, it’s time for the wine now.  The most popular tour from Bordeaux is this half-day trip to the St. Emilion region .

It includes transportation from Bordeaux to St.Emilion, a guided tour through the village of St.Emilion, and a wine tasting at a Château. 

The tour leaves at 1:50 pm from the center of Bordeaux and lasts 5 hours. It fits perfectly in your itinerary, and you’ll be back in time to catch the train back to Paris.

Check here if they still have availabilities on your travel dates

If they are sold out, you can also take one of these tours:

Summary: Is Bordeaux worth a visit?

So even though Bordeaux is quite far away from Paris, the wine capital makes nevertheless a spectacular destination for a day trip.

Thanks to the French high-speed train, it takes only 2h to travel to Bordeaux from Paris. On top of this, by booking a tour, you can also easily visit St.Émilion without much preparation.

I did this trip last summer and it was wonderful. I strongly recommend it.

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons

FAQ Paris to Bordeaux Day Trip

Yes, you can do a day trip from Paris to Bordeaux. The train takes only 2 hours and leaves as early as 6 am. This leaves you enough time to explore Bordeaux and even squeeze in a side trip to Saint Émilion.

Yes. The TGV connects Paris with Bordeaux. The journey takes 2 hours.

The distance between Paris and Bordeaux is 600km

Yes. Wine tours and wine tastings in Bordeaux last from 1.5h for simple tastings to up to 9 hours for the full-day tour, including vineyard and châteaux visits.

You can purchase your train ticket either at the train station or online in advance. I advise you to buy it in advance as the prices tend to be more expensive closer to your travel date, and you risk that no tickets are available anymore.

Planning a trip to Bordeaux for later? Pin this post and find it back 🙂

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Here’s the Ultimate Paris to Nice Road Trip – Itinerary & Map

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Paris to Nice by Car

There are many ways to travel from Paris to Nice, from night trains to quick flights. But if you are looking for an epic French holiday and have some time, hit the road for a fun  Paris to Nice road trip .

The drive from Paris to Nice is straightforward, and it is our favorite road trip from Paris. The distance from Paris to Nice by car Paris is 930 kilometers, with some memorable stops along the way, depending on your chosen route.

If you decide to try this road trip Paris to Nice, give yourself a week to 10 days to enjoy it. Of course, driving from Paris to Nice can be a lot faster, but why rush? For this Paris to Nice drive, the journey is just as interesting as the final destination.

How far is Nice from Paris? The distance from Paris to Nice by car ranges from 932 km to 1039 km, depending on the route.

How long is the drive from Paris to Nice? Depending on the route, the drive Paris to Nice takes from 9 to 10 hours.

This Paris to Nice itinerary by car is one of the best road trips in France . Read more about road-tripping in France:

Road Trip from Paris to Nice Overview

• Start: Paris
• Finish: Nice
• Duration: 9 days
• Suggested Route: Paris – Beaune – Lyon – Avignon – Marseille – Nice
• Total distance: 994.3 km, 10 hours in total
• Regions covered:  Ile-de-France, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for:  sightseeing, landscapes, small towns, food, and wine.

If you are looking for a Nice to Paris road trip, you can also use this itinerary with a grand finale in Paris.

Drive from Paris to Nice – Map

Click here to view the Paris to Nice Road Trip Map on Google

Road Trip Paris to Nice – Itinerary

As this road trip begins in Paris , take this opportunity to explore the French capital before hitting the road. There is no road trip travel on the first three days of this Paris to Nice itinerary, but we have included recommendations on what to visit and where to stay.

For this road trip from Paris to the South of France, you will need the car only from days 4 to 9. If you need to return to Paris, you could rent your car in Paris and drop it off in Nice. Then, you can take a  train from Nice to Paris  instead of driving back. If this is your first road trip to France, check out our tips for hiring a car in France .

Click here to rent your car in Paris

WE HAVE THE DETAILED ITINERARY FOR THIS TRIP!  This  easy-to-follow itinerary  includes specially designed maps that can be printed or downloaded to your mobile device, accommodation recommendations for all budgets, and recommendations for the best cuisine and places to eat along the way.  You can purchase it alone  or as part of the  France by Car e-book .

Day 0 | Arrival in Paris

The first stop of this road trip from Paris to Nice is  Paris . Before getting from Paris to Nice, take the time to visit the French capital, which really needs no introduction.

How many days in Paris? I recommend a minimum of two full days to get a feel of what the city has to offer, plus an additional day trip to visit the Palace of Versailles and its Gardens.

If you have the budget, go for a  hotel with Eiffel Tower views . A good (and cheaper) alternative is the Handsome Hotel by Elegancia in Paris 1. Located just 800 meters from the Louvre, this hotel offers guests great facilities and always gets the best reviews – Click here to book your stay at Handsome Hotel by Elegancia

Days 1 and 2 | Paris

For your days in Paris , be sure to cover the city’s main highlights such as Cité, the  Louvre Museum (check out how to visit the Louvre in 2 hours or less ), Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, and the Eiffel Tower . You can also have a look at this list of  50 iconic things to do in Paris  and choose your favorite ones.

This top-rated Paris Highlights Bike Tour is a good idea for short stays in Paris. Discover the city’s most emblematic landmarks on two wheels with an expert guide. A similar tour by bike is also available at night .

Day 3 | Day Trip to Versailles

On the third full day of your Paris to South of France trip, grab a train or take a guided tour to visit the amazing  Château de Versailles  and its surrounding gardens.

A trip to Versailles deserves a day in full. You can decide to  visit just the Palace and the Gardens or do the Palace plus the Trianons, with the Queen’s Hamlet. For the full program, the Versailles Passport saves you time and money.

There’s so much to see and do in Versailles that I recommend planning this day trip well in advance. Check out this Versailles guide  to find the best way to visit Versailles for you.

Day 4 | Paris – Beaune

This Paris to Nice scenic drive crosses the beautiful region of  Bourgogne (Burgundy in French), world-famous for its wines. Bourgogne is also home to picturesque small cities, towns, and villages, and most of these  small villages in Burgundy  are listed as “Most Beautiful Villages of France.”

Morning in Auxerre

Instead of heading directly to Beaune, I recommend a stop at  Auxerre , a lovely small city in Burgundy bisected by the river Yonne.

The historical center is made of beautiful medieval and Renaissance-style buildings and is protected as a historic city. Wander the Old Town with its beautiful churches, half-timbered houses, and its iconic Clock Tower . The promenade along the river is beautiful and relaxing.

Afternoon in Beaune

Beaune   is another must-see city in Burgundy. It is famous for the Hôtel-Dieu , a wonder of Burgundian architecture, but there are also other beautiful sights such as Notre Dame Basilica or the Museum of Fine Arts .

Beaune is an excellent place to spend the night, especially because it is the capital of Burgundy (white) wines. Because wine-tasting and driving are far from perfect partners, I recommend parking the car for the afternoon and taking part in some Burgundy wine tastings.

Here’s the list of some great wine houses worth exploring during your afternoon in Beaune:

• Maison Champy  (5 Rue du Grenier de Sel, Beaune; Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune wine regions)
• Domaine Chanson  (10 Rue Paul Chanson /Rue du Collège, Beaune; Beaune wine region)
• Bouchard-Ainé & Fils  (4 Boulevard du Maréchal Foch, Beaune; Beaune wine region)
• Domaine Loubet-Dewailly  (11 Impasse Notre Dame, Beaune; Pommard wine region)

For a night in Beaune, I suggest something special. Stay at the boutique hotel the Abbaye de Maizieres , a 12th-century former Cistercian Abbey in the heart of Beaune’s historical center. Enjoy the unique atmosphere with all the comforts for the modern guest – Click here to book your stay at Hotel Abbaye de Maizieres

Day 5 | Beaune – Lyon

The next stop on this road trip from Paris to Nice itinerary is  Lyon , where I recommend spending (at least) one night. The drive from Beaune to Lyon is only one hour, so if you leave early in the morning, you will have a full day to explore Lyon.

Don’t know where to stay in Lyon? The Hotel de l’Abbaye  is an authentic, intimate spot full of charm – Click here to book your stay at Hotel de l’Abbaye

Lyon  is a bustling city and cultural hub. Situated in the country’s east, near the Alps, Lyon is France’s third-largest city and a major tourist destination that offers yet another side to France.

Park your car for the rest of the day (there’s public parking near the recommended hotel for Lyon) and visit the city on foot. If you only have one day to visit Lyon, spend it walking through the streets of  Vieux Lyon  (Old Lyon), the city’s most popular area to visit. This district has been the best preserved of all of Lyon’s neighborhoods, with beautiful Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the iconic traboules , and some fascinating cultural museums.

You can use some ideas of things to see and do in Lyon from this Lyon itinerary or take this Lyon free walking tour .

Afternoon at Fourvière Hill

In the afternoon, you can climb the Fourvière Hill for great views of the city and a short visit to the  Fourvière Basilica , which overlooks Lyon. This religious building is the focus of the famous  Fête des Lumières , which occurs every year at the start of December. The climb up to Fourvière Hill is an easy walk up from Old Lyon, but you can also take the funicular from the cathedral.

Lyon has also been recognized as France’s food capital (and the world, according to some!), so be sure to taste some local specialties! This Old Lyon food tour always gets excellent ratings.

 Day 6 | Lyon – Avignon

The next stop of this drive from Paris to Nice is Avignon , the first destination in  Provence . This charming historic city on the South Bank of the Rhône River was home to seven popes. The Papal Palace , where they lived, is a jewel of civil Gothic architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy  one day in Avignon . Everything is within walking distance here, and you can easily explore the city while strolling through its small cobblestone lanes. Be sure to visit the Palace of the Popes and wander along the  Pont d’Avignon  (the famous bridge) or admire it from afar. When the sun sets and the air is fresh, consider this entertaining Avignon Night Tour .

For your night in Avignon, book a room at Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon . This hotel is located in a beautiful 16th-century building with original arches and vaulted ceilings surrounded by a lovely garden and an outdoor swimming pool – Click here to book your stay at Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon

Day 7 | Avignon – Marseille

Marseille  is the capital of the region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA between friends) and a famous port city. It’s quite different from Avignon and Nice and an exciting city to explore.

For your night in Marseille, I recommend the  Hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port ,  a charming hotel with the perfect location right on the banks of the Old Port – Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port

The city is best explored in two days, but if you only have one day, look at this  Marseille 2-day itinerary and pick the sights and activities you like most.

You can also decide to wander around the picturesque port of Marseille and then take a boat cruise with lunch to explore the wonderful Calanques of Marseille – Cassis . The boat stops at spectacular coves for a swim and snorkel.

Days 8 and 9 | Marseille – Nice

The last stop on this road trip Paris to Nice is  Nice , the French Riviera capital. Nice is also located in the PACA region, but it is definitely more glitzy and glamorous than Marseille or Avignon.

The drive from Marseille to Nice takes two hours. If you leave early in the morning, you will have almost two full days to explore Nice.

For your stay in Nice, book at the Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges . This 4-star hotel is nestled into the Colline du Château, and it comes with Nice’s best view over the Baie des Anges. The rooms are huge, with elegant Mediterranean décor. Some of them also come with a private balcony with great ocean views – Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges

For your two days in Nice, we recommend this  Nice 2-day itinerary , which also comes with some restaurant suggestions for your dinners in Nice.

Take your time to explore the Old Town , taste some provençal specialties, and stroll along the famous  Promenade des Anglais !

Nice also has some of the best French Riviera beaches , and their turquoise waters are calling for a dip. If you want to explore the French Riviera from the water, this boat tour always has excellent reviews. You can also rent a boat or charter a yacht with or without a skipper .

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Paris to Nice road trip today!

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Road Trip from Paris to South of France

Fancy a road trip packed with historical sights, parks and coastal views, with a vineyard visit or two along the way? Then look no further; this delightful journey takes you from the city of love, Paris, to the world-famous style and sophistication in the South of France.

The 1,110 km road trip from Paris to South of France takes just under 12 hours. Notable sights are Tours, Orléans, Clermont-Ferrand, Montpellier, Marseille, Arles, Cannes, Nice, Poitiers, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Carcassonne and Cathedrale De Bourges.

This incredible trip takes you from the heights of Puy-de-Dome Volcano to the sandy shores of La Croix-Valmer, from the world-class vineyards of Bordeaux to the historic city sights of Carcassonne. Read on to see all the wonderful things to do, where to stay, and the best time to visit to enjoy this epic journey.

How far is South of France from Paris, and how long will the road trip take?

Take the Nice Route and the drive from Paris to South of France takes just over 14 hours and covers 1,190 kilometers. You will be taken through many interesting historic sights, with a good portion riding alongside the stunning coast.

Travel the alternative Bordeaux Route and you can be sure to visit the finest vineyards and medieval towns. This slightly shorter inland route takes just under 12 hours and covers 1,110 kilometers.

As you pass so many fantastic cities and sights along the way make sure to allow yourself enough time for discovery. We suggest taking four to five days to complete this road trip, whichever route you decide to take.

Best road trip route from Paris to South of France

We have two routes that take in some of the very best historical sights, parklands, ports – and vineyards! Both the routes from Paris to South of France are teeming with a balance of interesting landmarks alongside beautiful landscapes.

Taking the Nice Route is slightly longer but you'll get a jam-packed itinerary along this journey. You pass many architecturally beautiful landmarks such as the gothic brilliance of Cathedrale De Bourges and the breathtaking Arles Amphithéâtre. Both are well worth a lingering visit.

An exhilarating trip to the summit of Puy-de-Dome Volcano is bound to leave an impression. Afterwards, you can enjoy downtime on the sandy shores of La Croix-Valmer. Cannes also provides plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation – with a bit of celebrity spotting in between.

Head on the alternative Bordeaux Route and you pass many beautiful parks, ports and vineyards for a drink, or two! No visit to Bordeaux would be complete without a winery tour, so make sure this features on the to-do list.

Other must-see destinations on this route include the stunning landscapes of ‘Le Jardin de la France', Tours, and a visit to the pretty harbor at La Rochelle Vieux Port. For culture lovers, don't miss a play at the Toulouse Théâtre du Capitole, the destination for impressive evening entertainment.

The Nice Route

As you leave Paris head south on the A10 passing the pretty Parc naturel régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse and arriving at historic Orléans.

From here the A37 takes you to Bourges and Clermont-Ferrand – make sure to head to the summit of Puy-de-Dome Volcano for incredible views.

Afterwards continue along the A75 which takes you to Montpellier, a great overnight stop with plenty of historic landmarks to enjoy and markets to wander around, as well as modern sights and architecture.

After a day or two exploring, take to the road again with a pretty awesome coastal drive now on the cards. The N113 follows south until you reach Marseille, for a seafront meander and fresh seafood lunch.

From here journey on the A50 past Toulon, then A8 for some rest on the sandy shores of La Croix-Valmer, before arriving in the buzzing city of Cannes. Make a quick stop-off for some beach dwelling and celebrity spotting before finally making your way to Nice.

The Bordeaux Route

Head south from Paris along the A10 until you reach the beautiful historic region of Orléans. Continue along this road past the beautiful area of Tours, and Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine.

After exploring the valleys and vineyards continue on the A10 to Poitiers, which then leads into the N248 and N11 to the pretty port of La Rochelle. A great spot for a waterfront wander and refreshments.

Heading south along the A837 and then A10 takes you to Bordeaux, where you can enjoy world-renowned vineyards and views. A stopover allows more time for a wine tour, or two.

After Bordeaux travel along the A62 past Montauban, a quaint medieval town, and Toulouse. Before the A61 takes you to the impressive Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne. Feel like you are taking a step back in time when you arrive.

From Narbonne, which follows Carcassonne, the A9 takes you down to Perpignan, with pretty parklands and viewpoints to enjoy along the way.

Best places to stop between Paris and South of France

Both the great routes we suggest from Paris to South of France have tons to see and do along the way. No matter whichever route you choose, how about staying a little longer in some of our favorite places on the way?

Marvel at the historic sights of Montpellier

On the Nice Route, we suggest stopping overnight at Montpellier, which is just over halfway into the journey. An exciting and interesting city, with plenty of historic landmarks to enjoy.

While in the city, visit Place de la Comedie in the southeast area, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful, and largest, squares to admire at. Also known as "l'oeuf" (the Egg) given its shape.

Make sure to visit Musée Fabre, one of the biggest museums in France, to marvel at the hundreds of artworks here. Before heading to Cathedrale St. Pierre, a prominent 20th-century landmark with beautiful architecture.

No visit to Montpellier is complete without a visit to Planet Ocean. This aquarium is packed with interesting underwater life, including sharks and penguins.

Ready to hit the hay? Then look no further than Hotel Golden Tulip Montpellier Center St Roch , which is in the heart of Montpellier, close to many attractions. Sit back and relax on the pretty terrace, with a pre-dinner cocktail while admiring the cityscape. Or head to the stunning spa for a relaxing massage.

A delicious breakfast is guaranteed before you take a stroll to one of the many local landmarks including Fabre Museum, Peyrou Triumphal Arch (Porte du Peyrou), and Place de la Comédie.

Enjoy world-class wines, vineyards and views in Bordeaux

Located around halfway from Paris to South of France along the Bordeaux Route, the city that gives this route its name is the perfect place for a stop off. Known worldwide for its excellent wine, a vineyard visit is top of the agenda in Bordeaux.

There are so many incredible wineries. Cité du Vin is a good place to head to understand more about the history before taking a tour. Afterwards head to Quais de Bordeaux, where the waterfront is surrounded by beautiful gardens and buildings, and the impressive Porte Cailhau is a sight to behold.

The stunning 11th Century church Cathedrale Saint-Andre is also a highlight, where the sculptures and stained glass windows are a real talking point.

After a busy time exploring, there is no better hotel to head to than Hotel des Quinconces Bordeaux Center . This 5-star hotel really is something else. Plenty of rooms also have private balconies to enjoy the view in private.

This hotel has sublime outdoor areas to relax in or enjoy an evening cocktail or meal. A delicious breakfast each morning will kick off your day in style, but if you fancy something different there are heaps of dining choices right on the doorstep.

Many of the top attractions just couldn't be closer, such as Gallien Palace, CAPC Musee d'Art Contemporain and Esplanade des Quinconces.

Where to stay when you reach South of France

In the heart of the city center, the Hôtel Apollinaire Nice is super close to top sights and beaches, making this hotel ideal as a base for exploring.

The fabulous modern décor and stylish rooms add a touch of luxury to your stay, with an enticing buffet breakfast served in the restaurant – or your room!

This stop-off is ideal so you can explore all this beautiful area has to offer.

Things to see on a road trip from Paris to South of France

Both Routes between Paris and South of France could be completed within a day or two but we suggest taking a little more time to be able to take it all in.

We've pulled together our recommended places to visit below. With so much to see this should help you know where to start!

• Cathedrale De Bourges - When you arrive in Bourges, the Cathedral is a must-see. The stunning gothic architecture is admired world-wide.
• Puy-de-Dome Volcano - Don't miss the chance to head to this incredible sight when you pass through Clermont-Ferrand. An epic train ride takes you to the top, where you are met with breath-taking views.
• Old Montpellier – Head to one of the historic sites such as Promenade de Peyrou, before wandering the pretty streets of old town.
• Arles Amphithéâtre - Full of history, take a self-guided tour to understand more about the history of this incredible Roman fixture.
• Réserve naturelle des coussoules de Crau - Take a stroll around this beautiful park. A great spot for a leg stretch and lunch.
• Marseille Old Port – A historic area packed with history. The fish market here is renowned and a great place to enjoy fresh seafood along the waterfront.
• La Croix-Valmer - Sit back and relax on one of the beautiful beaches. A beauty spot perfect for a paddle in the afternoon in this sheltered bay.
• Cannes - Known around the world for impressive yachts and film, a stroll along La Croisette by the seafront is a great place to start exploring.

• Tours - Known as Le Jardin de la France. After a busy morning exploring, head to one of the many vineyards around for a drink or two.
• Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine – The area is vast but there are many trails you can take to hike this pretty landscape.
• Poitiers - The Jardin des Plantes botanical garden is teeming with interesting plants and displays – as well as a zoo! So much to see during a day spent at this beautiful landmark.
• La Rochelle - A visit to La Rochelle Vieux Port is teeming with historic buildings, interesting surroundings and places to dine.
• Bordeaux - World-renowned for vineyards and views, head out on one of many wine tours. Château Mouton Rothschild is one of the most well-known, but there are so many to choose from!
• Montauban - This medieval town is packed with interesting sights including the stone Montauban Cathedral which sits in the city center.
• Toulouse The Capitole - The Capitole sits behind a lively square, with the busy town hall and theatre popular destinations. Catch an evening show at the impressive Théâtre du Capitole.
• Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne - Wander the cobbled streets and feel like you are stepping back in time in the historic and fascinating city of Carcassonne.
• Donjon Gilles Aycelin - Head up the bell tower for the best panoramic views across Narbonne.

Both Routes

• Parc naturel régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse - Take one of the many trails across the expansive grounds. The option of a horse ride to see more of what is on offer is a great option - and easy on the legs!
• Musée du Théâtre Forain - You can't visit Artenay without a trip to this theatre museum. This center has hundreds of years of history to tell with the displays of clothes and theatre production items.
• Orléans - Based in Loire Valley, a World Heritage Site, this beautiful area is steeped with history, including the celebration of the life of Joan of Arc.

Best time to go on a road trip from Paris to South of France

South of France is particularly popular in the summer months, although with so much to see and do, it is definitely a place to consider all year round.

Average daily summer temperatures can range between 23 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius. It can be a little humid during peak Summer, and busier as so many festivals also take place, so make sure to prebook to get the best deals.

Spring and fall are more likely to see fewer crowds and accommodation is less of a premium. The weather is typically nice and sunny, although a beach swim might be off the cards for now.

During the winter Christmas markets are popular but fewer visits overall. Outside of the main cities, many towns may be so quiet attractions and restaurants close, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

The south of France has many well-known festivals taking place each year, with many celebrating local areas, dance and music.

In February the Nice Carnival is one of the biggest carnivals worldwide and takes place over Mardi Gras. February also sees The Fête du Citron in Menton, where the celebration of lemons draws hundreds of thousands.

Montpellier is home to a three-week festival in June and July. A celebration of traditional music and dance is expected and takes place in several areas including Comedie and Le Corum.

In July on a Thursday head to the buzzing street markets in Nimes. Nimes is also a wonderful city to visit generally but arrive in July and it is extra special.

Port Camargue South France festival is an important calendar event each year in September, where bull-running through the streets to a prominent part of it, along with other activities and parties throughout this lively event.

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Every weekend is an adventure

Is bordeaux worth visiting 10 reasons why it may be the best city in france.

• Post published: 23 March 2017
• Post category: Aquitaine (South West) / Europe / France

Is Bordeaux worth visiting? You won’t regret even a short visit to Bordeaux. It was named the #1 city in the Lonely Planet list of cities where to travel in 2017 (see video below). I was not surprised. Many French people argue Bordeaux is the best city in France.

The praises from my friends who lived in Bordeaux made me decide to stop in this city during our time in the south of France. We only spent one day there, but it was enough to add it to the list of the cities where I’d like to live if I ever go back to France. So yes, Bordeaux is worth visiting, and let me tell you why.

Why Bordeaux is worth visiting

1. Bordeaux is a vibrant city

Forget the French cliché that Paris the capital is the place to be and provincial cities are boring. I was highly impressed by how lively Bordeaux streets were. The cobbled pedestrian lanes were very busy with shopping and outdoor activities during the day and for drinks and food at night.

Recently, they worked on the river banks to create a lovely environment to chill or exercise.

At night, Quartier Chartrons, just outside the town centre, has great bars.

2. Bordeaux is easy to access

With the high-speed train, it only takes a couple of hours to reach Bordeaux town centre from Paris town centre. It can’t be easier than that, and it makes it possible to visit Bordeaux on a day trip from Paris by train. There’s also an international airport in Bordeaux if you’re coming from London, for example.

Responsible travel tip : Travelling by train is a lot better for the environment than driving or flying! More tips on how to be a more responsible traveller.

3. Bordeaux is a pretty city with amazing architecture

Bordeaux is a beautiful city. It’s one of these places where every building in the town centre is a monument.

We started with the cathedral and then walked to the river banks. Don’t miss Porte Cailhau on the way. In front of the beautiful Place de la Bourse, you can board a ferry boat to visit the city from the river. Our favourite place was the Place de la Comedie, where we stopped for the “apero” (pre-dinner drinks) and watched street artists.

Bordeaux has many squares and nice streets to explore. We didn’t have time to go Place de la Victoire, but if you spend more time than us in Bordeaux, check it out! In the photos, it looked fantastic!

4. Bordeaux wines are reputed worldwide

The Bordeaux wines are famous worldwide and are one of the main reasons why Bordeaux is worth visiting for wine lovers. There are many Chateaux you can visit from Bordeaux. We liked the idea of combining the wine visit with a cruise on the river, but it wasn’t available on our date.

The Cité du Vin opened in 2016. It’s a great modern museum to learn more about wines with movies, exhibitions, workshops and tastings. I didn’t have time to visit, but you can click here to read all about Katy’s experience at La Cité du Vin .

The Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeaux (Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum) is worth a detour too. Located in the old wine cellars of Louis XV’s wine merchant, it is a lot smaller and more traditional than the new trendy Cité du Vin. You can choose a self-guided visit with tasting (allow about 1 hour) or a workshop (2.5 hrs).

As they offer different experiences, it’s worth visiting both museums. But if you’re only in Bordeaux for a short time, I personally prefer the more authentic experience. Make sure you book your tickets in advance (the City Pass is a great option if you plan to visit both!).

5. Bordeaux has great food

I’m sure you’ve heard about the reputation of French food. But have you heard about our specialities from the French South West? They are delicious (well, if you’re not a vegetarian…)!

Duck confit, cassoulet, Bayonne ham and the fresh seafood… They’re not all from Bordeaux, but they can be found there, in the largest city in the South West of France!

6. Bordeaux is a walkable city

We did our entire visit of Bordeaux on foot. You do not need to rent a car if you stay in the city centre. Walking in Bordeaux is the best way to admire the stunning architecture all around. The whole city of Bordeaux has many pedestrian-only areas and lovely squares to enjoy with no traffic at all.

7. The Bordeaux region is fantastic

Bordeaux is a lovely city. But it doesn’t stop there. The region around Bordeaux is amazing and worth visiting too. There are many beautiful day trips that await. It’s one of the best wine regions in France so, of course, you can visit wineries, but there are also lovely villages and natural attractions nearby. You won’t find the beach in Bordeaux, but it’s not far away (50 km as the crow flies).

Just to name a few nice places to visit near Bordeaux: Carcassonne and the Dune du Pilat , la Roche-sur-Yon, Saint Emilion, Limoges…

8. Bordeaux can be visited all year round

The best time to visit Bordeaux is in spring and late summer, when the weather is the warmest and the chances of rain are low. It’s also a good time to explore the vineyards. The grape harvest in September can also be a good time to visit Bordeaux if you plan to go out of the city.

Even if the weather isn’t as good, you’ll still have a nice time in Bordeaux in autumn and winter. It generally does not get too cold so you should be lucky enough to have good days to walk around the city.

9. You don’t need to spend a long time in Bordeaux to enjoy your visit

If you’re on tight timing, one day is enough to see most of the city centre of Bordeaux. Even if you can only stop for a few hours, I reckon it’s worth visiting Bordeaux. But it would be nicer to spend at least two or three days in Bordeaux. With extra time, you’ll be able to visit the museums and do a day trip to a vineyard or a lovely village.

10. Bordeaux is a fantastic rugby destination

You’ll find a few places in the southwest of France with a strong passion for rugby union and high-performing teams. Bordeaux is one of them. If you like the oval ball, check if there’s a game at one of Bordeaux’s two big stadiums ( Stade Chaban Delmas , 34,462 capacity and the Matmut Atlantique , 42,115 capacity) during your visit. They regularly host top rugby games, either with their local team Bordeaux Bègle or important regional championship games and even international games.

Where to stay in Bordeaux?

There are many accommodation options in Bordeaux * to please all kinds of travellers and budgets.

If you’re looking for a place that will create memories, more than just a room to sleep in, then check out these ones:

• Hotel des Quinconces *. It’s not for those on a budget, but this hotel offers a perfect location to explore Bordeaux on foot and has a lot of character.
• InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel *. If you don’t mind paying a premium price, you can stay in this beautiful building and get a view of the Opera from your room. The way they decorated the room will make your stay very special.
• La Grande Maison de Bernard Magrez *. Another one that isn’t for those travelling on a budget. The mansion from the 19th-century is carefully decorated. It’s famous for its gastronomic restaurant and wine cellar.
• Chateau Lamothe du Prince Noir *. Have you ever dreamt of staying in a chateau? Built-in the 14th century, it combines elegant French style and antiques and luxurious comfort. It is a bit outside Bordeaux (less than 30 minutes from the city centre) but perfectly located to enjoy the wine region.

Is Bordeaux worth visiting? Share your experience in the comments below!

Where is Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a major French city located on the Atlantic coast. It is well connected with high-speed trains and an international airport. We visited Bordeaux during a road trip in the west of France , from the Basque Country to Brittany , with a fabulous detour in the Loire Valley .

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This Post Has 4 Comments

We absolutely agree! We spent my birthday this year in Bordeaux. The food and wine alone are worth a trip. Absolutely wonderful! And wandering though the city is amazing!

Oh that’s definitely a good idea for a birthday trip!!! 😀

Well.. I didn’t know it was #1 city to visit…but I confirm it 100%. I loved it so much. Form the architecture, to the modern take on the right bank of the Garonne, to the history and the wine.

Yes! Plus, it has a nice climate and it’s not too far from the coast. I seriously wished we had more time there!

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Total Trip: An affordable Bordeaux weekend

Jul 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Hungry (and thirsty) travelers can easily plan an affordable last-minute trip to Bordeaux ©Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

In our A Total Trip series, writers document what they spent on a recent getaway. In this edition, our New York-based Senior Director of Publishing, Laura Motta, shows us how she threw together a quick, inexpensive weekend in Bordeaux, France – foie gras and white wine included.

When it came to planning a last-minute weekend in Bordeaux , I did what I often do: I didn’t really plan it at all. This trip was a fluke – a quick getaway I tacked onto a Dublin business trip. The goal was to maximize the benefit of a paid-for transatlantic flight, but also to relax and maybe even enjoy warmer weather than you’d typically find in Ireland’s (often rainy) capital. So I headed to France .

The good news: The lack of a detailed plan didn’t have a negative impact on the trip. The bad: I couldn’t do everything I wanted, especially when it came to food. Bordeaux has 14 Michelin-star restaurants – a daunting number for any hungry traveler with limited time and a short planning window. Reservations are a must, and planning well in advance is recommended. Instead of heeding that well-worn advice, however, I improvised for all of my meals and saved a lot of money. Below, I’ve included how it all went and what it cost. 

Pre- and post-trip spending:  

I flew into Bordeaux from Dublin on an Aer Lingus flight that cost a reasonable €150  round trip. The not-so-affordable part? My checked bag. Add €40 each way for that. (Ouch.) I took a taxi to and from my hotel, which cost €32  each way. 

I also spent €14.20 for an unlimited ride, 7-day ticket for Bordeaux’s tram system. Trams are modern and easy to use, but not super necessary if you’re staying in the old city and are comfortable walking. The city is compact, and major sites are mostly reachable on foot.

For lodging, I chose Mama Shelter , a small chain known for its whimsical, over-the-top common spaces and spartan, ultra-utilitarian rooms. This location has a rooftop bar that’s among Bordeaux’s most popular night spots and lobby decor that includes pool floats, a foosball table, a huge portrait of a rooster and neon signs. I paid €169 per night for a double room with a queen bed.    

Day-to-day spending:

Coffee: After an early flight from Dublin, the first thing I needed, even more than breakfast, was caffeine. I dropped my bags at Mama Shelter and walked through Bordeaux’s UNESCO World Heritage-designated old town, called the Port of the Moon for the way it curves along the shore of the Garonne. I stopped at L’Alchimiste , a coffee shop done in blond wood, its walls decorated with Chemex coffee makers and succulents. A latte cost about €4 . 

Getting oriented: The symbolic and geographic heart of Bordeaux’s old city is its grand Gothic cathedral , which is dedicated to Saint Andrew. It’s not a bad place to start sightseeing, either. This church, along with two others in Bordeaux, has its own UNESCO World Heritage designation as part of the Way of St. James – the Camino de Santiago – in France. You will see the gold, seashell-shaped markers that denote the route all over Bordeaux’s old city. Many pilgrims continue to follow it today. Entry to the cathedral is free .   

Dinner: By the time I had finished my wandering, it was past lunch but before dinner – one of those fatal hours in France when it’s tough to find something to eat. I stopped into Horace . Finding only sweets and beverages on offer, I went with it and had a slice of strawberry-lavender cheesecake and a beer ( €11 ) to hold me over. Still hungry a few hours later, I opted for a wine bar dinner, which didn’t require a reservation. Sitting at the sleek steel counter at Vins Urbain, I ordered some tinned fish, olive tapenade, and a glass of white merlot (an easy €25.50 ) . Seeing that I finished my wine before my food, the bartender also topped me up for free. I finished the evening’s meandering in the beautiful, cafe-lined square in front of the Saint-Pierre church. 

Note that since my visit to Bordeaux, Vins Urbain has closed. You can expect similar pricing at other wine bars in town.   

Total: €40.50

Have some extra time? Here are some great day trips from Bordeaux .

Coffee: As always, I started the day in France with coffee. I took a cozy, pillow-covered seat along the wall at Café Piha and ordered a latte in my shaky French ( €4 ) . 

Wine: You cannot leave Bordeaux without visiting the Cité du Vin . This vast museum and education center, housed in a modern glass structure that resembles a wine decanter, was my top sightseeing priority. Dozens of interactive exhibits cover everything from terroir, to the winemaking process, to the history of drinking wine. Digital screens, interactive elements and passionate storytelling make for a fun morning – or a full day, if you’re an aficionado. The €22  admission includes a glass of wine in the rooftop bar.  

Lunch:   Directly across from the Cité du Vin is the excellent Les Halles de Bacalan , a busy contemporary food hall where you can sample all the pillars of Bordelaise cuisine – endless local wines by the glass, overflowing baskets of oysters, fried and grilled seafood, French cheeses from every region. I finally settled on a half-dozen oysters from Huitrier de Baca ( €10 ) , a glass of wine at La Cave des Halles ( €4.50 ) , and a slab of foie gras that was undoubtedly intended for two people ( €6 ) . 

History: My after-lunch sightseeing included the wonderful Musee Aquitaine , which covers Bordeaux and the surrounding region, all the way back to its pre-Roman roots. Entry costs €6 . From here, I headed to the Basilica of Saint Severus (Seurin, in French) for a ( free ) look around. This is another of Bordeaux’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and is an important pilgrimage church on the Way of St. James.   

Dinner: My second wine bar of the trip was Les Doux Secrets d’Hélène , where I encountered Hélène herself, as well as her two sweet puppies, who paid me a tableside visit during dinner. I had two glasses of white wine, a soothing vegetable consomme, a stuffed pasta appetizer and a small cheese plate for €32 . 

Total: €84.50

Stay on top of logistics with this advice on how to get around Bordeaux.

Exploring and brunch: My last sightseeing day was an exercise in wandering – an easy thing to do in this compact city. I took in the grandiose Place de la Bourse, the ultimate testament to a city that grew rich on international trade, and the memorial honoring the Girondins, a faction in the French Revolution that was home-grown in Bordeaux. Other stops included the picturesque covered Galerie Bordelaise, before I made my way toward the Place Meynard and the surrounding neighborhood. Here, you’ll find yet another UNESCO-designated cathedral, plus the charming Marche des Capucins , which is much more sprawling and local than Les Halles de Bacalan. I grabbed a barstool at La Poissonnerie and ordered 6 oysters for €10 , which included a half-glass of white wine and fresh bread. Hard to go wrong with that. 

Sweet snack: Before heading back to my hotel and catching a ride to the airport, I made sure to stop by Cassonade , a small pastry shop that specializes in cannelés, small pastries with a perfectly caramelized crust and a soft center. They are a Bordeaux icon. Choose between vanilla and rum flavors for a sweet treat on your way home. Or try both. (Two for €4 .) 

More on Bordeaux:

• Explore Bordeaux's neighborhoods
• Getting around Bordeaux
• 6 amazing day trips from Bordeaux  

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9 of The Best Places to Visit in France in 2024

T he French have long perfected the art of vacationing and take great pride in exploring their own country year after year. There's little wonder why. France packs a lot within its borders. There are two gorgeous coastlines, one lapped by the gentle waters of the Mediterranean, the other pounded by Atlantic surf, plus more than 1,000 islands and islets. Inland, as soon as you get away from the big cities-having gotten your fill of restaurants, markets, and museums-you'll find yourself in blissfully peaceful countryside, meandering between villages and vineyards, or even hiking the slopes of now-extinct ancient volcanoes.

The most important thing is to take your time. You can easily spend two weeks just in Provence or Corsica. So, as you're researching places to visit in France, do as the French do-pick one destination and get to know it inside out. You can always visit somewhere new next year. Here's a complete guide on where to go next in France.

Where should I go if it's my first time in France?

There's nowhere more quintessentially French than Provence, where olive trees dot the arid countryside and lavender fields burst into barely believable color come June. This is the France that inspired Cezanne's softly focused landscapes, the France where the sun shines some 300 days a year, and where market day still sets the rhythm of weekly life.

Aix-en-Provence should be your first base. This sun-soaked tangle of ancient stone buildings with creaky shutters is at once a sleepy college town and elegant former provincial capital. A few days is plenty to soak up its charms: guided tours of the olive-laden markets followed by a game of pétanque , the Bonnard exhibition (and checking out the beautiful courtyard garden) at the Hôtel de Caumont , and at least one afternoon spent sipping rosé in a shady square, church bells tolling in the background.

You'll need a car to explore further, staying in a mas (farmhouse B&B) or two as you go. The hilltop village of Gordes, its tile-roofed houses stacked up a rocky outcrop, is so pretty it's officially classed as one of the most beautiful in France -and attracts plenty of visitors, especially in July and August, when the French enjoy their month-long vacations. Take your time exploring the Luberon to discover Provence's lesser-known highlights, among them discovering the medieval village of Oppède le Vieux, hiking through the Foret de Cedres near Bonnieux, and kayaking down the Sorgue River.

How about if I like big waves and taking it easy?

You can really let your hair down in France's surf capital, just 30 minutes' drive from the Spanish border. It's undoubtedly the only place in the country where you can watch a surfer tuck a longboard under their arm in the middle of a city street on your way to a Michelin-starred dinner. This is France, but not as you know it, fueled by wild Atlantic waves and the richness of Basque culture and cuisine.

That said, the secret is definitely out. Biarritz is now as chic and expensive in some parts as it is laid-back in others. But if you're not a Parisan driving up local property prices, you'll find the welcome warm, the surf powerful, and opportunities to try the local hot pepper, piment d'Espelette , plentiful.

Steer away from the fancy Grand Plage and hire boards or book lessons from Hastea on the Côte des Basques instead. It's not uncommon to see surfers rescued by helicopter when the beach vanishes at high tide and waves crash into the promenade, so keep an eye on the shore as well as the break. If you'd prefer not to get your feet wet, watch the action with a beer from Etxola Bibi high on the clifftop.

I'm all about urban music and street art

France's second most populated city divides opinion. To some, Marseille is a sleepy southern backwater. To others , it's wild and downright dangerous. The truth is somewhere in between. While your first impression is likely to be one of charming pastel buildings and a yacht-stuffed harbor, the real beat of Marseille is harder to find.

Street art tours are a great way to get under the city's skin. The best guides take you away from the waterfront to explore the area around Le Cours Julien . Once dominated by markets and warehouses, this neighborhood is now a colorful outdoor canvas, peppered with expressive street art, cool galleries, coffee shops, and bars. At night, it's one of the best spots to join the locals for a spritz (or three).

Rap is just as intertwined with the city's creative soul as its graffiti scene. An ever-evolving legacy started in Marseille's 1980s heyday can be traced across spots name-checked by the likes of Jul and SCH. If French rap is new to you, the lyrics to their 2020 smash (with several other rappers) Bande Organisée perfectly paint the city's seedy side, giving new meaning to the phrase " C'est Marseille, bébé" (This is Marseille, baby).

For DJs and epic views, head to R2 Le Rooftop , where thousand-strong crowds dance the night away to everything from hip-hop to house.

I'm looking for art, culture, and photography. Surprise me.

The opening of the Frank Gehry–designed arts center, Luma , really put Arles on the map three years ago. But this tiny, UNESCO-listed southern city has been on the French cultural radar for much longer.

It doesn't take long to get your bearings. Arles is set around a magnificently preserved Roman amphitheater, where mock gladiator fights enrapture groups of kiddos. Beyond, narrow alleyways lace between ancient ruins and vine-draped houses, restaurant tables spilling into the streets and barely a car in sight. It's a magical place, particularly during its many festivals and events. Watch flamenco performers dance beneath the moonlight in cobblestone courtyards during FlamencA , held this year from July 29 to August 15, and then go wandering in search of free live music during Les Rues en Musique , which runs around the same time from July 26 to August 10.

The best time to visit is between July and September when you can catch the internationally renowned Rencontres d'Arles , the annual photography festival, which spreads exhibitions across venues around the city. This year, the festival will explore the theme "beneath the surface", exploring new perspectives and intertwining narratives.

Staying at L'Arlatan , a gorgeously colorful boutique hotel set in a private mansion, protected as a historic monument and renovated by artist Jorge Pardo, puts you in the center of the city.

I've eaten my way around Lyon. Where next?

Bordeaux is fast becoming one of France's most youthful, dynamic cities, with a growing tech scene and culinary offering that easily ranks among the best in Europe. The wine trade, of course, has underpinned the very fabric of Bordeaux since the Middle Ages. Barrels might no longer be rolled down to barges on the Garonne, but you can visit the engaging Cité du Vin , a museum dedicated to the history of wine and winemaking. The tourist office has the most comprehensive schedule of tours and tastings at nearby vineyards.

As for dining out, your options abound. Aside from Paris, Bordeaux claims to have the most restaurants per capita in the country; 12 of them have received one or two Michelin stars. Try the superb Ressources , with affordable and inventive three-, four-, or five-course menus. Expect delicate and precisely constructed dishes, such as scallops with garlic and cédrat (a large, knobbly cousin of the lemon otherwise known as citron) or beetroot or goose breast with porcini mushrooms and caviar.

Seafood, especially oysters raised in the tidal Arcachon basin, is particularly worth seeking out, as is an entrecôte bordelaise (steak with a rich, red-wine sauce) and at least one canelé (Bordeaux's famous rum-soaked pastry). No matter the season, you'll always find the very best of local produce on display at the city-center covered market, the Marché des Capucins.

Stay at the Bordeaux outpost of funky budget-boutique chain Mama Shelter to see the city at its most vibrant (and to soak up the views from the rooftop terrace).

Challenge my idea of France and French culture . . .

What if you could lay on the beach in the morning and hike a snow-covered trail in the afternoon? It's a combo more than possible on a trip to Corsica, the French island neighboring Sardinia in the northern Mediterranean, where vertiginous mountains appear to shoot straight from sea to sky.

Corsicans themselves will tell you one thing: They're Corsican first and French second (if at all). Fiery politics aside, they've got plenty to be proud of. As well as some of the country's most beautiful beaches (the white sands and translucent waters of Palombaggia and Rondinara in the southeast could be straight out of the Caribbean), you'll find prehistoric ruins, ancient citadel cities, and scenic port towns such as Bonifacio and Saint-Florent, their marinas crowded with luxury yachts and speedboats.

You can't see the whole island on one visit, but you can easily link the larger towns, such as Ajaccio, Porto Vecchio, and Bonifacio, driving your way across Corsica's rugged interior in between. Hiking the entirety of the island's infamous 124-mile-long trail, the GR20 , requires serious commitment and at least two weeks, but you can get a taste by joining one of the "stages" for a day.

Give me rolling countryside.

The auvergne.

The French love to joke about the diagonale du vide, a vast diagonal swathe of rural France that sweeps from the country's northeast to southwest. At its heart, you'll find the Auvergne, the embodiment of bucolic sleepiness, where dense woodland seems to stretch endlessly over rolling hills-actually extinct volcanoes.

This wild region is fascinating to explore, especially with a pair of good hiking boots. Climbing the Puy de Dôme, the highest peak in the chain of 80 or so volcanoes that make up the UNESCO-listed Chaîne des Puys outside the city of Clermont-Ferrand, is a great place to start. You can also follow the Auvergne cheese route , tasting your way through slices of pungent Bleu d'Auvergne, crumbly Cantal, and earthy Saint-Nectaire.

There's luxury, too, if you know where to look, including at the Hôtel Restaurant Le Pré with its two-Michelin-star dining room. Unforgettable stays also await in the forest canopy itself at the Cabanes des Volcans tree houses (bookable in English via Airbnb ).

I want to visit the Riviera, but Cannes isn't my vibe.

There's so much more to the Riviera than the glitz of Cannes and Saint-Tropez. Nice, unlike the resort towns, remains an authentic city in its own right, especially when you wander beyond the Promenade des Anglais and the romantic (if touristy) old town into the genteel, residential neighborhoods that stack up the hillside.

Place du Pin, where cafés buzz from the first purr of the espresso machine to the last pour of beer, is the perfect local spot to get your bearings over coffee. From here, you're steps from the modern art museum, MAMAC , or the start of the walk through the leafy Park de la Colline du Château , which offers wonderful views over the bay. The other essential Niçoise experience in this part of town is eating. Italian influences abound with the border just 30 minutes' drive away, but the real local specialty is the crispy, chickpea-flour pancake, socca. Try it at Chez Pipo .

Down by the seafront, the Cours Saleya markets are always interesting to wander, overflowing with flowers and fresh produce each morning from Tuesday to Sunday. Nice's narrow beach is best enjoyed from the comfort of a lounger, sequestered beneath one of the many beach clubs' blue-and-white striped parasols, cocktail in hand. Or book a stay at Hôtel la Pérouse , up on the cliffs with far-reaching sea views over the sweeping Baie des Anges.

How about a totally untouched coastline?

If you're looking for coastal isolation, Brittany's calling your name. Especially out of high season, France's northwestern tip is still a land of wild and windy coves, idyllic harbor villages, strings of protected islands, and salt-water swimming pools, fed by the tide. Avoid July and August, when Parisians flock to their second homes, and you'll almost feel as if you have Brittany to yourself. The only downside is you can't see the whole region on one trip.

If you're dreaming of sunsets, long walks, and sea swims, base yourself on the northern pink granite coast . The village of Ploumanac'h, famous for the Men Ruz lighthouse, and Plougrescant, Brittany's northernmost point, are among the best spots to see the glowing pink granite from which the area takes its name.

In the Gulf of Morbihan , to the south, it's all about setting sail. Some 40 islands dot this protected bay. You can explore them from the deck of traditional fishing boats as well as small ferries that ply some of the major crossings.

True seclusion comes true with a short stay on wind-lashed Ouessant, part of the Molène archipelago, strung out in the Atlantic swell. The four-star Le Sport Ouessant & Spa has an outdoor pool, meditation spaces, and a restaurant serving local cuisine-but only 11 tranquil rooms.

Read more on why Brittany is best seen from the sea .

This article was originally published in June 2023 and was updated in June 2024 with new information.

Eleanor Aldridge is a writer based in Paris and the author of Paris: A Curious Traveler's Guide . She specializes in food, travel, and (often natural) wine.

Paris Summer Olympics 2024: Everything you need to know

Every four years, the world gets Olympic fever, but this one hits different. The 2020 Olympics were, for obvious reasons, delayed, and the resulting Games in 2021 were a muted, rather depressing affair that largely took place in empty stadiums due to a COVID outbreak in Tokyo. This means anticipation is at an all-time high, and it looks like Paris 2024 — or, to give it its official name, the XXXIII Olympiad — could end up being the biggest, most-watched Games ever. Here’s what you need to know about the Paris Summer Olympics 2024.

In a nutshell

• The Paris Summer Olympics 2024 run from July 26-August 11.
• There are 329 events in total, with roughly 10,500 athletes from 184 countries taking part.
• Breakdancing is making its first appearance at the Games this year.
• You can watch live streaming of the Games on Peacock.

When are the 2024 Olympics, and how long will they last?

The Olympics will kick off with the opening ceremony on Friday, July 26, and the Games go on until Sunday, Aug. 11, ending with the closing ceremony. However, if you can’t wait until then, a few events start before the official opening ceremony. Soccer and rugby sevens begin Wednesday, July 24, and archery and handball commence on Thursday, July 25.

What are the sporting events?

Athletes will be competing for a total of 329 gold medals across 32 sports. Breakdancing is making its debut, while skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing are notching their second Olympic appearance. Here’s the full list of sports:

• Aquatics, which consists of two events in artistic swimming, two in diving, two in marathon swimming, 35 in general swimming and two in water polo.
• Archery, five events.
• Athletics, 48 events.
• Badminton, five events.
• Basketball, consisting of two 5-on-5 events and two 3-on-3 events.
• Boxing, 13 events.
• Breaking, two events.
• Canoeing, consisting of six slalom events and ten sprint events.
• Cycling, consisting of two BMX freestyle events, two BMX racing events, two mountain biking events, four road cycling events and 12 track cycling events.
• Equestrian, consisting of two events each in dressage, eventing and jumping.
• Fencing, 12 events.
• Field hockey, two events.
• Football, aka soccer, two events.
• Golf, two events.
• Gymnastics, consisting of 14 artistic gymnastics events, two rhythmic gymnastics and two trampoline events.
• Handball, two events.
• Judo, 15 events.
• Modern pentathlon, two events.
• Rowing, 14 events.
• Rugby sevens, two events.
• Sailing, 10 events.
• Shooting, 15 events.
• Skateboarding, four events.
• Sport climbing, four events.
• Surfing, two events.
• Table tennis, five events.
• Taekwondo, eight events.
• Tennis, five events.
• Triathlon, three events.
• Volleyball, two events in regular volleyball and two in beach volleyball.
• Weightlifting, 10 events.
• Wrestling, 12 events in freestyle and six in Greco-Roman.

The competitions change with every Games — there are fewer weightlifting events this time, for instance. The reason every sport has at least two events is that they are split into male and female categories. Sports with odd numbers of events have one or more competitions designated for men or women only.

Which countries are participating?

In total, 184 countries are participating in the Paris Olympics, with approximately 10,500 athletes taking part. The number of competitors each nation is sending varies widely — several smaller countries are just sending one athlete, while the United States tops the list with 588. In addition to these 184 countries, there are also 45 athletes from Russia and Belarus. Both countries were suspended from the Games by the International Olympic Committee, so the athletes will be competing as “Individual Neutral Athletes,” shortened to AIN (in French).

The countries, and the number of athletes representing them, are:

• Albania, five.
• Algeria, 36.
• Andorra, one.
• Angola, 20.
• Antigua and Barbuda, three.
• Argentina, 125.
• Armenia, 12.
• Aruba, five.
• Australia, 429.
• Austria, 61.
• Azerbaijan, 36.
• Bahamas, 11.
• Bahrain, 10.
• Bangladesh, two.
• Barbados, two.
• Belgium, 145.
• Benin, one.
• Bermuda, five.
• Bhutan, one.
• Bolivia, one.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, three.
• Botswana, five.
• Brazil, 235.
• British Virgin Islands, two.
• Bulgaria, 41.
• Burkina Faso, five.
• Burundi, two.
• Cameroon, two.
• Canada, 291.
• Cape Verde, four.
• Cayman Islands, two.
• Central African Republic, one.
• Chad, three.
• China, 368.
• Colombia, 79.
• Comoros, one.
• Costa Rica, four.
• Croatia, 61.
• Cyprus, 11.
• Czech Republic, 88.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo, two.
• Denmark, 118.
• Djibouti, four.
• Dominica, one.
• Dominican Republic, 48.
• Ecuador, 31.
• Egypt, 144.
• El Salvador, five.
• Eritrea, eight.
• Estonia, 21.
• Ethiopia, 31.
• Finland, 37.
• France, 547.
• Gabon, one.
• Gambia, two.
• Georgia, 26.
• Germany, 396.
• Ghana, six.
• Great Britain, 310.
• Greece, 76.
• Grenada, three.
• Guam, five.
• Guatemala, 11.
• Guinea, 18.
• Guinea-Bissau, two.
• Guyana, one.
• Haiti, two.
• Hong Kong, 34.
• Honduras, two.
• Hungary, 154.
• Iceland, three.
• India, 100.
• Indonesia, 26.
• Ireland, 118.
• Israel, 86.
• Italy, 335.
• Ivory Coast, nine.
• Jamaica, 38.
• Japan, 367.
• Jordan, 10.
• Kazakhstan, 66.
• Kiribati, one.
• Kosovo, six.
• Kuwait, five.
• Kyrgyzstan, 13.
• Latvia, 18.
• Lebanon, five.
• Lesotho, three.
• Liberia, six.
• Libya, three.
• Liechtenstein, one.
• Lithuania, 42.
• Luxembourg, 11.
• Madagascar, two.
• Malaysia, 22.
• Maldives, two.
• Malta, two.
• Marshall Islands, one.
• Mauritius, eight.
• Mexico, 96.
• Moldova, 16.
• Monaco, three.
• Mongolia, 19.
• Montenegro, 15.
• Morocco, 55.
• Mozambique, four.
• Myanmar, one.
• Namibia, four.
• Nepal, four.
• Netherlands, 232.
• New Zealand, 184.
• Nicaragua, three.
• Niger, three.
• Nigeria, 76.
• North Korea, 14.
• North Macedonia, three.
• Norway, 94.
• Pakistan, four.
• Palestine, three.
• Panama, four.
• Papua New Guinea, three.
• Paraguay, 28.
• Philippines, 18.
• Poland, 183.
• Portugal, 53.
• Puerto Rico, 27.
• Republic of the Congo, three.
• Romania, 100.
• Rwanda, six.
• Saint Lucia, three.
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, one.
• San Marino, two.
• Saudi Arabia, five.
• Senegal, six.
• Serbia, 109.
• Singapore, 22.
• Slovakia, 22.
• Slovenia, 77.
• South Africa, 136.
• South Korea, 123.
• South Sudan, 12.
• Spain, 347.
• Sri Lanka, one.
• Sudan, one.
• Suriname, three.
• Sweden, 96.
• Switzerland, 100.
• Syria, three.
• Chinese Taipei, 47.
• Tajikistan, five.
• Tanzania, four.
• Thailand, 44.
• Tonga, one.
• Trinidad and Tobago, 13.
• Tunisia, 24.
• Turkey, 87.
• Turkmenistan, one.
• Uganda, 18.
• Ukraine, 123.
• United Arab Emirates, four.
• United States, 588.
• Uruguay, 20.
• Uzbekistan, 70.
• Vanuatu, two.
• Venezuela, 27.
• Vietnam, 12.
• Virgin Islands, three.
• Yemen, one.
• Zambia, 21.
• Zimbabwe, five.

An additional 36 athletes are competing as part of the Refugee Olympic team.

What is the Olympics 2024 schedule?

The Olympic schedule always changes due to events going over time and unforeseen incidents. However, the International Olympic Committee has posted a detailed timetable . You can search by event and date, and the schedule will be updated when event times change.

How to watch the Paris Olympics 2024

NBCUniversal has been the exclusive U.S. broadcaster of the Olympic Games since 1988. Their current deal with the International Olympic Committee extends to the 2032 Games.

Peacock will be streaming every event live, a first for the Games. NBC will be showing at least nine hours of Olympic coverage every day, with a three-hour show featuring highlights, analysis and entertainment every evening. You can also watch events across the USA Network, GOLF Channel, CNBC and E!.

In addition to Peacock, NBC will also have plenty of live coverage, highlights and commentary on the network’s official Olympics sites and apps:

• NBCOlympics.com .
• NBC Olympics app.
• NBC Sports app .

Where is the opening ceremony?

The opening ceremony is scheduled to kick off on Friday, July 26, in Paris, at 7:30 p.m. local time. With the time difference, that’s 1:30 p.m. EST in the United States. For the first time ever, the ceremony isn’t taking place within an Olympic stadium — instead, the athletes will be carried on boats in a flotilla on the River Seine. More than 300,000 spectators will be watching in bleachers along the riverbanks. The procession will end at the Jardins du Trocadéro, where the final elements of the opening ceremony will take place.

Where are the Paris Olympic venues?

The Paris Olympics will be using 35 venues in all. Most are in or around Paris, but a few are further away — in Lille, Vaires-sur-Marne, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, Saint-Étienne, Nice, Nantes and Châteauroux. Mostly, these are early-rounds soccer or nautical events. The surfing is taking place in Tahiti, which is part of French Polynesia, almost 10,000 miles away from the rest of the events.

Within Paris, the organizers have made an admirable commitment to sustainability, mostly using preexisting venues and locations rather than, as cities often do, building huge venues for the Games that subsequently lie empty after they conclude.

The Stade de France, the country’s biggest football stadium, will be hosting the athletics and rugby sevens, while Stade Roland Garros, famous for hosting the French Open, will be the setting for the tennis and boxing events. Swimming is split between the Paris La Défense Arena and Paris Aquatic Centre, while several of Paris’ public squares are being temporarily transformed into sporting venues. The Place de la Concorde will host basketball, breakdancing, BMXing and skateboarding — the other Places have to be a bit jealous of it getting all the cool ones — while the Grand Palais will host fencing and taekwondo. It’s going to be an exciting time to be in Paris!

How to buy tickets

At this point, resold tickets are the only ones available. Luckily, there is an official resale platform so people with tickets they can’t use can sell them on the official app.

Accommodation and travel

Let’s be honest, it’s late in the day to plan a trip to the Olympics — they’re less than a month away — but if you’re willing to pay, there’s always a way. The official advice from the IOC is to try Airbnb, advice that may or may not have anything to do with their sponsorship of the event. By April, more than 50% of the city’s hotel rooms were booked out for the duration of the Games. However, the closer the Games get, the more likely a bargain might be available, so there’s always a chance.

Things to do in Paris

We all know Paris is beautiful. It’s famous for it — if another city is incredibly beautiful, it might find itself compared to Paris. Known as the City of Light and the City of Love for its reputation of being incredibly romantic, Paris is bursting with fascinating places. The Louvre is of course world-famous as the home of the Mona Lisa and a lot more beautiful art, but Paris is also home to the Musee D’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame de Paris, and much, much more.

The AP Buyline roundup

The 2024 Paris Olympics promise world-class competition against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Get in on the action from home with our roundup of broadcast and streaming options.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the best ways to watch the olympics online.

For viewers in the United States, NBC.com, NBCOlympics.com, the Peacock app, NBC Olympics app, NBC Sports app and NBC app are the best ways to watch Paris 2024 online. All events will be livestreamed and highlight shows will be broadcast nightly.

When and where are the next Olympics?

The 2028 Olympics are headed to the United States. They will take place in Los Angeles from July 14 to July 30, 2028.

How many times has Paris hosted the Olympics?

Paris has hosted the Olympics twice before, in 1900 and 1924. The 1900 games marked the first time women were allowed to compete, with Swiss-born New Yorker Hélène de Pourtalès becoming the first female Olympic champion, in the sport of sailing.

Read more: How to watch the Olympics 2024