In the morning, after we have picked you up directly from your Cruise Ship in Bordeaux port of call, come and discover one of the most fascinating French towns that has just recently resurrected. Classified a “City of Art and History” and home to one of Europe’s largest collection of 18th Century architecture that was classified as UNESCO world heritage site, discover big-ticket attractions such as the neo-classical Grand Theater or Saint Andrews Cathedral.
Pick up at your Cruise Ship in Bordeaux or Bassens Cruise Port
This morning, we will come and pick you up directly at your Cruise Ship in Bordeaux. Meet your English speaking local guide who is an expert of Bordeaux, its architecture and of course its wine. After going over the itinerary and program of the day with you, it will be time to board your premium A/C vehicle and begin your panoramic tour of Bordeaux.
Commented panoramic tour of Bordeaux
Once you have boarded your premium vehicle, your panoramic tour of Bordeaux can begin. Sit comfortably and begin to learn about the history of Roman 'Burdigala' and how wine making began 2000 years ago. All our minivans are equipped with an onboard P/A system that allows our guides to make live commentaries during the panoramic tour and everyone will hear perfectly no matter where you are seated in the vehicle. If your vehicle is a sedan, no need for a P/A system.
Your driver/guide will drive you through the large boulevards or narrow streets of Bordeaux to have you see the most important landmarks of the city. Admire Place des Quinconces, the most emblematic square of the town and one of the largest squares in Europe. Formerly the location of Château Trompette, built next to the Garonne River, this fortress was part of a larger military architectural ensemble that was built when France finally recovered Bordeaux from the English. The square also features the Monument to the Girondins as well as huge statues of Montesquieu and Montaigne.
Discover the Golden Triangle of Bordeaux
Your panoramic tour of Bordeaux will then move on to the heart of the City nicknamed the ‘Golden Triangle’. Defined by three Boulevards, including high-end Cours de l’Intendance, the heart of Bordeaux is without a doubt Place de la Comédie. This large square features the Grand Hotel de Bordeaux to one side and the Grand Théâtre on the other. This masterpiece of 18th-century architecture was designed by Victor Louis who also designed the Comédie Française in Paris.
Bordeaux River Front & famous Landmarks
Other highlights of this private panoramic tour include the Place de la Bourse (Stock Exchange) located next to the River where the now famous water mirror lies. More Big-ticket attractions and sights include the Cathedral of St Andrew, Pey Berland square and tower as well as the bustling Rue Sainte Catherine, one of the longest shopping streets of Europe. After your panoramic tour of Bordeaux, it will be time for us to head towards the Saint Emilion wine region of Bordeaux.
Saint Emilion Village & Wines
Saint Emilion is famous for 2 things: it is a charming medieval village & the area produces one of the most famous wines of the Bordeaux wine region. After your private panoramic tour of Bordeaux, begin to make your way to the Saint Emilion wine region. The short 45 minute drive is perfect for an introduction to the Bordeaux wine region by your driver/guide. Learn about the different grape varieties that are allowed to make Bordeaux red wine, the different appellations of the area as well as how the wine is blended to make the final wine. You will also learn about the history of the region and how much of it was an English possession for more than 300 years.
Wine Tour & Picnic in a Bordeaux Chateau Winery
Your private shore excursion continues with a wine tour & picnic in a carefully selected winery of the right bank. Upon arrival at the Chateau, discover the winery and taste the premium wine of the Chateau. Then, grab your picnic basket and enjoy a wonderful picnic prepared with local produce. Of course, all our picnic options are accompanied with the local wine. You can also purchase more wine directly on site, at the Chateau. All the wineries where the picnics take place have been carefully selected by our team of travel experts for their unique setting, landscape and quality of the products prepared and wines tasted.
Saint Emilion Village Visit
After your picnic, your driver/guide will take you to the village of Saint Emilion for a visit of this charming medieval town. Stroll through the quaint, cobbled streets of this medieval town, while your tour guide recounts local history, from the days of the 8th century hermit Emilion, to the 19th century mining galleries, which still lie beneath the village.
Important historical sites include the Romanesque cloister and the Monolithic church carved into the limestone cliffs, also known as the underground monuments. Since this is a private tour and our guides have a privileged access to this monument, we can organise a private visit of this attraction on your private tour if you are interested in mixing culture & wine.
After the visit of the village and some free time for personal discovery, it will be time to make our way back to Bordeaux. After a short drive, we will drop you off at your Cruise Ship in Bordeaux or Bassens and that will be the end of our services.
