In this post, I’ll share a 2 days in Bordeaux itinerary filled with wine tastings, scenic walks, and mouthwatering French cuisine—perfect for a short but memorable visit. Bordeaux is a quaint and charming French city nestled in the heart of one of the world’s most famous wine regions. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can tell that great care has been taken to restore and preserve its elegant limestone buildings. As you stroll through its cobblestone streets, it feels like stepping back into the 18th century.
When To Go
The best time to visit Bordeaux is during late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, the vineyards are at their most picturesque, and you’ll avoid the peak summer crowds. Plus, early fall offers the added bonus of experiencing the grape harvest season, making it an ideal time for wine lovers.
To Get There
Getting to Bordeaux is easy and convenient. The high-speed train (TGV) from Paris takes just around 2 hours, offering a smooth and comfortable ride through the scenic French countryside. It’s a hassle-free way to kick off your Bordeaux adventure!
Day 1: Exploring Old Town Bordeaux
Start at Place de la Bourse
Begin your day by heading to the banks of the Garonne River to see the stunning Place de la Bourse, a quintessential 18th-century city square. The vast reflecting pool in front of it creates a mesmerizing mirror effect, making it an ideal photo spot.
Stroll Through Old Town
From there, wander through Old Town’s narrow cobblestone streets. Every corner you turn offers something picturesque—whether it’s charming cafes, trendy boutiques, or historic architecture.
Pass Through the Big Bell of Bordeaux
Keep walking until you reach the Big Bell of Bordeaux, a medieval gateway with a towering 7.75-ton bell. We happened to arrive just as the sun was casting a golden glow from behind it, making the scene even more magical. It’s moments like this that make exploring Bordeaux so special—every inch of Old Town feels like a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vibrance.
Lunch at Lecarreau Restaurant
There’s no shortage of delightful restaurants in Old Town Bordeaux, but Lecarreau came highly recommended by our Airbnb host, and it did not disappoint. The modern French decor and warm ambiance set the tone for a relaxed lunch. We shared a few small plates and a bottle of rosé, savoring buttery scallops, flavorful ceviche, and crispy, cheesy croquettes. The vanilla crème brûlée was the perfect sweet ending.
Visit Place des Quinconces
After lunch, we strolled over to Place des Quinconces, one of the largest public squares in Europe. When we arrived, a bustling flea market was just winding down, and we took some time to admire the grand column and fountain monument at the center of the square.
Wine Tasting at Le Bar à Vin
No trip to Bordeaux is complete without a wine tasting, and Le Bar à Vin is the perfect place to start. The sleek, modern tasting room offers an impressive selection of French wines at remarkably low prices (they keep costs down to encourage wine students to explore different varietals). My favorite was the AOC Fronsac – Haut-Carles, a smooth, well-rounded red. The only downside? It felt a bit too formal since they don’t play any music—but the quality and price of the wine more than made up for it!
Shop and Explore Rue Sainte-Catherine
Just off Place de la Victoire is Rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest shopping street in Europe. You’ll find a mix of mainstream stores and local shops here. Personally, I preferred the boutique-style shops on Rue Saint James, closer to the Great Bell of Bordeaux, where you can find more unique souvenirs.
Dinner at Mélodie Restaurant
For dinner, I recommend booking a table at Mélodie Restaurant. The cozy ambiance and refined dishes make it a great spot to end your first day in Bordeaux. They offer an incredible three-course meal for around €18, and the wine prices are equally reasonable—you can get a great bottle for about €15. (2019)
Day 2: A Wine Lover’s Adventure
Take a Day Trip to Médoc
We booked a day trip to the Médoc wine region through the tourism office in Old Town. Our guide picked us up and, during the hour-long drive north, explained the intricacies of French wine culture. One interesting fact: French wine is defined by region rather than grape varietal, as the French believe the “terroir” (soil and climate) defines the wine’s character.
Our stops included Château d’Arsac and Château Paloumey, two beautiful wineries offering tastings in elegant surroundings. One of the highlights for me was simply driving through the countryside and admiring the regal charm of the old châteaux scattered throughout the region. Each estate had a timeless elegance that perfectly embodied the French wine experience.
Visit Cité du Vin (The Wine Museum)
If you’re curious to learn more about wine, don’t miss Cité du Vin, a modern architectural marvel that houses the world’s largest wine museum. The exhibits are incredibly interactive and engaging, offering a deep dive into the history and culture of wine across the globe. After immersing yourself in wine knowledge, head to the tasting room on the top floor, where you can sample wine while enjoying panoramic views of the Garonne River.
Evening at Le Wine Bar
After a full day of wine tasting, we returned to Bordeaux and headed to Le Wine Bar for some small bites and more wine. The cozy atmosphere made it the perfect spot to wind down. We ordered a charcuterie board, cheese plate, and a few other small tapas—everything was delicious and reasonably priced.
To cap off the night, we bar-hopped our way back to our Airbnb, popping into a few more charming spots along the way. Honestly, you can’t go wrong in Bordeaux—it’s a paradise for food and wine lovers!
Final Thoughts
Bordeaux exceeded all my expectations. The combination of rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class wine makes it a destination worth visiting. Whether you’re strolling through Old Town, savoring a gourmet meal, or tasting wine in the countryside, Bordeaux offers something special at every turn. If you’re planning a trip, I hope this 2 days in Bordeaux itinerary helps you make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
Have you been to Bordeaux? I’d love to hear about your favorite spots—leave a comment below!
Extending your French adventure? Don’t miss my post 2 Days in Toulouse for tips on exploring another incredible French city!