Bordeaux & Dordogne: Culture, Castles & Canoes
An aerial view of the beautiful Dordogne River
Step into timeless France with this 7-day journey through elegant Bordeaux and the picture-perfect Dordogne. Wander medieval towns, marvel at castles and prehistoric caves, paddle down the Dordogne River with a picnic, and soak up the rhythm of French life at its most authentic. Perfect for culture lovers who also crave a little adventure and relaxation in-between.
Holiday Balance
A holiday soaked in culture with some balance
Culture: This trip is overflowing with it; from Bordeaux’s Gothic cathedrals to Saint-Émilion’s underground church, Sarlat’s medieval charm, Dordogne castles, and the world-famous Lascaux caves.
Relaxation: Riverside picnics, countryside inns, gentle market browsing, and long French dinners. The kind of slow pace that lets you soak it all in.
Adventure: A sprinkle of active fun keeps things lively! Kayaking the Dordogne, climbing Europe’s tallest sand dune, and exploring villages perched high above the valley.
Grand Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux’s iconic square
Day 1 – Arrival in Bordeaux
Fly from the UK (approx.1 hr 45 mins) into Bordeaux. Settle into your hotel in the historic centre with lots of affordable options available, and take a gentle stroll along the Garonne riverfront. Alternatively you could book a river cruise if you want to see more. Admire the grand Place de la Bourse and soak up the evening atmosphere before enjoying dinner in a classic French brasserie.
Day 2 – Discover Bordeaux
Spend the day exploring Bordeaux’s UNESCO-listed old town. Visit the impressive Saint-André Cathedral and climb the Tour Pey-Berland for sweeping city views. Stop at the Grand Théâtre, then wander the lively Rue Sainte-Catherine for shopping. In the afternoon, explore the Musée d’Aquitaine, tracing Bordeaux’s story from Roman roots to modern times. Aperitif in the vibrant Saint-Pierre district before a relaxed dinner.
Day 3 – Arcachon & the Atlantic Coast
Head west to the Bay of Arcachon. Climb the immense Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, with unforgettable ocean views. Enjoy a seafood lunch (oysters are the regional specialty), before a breezy walk along Arcachon’s beach promenade. Return to Bordeaux for the evening.
A beach in Arcachon, part of a huge bay with imposing sand dunes
Day 4 – Transfer to Dordogne via Saint-Émilion
Travel east, stopping in Saint-Émilion, a picturesque hilltop town with cobbled streets and its astonishing underground monolithic church. After a relaxed lunch, continue to the Dordogne Valley and check into a riverside inn or countryside hotel near Sarlat. Evening free for dinner and rest.
Saint-Émilion offers plenty of fantastic wine tours and vineyards if you enjoy a glass of the good stuff. Plenty of options here and elsewhere to prebook. Salut!
Day 5 – Sarlat & Dordogne Villages
Spend the morning in Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of France’s most beautiful medieval towns. Explore golden-stone streets, see the Lantern of the Dead, and browse its lively market (especially good on Fridays and Saturdays). Afternoon visits to nearby gems: La Roque-Gageac, a cliffside village perched above the river, or Domme, with spectacular views. Check out the many fantastic eateries on offer for dinner.
The Dordogne River boasts some of the finest landscapes in Europe
Day 6 – Castles, Prehistory & River Picnic
Start with the majestic Château de Beynac, dramatically overlooking the Dordogne. Then take to the water for a gentle kayak trip along the Dordogne River, drifting past villages and limestone cliffs. Note: at some point in the morning head to the supermarche, so you can enjoy a picnic on the riverbank filled with cheese, charcuterie, fresh bread, and regional treats! In the afternoon, visit the world-famous Lascaux caves (Lascaux IV) to marvel at 17,000-year-old prehistoric art.
Day 7 – Countryside Stroll & Return
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. If time permits, take a riverside stroll or browse a local market for gourmet souvenirs. Transfer back to Bordeaux for your flight home.
How much does it cost?
Cost estimates for a 7 day stay, including everything from flights, to other travel, food, activities and add-ons. These estimates will of course change with traveller preference.
Tight Budget: £750 to £900pp: Budget hotels or guesthouses. Regional trains/public transport. Simple meals, picnics, market lunches.
Mid-Range: £1,000 to £1,500pp: Boutique hotels or charming countryside inns. Private transfers/train plus car hire for Dordogne. Mix of bistro dining and regional specialties
Luxury:£1,600 to £2,000pp plus: High-end hotels or château stays. Private driver or luxury car hire. Gourmet dining experiences and private guides.
When should I go?
Each season in Bordeaux and the Dordogne brings its own charm. Spring means fresh air, blossoming vineyards, and peaceful sightseeing. Summer offers warm sunny days, perfect for kayaking, picnics, and long evenings outdoors. Autumn glows golden with harvest markets, vibrant colours, and a more relaxed pace. Winter is quiet and atmospheric, with cosy cafés and medieval towns all to yourself.
A climate summary of Bordeaux and the Dordogne.
