The Perfect Weekend in Bordeaux by Train: Wine, Riverfront Walks and Historic Charm

Bordeaux by night

Bordeaux is one of France’s most elegant and easy-to-explore cities, with grand squares, leafy boulevards, world-class wine and a beautifully restored riverfront. Thanks to the fast TGV link from Paris, Bordeaux has become a perfect weekend destination for travellers who want culture, wine tasting and relaxed strolling without the need for a car.

This guide covers what to see, where to eat, what local food and wine specialities really are, where to stay and how to reach everything smoothly by rail.

Why Go?

Bordeaux combines sophistication with a laid-back feel: stylish cafés, historic architecture, wine bars on every corner and wide riverfront promenades perfect for walking. With vineyards stretching in every direction and charming towns like Saint-Émilion close by, Bordeaux offers the ideal mix of city life and countryside escapes.

A Bit of History

Once one of Europe’s most important trading ports, Bordeaux flourished thanks to its wine industry and maritime links. Its eighteenth-century architecture earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, and the region’s winemaking traditions stretch back more than 2,000 years. Today, Bordeaux is known for its elegant neoclassical buildings, thriving cultural scene and world-renowned wines.

What to Expect

Expect a clean, walkable city with stunning architecture, a calm atmosphere and excellent public transport. The tram system is easy to use, the riverfront is beautiful for strolling and the food and wine are exceptional. Bordeaux feels elegant yet relaxed, making it a refreshing change of pace from Paris.

Five Things to See and Do

Place de la Bourse & the Miroir d’Eau: Bordeaux’s most famous square, reflected in a vast mirror of shallow water — magical at sunrise and sunset.

Saint-André Cathedral: A dramatic Gothic cathedral with a striking bell tower offering panoramic city views.

The Cité du Vin: An immersive museum celebrating wine culture around the world, with tastings overlooking the river.

Chartrons District: A charming area full of antique shops, galleries and some of Bordeaux’s best wine bars.

Saint-Émilion (easy day trip): A beautiful medieval village surrounded by vineyards, accessible by a quick regional train.

Food Culture

Bordeaux’s food culture blends land and sea, shaped by its river location, fertile countryside and proximity to the Atlantic. Expect dishes featuring duck, oysters, beef and plenty of butter-rich pastries. Wine naturally plays a central role in cooking and dining, with Bordeaux reds, crisp whites and dry rosés accompanying many meals. The city’s markets showcase fresh produce, charcuterie, seafood and local specialities.

Bordeaux Food Explained

Canelés: Small, caramelised pastries with a soft vanilla-rum centre — uniquely Bordelais.

Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: Grilled rib steak served with a rich red-wine and shallot sauce.

Magret de Canard: Tender duck breast served pink, often with a sweet sauce or potatoes.

Huîtres du Bassin d’Arcachon: Fresh oysters from the nearby bay, a local favourite.

Puits d’Amour: A custard-filled pastry from a historic Bordeaux pâtisserie tradition.

Bordeaux Wines: From full-bodied reds (Left Bank) to elegant Merlot blends (Right Bank) and refreshing whites.

Where to Eat

La Tupina: A renowned restaurant serving rustic regional dishes cooked over an open fire, known for generous, homely flavours.

Le Petit Commerce: A lively seafood restaurant in the old town offering fresh daily catches and relaxed dining.

Les Drôles (Chartrons): A cosy bistro with seasonal dishes and excellent local wines in a charming neighbourhood.

Marché des Capucins: A bustling market perfect for breakfast oysters, pastries or casual snacks before exploring the city.

Where to Stay

Mama Shelter Bordeaux: A fun, modern hotel with bright rooms and a rooftop, located near the cathedral.

Hotel de Tourny: A charming boutique hotel in a quiet area close to the Golden Triangle.

InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel: A luxurious option opposite the Grand Théâtre, ideal for a special weekend.

Quality Hotel Bordeaux Centre: A comfortable, well-located choice for travellers wanting convenience with good value.

Off the Beaten Track

Darwin Eco-Systeme: A converted military barracks turned into an urban eco-hub with cafés, art, exhibitions and skate areas.

Parc Bordelais: A spacious park ideal for relaxing walks, picnics and quiet afternoons.

La Bastide: The right-bank district with panoramic river views back toward Bordeaux’s historic centre.

How to Get There by Train

• From Paris: High-speed TGV from Paris Montparnasse in about 2 hours.

• From Toulouse: Direct rail links in around 2 hours.

• To Arcachon: A short 50-minute regional train ride, ideal for a morning at the coast.

• To Saint-Émilion: TER from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion in about 35 minutes, followed by a pleasant walk to the village.

Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 : Explore the historic centre and Place de la Bourse. Wander the Chartrons district. Lunch or wine tasting in a riverside bar. Visit the Cité du Vin in the afternoon. Dinner in the old town.

Day 2 : Take a morning TER to Saint-Émilion for vineyard walks and wine tasting. Return to Bordeaux in the afternoon for a stroll along the riverfront and a relaxed dinner.

Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.