Bordeaux

Private car transfer
from San Sebastian to Bordeaux

Door-to-door
in 2 h 40 min
From €81
per seat
Comfortable
car
San Sebastian
Bordeaux
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2024
Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in San Sebastian.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 2 h 40 min.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Bordeaux.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
  • 237 km
  • 2 h 40 min

Overview: Car trip from San Sebastian to Bordeaux

On the Bay of Biscay in Spain lies San Sebastian, a world-class town that attracts spend thrifts and high rollers alike with its exceptional cuisine, magnificent scenery, premier restaurants, stunning beaches, and fascinating attractions.

San Sebastian offers luxurious experiences and is a foodie mecca, so unsurprisingly, you might have found your way to this Spanish town. But did you know that Bordeaux offers an even more luxurious experience without breaking the bank? So why not hop in one of Daytrip's well-maintained cars and enjoy one of the best driving experiences from San Sebastian to Bordeaux?

If Bordeaux hasn't been on your radar, it should be. This city is the undisputed wine capital of the world (yes, that is why Bordeaux sounds familiar). You can find some of the most delicious wines in its bars and restaurants, and it won't cost you a limb to procure. But Bordeaux has more than simply wine on offer.

Visitors can look forward to picking and choosing between 350 historical monuments and buildings, dozens of art galleries, museums, and some of the best street food in France. So what are you waiting for? This is your invitation to book a car trip with Daytrip and sit back and relax while our door-to-door service gets you from San Sebastian's refined luxury to Bordeaux's mysterious high-end beauty.

About Bordeaux

Nestled on the banks of the Garonne River, Bordeaux has been renowned for its incredible architecture, rich history, intriguing culture, and world-famous wines for centuries. It's a melting pot of art, culinary delights, and culture, which is unsurprising considering the city has more than 2,000 years of history that perfectly supports its unique modern sophistication paired with old-world charm.

Bordeaux is the charming capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, so it can offer visitors several once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. From indulging in wine tastings at a prestigious chateau and learning more about the 7000 winemakers in the region and the oldest vineyards in the world to sightseeing in the Bordeaux Old Town and walking along the river – there's something for everyone. Then, let's not forget the water wonders found in Bordeaux, thanks to its illustrious maritime history.

Bordeaux is a port city, so the Gironde estuary reveals immense nature, culture, wine tourism, and enchanting chateaux. If you travel further along this city's coast, you'll also get to feel the silky sand of the Arcachon basin between your toes, and you might even get the chance to savor a few delicious oysters!

Returning to land, there's much to see and do in Bordeaux. From lavish 18th-century buildings and UNESCO-listed quays surrounding the imposingly elegant Place de la Bourse to the famed mirror of the water and the many gastronomic delights, including decadent pastries, regional delicacies, and Michelin-starred fine dining establishments, you'll find something to occupy your time.

From San Sebastian to Bordeaux: travel tips

Do you plan to travel from San Sebastian to Bordeaux? If so, you need to keep a few travel tips in mind. Armed with these travel tips, you'll be more likely to maximize your time, stay conscious of your budget, and, most importantly, enjoy yourself.

Plan ahead to avoid seasonal closures

One of the only downsides of traveling to a European city is that they often enact seasonal closures on attractions, restaurants, and shops. In France, the summer holidays are sacrosanct, with most people taking time off for two to three weeks in July or August.

Unfortunately, basic services like banks and post offices have skeleton staff during this time, and some are closed altogether. That's why it's important to plan ahead to ensure the places you want to visit along the way to Bordeaux and the city itself are open and accepting visitors.

You can plan ahead by buying tickets weeks to months in advance (this is a nifty way to ensure prices are at their lowest) and reserving high-end restaurant spots and accommodations ahead of schedule.

Choose the right mode of transportation

There are many travel options for those who want to travel from San Sebastian to Bordeaux, but the best option is a road trip. If you travel with a private car service like Daytrip, you'll be free to be spontaneous with sightseeing stops along the way.

We recommend stopping to snap a few pictures of a few local dishes in Hondarribia while enjoying some of the best local food you'll ever eat. Or why not lay out a blanket for an impromptu picnic at Rocher de la Vierge before venturing onto the famed rock at this location?

When you book with Daytrip, the options are endless regardless of what you want to see and do. And if you book early enough, you'll save on transportation costs, and our expert drivers know exactly how to avoid annoying traffic and scarce parking situations.

Be prepared for strikes

Many travelers aren't aware that strikes are common in France, so it's important to plan for this possibility when traveling from San Sebastian to Bordeaux.

Often, strikes disrupt or cancel transportation services in France, which can severely impact your French adventure. So, it might be best to put alternative travel options on the back burner—like Daytrip. Daytrip isn't affected by strikes, so you're guaranteed a stress-free trip.

How to get from San Sebastian to Bordeaux

San Sebastian and Bordeaux are beautiful cities in their own right, but getting from San Sebastian to Bordeaux can be a headache if you're unfamiliar with European transportation options.

That's why we've discussed three of the best choices below to help you determine the best travel option for your budget and preferences.

Just note that ferry travel is not listed as there is no ferry between these cities, but if you're interested in a short cruise, Bordeaux offers a few cruise tours by boat.

From San Sebastian to Bordeaux by bus

For most travelers, the best budget option to get from San Sebastian to Bordeaux is to take the bus. Three bus service providers—BlaBlaCar Bus, Flixbus, and Iberocoach —complete the trip between these two European cities.

BlaBlaBus is the fastest bus option, taking about three hours and 15 minutes to complete. The bus leaves hourly every day, and the tickets cost between $17 and $26. Then, Iberocoach offers the cheapest trips. With Iberocoach, you should expect a ticket to cost between $12 and $17, but don't expect a luxury three-hour and 58-minute trip to Bordeaux.

Lastly, Flixbus is a good option for those seeking a reliable bus service that isn't too expensive. Unfortunately, Flixbus doesn't offer as many trips daily, but a bus leaves every three hours from San Sebastian to Bordeaux. The average ticket cost is between $22 and $35, but the ride is bound to be more comfortable than Ibercoach, even though the bus trip is just over four hours with a stop or two.

From San Sebastian to Bordeaux by train

Euskotren, SNCF, and TGV inOui are the three train lines that offer trips from San Sebastian to Bordeaux. These trains are incredibly convenient, but you often must catch two trains to get to Bordeaux. This is because only two of the three provide high-speed train services, and there is no direct train between the two cities.

Typically, you would catch the Euskotren at the Amara-Donostia train station, which will take you to the Hendaia train station in Irun in a little under 40 minutes. From Hendaia, you will travel to the Bordeaux St Jean train station in France. The second half of this trip will take about two and a half hours, with the entirety of the trip costing between $32 and $92.

It is also important to note that the Euskotren runs hourly, the SNCF only offers trips once every four hours, and the TGV inOui only provides trips between the two cities five times daily. When there are strikes in France, you should expect delays, and although it is scenic, the train might not be too comfortable, and there is no chance of sightseeing.

From San Sebastian to Bordeaux by private car

In our opinion, the best way to travel from San Sebastian to Bordeaux is by private car service Daytrip, and we don't say this because we're biased. With a private car service, you get several benefits you wouldn't get when traveling via the bus or train.

Daytrip will bring you door-to-door, from your accommodation in San Sebastian to your hotel in Bordeaux without you having to worry about handling your luggage. Our drivers are also English-speaking professionals who can share tips and insights.

And unlike any other transportation option, you can stop for sightseeing at places like the neo-Gothic Chateau d'Abbadie or the dramatic Rocher de la Vierge on your way to Bordeaux. And let's not forget how our drivers will expertly navigate the roads between these two cities to avoid traffic and keep you entertained the entire way!

Things to do when you get to Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a luxury destination in France that is worth a visit, especially if you plan to tour other cities and towns along the way.

But knowing what to do in Bordeaux can be challenging, which is why we've shared a few of the best things to see and do if you plan to drive from San Sebastian to Bordeaux.

You'll notice we never shared any wine spots since there are so many stellar vineyards and wineries that making a list is nigh impossible.

Place de la Bourse

The distance between San Sebastian and Bordeaux is worth driving to Place de la Bourse alone. This jaw-dropping 18th-century square was built during King Louis XV's reign and is the centerpiece of Bordeaux’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only is the square itself worth visiting, but its nearby locations and attractions make it even more worthwhile.

For example, if you visit Place de la Bourse, you'll also tour the charming Chartrons neighborhood and see the impressive 37,000-square-foot Miroir d'Eau, the largest reflecting pool in the world.

Marché des Capucins

Foodies will love wandering through the Marché des Capucins, a gorgeous open-air market that has been thriving for decades.

When visiting, you'll get to wander from vendor to vendor, buying different types of local foods to feast on right there and then or to save for later. We recommend buying cream-filled pastries, fresh cheeses, fruit, and authentic local delicacies you won't get to try anywhere else.

In addition, if you're a seafood lover, you must not miss the opportunity to visit Chez Jean-Mi, an oyster bar in the Marché des Capucins that sells a delectable selection of fresh-shucked oysters ready to tantalize your taste buds.

Cathédrale Saint-André

We know that religious attractions aren't for everyone, but when in France, it's usually a good idea to visit the cathedrals in the towns and cities you visit, as they are some of the most spectacular in the world.

You'll want to visit the Cathédrale Saint-André, otherwise known as the Bordeaux Cathedral. This cathedral is open to the public and is one of the world's most beautifully designed houses of worship.

Not only is the Gothic-style Roman Catholic architecture impressive, but its sweeping sky-high spires are also worth a second look, as is its treasure trove of medieval paintings known as the Marcade Collection.

When is the best time to visit Bordeaux?

The best time to visit Bordeaux is from May through October when the city experiences long, warm, sunny days that feel nearly endless. During these months, all the attractions, shops, restaurants, and businesses will be open, which is not the case in August and December.

However, if you don't mind many things being closed and want to visit more for the ambiance than the attractions, winter's a great time to visit since there will be significantly fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation. You should also note that the winter months are wet and rainy, so you must pack accordingly if you plan to visit in the winter.

We also recommend that oenophiles (wine lovers) visit during the harvest season, as it will be a trip of a lifetime. This season runs from August to early September or October, depending on the year. During the harvest season, you'll get to stroll through ancient vineyards, learn more about the winemaking process, and enjoy wine and cheese pairings like you've never before enjoyed.

Visit these sights on the way

Hondarribia

Hondarribia

Thanks to a recent gastronomical boom, this beautiful village has transformed into a must-visit for anyone with a mouth travelling though the Basque country. A Foody's Delight 

Chateau d'Abbadie

Chateau d'Abbadie

This beautiful neo-Gothic mansion is more than meets the eye - it was built to be an observatory as well as a well-to-do home. Eyes on the Sky 

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Beach-goers and culture-seekers both get a kick out of this seaside town, which hosted Louis XIV’s wedding. Basque-ing in the Sun 

Rocher de la Vierge

Rocher de la Vierge

According to legend, a divine light from this rock saved local fisherman during a storm. Today, the holy site offers divine views of the coastline. The Fishermen’s Salvation 

Orthez

Orthez

This charming town’s medieval bridge played a pivotal role during the Napoleonic Wars. A Towering Defense 

Chateau de la Brede

Chateau de la Brede

This Gothic castle, birthplace and home of Charles Montesquieu, will have visitors' attention divided between its noble beauty and role in history. Branches of Interest 

Why people love Daytrip

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5,100+ reviews
  • 1,631 travelers took this route with us
Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R
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Michelle R

Feb 10, 2025
Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar
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Omar

Jan 25, 2025
Dec 4, 2024

Excellent service for transfers in Thailand

I was unsure about this company but a few good reviews on Trip Advisor made me take the chance. I am so happy that we did. We needed a ride from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Our driver Saksun was an excellent driver - it's not a long distance to drive (by Texas standards!) but the road is challenging and there are a lot of places where improvements to the road are being made. It took around 3 hours with a stop at a place with very clean bathrooms, very interesting hot springs and a place to get a snack and cold drinks. Saksun had a vehicle that was fantastic for this type of drive - a very comfortable ride indeed and was obviously well maintained and very clean. I highly recommend this company. I used to post on trip advisor as "lakekariba" but got out of the habit of doing so. This company was so easy to use and the result was so enjoyable that I felt that the company Daytrip and the driver Saksun had earned our trust and a glowing review. Gillian and Ted Pearsall Austin, Texas

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler lakekariba
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lakekariba

Dec 4, 2024
Dec 3, 2024

Excellent option to get to Vienna to Budapest!

We used Daytrip to travel between Budapest and Vienna with a 2 hour stop for lunch in Bratislava. Our driver Zsombor arrived on time at our hotel in Budapest and was very friendly and informative throughout our trip. His vehicle was roomy and clean and he was kind enough to provide us with some bottled water for the trip. Our quick visit stop in Bratislava was very nice as well. He gave us plenty of time to explore the city and have lunch before meeting him again when it was time to head for Vienna. Daytrip provided us with a happy and trouble free transfer between Budapest and Vienna. Many thanks to your team and especially to your driver Zsombor!

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler pgh1125
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pgh1125

Dec 3, 2024

Vehicle options for this trip

Most popular

sedan

Sedan

Comparable to aVolkswagen Passat
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-3
  • 3x
  • 3x
  • Clean
  • Comfortable
  • Air conditioned
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Child seats
  • Pet friendly
  • Smoke-free
From €138 per seat

Best reviews

luxury sedan

Luxury sedan

Comparable to aMercedes Benz E-class
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-2
  • 2x
  • 2x
  • All standard sedan features
  • Luxurious vehicle
  • Chauffeur-style service
  • Extra amenities
From €241 per seat

The Daytrip driver advantage

Daytrip driver
  • Local knowledge about the route from San Sebastian to Bordeaux
    Including available sights:
  • English speaking*

    All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.

  • Safety first!

    We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.

World-class customer support

  • Available 24/7
  • Close relationship with drivers
  • Experts on the route from San Sebastian to Bordeaux

Flexible cancellation policy

  • Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
  • Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,000+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.

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