How to visit wineries in Bordeaux without a car

Bordeaux is one of the world’s most famous wine regions, but many visitors assume they need a car to explore its wineries. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Bordeaux’s incredible vineyards without driving. Whether you prefer public transport, guided tours, or cycling, this guide will show you the best car-free options for your wine adventure.

I also have plenty of articles about Bordeaux’s wine region that I highly recommend reading to help you plan your visit.

1. Visit Wineries by Public Transport

Several wineries are accessible by train, tram, or bus, making it easy to plan a self-guided visit. If you want a detailed list of specific wineries you can reach by public transport, check out this guide to Bordeaux wineries accessible without a car.

Wineries You Can Reach by Train or Tram

Bordeaux’s regional TER trains and tram network connect the city to major wine regions. From the station, some wineries are within walking distance, while others are a short taxi or bike ride away.

• Médoc: Take the train to Pauillac or Margaux to explore famous châteaux like Château Ferrière. 
• Saint-Émilion: A quick train ride from Bordeaux, with several wineries near the station like Chateau Soutard.
• Pessac-Léognan: Reachable via tram B, home to estates like Château Pape Clément.

For a full list of wineries, you can visit by train or tram, check out this detailed guide.

2. Book a Guided Wine Tour

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, joining a guided tour is the best way to explore Bordeaux’s wine regions. These tours include transportation, tastings, and expert commentary, making them perfect for visitors without a car. They are also a great option for those who want to maximize their time and visit multiple wineries in a single day without worrying about logistics.

Recommended Semi-Private Tours in Bordeuax

• Saint-Émilion Village Half-Day Wine Tour – This semi-private tour includes a visit to the charming village of Saint-Émilion and one local winery. A great option for those short on time.
• Saint-Émilion Food and Wine Tour – Offered by Olala Bordeaux, this full-day tour lasts about six hours and includes visits to three châteaux, along with a fun picnic experience.
• Afternoon Wine Tasting in Médoc – Ideal for discovering Médoc’s wine region, this afternoon tour visits two wineries: one family-owned and one prestigious classified growth estate. A full-day version is also available for those with more time.
• Rustic Vines E-Bike Tour – This company takes you from Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion, where you’ll explore the vineyards on an electric bike—a fantastic way to soak in the landscapes while visiting wineries.

For more options, check out my article on the best private and semi-private wine tours in Bordeaux.

Recommended Private Tours

If you’re looking for a private guide to take you on a wine tour, here are a few recommended options:

• Olala Bordeaux Private Tours – Personalized experiences tailored to your preferences.
• Nicole’s Bordeaux Wine Tours – Specializes in private tours to Saint-Émilion and Médoc.
• A Private Wine Tour in a Sidecar – For a unique and fun way to explore Bordeaux’s wine regions, consider a retro sidecar tour. Their most popular option, the Saint-Émilion Wine Tour in a Sidecar, is a full-day trip that takes you through the medieval village, includes a château visit, and, of course, wine tastings.

3. A private driver

If you know what wineries you want to visit and just need someone to get you there, the easiest way is to hire a driver for a few hours or the day. Here are a few places where you can find private drivers for the day: Viator, chauffeur bordelais, Centrale VTC Bordeaux and others. 
Uber is also a great option in France, especially if you’re trying to get to the wineries closer to Bordeaux.

4. Rent a Bike for a Vineyard Adventure

Cycling through Bordeaux’s vineyards is a fantastic way to experience the region at a slower pace. Some wine areas, like Pessac-Léognan and Entre-Deux-Mers, are within biking distance from the city, while Saint-Émilion offers breathtaking routes through the vineyards.

Several companies in Bordeaux rent bikes and even offer guided cycling tours with winery visits along the way.

5. Stay at a Winery with Accommodation

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at a château. Many wineries offer guest rooms or bed-and-breakfast stays, allowing you to enjoy wine tastings without worrying about transport. Some even provide shuttle services to and from Bordeaux.
Check out my recommendations for the best wine hotels in Bordeaux.

Plan Your Car-Free Wine Trip

Visiting Bordeaux’s wineries without a car is easier than you think. Whether you choose public transport, guided tours, or cycling, there are plenty of ways to explore the vineyards. Don’t forget to check out this list of wineries you can visit by public transport to help plan your perfect trip!

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂