Taste of Bordeaux (Smithsonian Journeys)

Trip Code:63367
(AUD) Twin Share from $7,489pp
Days 8
Nights 7

From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine’s journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux’s finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the peaceful commune of Cussac-Fort-Medoc. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux’s colorful culture and rich flavors, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.

This river cruise journeys through France, calling at Bordeaux, Libourne, Libourne, Blaye, Cussac Fort Medoc, Cadillac, Bordeaux and Bordeaux.

You’ll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ship AmaDolce.

On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.

  • 04 May 2028 – 11 May 2028
    from $7,632 pp twin share *
  • 14 Sep 2028 – 21 Sep 2028
    from $7,776 pp twin share *
  • 05 Oct 2028 – 12 Oct 2028
    from $7,489 pp twin share *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Bordeaux

BORDEAUX – EMBARKATION. Step aboard your luxurious ship and begin your enchanting journey through the heart of Bordeaux. As the river carries you forward, enjoy the gentle rhythms of life along the water and the promise of the adventures to come.

Day 2 – Libourne

LIBOURNE. Arrive in Libourne, a picturesque gateway to Bordeaux’s most celebrated vineyards. Wander through sun-drenched villages, explore limestone-carved churches, or pedal through the lush, vineyard-clad countryside.

Day 3 – Libourne

LIBOURNE. Take a guided visit to Bergerac, a charming town in southwestern France known for its medieval streets and wine culture, as part of your Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive tours. Visit the Maison du Vin and Tobacco Museum, or wander Libourne’s bustling market sampling local specialties. Alternatively, discover a historic watermill and traditional breadmaking, or hike a vineyard with wine tasting and tapas.

Day 4 – Blaye

BLAYE – BOURG. Step into the grandeur of Blaye’s citadel, then cycle past riverbanks and medieval villages in the golden light of the afternoon. Alternatively, set out for the Pair-non-Pair Caves to view some of the world’s oldest cave paintings as part of your Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive experience. End your day surrounded by live French music and the warmth of local winemakers sharing their craft.

Day 5 – Cussac Fort Medoc

CUSSAC-FORT-MEDOC. Cruise through the rolling vineyards of the Médoc region, where world-class wines and refined landscapes captivate the senses. Whether strolling through historic estates or hiking the sunlit vines, savor the elegance of Bordeaux’s finest terroir.

Day 6 – Cadillac

CADILLAC. As part of your Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, cruise to Cadillac and tour the Château Royal de Cazeneuve–held by only four families since its founding–meeting the owner and seeing the original furnishings where Henri IV once held Queen Margot captive. Continue on to marvel at Cadillac’s castles, where centuries of history are etched into stone walls and grand halls. Pedal through quaint streets or explore opulent châteaux, and let the region’s rich heritage unfold around you.

Day 7 – Bordeaux

BORDEAUX. Return to the cosmopolitan allure of Bordeaux, a city alive with history, culture, and culinary delights. Stroll through iconic markets, explore world-class museums, or ride along scenic paths while the city’s architecture and ambiance unfold around you.

Day 8 – Bordeaux

BORDEAUX – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark and begin your journey home

Highlights

  • Choice of standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours
  • Included Saint Émilion bike tour and countryside hike with wine tasting
  • Ancient watermill visit and breadmaking workshop included in your days

From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine’s journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux’s finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the peaceful commune of Cussac-Fort-Medoc. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux’s colorful culture and rich flavors, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.

This river cruise journeys through France, calling at Bordeaux, Libourne, Libourne, Blaye, Cussac Fort Medoc, Cadillac, Bordeaux and Bordeaux.

You’ll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ship AmaDolce.

On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.

Inclusions

  • Saint Émilion Excursion (no wine more free time).
  • Saint Émilion Bike Tour.
  • Franch Market Visit with Tastings.
  • Ancient Watermill Visit and Breadmaking Workshop.
  • Countryside Hike with Wine Tasting.
  • Citadel Visit.

FAQs

Accommodation is aboard the AmaWaterways river ship AmaDolce.

Stateroom categories available

  • Suite
  • Category A+
  • Category A
  • Category B
  • Category C
  • Category D
  • Category E
  • Single

How long is this journey?

This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.

When can I travel?

Departures are currently scheduled between 04 May 2028 and 12 Oct 2028, subject to live availability.

Are there different departure options?

Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.

What is generally included?

Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.

What style of accommodation is used?

Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.

Provided by: AMAWaterways

Fine Print

Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.

(AUD) Twin Share from $7,489pp
Days 8
Nights 7

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