Saint Emilion: Day Trip & Wine Tastings from Bordeaux

Summary

Wander medieval streets sip bordeaux wines in saint emilion’s heart

You’ll wander Saint Emilion’s winding streets with a local guide, taste Bordeaux wines at three different chateaux (no snacks — so eat first!), and hear stories you wouldn’t find on your own. Expect small moments: bells ringing, laughter over mispronounced French, sunlight through cellar windows. It’s less about checking boxes and more about letting yourself linger.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re about to taste something older than me,” our guide joked as we stepped into the first chateau outside Bordeaux. I could smell wet earth and something faintly floral — maybe the vines themselves? The drive out had been quiet, just fields rolling by and then, suddenly, those stone houses of Saint Emilion. I’d heard about the wine tastings but didn’t expect the way the light hit those cellars, all cool stone and dust motes floating. No snacks at the first stop (apparently that’s how they do it here), so I was glad I’d grabbed a pastry before we left.

Walking through Saint Emilion itself felt like wandering through someone’s old family album. Our guide, Lucie, pointed out a tiny bakery where she said her grandmother used to buy canelés — she laughed when I tried to pronounce it (I definitely didn’t get it right). The cobblestones are uneven and my shoes were not ideal, but honestly, that made me slow down and notice things: a cat sleeping in a window, shutters painted that faded blue you only see in French villages. At one point we all just stopped talking to listen to church bells echoing off the walls. Kind of cheesy but also…not?

The last chateau was my favorite — maybe because by then everyone was relaxed enough to ask real questions about Bordeaux wines instead of pretending to know everything already. The winemaker poured us something deep red and spicy; I still think about that taste when I see bottles at home now. The ride back was sleepy and quiet except for someone snoring in the back (not naming names). If you’re looking for a day trip from Bordeaux that doesn’t feel rushed or forced, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Saint Emilion Wine Tour from Bordeaux

• Depart from Bordeaux
• Visit Saint-Emilion village
• Tour three chateaux
• Sample Bordeaux wines
• Enjoy picturesque scenery
• Return to Bordeaux

Top questions

How long is the Saint Emilion day trip from Bordeaux?

This is a full-day tour departing from Bordeaux and returning in the evening.

Are snacks or lunch included during wine tastings?

No snacks are provided during wine tastings to preserve wine flavors; eat beforehand.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan but does not mention hotel pickup specifically.

Can children join this Saint Emilion wine tour?

No, this is an adult-only tour; travelers under 18 are not allowed.

Is there much walking involved in Saint Emilion?

Yes, some walking is involved around the village; good walking shoes are recommended.

What languages does the guide speak?

The guide is a professional English-speaking driver/tour guide.

What’s included

Your day includes transport by air-conditioned minivan from Bordeaux, three separate wine tasting sessions at local chateaux (with no snacks served), a guided walking tour of Saint Emilion village led by an English-speaking guide, and plenty of time to soak up both scenery and stories before heading back in the evening.