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St Emilion tourism

Has anyone taken the Underground St-Emilion tour offered by the Tourism office for 12 euro? Its the only way to visit the underground church and Trinity chapel paintings. There are also catacombs. We are not into catacombs, but the underground church and the history around the monk is interesting. However, our time is limited that day, and I'm claustrophobic. If a place is not too tight and/or crowded with people, I can usually manage. For example, I've done the stairs up to the roof of Paris' Notre Dame. The first time I had no problems at all. The 2nd time was a little stressful. There was a fair number of people. I need to know I can get out quick if I need to, and the people ahead of me were slow, and I was in the stairwell longer than what is comfortable.

I would also be interested in any other suggestions for St-Emilion. It is just a stop on our way to Dordogne. I do have a little walking tour around the town. We are visiting a small, family owned winery on the outskirts of town which I'm excited about, and RS has "quickie" driving tour thru the vineyards.

Posted by
10623 posts

I took the tour and had no problem. From what I remember, the rooms are large with high ceilings. I have a bit of claustrophobia, too, but don't remember anything worrisome.

Posted by
2679 posts

I did it last year and it’s got lovely airy and high ceilings. I definitely get claustrophobic. But the underground church? No problem at all. It was a fun visit.

Posted by
6471 posts

Thanks Bets and Valerie. I am seeing that all the tours are in French with an English language translation on paper. I speak very little French. Like about 20 phrases. How well do you think this will work for us? Also, any suggestions on where to park our rental car?

Posted by
2679 posts

There is a car park - with a bathroom! - just outside of the town entrance. I’m not sure which direction, though, as I was just a passenger. But it was plenty big and then we just walked right over into the town.