Considering 4 days in Bordeaux, whether for a solo adventure, girls’ trip, or romantic getaway beyond Paris? Bordeaux is an ideal option, just a two-hour and fifteen-minute to three-hour ride away. With its captivating blend of scenic beauty, historic charm, and culinary delights, the city offers an enchanting ambiance, renowned wine culture, and delectable French cuisine. Join us as we explore why Bordeaux is the perfect choice for your escape.
Is 4 days in Bordeaux Enough?
About This Bordeaux Itinerary
For us, the allure of Bordeaux, compared to Paris, lay in its size. With the picturesque Garonne River, it seemed to emit a cozy vibe — sleepy at night, yet vibrant and calm during the day. There’s just something about a river. I know, there’s the Seine and the Eiffel Tower, but wait until you lay eyes upon Place de la Bourse.
Secondly, being that it’s February, it isn’t peak tourist season in Bordeaux. This itinerary is geared more towards leisurely strolls, slow walks by sights, indulging in incredible food, perfectly paired wine, and, best of all, great company.
If the slow, food-filled itinerary is what you’re here for, then continue reading. On average, people spend two to three days in Bordeaux, but we made sure to include a day trip! So with 4 days in Bordeaux, you’ll have ample time to see and do everything there is.
Important things to Consider
Here are a few key factors to note before embarking on your 4-days in Boudreaux to ensure you make the most of your visit:
Opening Times May Vary
First, don’t be discouraged; you’ve chosen a fantastic time to visit, the city often feels like it’s all yours. With fewer crowds and less traffic, attractions are generally quieter. Some places may adjust their opening hours during this period, so it’s wise to check their websites for specific times.
If you’ve purchased a Bordeaux CityPass, consider stopping by the Bordeaux tourist office for additional information on opening hours and exclusive attractions. Not sure about the CityPass? You can read my other blog post: ‘Ultimate Guide to The CityPass Bordeaux: Is it Worth It?’
Eating Times: Be Sure to Make Reservations
What pairs best with wine and food? But to get to the food you must adhere to the Bordelaise eating times. While tourists are not in the city in droves, I recommend making reservations. This is mostly for dinner purposes but sometimes even for lunch for some restaurants. We found this out the hard way on our first day, amateurs, and wandered around to 3 places for lunch before finally finding a place; each of the restaurants we entered asked if we had a reservation. Eating times are as follows:
- Breakfast: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
- Lunch: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Dinner: from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 PM. Restaurants tend to get busier later in the evening, especially on weekend
With just 4-days in Bordeaux, you can truly immerse yourself in the charm and vibe of this lovely city. We always start by getting acclimated in the best way possible – by getting lost. Then, we move on to our second favorite activity: taking a free walking tour. Throughout the itinerary, we’ll indulge in the local cuisine, explore the sites, embark on a day trip on Valentine’s Day, and our final day, we’ll see Bordeaux from a different vantage point. With all that in mind, come along on our 4-day journey in Bordeaux.
Bordeaux Itinerary Day 1
Place de la Bourse & The Water Mirror
As the water was the first thing I wanted to see, our wandering brought us to one of Bordeaux’s main attractions, the Place de la Bourse. Built in the 18th century by architect Jacques Ange Gabriel under King Louis XV’s directive. It was constructed to symbolize Bordeaux’s economic prowess as a flourishing port and trade center. The Place is designed to resemble outstretched arms or the half-moon symbol of Bordeaux. Today, Place de la Bourse remains one of Bordeaux’s most iconic landmarks, admired for its neoclassical architecture and its stunning reflection in the adjacent Water Mirror.
With 4 days in Bordeaux, I did miss something. That said, in the winter, all fountains in Bordeaux are turned off to safeguard the pipes and conserve water. In my opinion, this means two things: first, I’ll have to make another trip to see the Water Mirror and other fountains in all their glory. Secondly, without the water, you’re able to get a closer look at the intricacies of the sculptures that make up these fountains. So here’s to another trip to Bordeaux in the future.
La Bar un Vin: wine bar that doesn’t break the bank.
“La Bar à Vin” is a popular wine bar known for its wide selection of local wines. With prices ranging from just 4 to 11 euros per glass, it offers an affordable way to taste some of Bordeaux’s best vintages. Furthermore, the décor is stunning, with about 3-4 stained glass windows in the different seating areas.
Lunch: Mama Shelter our 4th choice
Remember when I said, it’s important to make reservations? We ended up at our fourth option Mama Shelter after being turned away from our first three options. While it wasn’t a horrible meal I’ll say, it wasn’t one I’ll rave about. There are definitely other restaurants I rave about from this trip.
If you’re able to check out their rooftop bar, that does look like it would be quite fun after a long day of sightseeing.
Check-in (15:00 or 3:00)
For our 4-day stay in Bordeaux, we chose Hotel Konti by Happy Culture. Situated in Bordeaux’s vibrant Saint-Pierre district, it offers modern accommodations with easy access to attractions, charming streets, and dining.
While most hotels have a 3:00 p.m. check-in, we dropped off our bags early to explore unburdened.
Although our room was small, it was cozy for a restful night’s sleep. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the hotel offered 24-hour reception. While breakfast was available for an extra cost, we preferred grabbing a pastry and coffee from nearby cafes.
Explore The City’s Evening Ambiance
After a break, we immersed ourselves in the city’s evening ambiance, marveling at its day-to-night transformation before dinner. As we meandered slowly, cathedrals gained a more imposing presence, yet shifting lighting angles revealed their captivating beauty. I highly recommend exploring different routes back to your hotel after dinner each night; you’ll encounter unique perspectives that pleasantly surprise you.
Pey-Berland Tower
One of those lovely illuminated figures would have been the Pey-Berland Tower. We didn’t climb it on this trip, but if you get the chance, it offers great panoramic views of the cityscape. The Tower is situated adjacent to the Bordeaux Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux). Named after the archbishop who commissioned its construction in the 15th century, this Gothic tower offers picturesque views of Bordeaux and its surroundings from its observation deck.
Grosse Cloche
The ‘Grosse Cloche’ or Great Bell, another beautifully illuminated structure, is a historic monument dating back to the Middle Ages. Revisit it during the day to admire its ornate sculptures and intricate carvings, showcasing Bordeaux’s rich architectural heritage.
Dinner recommendation: Au Bon Ja Ja
Au Bon Ja Ja, is a charming establishment run by two brothers, offering a delightful experience overall. The cozy yet unexpectedly fun vibe, coupled with friendly staff, immediately made us feel at home. The menu boasts a delightful fusion of flavors, offering innovative twists on traditional French cuisine with impeccable presentation. Affordable small plates allowed us to sample a variety of dishes, complemented perfectly by an impressive wine selection. Even the unique bathroom visit adds to the overall experience. If you can’t fit it in on the first day of your 4 days in Bordeaux, this is a do not miss experience. We would have happily returned if reservations were available and eagerly anticipate our next visit to this gem.
Chickpea & Veal Stew
The very lovely server helped us choose a wine from their very large selection. We started with the foie (country terrine with poultry liver). Then we shared a chickpea and veal stew and crispy croquettes (potato croquettes topped with parmesan shavings).
Bordeaux Itinerary Day 2
Join a free walking tour
I highly recommend taking a walking tour as a way to acclimate yourself to the city. Good guides often delve into deeper history and stories, tying these narratives to the architecture, monuments, and statues that you pass. Even emblems on the ground, which you might have thought signified sewage, take on a whole new meaning when explained by a dedicated guide. If possible, try to take this walking tour on your first day.
We joined Caz from Civitatis for a walking tour, starting at Monument Aux Girondins. Caz led a nicely paced 2-hour tour, during which I pleasantly discovered why Bordeaux is Paris on a larger scale, the purpose behind The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux’s construction, and Bordeaux’s history as a playground. Caz’s insights surpassed even my own research, highlighting why I love walking tours!
The Monument aux Girondins & Place des Quinconces (Stop on Tour/Meeting Point)
The Monument, though without water, remains impressively intricate and ornate. Erected in the late 19th century, it commemorates the Girondins, a group of influential politicians from Bordeaux who played a significant role during the French Revolution. The monument features a central column topped by a statue representing the Spirit of Liberty, surrounded by sculptures depicting various allegorical figures and scenes from the Revolution. Situated at the Place des Quinconces, one of the largest public squares in Europe, it serves as a poignant reminder of Bordeaux’s revolutionary history.
The square itself, however, is less remarkable and appears as a large gravel parking space beside this beautiful monument of significant meaning. Interestingly, there used to be something else standing there in the past. If you go on the walking tour, be sure to find out what it was and let us know in the comments below.
The Notre-Dame Church (Stop on Tour)
Your eyes don’t deceive you—you’re still reading a 4-days in Bordeaux itinerary, but there happens to be Notre-Dame Church here as well. While exploring Europe, you’ll discover many magnificent churches, each a testament to timeless architectural beauty. Among them is the Église Notre-Dame-la-Grande, a stunning example of Gothic architecture in Bordeaux’s Saint-Pierre neighborhood. Built in the 14th century, this church boasts intricate stone carvings, soaring spires, and captivating stained glass windows—all accessible for free to visitors.
Its facade is adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting biblical scenes and revered saints, creating a striking visual spectacle. Step inside to find vaulted ceilings and graceful arches, evoking a sense of reverence and awe.
Notre Dame Church is also renowned for its historic organ, famous for its craftsmanship and melodious tones. Dating back centuries, the organ adds a musical dimension to the church, further enhancing its allure for visitors.
Porte Cailhau (Stop on Tour)
We ventured past the iconic Porte Cailhau, a symbol of Bordeaux’s medieval heritage. Constructed in the late 15th century, this defensive gate featured intricate architectural details, such as ornate sculptures and decorative elements, reflecting the flamboyant Gothic style of the period.
I won’t spoil the other highlights of the walking tour, and you may even take a different route. I’ll showcase a few other must-see sights later in the post, as we encountered them on other strolls or outings.
Lite Lunch: Historic Market & Chez Jean-Mi
After the walking tour, we headed over to the Marché des Capucins, or Capucins Market, a vibrant and historic market in the Saint Michel district. Dating back to the late 19th century, it offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties, as well as artisanal crafts and flowers. Popular among locals and visitors, it’s the perfect place to experience Bordeaux’s culinary culture and lively atmosphere.
I recommend trying out Chez Jean-Mi, a popular eatery located within the Capucins Market. Known for its fresh, flavorful cuisine sourced directly from market stalls, it offers a vibrant dining experience. If you’re a lover of seafood, meats, cheeses, or regional specialties, Chez Jean-Mi provides a culinary journey reflecting Bordeaux’s rich gastronomic heritage. It’s a must-visit spot, brimming with authentic flavors amidst the bustling market ambiance. During our visit, we enjoyed fresh oysters, shrimp, an assortment of cheeses, and wine.
Marvel at Saint-Michel Basilica
Are any of the sentences longer than 20 words long While in the Saint-Michel district, you can’t miss its namesake, the Saint-Michel Basilica. Under renovation during our trip, this striking Gothic landmark boasts a rich history. Constructed between the 14th and 16th centuries, it symbolizes Bordeaux’s religious heritage. Its soaring spire and intricate carvings are captivating. Inside, stunning stained glass windows and ornate altarpieces adorn the interior. The basilica offers breathtaking views of Bordeaux from its observation deck, making it a must-visit for its historical and architectural significance.
From my research, the basilica will be under renovation until 2025. So if you can visit for your 4 days in Bordeaux, send pictures in the comments!
Back to the Hotel for some rest
Dinner recommendation: La Belle Suzette
La Belle Suzette is a charming creperie located close to the National Theater of Bordeaux. This cozy eatery is renowned for its authentic Breton-style crepes, made with high-quality ingredients and filled with a variety of delicious sweet and savory toppings.
I knew I loved crepes, but 4-days in Bordeaux and La Belle Suzette had me coming back for more! It was beyond delicious.
I had ‘The Raclette,’ a savory crepe made with organic buckwheat flour (gluten-free, I might add), gooey raclette cheese, smoked beef pastrami, smoked bacon, and red onions.
My partner opted for ‘The Guémeneé,’ featuring sunny-side-up eggs, Emmental cheese, guémeneé andouille sausage, confit red onions, and mustard cream.
And, of course, we couldn’t resist sweet crepes for dessert. I savored the classic with just sugar, while he enjoyed Suzette’s homemade whipped cream, which I quickly stole and highly recommend. Every dish was devoured in the process— not a crumb survived.
Bordeaux Itinerary Day 3: Day trip to Saint-Émilion
No trip to Bordeaux would be complete without venturing to see one of their wine regions, so we opted for the lovely medieval town of Saint-Émilion. It sits approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Bordeaux or just about 35 minutes by train. Known for its picturesque vineyards, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site popular among wine enthusiasts. With its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, Saint-Émilion is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bordeaux.
Getting to Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux
Trains depart every hour from Bordeaux’s Gare Saint-Jean. The journey offers scenic views of the countryside and vineyards along the way. We pre-booked our tickets for 17 euros round trip per person, through trainline.com taking the 8:38 a.m. train and arriving quite promptly at 9:12 a.m. This train was quite empty and we had no issues with seating.
Getting to Saint-Émilion from Saint-Émilion Train Station
Prepare for a short walk
Due to it being the off-season, which is from November to March. There are no shuttles from the train station to the town, so we had to make the 20-minute, moderate hike/walk to the town. The views greeted us right out of the station, offering plenty to admire and take in on our trek. However, for some, if mobility is an issue, a guided tour (which I’ll include some options below) may be the best option, or alternatively renting a car. Saint-Émilion has both paid and free parking available here. The website provides an app to manage parking remotely, as well as a map to find available lots to park.
Stroll through Saint-Émilion
The town was all ours as we grabbed a quick coffee and croissant in a small café, then began our stroll past the King’s Tower and The Wash Houses. Eventually, we came upon the square beneath the bell tower of the Monolithic Church.
We climbed the stairs opposite the square and were met with breathtaking morning light views of Saint-Émilion.
The main attractions to see in Saint-Émilion are deeply rooted in its rich history and picturesque surroundings.
The Monolithic Church
An impressive underground church carved entirely out of limestone rock, boasting intricate carvings and architectural details dating back centuries. Explore its vast chambers and marvel at the sheer size of the cavern that forms the Monolithic Church, also stated to be the largest Monolithic Church in Europe. [Don’t miss me]
While cathedrals and churches are abundant throughout Europe, the Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion is truly something worth seeing. It’s a striking masterpiece of medieval architecture, and it’s amazing to wander and learn about its awe-inspiring and unique construction.
To visit the Monolithic Church, you must book a tour as it is privately owned, which, I believe, adds to its mystique and allure as a gem of Saint-Émilion. Tickets for adults are 15 euros, children between the ages of 6 and 17 years old are 8 euros, and those under 6 are free. Tours are available in French, English, and Spanish and last exactly one hour.
Add to your 4-days in Bordeaux Itinerary (Saint-Émilion Day trip if possible)
One place we did miss due to the timing of tours and reservations was The Cordeliers Cloister. If you get a chance to visit these, they were on my list and I just wasn’t able to squeeze them in this time.
Lunch Recommendation: Chai Pascal
In terms of lunch, I can’t recommend Chai Pascal more. When you arrive, you step into a renovated wine cellar. The restaurant combines rustic charm with modern elegance, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Tucked away, this restaurant feels like a hidden gem, and more so, a place where the locals dine.
Here, you’ll savor the flavors of French cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. And what’s a meal in Saint-Émilion without a glass of fine wine? The friendly staff will gladly recommend the perfect pairing to complement your dish.
I had the succulent duck, with a purée and a touch of veggies, while my partner had a perfectly cooked pork loin also served with a purée. We paired it with two nice reds and did not skip dessert, which was an apple tart with vanilla bean ice cream.
Visit to Châteaux Guadet
The Château Guadet is a historic wine estate located in the heart of Saint-Émilion, practically a 5-minute walk from the Monolithic church. It is renowned for its exceptional wines and rich history, dating back several centuries. The château’s origins trace back to the 18th century when it was constructed by the Guadet family, after whom it is named.
We received a warm welcome from Guy Guadet, both in person and through email correspondence. He provided an amazing overview of what his family creates with the estate’s unique terroir. The tour was informative and enjoyable. In the end, we had the opportunity to experience and taste three of their high-quality Grand Cru wines. My favorite part was the loop around Guy’s limestone wine cellar below the Château. Overall, I can’t recommend the tour at Château Guadet enough. It offers a captivating experience for visitors seeking to discover the rich winemaking tradition and cultural heritage of Saint-Émilion, and it’s both personable and tasty. The tour cost 20 euros per person and lasted an hour.
Shop for local faire or window shop
Be sure to take in some of the local fare. Saint-Émilion is also known for its very own macaroons, unlike their colorful counterparts. They are typically larger and have more of a rustic appearance. I missed out on grabbing some on this trip.
We visited a charming small business where the proprietor made unique jams. At “L’Atelier Paytra Fouquet,” we sampled various flavors, including a refreshing summer melon jam, which we ended up purchasing. He made them all there in his kitchen and was extremely kind.
Trek Back & Train to Bordeaux
We took our time to walk back and say goodbye to the rolling vineyards. In terms of the train, I will note that on the way back, being a weekday afternoon, the train was packed with commuters, but we were still able to get a seat.
Rested back at the hotel before Dinner
Valentine’s Dinner: La Mirabelle
La Mirabelle, nestled in the city center, is renowned for its delicious French cuisine and cozy ambiance. Their menu features both classic French dishes and innovative creations, all meticulously prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. The romantic lighting was perfect for our Valentine’s Day visit, a holiday we don’t typically celebrate. The attentive service made our experience truly delightful.
We ordered a bottle of Plaisir de Magneu, Graves 2020, and the Veal Tartare appetizer to start because choosing was tough. Well, I’ll be honest, it was hard for me to decide. Seeing other dishes from the kitchen made me envious and indecisive about my order. Finally, I chose the Roasted Cod in Olive Oil and Citrus Fruit, which had a hollandaise sauce that made me want to lick the plate, and my partner decided on the Veal Rib. We left happy and stuffed; we couldn’t even attempt dessert.
Bordeaux Itinerary Day 4
Breakfast: Las Halles Bacalan
Before visiting the Cité du Vin, we explored Les Halles de Bacalan, a bustling food market located in Bordeaux’s Bacalan district, right across the street from the Cité du Vin. Inside its modern and spacious building, there’s a diverse array of fresh and local produce, including fruits, vegetables, seafood, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
Upon entering, we laid our eyes upon some freshly made bagel breakfast sandwiches, with bacon, egg, and cheese atop a seeded bagel. Although they had other offerings, these sandwiches called my name. After completing a lap around the market, we decided to have them for lunch after we visited the museum.
Visit Cité du Vin (Don’t miss me)
If you can, I recommend adding the Cité du Vin to the first day of your 4-day stay in Bordeaux.
First, I will echo the sentiment above, I would have visited the Cité du Vin on my first day. This museum is exceptionally well done and comprehensive in its purpose of immersing visitors in the world of wine. We opted for the open-dated tickets, which cost 27 euros per person. During our visit, we spent about two and a half hours experiencing roughly half of the exhibits they had to offer.
It offers a fully immersive experience, engaging all five senses in understanding. Even the architecture contributes to its goal. The museum provides visitors with an interactive and educational journey that explores the history, culture, and significance of wine in different societies and civilizations.
With its striking architecture and innovative approach to wine education, the Cité du Vin is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Lite Snack: Las Halles Bacalan
We weren’t quite starving, but we stuck to our plan to return to the market. What goes well with wine? Cheese. So, we enjoyed a cheese board featuring five varieties for just 15 euros. This budget-friendly indulgence allowed us to savor a diverse selection of local cheeses while immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
River Cruise: Bordeaux from the water
So our 4-days in Bordeaux are slowly coming to an end. What’s a good way to see the city from a different perspective? A river cruise with a complimentary glass of wine and the popular Bordeaux dessert, a canelé! We enjoyed a 1.5-hour ride along the Garonne River with breathtaking views of Bordeaux from the water. The crew was very welcoming, and as you float slowly down the Garonne, you dive deeper into some of the city’s historical parts. They highlight the importance of the river to Bordeaux as a port city, making it an informative way to spend the afternoon learning about Bordeaux from another vantage point. My biggest takeaway was learning about the number of shipwrecks in the river – as a past scuba diver, that’s just intriguing.
If you had dinner and a river cruise in mind, I’ll link some options for those below!
Grab a Pint
Yes, I know, Bordeaux is the city of wine, but like many cities, the craft beer scene has made its appearance, and frankly, I think there’s room for both. If you also enjoy beer, then mosey over to Backyard Taproom. It boasts a funky interior and a rustic patio, but most of all, an extensive variety of beers on tap. Drop by for one of their happy hours because why not?
Final Dinner: French House
For our last dinner in our 4 days in Bordeaux Itinerary, we bring you to the French House. A place where the lights are turned down low, the atmosphere feels decadent, and the food is delightful. French House Bordeaux offers something to satisfy every palate. It was quite centrally located and was the perfect spot for a memorable final meal for our trip.
We got lost in conversation during this meal, so I didn’t manage to capture pictures of our plates. I opted for the duck with a side of mashed potatoes, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially with the accompanying mustard sauce. Meanwhile, my partner chose a burger, which he described as perfectly cooked!
Dessert: La Belle Suzette
No, your eyes do not deceive you. We circled back to La Belle Suzette. We couldn’t resist indulging in their crepes for dessert, especially when we were so close by. Of course, you don’t have to follow this itinerary to the letter, but there’s no shame in revisiting La Belle Suzette – their crepes are heavenly and it was a nice sweet note to our Bordeaux trip!
Conclusion
Our 4-days in Bordeaux have come to an end. I hope this itinerary gave you a ton of insight into planning a well-rounded getaway to Bordeaux. From taking in the sights and indulging in restaurant recommendations to embarking on a day trip and enjoying a scenic cruise along the Garonne, take your time on the strolls, soak in the architecture, and savor the wine. Bordeaux is the ultimate destination for a couple of days beyond Paris.
