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Book Tickets to Saint Emilion
Itinerary
TimelineMap
Start point
Monument aux Girondins
60 min
1. Saint Emilion Village
Things to do
The Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion
The King's Keep (Tour du Roy)
Saint-Émilion Collegial Catholic Church
5 min2.7 km
2. Saint Emilion Grand Cru Chateau
3. Saint Emilion Grand Cru Classé Chateau
44 min44.3 km
End point
Monument aux Girondins
Dive deep into local history and winemaking traditions, without rushing, and recharge with a scenic lunch along the way.
- Full day out to: The Saint-Émilion region with round-trip transport in an air-conditioned minivan led by an expert local guide in English, in a small group of up to 8 people.
- You’ll get: Guided visits to two prestigious Saint-Émilion estates, including a Grand Cru Classé and a Grand Cru estate. Taste 5–7 premium regional pours, featuring regional blends like Château Côte de Baleau or Château de La Dauphine, and enjoy a traditional French picnic lunch at a scenic château.
- Saint-Émilion Village: Wander cobbled streets and uncover the history, architecture, and charm of this medieval UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Grand Cru Classé Château: Enjoy an exclusive visit and tasting at a renowned estate, learning the secrets behind Bordeaux’s celebrated craft beverages.
Dive deep into local history and winemaking traditions, without rushing, and recharge with a scenic lunch along the way.
- Full day out to: The Saint-Émilion region with round-trip transport in an air-conditioned minivan led by an expert local guide in English, in a small group of up to 8 people.
- You’ll get: Guided visits to two prestigious Saint-Émilion estates, including a Grand Cru Classé and a Grand Cru estate. Taste 5–7 premium regional pours, featuring regional blends like Château Côte de Baleau or Château de La Dauphine, and enjoy a traditional French picnic lunch at a scenic château.
- Saint-Émilion Village: Wander cobbled streets and uncover the history, architecture, and charm of this medieval UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Grand Cru Classé Château: Enjoy an exclusive visit and tasting at a renowned estate, learning the secrets behind Bordeaux’s celebrated craft beverages.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Saint-Émilion village
- Visit to Grand Cru Classé and Grand Cru Chateau wineries
- English-speaking guide
- Lunch and tasting with 5-7 glasses of premium blends
- Transfers from Bordeaux
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Tips/gratuities
- Any items not specifically mentioned as included
- Personal pick-up and drop-off
- Water bottles (except during lunch)
What to bring
- Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at the start of the tour.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour includes walking in the village and vineyards.
What’s not allowed
- Pets are not permitted on this tour.
- Children under 4 years old are not allowed for security and legal reasons.
- Only guests with a valid ticket, including children, are allowed to board the minivan.
- Personal pick-up and drop-off are not included; please make your own way to the meeting point.
Accessibility
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
- A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate. If only 1 person is booked, you will be contacted to reschedule or receive a full refund.
- Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before departure.
- The tour is conducted in English and/or French.
- The tour operates from 10am to 4pm and lasts approximately 6 hours.
- This experience may include alcoholic beverages. Availability is subject to age restrictions and local laws. Please carry valid ID. Drink responsibly.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Monuments aux Girondins
1. Saint Emilion Winery
3 min by a/c minivan1.4 km
2. Saint Emilion Village
Things to do
The Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion
The King's Keep (Tour du Roy)
Saint-Émilion Collegial Catholic Church
46 min by a/c minivan40.8 km
End point
Monument aux Girondins
Spend a packed half-day exploring the French charming village and wine culture.
- Day out to: The village of Saint-Émilion and its renowned vineyards with round-trip AC minivan transfers from Bordeaux with a guide in a small group of up to 8 people.
- You’ll get: A visit to an estate for a premium tasting where you can join a fun aroma class, sip 3–4 regional pours with a traditional French aperitif, and wander the village’s charming streets to uncover its history.
- Saint-Émilion Village: Wander cobbled streets, soak up the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and roam landmarks like the Cordeliers Cloister and Europe's largest monolithic church.
- Saint Emilion Winery: Visit a prestigious Saint-Émilion estate and step inside its historic cellars, where barrels of fine Bordeaux heritage brews to perfection, and learn about the process from vine to bottle.
Spend a packed half-day exploring the French charming village and wine culture.
- Day out to: The village of Saint-Émilion and its renowned vineyards with round-trip AC minivan transfers from Bordeaux with a guide in a small group of up to 8 people.
- You’ll get: A visit to an estate for a premium tasting where you can join a fun aroma class, sip 3–4 regional pours with a traditional French aperitif, and wander the village’s charming streets to uncover its history.
- Saint-Émilion Village: Wander cobbled streets, soak up the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and roam landmarks like the Cordeliers Cloister and Europe's largest monolithic church.
- Saint Emilion Winery: Visit a prestigious Saint-Émilion estate and step inside its historic cellars, where barrels of fine Bordeaux heritage brews to perfection, and learn about the process from vine to bottle.
Inclusions
- Half-day morning tour of Saint-Émilion in English
- Half-day afternoon tour of Saint-Émilion in English or French (as per option selected)
- Expert guide
- Tasting with 2 or 3 glasses of regional blends
- Round-trip AC transportation from Bordeaux
Exclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch
- Tips/gratuity
What to bring
- Bring a valid ticket to access the vans at the beginning of the tour, including for children.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking tours.
What’s not allowed
- Pets are not permitted on this experience.
- Children under 12 years old are not allowed on the tour.
Accessibility
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
- A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate; if only 1 participant is booked, the tour may be canceled and a full refund will be provided.
- The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
- This experience may include alcoholic beverages. Availability is subject to age restrictions and local laws. Please carry valid ID. Drink responsibly.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
BordeauxSaint-Émilion Tours
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’ — estates coupled with premium 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 viticulture.
Learn about the Grand Cru winemaking
- Understand the regions' heritage and their development from 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 aging methods, with atmospheric conditions, shape the blend's taste.
Sample premium blends
- Sample hallmark blends of Saint Emilion, like Merlot and Cabernet Franc, at the Grand Cru chateaus. These classifications guarantee a higher standard of 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 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 experience. No planning or logistics! This is ideal for those seeking a completely stress-free and all-inclusive experience with 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.
- An authentic French picnic lunch if you opt for it.
- An expert guide sharing insight into the history of the village and viticulture 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.
Plan your Saint-Émilion day trip
Overview
Getting there
Best time to visit
Visitor tips
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 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 tours.
- If interested, research the Jurade of Saint-Émilion, the oldest wine brotherhood in the world, for more context during the 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 a sparkling variant is now produced.
Frequently asked questions about Saint-Émilion tours
What types of tours are available in Saint-Émilion?
Saint-Émilion 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 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 tour, allowing you to ride through the vineyards, visit châteaux, and taste local blends.
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.