2 in 1 – Visit of Bordeaux and excursion in a vineyard

A Unique Bordeaux Experience: Touring the City and Vineyards in a Vintage Sidecar

This review looks at a charming 2-in-1 adventure that combines a guided tour of Bordeaux’s most famous landmarks with a scenic drive through nearby vineyards, finishing with a wine tasting at a château. Priced around $172 per person, this private experience lasts between 3.5 to 8 hours, depending on how you choose to customize your day. The highlight? Riding in a vintage sidecar—yes, an actual motorcycle with a sidecar—that whisks you through the narrow, historic streets of Bordeaux and broad vineyard pathways alike.

What I love most about this tour is how it blends city exploration with the countryside in such an intimate way. The guide’s live commentary brings Bordeaux’s charming streets and history alive, particularly in stops like Place de la Bourse with its famed water mirror and the Grosse Cloche, the oldest door in Bordeaux. Then, as you venture into the vines near Margaux or Saint-Emilion, you get close-up views of neighborhood castles and lush vineyards—something no bus could deliver. Plus, the driver-guide ensures an engaging, personal touch that makes the experience feel both relaxed and informative.

However, one thing to consider is the weather dependence—since riding a vintage motorcycle leaves you exposed, a rainy day could temper the fun. But if the skies are clear, this is an experience that combines exhilaration with education, especially appreciated by those who love unique transportation and authentic settings.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers a fun, memorable way to explore Bordeaux’s streets and countryside.
• Personalized Service: As a private tour, it caters specifically to your group—no crowded bus or rushed stops.
• Expert Guidance: The live commentary from friendly guides like Arnaud and Alex makes history come alive while sharing insider tips.
• Quality Wine Tasting: Visiting a Château with the chance to sample local wines, often including two varieties, offers genuine value for wine lovers.
• Flexible Duration: Between 3.5 and 8 hours, you can tailor the experience to your schedule and interests.
• Ideal for those craving an offbeat, authentic way to see Bordeaux and its surrounding vineyards, especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure.

Exploring Bordeaux and Its Vineyards in Style

This adventure from Retro Tour Bordeaux delivers a good deal of what makes the region special. The city tour in the vintage sidecar allows you to glide past Bordeaux’s most iconic sights. The Place de la Bourse, with its stunning 18th-century architecture and water mirror, is perfectly suited for a quick photo and a bit of context about Bordeaux’s classical elegance. The Porte Cailhau, a 15th-century gate, adds a medieval touch, while the Grosse Cloche—the oldest city gate—provides a tangible link to Bordeaux’s long history.

What really sets this tour apart is the second half: cruising through vineyard country in the small paths of Margaux or Saint-Emilion. The guides’ detailed explanations animate the environment, giving you insights into Bordeaux’s wine-growing tradition. Several reviewers, like Robert P., have noted how the views of the vineyards and Bordeaux castles are unforgettable, making the drive more than just transportation—it’s a scenic journey through wine country.

The visit to a domain with a tasting is definitely the tour’s highlight. You’ll get to see the vineyard up close, walk through the Château, and sample some of the wines made on-site. While most Château offer two wines for tasting—often a second wine first and a Grand Cru Classé later—there are comments hinting at the potential for more options, which could be an added perk if available. The tasting experience, combined with the beautiful vistas, rounds out this memorable day.

The driver/guide, such as Alex or Arnaud, is frequently praised for his friendliness, knowledge, and humor, making the experience feel personal and engaging. One reviewer raved, “Our guide Arnaud was awesome. So friendly, funny, and informative.” Such personal touches turn a good tour into a memorable one.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The price of $171.96 per person, while not the cheapest, reflects the private, personalized nature of the experience. It covers hotel pickup and drop-off, live commentary, wine tastings, bottled water, and the use of a vintage sidecar—something that adds a sense of style and fun unmatched by standard tours. Be aware that most travelers book this tour about a month in advance, suggesting it’s quite popular among those planning ahead.

The tour begins at 12 Cr du 30 Juillet and ends back at the same spot, with flexible duration depending on your options. For families or groups wanting an exclusive experience, this setup works well, especially with the group discounts available.

Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. Since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for those who want a more personalized, relaxed experience, or travelers who are comfortable on motorcycles or open-air vehicles.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour caters especially well to those who want a fun, authentic way to explore Bordeaux’s historic streets and wine country. If you’re a wine enthusiast, the opportunity to visit a château and taste regional wines adds a genuine touch of local culture. Those who love a splash of adventure—riding in a vintage sidecar—will find this to be a memorable highlight. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group or private tours, offering flexibility and personal attention.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or adverse weather, you might want to reconsider, as part of the joy depends on riding in open-air sidecars. Also, if you prefer a more structured or less adventurous style of touring, other options could fit better.

The Sum Up

In the end, this combined Bordeaux city and vineyard tour in a vintage sidecar offers a blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and a little thrill. The guides’ warmth and knowledge, along with the chance to see the city’s monuments and taste Bordeaux’s wines, make it a compelling choice for anyone wanting an authentic experience. The small-group or private format ensures it feels exclusive without the crowds, and the itinerary balances sightseeing with leisure.

If you’re looking for a fun, stylish way to discover Bordeaux’s history and wine culture—and you’re open to a bit of adventure—this tour stands out for its originality and quality. It’s especially suited for travelers who want more than a typical bus tour, valuing personalized service and memorable scenery.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour ranges from approximately 3.5 to 8 hours, depending on the selected options and how long you wish to spend at each stop.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Bordeaux, making it convenient to start and end the experience.

Can I book this tour close to the date?
Most travelers book about 39 days in advance, but availability might be limited closer to your preferred date, so planning ahead is advisable.

Are there age restrictions?
The minimum age is 4 years, making this suitable for families. The open-air nature of the sidecar requires some comfort with riding.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the driver/guide, private or small-group experience, hotel transportation, live commentary, wine tastings, bottled water, and the vintage sidecar ride.

What should I wear?
Since the ride is outdoors, dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, especially if it’s sunny or rainy. A light jacket or sun protection might be useful.

Overall, this Bordeaux city and vineyard tour in a vintage sidecar combines fun, culture, and wine in a way that few other experiences can match. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or just looking for a memorable sightseeing adventure, it’s a unique way to see the region’s highlights while enjoying the thrill of riding in style.