Châteaux, Rivers & Wine

  • From $2,999
  • |
  • 8 Days
  • |
  • 5 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 1 Country

Bordeaux, France

  • Historic fountain with classical architecture backdrop

Stately mansions, restored houses and grand squares form the heart of Bordeaux’s old town. Among its treasures, the neoclassical Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is the pride of the city. Another cultural gem, and a national monument of France, is the spectacular Cathedral of St. Andrew. In 1137, Eleanor of Aquitaine wed the future Louis VII in the cathedral when she was 13 years old. The elegant, 17-arched Stone Bridge is favored among the Bordelais for whiling away an afternoon and capturing views over the river, docks and the harbor.

Scenic Sailing: Dordogne River, France

  • Scenic river with stone bridge and farmland

As you sail along the lush, green banks of the Dordogne, you will understand why writer Henry Miller called this fertile region a “country of enchantment.” Behind the tree-lined shores that you drift past, vast vineyards stretch into this peaceful and pastoral region, leading to sylvan forests harboring secret stashes of truffles and thriving farms that grow the season’s bounty of fresh produce. Occasional castles and grand manses peer out from behind hedgerows along the Dordogne, and the farther upriver you go, the more intimate and narrow the waters become.

Libourne, France

  • Assorted artisan cheeses on display

This evening, dock in Libourne, where you will enjoy your overnight stay. Built as a fortified town intended to help colonize the wilderness areas of southwestern France, Libourne has hugged the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle Rivers since 1270. Libourne was founded and named by Roger de Leybourne under the English Crown and King Edward I. Later, the town was caught in the middle of struggles between the French and English in the 14th century; England’s loss was France’s gain when it joined the latter. Today, Libourne enjoys a respected status as a wine-making capital of northern Gironde and hosts one of the area’s largest fresh food markets.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.

Illuminated historic theater at night

Panoramic Bordeaux

Tour the capital of the namesake wine-growing region that, save Paris, boasts more protected buildings than any other French city.

Included
Illuminated historic theater at night

Panoramic Bordeaux

Duration: 4 hours      

The World’s Largest Urban UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tour the capital of the namesake wine-growing region that, save Paris, boasts more protected buildings than any other French city. Bordeaux is a treasure chest of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some of which you will see during your panoramic drive. You will meet your guide for a short transfer to the city center. Here, marvel at the expanse of the Place des Quinconces, one of the largest squares in Europe, with its array of majestic sculptures and fountains. Then, view the neoclassical Grand Theâtre de Bordeaux; the 18th-century masterwork is distinguished by its 12 Corinthian columns and is home to the national opera. You will also admire the beautiful Place de la Bourse, where the world’s largest reflecting pool, the Miroir d’Eau, or Water Mirror, spreads out like glass amid stately buildings. On the way back to your ship, drive along the picturesque Garonne River, the lifeline of the city since its inception.

* Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.
Bassins de Lumières exterior with signage

Bassins des Lumières: Sound & Light Show

Immerse yourself in a multimedia art installation that features the work of two prominent 20th-century artists.
Bassins de Lumières exterior with signage

Bassins des Lumières: Sound & Light Show

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes      

The Iconic Works of Frida Kahlo and Henri Matisse

Immerse yourself in a multimedia art installation that features the work of two prominent 20th-century artists. During World War II, Bordeaux was occupied by German troops and was the site of a Nazi submarine base that was active for just over a year. Today, the space has been transformed into the largest digital art center in the world. Drive to the Bassins des Lumières, where you will watch as some of the most recognized works in the world of art are brought to life via projections and animations. See Frida Kahlo’s deeply personal and emotive work dance across the walls and reflect off the water, offering a new perspective into some of her most iconic pieces. Then, observe the vibrant colors and bold forms of Henri Matisse as they take over the hall, watching his artistic journey unfold through his early impressionism, his stylized masterpieces and Fauvist work.

* Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.
Historic Clock Tower in Sunlit Street

Historic Bordeaux on Foot

Join a guided walk through Bordeaux’s history, including the Gothic St. Andrew’s Cathedral and the Grand Theater.
Historic Clock Tower in Sunlit Street

Historic Bordeaux on Foot

Duration: 4 hours      

Iconic Landmarks, Medieval Secrets, and Local Flavors

Join a guided walk through Bordeaux’s history, including the Gothic St. Andrew’s Cathedral and the Grand Theater. Begin your exploration of the “City of Art and History” as you wander through the historic Chartrons district with your guide. Take a short tram ride to the stunning Place de la Bourse, where you will stop by the famous water mirror and learn about Bordeaux’s rich waterfront history. Pause at Porte Cailhau to uncover the secrets of medieval Bordeaux, then continue through the St. Paul district to the Grosse Cloche for photos and a tasting of local sweet treats. Stroll along Rue Sainte Catherine to St. Andrew’s Cathedral for a guided introduction to its history, followed by refreshments and a snack. Your guide will explain about the importance of food and traditions to the people of Bordeaux. Enjoy free time to explore more on your own before returning to your ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Videos

Ripe purple grape clusters hanging on vine

The Wine Regions of Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France’s celebrated vineyard-laden province, is home to some of the world’s most prized wines. Learn about its different regions and appellations with Karine.