The 15 BEST Day Trips from Bordeaux (Within 2 hours!)

The Best Day Trip from Bordeaux for YOU

In a hurry? Here’s a quick sum up for you to find the right day trip suited to your plans:

Nature & Beach Day Trips from Bordeaux

If you’re a sea and beach lover and you’re visiting Bordeaux during the warmer months, my advice is to embark on an Atlantic coast adventure right away!

You’ve got a variety of options at your fingertips, and here they are:

Disclamer: Keep in mind that some beach activities in the area are only open during the warm season, so be sure to check their availability before deciding on your destination.

1. Arcachon Bay & Dune du Pilat

Full of unique landscapes and sights, Arcachon Bay is definitely one of the must-sees around Bordeaux. The bay is renowned for the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, which offers breathtaking views of the entire bay on clear days.
 

Dune du Pilat

For a day trip, my recommendation is to explore the dune in the morning and take a relaxing break there. You can even take a dip at the beach located at the foot of the dune… Just be prepared for the climb back up, which can be a real challenge!

The town of Arcachon is only a 15-minute drive (about 25 min by bus) from the Dune du Pilat, so go there for lunch and an afternoon at one of the Arcachon beaches. You can also visit the town’s charming villas and enjoy its nightlife.

2. Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park

For those seeking an immersion in nature, the Landes de Gascogne Park is an absolute haven. Stretching landscapes of pine forests, diverse bird species, and protected zones, this park is simply outstanding.
 

 
This natural sanctuary provides a plethora of activities, from leisurely hikes to serene canoe rides along the Leyre River. A must-visit is the Écomusée de Marquèze, which offers a charming recreation of rural life in late 19th-century Landes.

Extend your adventure to the Leyre Delta at Le Teich, where a bird sanctuary awaits, one of France‘s largest and a must for bird watching.

3. Lacanau

Lacanau is a seaside resort in the Médoc area. If you want to enjoy the ocean, Lacanau is one of the closest beaches to Bordeaux after Arcachon.
 

 
At Lacaunau, you’ll have the choice between a beach on the Atlantic coast and a large lake, for less hectic swimming if you’re coming with young kids.

Lacanau Beach is indeed one of the best surfing spots in the region. It hosts the Lacanau Pro every August, the oldest surfing competition in France, which is part of the World Qualifying Series, which gives access to the world surfing championship.

4. Biscarrosse

Located in the heart of the Landes region, Biscarosse is an amazing seaside resort where you’ll spend the best beach day ever.
 

 
Much like Lacanau, you’ll have the choice between beach and lake. Biscarosse has beautiful beaches that are very popular among surfers. As for lakes, you’ll find Lac de Biscarrosse et de Parentis and Etang de Cazaux-Sanguinet, both of them perfect for families seeking a refreshing dip.

If you have the time, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the world’s largest inflatable water park, the AquaPark in Biscarosse. For just 20€, you can have a blast for 2 hours, jumping on trampolines, giant slides, climbing walls, etc. set directly on the ocean.

5. Cap Ferret

Famous for its lighthouse and its unique natural beauty, the Cap Ferret peninsula is the perfect destination for those who want to spend a timeless moment surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Prepare to be utterly amazed!
 

 
This famous seaside resort offers a dream setting where pristine beaches meet harmoniously with picturesque oyster-farming villages and stunning wild landscapes.

In Cap Ferret, sampling oysters in one of the many lovely oyster huts and taking a bucolic stroll to the 53-meter lighthouse overlooking the Arcachon Basin are musts. Seriously, this is one of the most beautiful day trips around Bordeaux you can do.

Wine Day Trips from Bordeaux

The Bordeaux terroir is famous for its vineyards and globally celebrated Grands Crus. But you don’t have to love wine to discover it because, behind the wine, there’s a lot of history.

Here are the best destinations for a wine day trip from Bordeaux:
 

6. Saint Emilion

Wine lovers, look no further: this day trip is for you! Less than an hour drive away, it’s one of the fastest day trips from Bordeaux by car, that’s why it’s also very popular among tourists.
 

 
Saint-Emilion’s fame is mainly due to its wine-growing heritage and vineyards, with vineyards dotting the village and its vicinity. Sampling Saint-Emilion’s wines is an absolute must, as is savoring a gourmet meal to fully immerse yourself in the region’s authentic flavors.

But what’s less well known is that Saint-Emilion is also one of France’s most beautiful medieval towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Getting lost in its cobbled streets feels like a journey back in time, with wonderful historical sites waiting to be discovered.

7. Cognac

Yes, there is a town called Cognac about 1 hour from Bordeaux, and that’s where the world-famous brandy comes from.
 

 
The iconic spirit can be discovered everywhere in the town through its streets, museums, cellars, and tasting workshops. If you choose Cognac as a day trip, make sure to include a stop at Château de Cognac and other Cognac houses such as ABK6 or Hennessy for a unique experience.

But there’s more to the city than Cognac. You can also visit historic sites such as the Maison de la Lieutenance, or enjoy a scenic gabarre boat ride on the Charente River for example.

8. Châteaux du Médoc

The Route des Châteaux du Medoc is arguably one of the most beautiful Bordeaux Wine Routes. If you have a car, then this wine road trip is the most complete wine excursion you can do in the region within a day. (If you don’t, check out this 1-day tour).
 

Pauillac

Along the way, you’ll be treated to picturesque vistas. The journey unfolds alongside the Garonne River, winding through forests, vineyards, small villages, and exceptional monuments. The wine estates that dot the route are traditionally called “châteaux” and are beautiful old blonde stone mansions open to visitors.

The Medoc vineyards proudly host 8 unique appellations for you to explore and taste: Margaux, Médoc, Haut Médoc, Pauillac, Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Julien, Moulis, and Listrac. Each appellation has its own story to tell and flavors to discover. A remarkable wine-tasting experience and journey through history!

City Day Trips from Bordeaux

Near Bordeaux, there are lots of cute, picturesque little villages, some dating back to medieval times. Beautiful monuments and castles are hidden away, and there’s plenty of opportunity to sample local delicacies – and some fine wine, of course!

Here are listed the best villages to discover on a day trip from Bordeaux.
 

9. Libourne

Just a few kilometers north of Bordeaux in the Bordeaux vineyards, Libourne is a 13th-century bastide town. It’s one of the easiest and fastest day trips from Bordeaux by train or car.
 

Steve Le Clech / CC BY

The town boasts an exceptional architectural heritage, which you can discover by strolling through the historic center. Make sure not to overlook the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Libourne, graced with its splendid stained-glass windows.

One of the best things to do in Libourne is to take a cruise on the Dordogne, which is particularly romantic if you’re with your partner. There are lots of different cruise options: guided tours, gastronomic tastings, or barbecues… the choice is yours!

10. Mazères

The little town of Mazères, a quick 45-minute drive from Bordeaux, is a great destination for history lovers.
 

Château de Roquetaillade

Mazères is home to the Château de Roquetaillade, an imposing fortified castle entirely renovated in the 19th century. While some vestiges of the old castle remain, it’s the new part that really catches our eye. Inside and out, it’s absolutely magnificent.

Wandering through the charming village, you’ll also discover a number of wine cellars offering the perfect conclusion to your day: a chance to savor the local finest wines!

10. Saint Macaire

About 50 kilometers southeast of Bordeaux, the small fortified medieval town of Saint-Macaire is a little gem.
 

 
Saint-Macaire has a long and rich history. Saint-Macaire once held great importance in the country and even earned the distinction of being a “royal town of England” during the 14th century due to its close ties with England.

Its historic center, the Mercadiou, is a true marvel to explore. Here, you’ll find an array of arcaded houses, some of which have stood since the 13th century. As you stroll along the town’s ramparts, you’ll come across historical vestiges, and at the very top, you’ll discover the lovely church of Saint-Sauveur.

11. Blaye

The little town of Blaye is home to one of France’s best-preserved citadels. It’s a sight to behold, and exploring it is an adventure in itself!
 

Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux / CC BY-SA

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the citadel of Blaye takes you back in time with its ramparts, gates, and underground passageways dating back to the Vauban era. From the top of the citadel, you’ll discover a breathtaking view of the Gironde estuary.

As you climb the citadel’s heights, you’ll be rewarded with a truly breathtaking view of the Gironde Estuary. For an up-close encounter with this natural wonder, head to the Blaye pier, where you can embark on a ferry ride. And if you have extra time, you can visit Fort Médoc, a 17th-century military complex on the opposite bank of the Garonne.

12. Bergerac

Bergerac is a slightly different visit to your usual wine and castle tours.
 

Château de Monbazillac / alain01789 / CC BY-NC-ND

The town features 2 unique museums: the Wine Museum and the Tobacco Museum. Nestled within a 12th-century cloister, the Wine Museum unravels the rich history of local wines, while the Tobacco Museum offers a glimpse into the region’s tobacco cultivation.

Wandering through Bergerac’s charming old town is a delight, with its picturesque, flower-draped lanes and half-timbered houses. And, if you have a car, don’t miss visiting the Château de Monbazillac, a 16th-century chateau surrounded by lush vineyards.

13. Sainte-Foy-la-Grande

Sainte-Foy-la-Grande is one of the easiest train trips from Bordeaux, with direct access by train.

Founded in 1253, Sainte-Foy-la-Grande is one of the best-preserved bastides in France. With its narrow streets, the town center is very pleasant to visit, and its church boasts one of the tallest spires in Aquitaine. It’s also one of the few bastide towns crossed by a river (the Dordogne).

This hidden gem remains somewhat off the beaten tourist path, making it a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Bordeaux. So if you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, there’s no better destination.

15. Paris

In case you didn’t know, France’s capital city is only 2 hours by high-speed train from Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station! It’s a bit of a journey (at least 4 hours round trip), but I’d highly recommend it, especially if it’s your only chance to experience Paris or if you’re extremely motivated.
 

 
I won’t try to convince you to visit Paris – its name alone conjures images of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, and the Arc de Triomphe, among countless others. We can’t count the number of Parisian landmarks that will leave you speechless.

While, ideally, you’d need to spend at least a week in Paris to get the most out of it, the city is so incredible that it’s better to spend just one day there than none at all. A city to see at least once in your lifetime!

Best Day Tours from Bordeaux

Opting for a guided tour is an excellent decision if you’re short on time or don’t want to get bogged down in planning the trip. It’s as easy as picking a tour, booking your spot (in advance please!), and showing up at the meeting point on D-day. The best part is that these tours are led by experienced professionals, so you should have a blast.

There are plenty of guided tours throughout the region departing from Bordeaux. I’ve made it easy for you by selecting the best ones, i.e. those that will give you an unforgettable experience for a full day, with quality service and at a good price. Find them here:

• Saint Emilion Food & Wine Tour: Explore the medieval town of St Emilion and learn everything about Bordeaux wines thanks to 3 winery visits and wine tastings.
• Saint-Emilion & Medoc Full-Day Wine Experience: With a wine expert, discover 2 Bordeaux wine regions in a single day and taste no less than 8 local wines. A historical visit to St Emilion is included, of course.
• Arcachon Bay & Dune du Pilat Tour + Oyster Tasting: This half-day trip will take you to Dune du Pilat and drive you to the scenic Arcachon Bay to try the local specialty, oysters (with a glass of white wine!).
• Full-Day Private Basque Country Tour: This is your best chance to discover the wonderful Basque Country and Biarritz in a day from Bordeaux. The best part? The day trip is tailored to your own tastes and preferences!
• Cognac Private Wine Tour: This tour is all about Cognac with a producer, an estate, and a distillery visit! There’s no better way to discover the local savoir-faire.

Read More About Bordeaux

I’ve crafted several other guides about Bordeaux to help you best prepare for your trip:

➡️ Here are a few pieces to learn more about exploring Bordeaux:

• Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
• Best Time to Visit Bordeaux
• Safety in Bordeaux
• How Many Days to Visit in Bordeaux
• Fun Facts about Bordeaux

➡️ Here are complete Bordeaux itineraries tailored to the length of your stay:

• 1 Day in Bordeaux
• 2 Days in Bordeaux
• 3 Days in Bordeaux

➡️ And here are other posts to better discover Bordeaux and beyond:

• Things to Do in Bordeaux in Winter
• Day Trip to Arcachon from Bordeaux
• Best Beaches in Arcachon
• Discover the Dune du Pilat
• Camping near the Dune du Pilat

I hope you enjoy your trip to Bordeaux and around; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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