Things To Do ~ Quoi Faire
Saint-Émilion
A world-renowned Bordeaux red wine region, home to both prestigious estates and small family-run wineries. Many are open for tastings and visits, sometimes free of charge. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time to explore the medieval streets, stop for traditional macarons de Saint-Émilion, or enjoy a drink at the Cloître des Cordeliers. Guided tours in English of the impressive underground monolithic church are available from the tourist office. Check which wineries are open on the day here:
Montcaret – Roman Villa Ruins
Visit the remains of a large Roman villa featuring remarkable mosaic floors in the quiet village of Montcaret.
Rauzan – Cave and Castle
For a cooler and more adventurous visit, explore a cave crossed by an underground river. The village of Rauzan is also home to a large fortified medieval castle.
Canoeing on the Dordogne River
A peaceful and scenic experience on the Dordogne River. Several routes are available, with canoe rentals in villages such as Pessac-sur-Dordogne.
Castillon-la-Bataille – Historical Site / Reenactment
The town where the final battle of the Hundred Years’ War between France and England took place. Each summer, a large historical reenactment with cavalry, fireworks, and period costumes brings this event to life. The show is in French but remains very impressive.
Wine Experiences in the Region
The area is home to more than 5,400 wineries. Red wine is the specialty, but white, sparkling, and dessert wines are also excellent. During the summer months, many estates open their doors and host concerts, evening events, and food festivals. Notable visits include: Château Carbonneau, known for its English tea room https://www.chateau-carbonneau.com/salon-de-th%C3%A9-et-bar-%C3%A0-vin Château Toulouse-Lautrec, former home of the painter https://www.chateautoulouselautrec.com/ Château de Montaigne, residence of the 16th-century philosopher https://chateau-montaigne.com/ Additional wine information:
Bordeaux
Explore the medieval old town and the Chartrons district, once the wine merchants’ docks Walk along the grand 18th-century avenues and the riverfront Visit Place de la Bourse, Pey-Berland Cathedral, the Grand Théâtre, Jardin Public, and Place des Quinconces, the largest square in Europe Plan half a day to visit La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s modern and interactive wine museum https://www.laciteduvin.com/fr Art and history enthusiasts may enjoy the Museum of Decorative Arts, housed in a beautifully preserved historic mansion https://madd-bordeaux.fr/ Visit the former German submarine base built during World War II, now transformed into a unique venue for digital and live art exhibitions https://www.bassins-lumieres.com/fr
Food and Wine in Bordeaux
Bordeaux offers a wide range of restaurants. We recommend starting with a glass of wine at the Bar à Vin, followed by dinner at L’Entrecôte or in a traditional brasserie bordelaise.
Things to Do on the Coast
Bassin d’Arcachon Ideal for a day trip or overnight stay. Enjoy oyster tastings with a glass of Bordeaux Sauvignon Blanc, wide Atlantic beaches, the iconic stilted “cabanes tchanquées,” and the elegant Winter Town of Arcachon. For panoramic views, climb the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. If possible, stop at La Corniche for dinner or a cocktail while watching the sunset. Lacanau A major surf destination and host of the Lacanau Pro, one of the oldest surf competitions in France. Surf spots are easily accessible all along the Atlantic coast.
About Two Hours from Bordeaux
The Dordogne Valley Known for prehistoric cave art including Lascaux, spectacular castles such as Beynac, Castelnaud, and Les Milandes, the historic town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, the cliffside village of Rocamadour, and the impressive Gouffre de Padirac. The Basque Country A lush green region combining coastline, Pyrenees foothills, and traditional inland villages. Local cuisine highlights include cheeses, cured meats, and spicy peppers, along with excellent hiking opportunities.