overnight stay in Bordeaux region via train?

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.

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.

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!

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

Thank you, Stefan. Great advice. We have decided to rent a car so our options have opened up! Thanks, too, for the link for researching wineries.

I'll add that, for the most part, you will need to make a reservation to taste at any winery. The exception is for those who have a 'portes ouvertes'. Essentially open for walkins. Typically the Tourist Office (the St. É office opens at 10am) has a list of those wineries where you can pop in that day. If you are looking for a tour, I'd highly recommend Rustic Vines Tours. I have taken two of their tours personally (one biking and one private van) and I always have our visitors check them out, too. Though it is really easy to 'make your own' wine tasting day by booking ahead. A couple I really enjoy are Château Montlabert and Château Guadet--both in Saint-Émilion. There are so many wineries, making such good wine I don't think you'll find it difficult to find something wonderful.

Thank, you, Kimberly for the sound advice and great suggestions. We will be sure to make reservations!