SHORE EXCURSIONS

Sample wine at a leading chateau in the region famous for its wines, Bordeaux. The region is not only known for its wine though, Bordeaux’s historic city center offers something for all tastes. You’ll enjoy free time here to discover some of its many attractions and lunch on your own.

Your drive to Bordeaux takes you along the famous Medoc wine road, Route des Châteaux, with panoramic views of vineyards as far as the eye can see. The Medoc vineyards are orderly and impeccably maintained, and the famous Chateaux region produces superb wines. Stop to visit the cellars of one of the region's famous château and learn about winemaking techniques before enjoying a tasting of two recent vintages.

Reaching Bordeaux, you’ll have a short orientation of the city before being dropped off to enjoy approximately 3 hours of free time to explore at your leisure. Take advantage of this opportunity to shop, visit museums or just stroll about and discover more about the history of the city. Some of the city highlights are Place de la Bourse, the riverfront, Cailhau Gate, Grosse Cloche from the English Period, the Bordeaux Cathedral, and Gambetta Square. Don’t miss the Grand Theater, one of the most beautiful 18th-century theaters in Europe. The pedestrian friendly city center and waterfront have many shops, cafes and restaurants for you to choose from as well as a number of museums. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful time in Bordeaux.

The timeless beauty of Bordeaux is yours to discover during this orientation tour of the city and its surrounding areas, complimented with free time to do as you please and have lunch on your own. Your drive to Bordeaux takes you along the famous Medoc wine road, Route des Chateaux, with panoramic views of vineyards as far as the eye can see. The Medoc vineyards are orderly and impeccably maintained, and the famous Chateaux region produces superb wines.

Reaching Bordeaux, you’ll have a short orientation of the city before being dropped off to enjoy a few hours of free time to explore at your leisure. Take advantage of this opportunity to shop, visit museums or just stroll about and discover more about the history of the city. Some of the city highlights are Place de la Bourse, the riverfront, Cailhau Gate, Grosse Cloche from the English Period, the Bordeaux Cathedral, and Gambetta Square. Don’t miss the Grand Theater, one of the most beautiful 18th-century theaters in Europe. The pedestrian friendly city center and waterfront have many shops, cafes and restaurants for you to choose from as well as a number of museums. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll have a wonderful time in Bordeaux.

Head to the Medoc vineyards, driving along the famous 'Route des Chateaux' with a photo stop along the way. The Medoc wine road or Route des Chateaux is located between the Gironde esturary and the Landes Forest; providing magnificent views of vine-covered landscape rising as far as the eye can see.

Medoc vineyards are orderly and immaculately well-kept, and the region produces superb wines. Along the way, you’ll stop to admire one of the picturesque chateau; a great photo opportunity. Visit the cellars of one of the region's famous wine makers. Learn about winemaking techniques and tour the cellars before enjoying a tasting of two recent vintages.

Experience the Medoc peninsula through its military heritage and one of its oldest family owned wine estates. A tour full of history and the opportunity to sample locally produced Medoc wines is yours to seize.

A scenic drive through landscapes covered with vineyards take you to Fort Medoc. Construction of the fort was ordered by Louis the XIV and it was built by the famous military architect Vauban in 1690. In 2008, it was inscribed on the cultural site UNESCO World Heritage List. See the main entrance, the waterworks, the underground room and the guard room building.

Nearby is Chateau Lanessan, where you’ll stop for a visit and tasting. The Lanessan vineyard has belonged to a succession of eight generations of the Bouteiller family since the 18th century. The estate is located in the Cussac-Fort-Medoc district, close to Saint-Julien village, in the Haut Medoc appellation area. During your visit, you’ll learn about the history of the estate and wine production, followed by a wine tasting.

OVERVIEW

View concrete bunkers that were part of Germany’s coastal defense system known as the Atlantic Wall and come away with a deeper understanding of World War II, especially its effects on the Bordeaux region. Your guide may be Jean Paul Lescorce, who has spent decades cleaning up the bunkers at Soulac-Sur-Mer in memory of his father, one of the forced laborers that built them. The supposedly impenetrable Atlantic Wall was a 2,000-mile chain of fortresses and other defensive measures – including five million mines – that ran from the northern tip of Norway to the border that separates France from Spain. The wall was breached repeatedly and shortly after the war ended, many of the abandoned bunkers were removed as they were considered unpleasant symbols of occupation. Your guide will describe in fascinating detail how the bunkers were built, their various weaponry and the efforts to protect the remaining bunkers from being dismantled.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See concrete bunkers that were part of Germany’s defensive Atlantic Wall in World War II.
• Gain insight into how the bunkers were built and why they failed to stop the Allied troops.
• Tour the bunkers possibly with a guide whose father helped built them as a forced laborer.
• Hear about the efforts to maintain the bunkers instead of tearing them down.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore two modern architectural masterpieces in Bordeaux that make quite a contrast to the city’s hundreds of historical monuments. The museum La Cité du Vin may appear even more stunning and otherworldly as its curvaceous shape is intended to evoke the soul of wine rather that look like anything recognizable. It is a homage to Bordeaux’s namesake wines and their history and production is celebrated throughout. The interactive exhibits present the information in ways that are meaningful and fascinating. The Belvedere on the 8th floor is an excellent spot for a glass of wine and to admire the 360° view of Bordeaux. Admire the striking exterior of the Tribunal Judiciaire de Bordeaux, a modern architectural masterpiece designed by Richard Rogers. Resembling a series of sleek glass greenhouses, this innovative courthouse stands as a testament to contemporary design and bold creativity.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow your guide through two boldly modern buildings.
• Gain insight into the architect’s vision in designing the Tribunal Judiciaire de Bordeaux.
• Delve into the world of wine in La Cité du Vin, a museum devoted to Bordeaux wines and more.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Walk through Bordeaux’s historical district and stop along the way to sample specialties that reflect the local cuisine. UNESCO declared the Old Town a World Heritage site for its extraordinary architecture and culture, which you will experience firsthand. Your route will take you past iconic landmarks such as the grand Place des Quinconces, the elegant National Opera of Bordeaux, and the stunning Place de la Bourse. Bordeaux also has a long history of chocolate-making and a sampling of these gourmet confections will reveal their irresistible characteristics. A tasting of Bordeaux cheeses will be just as pleasing to your palate. To complete this gastronomic adventure, you’ll indulge in a Canelé, a beloved local pastry known for its golden caramelized crust and soft, custardy center—a perfect blend of textures and flavors that embodies the essence of Bordeaux. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore the enchanting streets at your own pace or perhaps indulge in a leisurely meal at a nearby restaurant, soaking in the ambiance of this extraordinary city.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold some of Bordeaux’s most iconic attractions while walking through Old Town.
• Pause for tastings of Bordeaux’s delicious chocolates and cheeses.
• Enjoy a panoramic drive to and from Bordeaux as the guide describes the attractions.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Spend hours of free time in Bordeaux, a liberating experience that will allow you to view the attractions that sound most appealing. On the drive inland, the guide will describe the points of interest and answer any questions you may have about Bordeaux, which lies along the Garonne River. That way, you can maximize your time in Old Town, which is considered so architecturally and culturally important that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site. Along the way, you will catch a panoramic glimpse of La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s striking, modern museum designed to evoke the swirling of wine in a glass or the intricate patterns of a grapevine. Upon arriving at the magnificent Cathédral Saint André, your guide will lead you through nearby highlights including the Place du Palais and the Place de la Bourse. Afterward, you will have enough free time to stroll on your own.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the historical ambiance of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit countless landmarks in Old Town or spend your time simply shopping and dining.
• Enjoy a panoramic drive to and from Bordeaux as the guide describes the attractions.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Bordeaux, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie tutor will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Selfie sticks and selfie photo frames are also available. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Bordeaux, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include:
• National Opera
• Place de la Bourse square
• Porte Cailhau gate
• Pont de Pierre stone bridge
• Cathedral Saint André

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Bordeaux.
• Follow tips from your selfie tutor to ensure the very best pictures.
• Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings.
• See architectural gems such as the National Opera and Cathedral Saint André.
• Enjoy free time in historical Gambetta Square, a center for exquisite shopping.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.