Bordeaux is a wine lover’s dream and a stunningly beautiful city. With its 18th-century core listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers a mix of upscale wine bars, fantastic restaurants, and stylish shops. It’s a place full of charm and history, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a walking tour.
There are plenty of wine and food tours in Bordeaux, each offering a unique way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture. But since not all tours are created equal, I’ve rounded up a few of my top picks to help you make the most of your visit. Here are some of the best walking tours in Bordeaux:
1. Office de Tourisme de Bordeaux
The official tourist office offers a range of tours, with the guided walking tour being a top choice for first-timers. It’s a fantastic 2-hour introduction to the city, led by an expert local guide who will take you off the beaten path and highlight both the scenic spots and Bordeaux’s rich history. They also run a half-day winery tour where you’ll visit one or two local wineries, learn about Bordeaux’s wine culture, and of course, enjoy some tastings. It’s an affordable way to dive into the region’s wine heritage.
2. France Like a Local
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the pastry and bakery tour with France Like a Local. This 2.5-hour tour takes you to over six shops where you can sample delicious breads, pastries, and chocolates—think pain au chocolat, Dunes Blanches, and canelés. Along the way, you’ll also explore Bordeaux’s historic city center. Since the group size is small (max 10 people), you’ll get a more personal experience with the guide, and have the chance to chat with local bakers and shop owners.
3. My Urban Experience
For a deeper dive into Bordeaux’s art scene, check out the 90-minute street art tour from My Urban Experience (available in French). This tour takes you through the city’s less-traveled areas, from the port to the north side, and gives you insight into Bordeaux’s vibrant street art culture. If you’re more into mystery than murals, they also offer a 90-minute walking tour focusing on the medieval city’s myths, legends, and spooky ghost stories.
4. Châteaux La Croizille & Tour Baladoz
If you want to escape the city for a day, the Châteaux La Croizille & Tour Baladoz winery tour is the perfect short trip. Located in the picturesque Saint-Émilion region, just under an hour from Bordeaux, this tour includes a wine-pairing picnic with stunning views, followed by a visit to two local wineries. You’ll learn about wine production, from grape growing to bottling, with plenty of samples along the way. The tour costs 48 EUR, but note that transportation to Saint-Émilion isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange that yourself.
5. Wanderer Footsteps
For those who enjoy a bit of evening magic, Wanderer Footsteps offers a couple of fascinating tours after dark. Their ghost tour takes you through Bordeaux’s historic city center, telling tales of tragic lovers, spirits, and eerie legends. It’s a fun blend of history and folklore. They also run an evening highlights tour, which is a great way to explore Bordeaux once the day crowds have thinned. It’s perfect if you want to spend your daytime at wineries and have your evenings free to take in the city’s beauty.
Bordeaux may be famous for its wine, but it has so much more to offer. Whether you’re into history, food, or even a little spooky fun, these walking tours will help you get the most out of your visit. Even if wine isn’t your main thing, there’s plenty to enjoy in this beautiful city. Trust me, taking one of these tours will make your trip even more memorable!
