Bordeaux is a wine-lover’s paradise and an incredibly beautiful city. I first went there in 2010 and have been a huge fan ever since. Its 18th-century core is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the whole city is brimming with upscale wine bars, great restaurants, and some good upscale shopping. It’s a super beautiful city (my favorite street in the country is here).
There’s a lot of history in this city and, like elsewhere, one of the best ways to experience this is to take a walking tour of the city. There are lots of wine and food tours in Bordeaux that can deepen your visit.
But, since not all are created equal, I wanted to share a few of my favorites. Here’s my list of the best walking tours in Bordeaux:
While those may be the best free and paid tours in town, Bordeaux has a lot more to offer. Here are five other insightful and educational tour companies:
1. Office de Tourisme de Bordeaux
The official tourism office runs a handful of tours, though its guided walking tour is the most popular choice for first-time visitors. It’s a great two-hour primer led by an expert local guide who can help you get off the tourist trail, show you the scenic highlights, and illuminate the city’s past.
You can also hop on their half-day winery tour, on which you’ll stop at either one or two wineries (depending on the day) to learn about the importance of wine to the region and culture. You’ll also learn about the winemaking process and get a few samples too. It’s an affordable and fun introduction to Bordeaux’s vineyards.
Tours start at 15 EUR.
2. France Like a Local
If you have a sweet tooth, France Like a Local runs a mouthwatering pastry and bakery tour that’s perfect for travelers looking to indulge. Lasting 2.5 hours, the tour includes stops at over a half a dozen shops where you can try fresh breads, pastries, and chocolate, including favorites like pain au chocolat, Dunes Blanches, and canelés.
In addition to trying lots of sweet treats, you’ll also get to see many of the highlights as you explore the historic city center. And because tours are limited to just 10 people, you’ll have plenty of time to converse with the guide, ask questions, and chat with the bakers and business owners whose enterprises you’ll be visiting.
Tours start at 76 EUR.
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