Things to know before booking your Saint-Émilion tour
👉 Choosing the right tour
Saint-Émilion’s vineyard heritage is at the heart of every tour. So how do you decide which experience is right for you? There are two main types:
1. Guided walking tours: Explore the medieval village’s cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and hidden gems with a local expert. These walking tours are ideal if you’re already in Saint-Émilion and want to dive deep into its history and architecture. You’ll visit highlights like the Tour du Roy and the Monolithic Church, while learning about the village’s UNESCO World Heritage status and its centuries-old craft beverage traditions.
2. Day trips from Bordeaux: If you’re starting in Bordeaux, a day trip is a convenient way to explore Saint-Émilion and return the same day. These tours include round-trip transfers, a guided village walk, and premium tastings. They come in two formats:
- Half-day tours: Choose a morning or afternoon slot, enjoy a village tour, and visit one winery for 2–3 tastings.
- Full-day tours: Start in the morning and take a more relaxed pace, visiting Grand Cru and Grand Cru Classé estates, enjoying a French lunch, and sampling 5–7 regional pours while exploring the village. Both half- and full-day tours often include a tasting class, where you learn to recognize aromas and flavors like a sommelier.
👉 Booking in advance
Tour slots fill up quickly, especially during the summer months of June to August. If you’re planning a guided day trip, it’s best to reserve 1–2 weeks in advance. For peak season or popular estates, booking a few weeks to several months ahead ensures you get the experience you want without disappointment.