Bordeaux to Libourne and Fronsac: Private day trip

Historic charm meets market buzz and wine tastings in this laid-back riverside destination near Bordeaux.

Once a thriving medieval port, Libourne still hums with life: arcaded squares, riverside cafes, and the scent of fresh baguettes. Begin at Place Abel Surchamp, one of southwest France’s largest market squares, where local cheeses, flowers, and wines fill the stalls on market days. Wander toward the riverside promenade along Quai Souchet for breezy views of boats and sky. Step into the Gothic Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste to admire its cool, soaring nave. Before leaving, visit one of the town’s excellent wine shops to taste nearby Pomerol or Saint-Emilion. For something sweet, grab a canele and take in the scene from a cafe terrace.

Scenic slopes, family chateaux, and soul-soothing views: Fronsac is rural Bordeaux at its most authentic.

Fronsac is Bordeaux’s hidden treasure, where gentle hills, peaceful vineyards, and old-world charm invite you to slow down. Start your visit at Chateau de la Riviere, perched high above the Dordogne, with tastings and a fascinating underground cellar tour. Then, wind through the village's sleepy lanes or walk to the Belvedere viewpoint for sweeping vistas over vine-covered slopes and the river valley below. The drive itself is a highlight, especially near Canon-Fronsac, where sun-dappled roads curve through some of the region’s most scenic terroir. Finish with a glass of Merlot and charcuterie at a family-run cellar before heading back refreshed.