Are you heading to Bordeaux?
Then you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve looked at hundreds of different activities to see what’s most suitable for couples and understand it can be difficult to plan a romantic day out.
Considered by many to be one of the greatest cities in France, Bordeaux is full of fun activities for all.
This French city is famous for its Gothic architecture, beautiful gardens, local wine, and of course – romance!
From taking a river cruise to going on a wine walk, we’ve discovered the 25 most romantic things to do in Bordeaux for couples.
1. Garonne River Cruise
Admire Bordeaux’s waterfront from a scenic river cruise.
This romantic cruise tour will have you and your partner setting sail on the Garonne River.
Depending on the cruise you choose, you will be treated to a 3-course lunch, dinner, or wine tasting.
All dishes are prepared using fresh, local ingredients so you can bet you’ll be in for a treat.
You will also receive a welcome aperitif shortly after boarding.
And of course, you’ll see many Bordeaux sights along the way, including Place de la Bourse and Quai Richelieu.
Inclusions for most tours
- Welcome aperitif
- 3-course meal
Lunch Cruise Dinner Cruise Wine Tasting Cruise
2. Retro Classic City Tour
Explore Bordeaux in a retro motorcycle sidecar!
This classic mode of transportation is one of the most fun ways to make your way around the city.
Hop on and your private driver will whizz you around to Bordeaux’s best spots.
Stops include Quinconce, Place de la Bourse, Saint Michel, Grosse Cloche, and Pey Berland.
Side cars can fit up to two passengers, which makes this the perfect activity for couples.
This retro city tour runs in the daytime and evening, so you can choose your preference.
Tour details
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Departure Point: 12 Cours du 30 Juillet, 33000 Bordeaux,
- Inclusions: Private tour, driver/guide, live commentary
3. Bordeaux by Citroen 2CV
Drive around Bordeaux with your partner in an original Citroen 2CV.
You’ll be driven in this retro road vehicle to all of the city’s most historic attractions.
Your private chauffeur will take you to Place des Quinconces, the Allées de Tourny, and the Grand Théâtre.
You’ll also stop by the Big Bell, St Andrew’s Cathedral, and Place Gambetta.
This highlights tour is ideal for couples after a private experience.
Tours are just 45 minutes, allowing you to see Bordeaux in a short time frame.
Tour details
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Departure Point: Quinconces Orléans, 33000 Bordeau
- Inclusions: Private guide, transport by vehicle
4. Bordeaux Essentials by Bike
Explore Bordeaux by bike with your partner on this classic bike tour!
Your guide will meet you in the city centre.
From there, you will explore the old city, the Garonne River, and main attractions like Saint-Andrew Cathedral.
While on your tour, your guide will explain to you why Bordeaux was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travelers will ride on old-fashioned Peugeot bikes, which are not only pretty but also comfortable.
This tour moves at a leisurely place, meaning less experienced bikers are welcome.
Inclusions for most tours
- Bottled water
- Local guide
- Use of bicycle and helmet
City Tour Wine Tour Bike Rental
5. Golf & Wine
If you’re a couple who loves golf and wine, then this tour will be right up your alley!
Spend a day in Bordeaux hitting the links and sipping on some of the region’s famous wine.
Your romantic day begins with a round of golf at one of the country’s leading golf courses.
From there, you’ll retire to the clubhouse restaurant for a bite to eat.
Next, it’s onto the main event: the wineries!
A wine tasting at one of the most prestigious chateaux in the area will finish off your tour.
Expect to learn all about the wine you’re drinking, including how it’s made and it’s complex flavours.
Tour details
- Inclusions: Entry fees, wine tasting, 2-course lunch, alcoholic beverages, green fee
6. Full Day Wine Tour by E-Bike
Cycle through Bordeaux’s famous wine region with your partner on this e-bike tour.
This once in a lifetime Bordeaux tour will have you tasting wine in two historic chateaus.
While riding down scenic country roads on your e-bike, you’ll also be able to spot other wineries.
After you’ve tasted wines at two of the best vineyards in Bordeaux, it’s time to enjoy a tasty picnic lunch.
From there, the group will travel to the ancient town of Saint Émilion.
Your local guide will end the day with a guided tour of the town of Saint Émilion.
Tour details
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Departure Point: Pier 55, 1101 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA
- Departure Times: 8:30 am
- Inclusions: Bottled water, wine tasting, picnic lunch, local guide, live commentary, use of bicycle and helmet, transportation
7. Bacchus Wine Walk
This Bordeaux walking tour includes lots and lots of wine.
What could be better?
Grab your partner and sign up for the Bacchus Wine Walk in Bordeaux.
This romantic walking tour will allow you to explore the city, while sipping local wine.
Along the way, you will stop at the Grand Theatre, Promenade Sainte Catherine, Utopia, Pont de Pierre, La Cite du Vin, CAPC Musee d’Art Contemporain, and Place de la Bourse.
The walk ends in the “Les Chartrons” district so you can continue your intimate date after the tour.
Tour details
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departure Point: 2792 Place des Quinconces, 33000 Bordeaux
- Inclusions: Wine tasting
8. Cheese & Wine Tasting
In France, enjoying wine and cheese together is a must.
Luckily, there is a wine and cheese tasting tour where you can do both!
This experience is ideally suited to couples visiting Bordeaux.
The wine and cheese event takes place in one of Bordeaux’s most unique restaurants.
You’ll enter the “100 cheese cellar,” where you’ll get to learn about cheeses from all over the country.
Next, you’ll be treated to nine cheese samples paired with 3 Bordeaux wines.
Tour details
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Departure Point: 19 Rue Huguerie, 33000 Bordeaux
- Departure Times: 11:30 am or 5:00 pm
- Inclusions: Food tasting and wine tasting
9. Aperitif at the Chateau Marquis
Live like a royal for a day at Chateau Marquis.
You and your partner can become king and queen as you indulge in wine and an aperitif at this stunning castle.
You’ll be given local charcuterie and two wine tastings.
One of the wines will be the renowned Grand Cru Classé.
Beyond the food and drink, the chateau itself is pure magic.
Be sure to walk around the grounds and take in the decor as you enjoy this exclusive evening just for the two of you.
Tour details
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Departure Point: 3 Route de Rauzan, 33460 Margaux
- Inclusions: Snacks
10. Saint-Emilion Day Trip from Bordeaux
For all wine-loving couples, Saint-Emilion is a must.
This historic town near Bordeaux is the centre of wine making in the region.
On any trip to Saint-Emilion you’ll be treated to picturesque scenery and delicious wine.
You’ll visit 3 fascinating chateaux, where you’ll get to taste Bordeaux wine at each.
You’ll also get to explore the village of Saint-Emilion, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Full or half day excursions are available, as well as private tours for couples after a more intimate experience.
Inclusions for most tours
- Bottled water
- Guided walking tour
- Professional guide
- Wine tasting
- Free WiFi
- Transport
Full-Day Tour Half-Day Tour Private Tour Official Site
11. Médoc Half-Day Wine Trip
North of Bordeaux lies the quaint town of Médoc.
Médoc is another wine growing region of France that is a must-visit for all wine connoisseurs.
On this half day trip, you will be transported to Médoc to taste some of the best wine in the world.
While you’re there, visit two famous wineries and walk all around their beautiful vineyards with your partner.
Your wine guide will be on hand to teach you all about the wine and explain each tasting.
As you travel between the wineries, keep on the lookout for Chateaux Margaux and Palmer.
Tour details
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departure Point: 12 Cours du 30 Juillet, 33000 Bordeaux
- Departure Times: 9:00 am or 2:00 pm
- Inclusions: Wine tasting, professional guide, bottled water, free WiFi, round-trip transportation
12. Château du Taillan
Château du Taillan is one of the oldest wineries in the Bordeaux region.
History and wine lovers will be in awe of this historic site.
The chateau dates back to the Middle Ages and is rich in history.
At Château du Taillan, you will venture into the estate’s deep underground cellars.
A guide will explain the wine making process to you and your partner.
Towards the end of the visit is when you will get to sample some red and white wine made on-site.
Tour details
- Duration: 45-60 minutes
- Departure Point: 56 Avenue de la Croix, 33320 Le Taillan-Médoc
- Inclusions: Entry fees, alcoholic beverages
13. Morning Trip to the Dune of Pyla & Oysters
Get out of Bordeaux and head to the highest dune in all of Europe.
The Dune of Pyla is an incredible sight in itself.
But from the dune, you’ll also be treated to sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for a romantic selfie photo!
After exploring the dune, it’s time to indulge in some fresh seafood.
The region is known for its oysters, and you’ll get to enjoy a plate of oysters overlooking the water.
Sounds like the perfect way to spend a day in the South of France!
Note: a short hike is required to reach the top of the dune.
Tour details
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Departure Times: 8:00 am
- Inclusions: Entry fees, coffee or tea, air conditioned vehicle
14. Porte Cailhau
Escape to a fairytale castle at Porte Cailhau.
It’s hard to believe this site isn’t a full blown castle.
In actuality, it is a monument with a castle-like facade that previously served as the main gate to the city.
It dates back all the way to 1495.
Porte Cailhau was originally built to commemorate King Charles VIII’s victory at Fornovo during the Italian War.
Today, it is home to a informative exhibit that teaches visitors about the tools and materials used to construct it.
Aside from its impressive architecture, it also offers a magnificent view of Bordeaux.
Inclusions for most tours
- Private tour
- Local guide
- Skip the line privileges
15. Place de la Bourse (Place Royale)
All couples visiting Bordeaux must take a romantic stroll around Place de la Bourse.
This royal palace is one of the most magnificent in Europe.
It was planned out in the 1700s by Louis XV’s architect, Gabriel.
On one side of the palace lies the Stock Exchange and on the other is a museum.
Many locals are quick to note that the palace’s stunning 18th century architecture looks even better at night.
Plus, across from the palace is the iconic Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
Inclusions for most tours
- Private transportation
- Taxes
- Entry fees
16. Palais Rohan
Palais Rohan is known to locals as the City Hall in Bordeaux.
The palace took over a decade to construct and was finally finished in 1784.
It previously served as the Archbishop’s palace.
The building was sadly destroyed in World War II and had to be rebuilt.
Today, it consists of the town hall of Bordeaux and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux.
It is open to visitors year round, except on weekends when it is closed to the public.
Details
- Address: Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Monday to Friday; closed Saturday and Sunday
17. Palais Gallien Ruins
Believe it or not, Bordeaux was once home to a Roman amphitheatre.
Palais Gallien dates back to the 3rd century.
But today, all that remains are its ruins.
There is a multimedia visitor centre on-site so guests can learn all about its long history.
If you love ancient history, then visiting Palais Gallien Ruins should be on your to do list!
Luckily, the site is open to the public 24 hours a day, making it ultra convenient for couples to stop by.
Details
- Address: 126 Rue du Dr Albert Barraud, 33000 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours
18. Bordeaux Grand Theatre
Bordeaux’s Grand Theatre is a staple of the city.
This historic building dates back to the late 1700s during the Louis XVI’s reign.
It is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful 18th century concert halls in existence today.
The facade alone is breathtaking and worthy of a photo.
The exterior is made up of 12 Corinthian columns, each topped with a statue of a Roman god or goddess.
The interior is just as spectacular, with fresco paintings on the ceiling and lavish gold decor everywhere you look.
If you want to surprise your partner, a live show at the Grand Theatre will definitely deliver a wow factor.
Inclusions for most tours
- Live tour guide
- Snacks
19. Musee d’ Aquitaine
Delve into Bordeaux’s history at Musee d’Aquitaine.
This fascinating museum offers a glimpse into Bordeaux’s past.
The institution houses a sizeable collection of objects and documents from both Bordeaux and Aquitaine.
Over 70,000 artefacts are found here, on display through a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions.
There are nearly 5,000 pieces from Africa and Oceania.
There are also special exhibits, such as on Bordeaux in the 19th century and Bordeaux’s role in the slave trade.
Details
- Address: 20 Cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday
20. La Cité du Vin
Couples won’t be able to pass by La Cité du Vin and not take note of it!
This cultural site is dedicated to all things wine.
It offers visitors an immersive, interactive experience like no other.
La Cité du Vine is over 3,000 metres squared and is made up of 19 exhibitions.
Each exhibition offers a different educational lesson, all relating to wine.
For example, you can learn about the wine making process and how wine is grown in the region of Bordeaux.
A digital guide is available to all visitors in 8 languages.
Details
- Address: Esplanade de Pontac, 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm daily
21. Bernard Magrez Cultural Institute
If you and your partner are contemporary art lovers, then this is the place to go in Bordeaux.
The Bernard Magrez Cultural Institute is one of the most unique museums in the city.
It was formerly a stately chateau that was transformed into a cultural centre.
The Institute is home to all kinds of art.
Some are from internationally recognized artists.
But others are from up and comers throughout Europe, as there is a special section of the institute reserved for new artists.
Visitors will love the contrast between the historic building and the contemporary art that is housed there.
Details
- Address: 16 Rue de Tivoli, 33000 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm Wednesday to Sunday; closed Monday and Tuesday
22. Bordeaux Wine & Trade Museum
Do you want more wine but also learn about its history?
Then the Bordeaux Wine & Trade Museum is just the ticket.
At this museum, you’ll learn all about the history of the wine trade in France.
Your trip will take you from the Middle Ages all the way until the present day.
But what’s the best part?
At the end of the tour, you’ll be treated to a wine tasting featuring distinguished wine from Bordeaux.
The best way to learn about wine is drinking it!
After a few drinks, we’re sure your romantic date will get much more interesting!
Details
- Address: 41 Rue Borie, 33000 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm daily
23. Jardin Public
Explore the Jardin Public hand in hand with your partner.
This is the ideal spot to go for a morning walk or pack your lunch and enjoy an afternoon picnic.
Beyond the beautiful green space, the park also has an arboretum and a large lake.
There is even a natural history museum and a puppet theatre on the grounds.
No matter what way you want to spend your day, you can find something to do at Jardin Public.
This is a spot popular for couples and tourists.
Details
- Address: Jardin Public, Cours de Verdun, 33000 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm daily
24. Parc de Majolan
Relax and de-stress at Parc de Majolan.
If you’ve had a busy trip to Bordeaux so far, then an afternoon spent in Parc de Majolan is for you.
This is one of the largest urban parks in the city.
There are plenty of places to go for a walk or relax on the lawn.
Plenty of shaded and sunny spots are available to suit your preference.
Alternatively, find a spot near the water and curl up with your partner for a picnic.
Details
- Address: General de Gaulle Avenue, 33290 Blanquefort,
- Opening hours: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Wednesday to Monday; closed Tuesday
25. Quai des Marques
No trip to Bordeaux is complete without a stroll down Quai des Marques.
This scenic waterfront stretch is lined with everything you could possibly need.
You’ll find upscale boutiques, furniture shops, and cooking stores.
There are even a few cafes and eateries too.
Whether you want to go on a relaxing walk with your partner or do some souvenir shopping, Quai des Marques is the place.
Take in Bordeaux’s beauty from this bustling waterfront promenade.
Details
- Address: Hangars 15-19, Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux
- Opening hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday
Needless to say, Bordeaux is brimming with romantic attractions for couples.
Whether you’re into wine or history, you’re guaranteed to find something to do in this French city.
We hope you have an amazing trip to this famous region!
Find more Romantic Things to do in Bordeaux
