Bonjour! Our little group - three adults - will be traveling by train from Paris in late May. We'd love to stop for a night or two in the Bordeaux region but aren't sure if we want to stay in the city of Bordeaux itself. After so much time in Paris, perhaps a charming, quiet town would be nice. Any recommendations for a charming town that is walkable, offers wine tasting, and is easily accessible via train? Merci!
Posted by
Seattle, WA & Bordeaux, France
207 posts
Bordeaux is a lovely city to visit but if you'd prefer a smaller town I'd suggest either St. Émilion or Arcachon. St. Émilion is in the heart of wine country and is a beautiful, historical town that can be easily accessed by train. Arcachon, on the other hand, is a seaside town with a wonderful saturday market, charm around every corner, walkable or bikeable and is also accessed by train.
Posted by
Long Beach, Ca, usa
669 posts
Gayle,
Although Bordeaux is a larger city, the center is relatively compact and walkable or you can get around by the efficient trams. With just two nights (meaning one full day) you will have a choice of things to see or visit without venturing far from the old quarter. I would opt for Bordeaux. There are tasting rooms in town, the Cite du Vin (needs 3-4 hours though and isn't in the old center). All else is in a compact area: the Musee du Vin et du Negoce, Porte Cailhau, the cathedral, the Musee Aquitaine, the Bassin des Lumieres, the Bourse, a walk along the river.....plenty to do!
Also, there is a TGV between Paris and Bordeaux (just over 2 hours)
It is well worth a stay (and more than two nights if possible). Wine tours of the area are also available.
Posted by
OP
6 posts
Thank you, Kimberly and Judy! Bordeaux is sounding like a good option. With, perhaps, a half-day trip to St. Émilion. I appreciate the suggestions!
Posted by
4 posts
Hey Gayle,
If you are willing to rent a car staying in the country side is great. If you do not want to rent a car, I would recommend staying in the city. Visits to Bordeaux need to be very well planned. Winery visits need to be booked in advance. I used this website to research my winery visits: https://sauvistication.com/
Kind Regards,
Stefan