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Saint Emilion
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What can you expect on a Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion Day trip?

Saint-Émilion is a wine-making village, a scenic 50-minute drive from the Bordeaux region of France. A full or half-day excursion to the region includes touring ‘chateaux’ — wine estates coupled with premium wine tasting. You will also learn the story behind the village’s UNESCO World Heritage title.

Read on to discover the tour options, what to expect, and what to enjoy at Saint-Émilion.

Explore the village's medieval history

  • Explore cobblestone streets, ancient ramparts, and historical landmarks, including the Tour du Roy and the Monolithic Church, the largest in Europe.
  • Learn about its UNESCO World Heritage status, recognizing the village's preserved medieval landscape, solely for making wines.

Learn about the Grand Cru winemaking

  • Understand the regions' winemaking heritage and its development from the Roman times to contemporary Grand Cru methods, and the factors that define their superior quality.
  • Find out how the Saint Emilion soil and the traditional wine aging methods with atmospheric conditions shape the wine's taste.

Sample premium wines

  • Sample hallmark wines of Saint Emilion like Merlot and Cabernet Franc, at the Grand Cru chateaus. These classifications guarantee a higher standard of wine quality due to stricter regulations.
  • Learn about wine characteristics and the chateau's history from expert sommeliers. Your tours give you the option of visiting two wineries with lunch or one winery at these chateaus.

Your transport options to Saint-Émilion

Now that you know what you can expect at Saint-Émilion let's look at how you would get there.

🚘 Driving to the village

Driving from Bordeaux to the village offers total control over your itinerary and exploring the vineyards and village at your own pace.

Things to note:

  • The drive to the village is just over an hour at 50 km, where you take the toll-free highway number 89 towards Libourne. Traffic jams are common in Bordeaux, especially during rush hours of 8am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm, so plan accordingly.
  • Find paid parking within or near Saint-Émilion village. You can access paid parking spots at Parking Espace Guadet, Place Bouqueyre (lower town), or around the Collegiate Church.

You can:

  • Purchase wine-tasting experiences directly at the Grand Cru Classé and Grand Cru chateaus since you are on your own.
  • Explore the village at your own pace, with sites like the Monolithic Church, Tour de Roy Tower, the Collegiate Church, and the Cloister.

🚄 Taking public transport

If you prefer explore Saint Emilion at you own pace, you can reach the village from Bordeaux using public transportation. While it requires a bit more planning, it's a cost-effective choice.

Things to note:

  • Trains depart from Bordeaux's main station, Gare Saint-Jean, with frequent service to the nearby town of Libourne, approximately 30 kilometers away, taking about 20 minutes.
  • Plan to focus on primarily visiting the Saint-Émilion village and a few surrounding wineries.

If exploring on your own:

  • Look for tours starting at the Saint Emilion village to the chateaus in the area. Arrange your own transfers via local buses.
  • You can opt for taxis for a convenient ride to the chateaus, but keep in mind that they can get expensive.

Going on a day tour 

A guided day tour from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion offers a seamless wine country experience. No planning or logistics! This is ideal for those seeking a completely stress-free and all-inclusive experience with wine tasting and lunch. Perfect for those short on time and who want the rest of the day to explore post the tour.

Your tour will include:

  • Round-trip transfers from Bordeux, usually by AC bus or minivan.
  • Authentic French picnic lunch if you opt for it.
  • An expert guide sharing insight into the history of the village and wine-making techniques.

Things to note:

  • Tickets to the village and chateaus are included, so you don’t have to worry about buying them separately.
  • Depending on the tour you select, you might get:
  • A guided tour of the village in the afternoon or morning with one winery visit.
  • A guided tour of the village for an entire day with two wineries and lunch. 

Things to know before your trip to Saint-Émilion

  • Saint-Émilion's wine heritage is the focus of every tour. So how do you decide which tour is right for you? There are three main types:
  • Guided village walking tours: Explore the medieval village's history and architecture with a local expert. Each tour lasts between 4 to 6 hours and includes round-trip transportation from Bordeaux.
  • Chateau tours: Visit the prestigious Grand Cru châteaux, learn the art of winemaking from vineyards to cellars, and taste fine wines local to the region.
  • Combined village and chateau tours: Visit the village first, explore the UNESCO World Heritage status and medieval history, and follow it up with exploring wine estates.
  • Tours are limited to 15 people, giving you a comfortable group size to explore key sites. But if you’re looking for a personal experience, you can opt for a smaller group of just 8 guests. This allows for more interaction with your guide, extra time to ask questions, and a chance to explore the wine culture of Saint-Émilion in depth.
  • Many tours include a French meal with local wines, taking the experience up a notch. While you can bring your lunch on a non-guided tour, choosing the included meal lets you fully enjoy the region’s cuisine without the hassle of finding a place to eat. If you're traveling on your own, planning is key, as good dining options can be scarce outside the main village.
  • Tour slots tend to fill up quickly, especially in peak months like September and October (harvest season). If a guided day trip is part of your plan, reserving a few weeks in advance is advisable.

Plan your Saint-Émilion day trip

Saint-Émilion Day Trip from Bordeaux

  • Distance from Bordeaux: Approximately 50 kilometers (varies depending on specific châteaux visited).
  • Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (by car or tour bus), approximately 20 minutes by train to Libourne, plus additional transfer time.
  • Budget range: €100-€300+ (varies widely based on tour type, châteaux visited, and included meals/tastings).
  • Trip duration: 4-6 hours.
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Typically Bordeaux city center, train station, or specific hotel pickups.
  • Grand Cru Châteaux: Château Ausone, Château Cheval Blanc, Château La Gaffelière, Château Guadet, etc.
  • Other landmarks: Saint-Émilion village (including the Monolithic Church, Tour du Roy, and ramparts), limestone cellars.

Train

  • Departure: Gare Saint-Jean station from Bordeaux.
  • Operators: SNCF (TER for regional service).
  • Destination: Libourne (then transfer to Saint-Émilion).
  • Cost: €5-€15.
  • Time: Approximately 20 minutes to Libourne.

Car

  • Route: D936 and connecting local roads from Bordeaux.
  • Distance: Approximately 50 km 
  • Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour from Bordeaux.

Bus

  • Operators: Local Libourne bus services (from Libourne train station to Saint-Émilion).
  • Departure: Libourne train station.
  • Destination: Saint-Émilion village.
  • Cost: €2-€5.
  • Time: Approximately 15-30 minutes.

The best time for a day trip from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion is typically in May, June, September, and October. Here’s why:

  • These months offer mild temperatures and pleasant weather compared to the rest of the year. 
  • While summer is the peak tourist season, May and September strike a balance of good weather with fewer tourists, making it easier to enjoy wine tastings and village explorations without feeling rushed.
  • September and October are important due to the harvest season. You will find the vineyards in full activity and enjoy potential special tasting events. This period offers unique experiences at the châteaux, though it can mean slightly larger crowds.
  • While the village itself is walkable, chateau visits need transport. Opt for pre-booked tours or local bus services to avoid expensive taxi fares.
  • Parking within the town itself is very limited, so plan to park outside of the main town.
  • Read up on the region's wine classifications for more depth during your wine tours.
  • If interested, research the Jurade of Saint-Émilion, the oldest wine brotherhood in the world, for more context during wine tours.
  • Take a break from the chateaus and explore Saint-Émilion's network of underground passages that acted as spaces for religious purposes and possibly refuge.
  • Saint-Émilion's medieval streets are charming but often uneven and can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

Things to do beyond the wineries at Saint-Émilion

Visit the Monolithic Church, carved directly into a limestone cliff and the Trinity Chapel, to learn about the evolution of religious structures and practices within the historic context of Saint-Émilion.

Climb the King's Keep or the Bell Tower and get panoramic views of the village's architecture and the sweeping vineyard landscape.

Wander the ruins of the Cordelian Cloister, a Franciscan monastery with underground cellars where sparkling wine is now produced.

Frequently asked questions about Saint-Émilion wine tours

What types of wine tours are available in Saint-Émilion?

Saint-Émilion wine tour options range from half-day tour to full-day experiences with lunch

What differentiates a morning versus afternoon half-day Saint-Émilion tour?

Morning tours often offer cooler temperatures and a time to explore the city of Bordeaux once you return, while afternoon tours may provide a more relaxed pace and potentially include sunset views.

is it possible to visit Saint-Émilion and return to Bordeaux on the same day?

Yes, with its proximity to Bordeaux and efficient transportation options, a day trip is both feasible and enjoyable. Choose between the train, bus, car, or a guided tour, explore during the day and return to Bordeaux by evening.

What are the operating hours of the monolithic church and bell tower in the Saint-Émilion village?

The monolithic church and its bell tower are open daily throughout the year, except during special events.

What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Émilion?

Saint Emilion’s harvest season from late September to October offers scenic flower-filled vineyards and produce, while spring and summer mean pleasant weather for exploring the village and vineyards.

Is it necessary to book wine tours in advance?

It's highly recommended to book months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer.

Are there accommodations within the Saint-Émilion village?

For a luxurious stay, opt for ​Hostellerie de Plaisance with views of the vineyards, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. For a budget option, ​Les Chambres d’Ovaline provides a bed-and-breakfast experience.

Is the Saint-Émilion village accessible for people with mobility issues?

Saint Emilion has designated zones that are wheelchair friendly and organizes special tours for disabled visitors. You can get more details ​here.

How can I explore the vineyards around Saint-Émilion?

One enjoyable way is by joining an electric bike wine tour, allowing you to ride through the vineyards, visit châteaux, and taste local wines.

Can I rent bicycles to explore the vineyards?

Yes, bicycle rentals are available at ​Cloître des Cordeliers area, or you can rent ​Unibikes around the village.

What dining options are available in Saint-Émilion?

The village includes casual eateries and gourmet restaurants. ​La Grand’Vigne at Château Smith Haut Lafitte offers a two-Michelin-starred menu showcasing the finest local ingredients, while ​La Terrasse Rouge at Château La Dominique near Saint Emilion village serves up modern French dishes with panoramic vineyard views.

Are there any special events in Saint-Émilion in 2025?

Yes, here is a list of events for 2025: March 13-15: Bordeaux Wine Tour with local winemakers. May 21-24: Biotope Festival in association with the Wines of Saint-Émilion. May 23-25: Festival Philosophia. October 11-12: Harvest Festival 2025 with activities around the Grands Crus Classés of Saint-Émilion.

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