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Places to visit near Bordeaux have history, vinous culture, and rural scenery within easy reach of the city. Medieval towns and magnificent châteaux, Atlantic shores, and World Heritage Sites – these villages and towns offer memorable experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether it’s rolling vineyards, seashore breezes, or Gothic churches that beckon, Bordeaux’s countryside is brimming with day trip possibilities. Here, this guide will introduce you to the most appealing destinations to venture beyond the city, which is perfect for wine aficionados, history buffs, and nature lovers in between.
10 Places To Visit Near Bordeaux
Discover these places to visit near Bordeaux, which provide a diverse choice of culture, history, scenery, and food within easy reach.
1. Saint-Émilion – Medieval Wine Village
Photo: Adam Baker / Wikimedia Commons
Saint-Émilion, some 40 km northeast of Bordeaux, is a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its medieval village, ancient vineyards, and friendly village ambiance. One of France’s oldest wine areas, it features top-class Merlot-based wines and ancient châteaux with rich tasting tours. The village itself is a pleasure to wander around, with cobblestone streets, workshops, and sweeping vineyard vistas. One special treasure is the Monolithic Church, which was carved out of limestone rock, and its mysterious catacombs. The Cloisters of the Cordeliers are a peaceful venue in which to sample local champagne. If you are a vinophile or culture traveller, Saint-Émilion is a worthwhile short excursion from Bordeaux.
How To Reach: Train from Bordeaux to Libourne and taxi or local minibus
Major Attractions: Monolithic Church, cellars of the wine châteaux, Château Ausone
Entry Fee: €15 / ₹1500 for tasting
2. Arcachon Bay & Dune Du Pilat
Photo: Rundvald / Wikimedia Commons
Set some 65 km southwest of Bordeaux, Arcachon Bay is a pretty seaside resort famous for oyster farming, sailing excursions, and tranquil seaside villages is one of the top tourist places near Bordeaux; this Atlantic treasure offers a welcome relief from city life, adored by both locals and tourists alike. The jewel of the region is the Dune du Pilat, the biggest dune in all of Europe, which stands impressively between sea and wood. Climbing the dune rewards tourists with breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the vast Landes forest. The bay is also famous for fresh seafood, particularly oysters, which are available to be savored from restaurants and huts on the water.
How To Reach: Train to Bordeaux, then train to Arcachon, and bus to Dune du Pilat
Major Attractions: Dune du Pilat, oyster-tasting cabins, beaches
Entry Fee: N/A
3. Blaye – Citadel & River Views
Photo: Charles Pence / Wikimedia Commons
A quaint riverside town roughly 50 km north of Bordeaux, Blaye is arguably best known for the Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and military building marvel conceived by Vauban. This beautifully preserved fortress boasts gigantic stone walls, tunnel systems, bastions, and dramatic vantage points overlooking the Gironde estuary. A walk about the citadel discloses its defensive position and its historic stature, an enriching aside for aficionados of history. Outside the castle, enjoyment may be obtained walking around Blaye’s compact historic town center, strolling along the picturesque riverfront, or taking a boat ride across the estuary to wine country in the Médoc.
How To Reach: Car or boat from Lamarque; possible by bus
Major Attractions: Citadel, Vauban Fortifications, river cruises
Entry Fee: €5 / ₹500
4. Médoc Wine Route
Photo: Deralpinbergsteiger / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Northwest of Bordeaux lies the region of Médoc, a wine lover’s haven that runs along the Left Bank of the estuary of Gironde. Among the top places to see near Bordeaux, it is a world-famous region home to some of the finest wine estates and produces high-quality red wines, especially from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Traversing the scenic Route D2, visitors pass through celebrated appellations such as Pauillac, Margaux, Saint-Julien, and Saint-Estèphe, each with its unique wine character. Highlights are excursions and tastings at legendary châteaux such as Château Margaux and Château Lafite Rothschild, where heritage dating back centuries intersects with contemporary viticulture.
How To Reach: Drive or guided wine tour from Bordeaux
Main Activities: Wine tastings, châteaux visits, vineyard picnics
Entry Fee: €15 – €50 / ₹1500 – 5000 for tasting
5. Périgueux – Gastronomy & Roman Heritage
Photo: Abxbay / Wikimedia Commons
Périgueux is the capital of medieval Dordogne and one of the most fascinating attractions near Bordeaux, steeped in heritage and gastronomy. The town beautifully mixes Roman antiquity and medieval charm, providing visitors with an incomparable cultural heritage. Discover the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum, constructed around the remains of a Roman villa, and marvel at the beautiful Saint-Front Cathedral with its Byzantine-style domes. Wander the cobblestone streets of the ancient town with half-timbered houses, artisans’ shops, and vibrant cafes. Périgueux is also a culinary destination, famous for local specialties such as foie gras and truffles, on display in busy markets and festive celebrations.
How To Reach: Train from Bordeaux (around 1.5 hours)
Major Attractions: Vesunna Museum, Saint-Front Cathedral, local markets
Entry Fee: €6 / ₹600
6. Cap Ferret Peninsula
Photo: Rundvald / Wikimedia Commons
Bordering the bay from Arcachon, Cap Ferret is a tranquil peninsula that specialises in the easy-going charm of southwestern France. With double appeal, the Atlantic coast boasts spacious surf-beach areas, and the inner bay boasts small oyster farms. The local weekend getaway of choice, Cap Ferret, welcomes people to relax with seafood, sea views, and pine-wooded bike rides. You may hike to the summit of the legendary Cap Ferret Lighthouse for a bird’s-eye view of the bay and Atlantic, cycle along quiet seaside roads, or enjoy a sunset picnic on Pointe du Cap Ferret. The region is also famous for oyster huts, where you can enjoy the day’s catch and a glass of white wine.
How To Reach: Drive or ferry from Arcachon
Major Attractions: Cap Ferret Lighthouse, oyster huts, ocean beaches
Entry Fee: N/A
7. La Réole – Riverside Medieval Town
Photo: Henry Salomé / Wikimedia Commons
Situated far above the Garonne River, La Réole is a medieval riverside town steeped in history and romance. Offering magnificent panoramic views and a serene ambiance, it is a serene getaway from city life. It lies about 60 km southeast of Bordeaux. The town houses a centuries-old Benedictine abbey, magnificently restored timber-framed houses, and charming cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings that encourage leisurely promenades. Regional food markets, craft fairs, and tiny cafés contribute to the charm. The village is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn when flowers bloom and the weather is temperate, perfect for sightseeing without the heat of summer.
How To Reach: Train from Bordeaux to La Réole (approximately 1 hour)
Major Attractions: Abbey of Saint-Pierre, weekly market, river walk
Entry Fee: N/A
8. Bazas – Gothic Cathedral & Countryside Charming
Photo: C. Lalanne / Wikimedia Commons
Located approximately 70 km southeast of Bordeaux, Bazas is an ancient, charming town rich in history, architecture, and cuisine, which is one of the best places to visit near Bordeaux. At its heart stands the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. The cathedral’s ornate façade and serene cloisters acknowledge centuries of cultural and spiritual history. In the heart of the cathedral is a vibrant central square with stone arcades, cafes, and craft stores, filled on market days and during festivals commemorating the local traditions. Bazas is also renowned for its fine Bazas beef, a local specialty that is cherished in local cuisine and during annual food festivals.
How To Reach: Train to Langon, and local taxi or bus
Major Attractions: Medieval architecture, covered market, cathedral
9. Bourg – Wine, Cliffs, And Cobblestones
Photo: Nataloche / Wikimedia Commons
Only 35 km from Bordeaux, Bourg-sur-Gironde is a hilltop town with a classic combination of charm, history, and secret wine riches. Standing above the confluence of the Dordogne and Gironde rivers, the town has breathtaking views from its medieval ramparts, particularly. Its pedestrian, cobblestone walkways, flowering balconies, and centuries-old houses pleasure to walk about. Below its picturesque harbor, its loveliness beckons you to walk alongside quiet rivers. Bourg is also dotted with some of the smallest, off-the-beaten-path tasting rooms and wine cellars where you can taste nicely produced Côtes de Bourg wines in a relaxed atmosphere.
How To Reach: Drive or guided half-day tour
Major Attractions: Historic harbor, Maison des Vins, river cliffs
Entry Fee: N/A
10. Cognac – Brandy Capital
Photo: Jack Ma / Wikimedia Commons
Cognac is a historic riverside town that is globally famous for its eponymous brandy. It nestles on the banks of the Charente River and blends rich history with refined beauty. Cognac boasts great distilleries like Hennessy, Rémy Martin, and Martell, where one can go on a guided tour to learn about the complex process of making Cognac, from grape harvesting to maturation in casks. Château de Cognac, the town’s pride, has both historic and tasting infrastructures in a kingly ambiance. Aside from its spirits, Cognac entices cobblestone boulevards, green town plazas, and peaceful riverfront promenades, ideal for an afternoon stroll.
How To Reach: Train from Bordeaux to Cognac (Saintes or Angoulême)
Major Attractions: Cognac distilleries, Château de Cognac, public gardens
Entry Fee: €18 – 40 / ₹1800 – 4000 for the tour
From vineyard-covered hills and medieval towns to sandy beaches and scenic dunes, the places to visit near Bordeaux offer a rich mix of nature, history, and culture. Its location also makes it a great gateway to Spain and Andorra. Whether you’re after a peaceful escape, a wine-filled weekend, or a cultural retreat, these places provide authentic French charm. Plan your trip today with TripXL for the best experience.
Cover Photo: Henry Salomé / Wikimedia Commons
