Paris to Bordeaux Day Trip: Train Schedule, Itinerary & Is It Worth It? (2026)

Table of contents

• Quick answer: can you do a Bordeaux day trip from Paris?

• Paris to Bordeaux day trip overview

• Is a Bordeaux day trip from Paris worth it?

• Step 1: Where to take the train from Paris to Bordeaux

• Step 2: Paris to Bordeaux train schedule (typical weekday)

• Step 3: Bordeaux to Paris return train schedule

• Step 4: Realistic Paris to Bordeaux day trip itinerary

• Step 5: Getting from Bordeaux Saint-Jean station to city center

  • Option 1 — Tram (recommended)
  • Option 2 — Taxi or Uber
  • Option 3 — Walking

• Step 6: What to do in Bordeaux in one day

  • 1. Place de la Bourse and Miroir d’eau
  • 2. Explore Bordeaux historic center (UNESCO World Heritage)
  • 3. Walk along the Garonne riverfront
  • 4. Pey-Berland Tower (optional)
  • 5. Lunch in Bordeaux
  • 6. Optional: Chartrons district or Cité du Vin

• Cost of a Paris to Bordeaux day trip

• Reality check: fatigue and logistics

• My honest recommendation: stay overnight if possible

• FAQ

Quick answer: can you do a Bordeaux day trip from Paris?

Yes, you can absolutely do a Bordeaux day trip from Paris, thanks to the high-speed TGV train that connects the two cities in just over 2 hours. I’ve done this trip myself multiple times to test whether it’s realistic and worthwhile.

Paris to Bordeaux day trip overview

Metric	Value
Distance	584 km
Train duration	2h04
Earliest arrival in Bordeaux	Around 09:00
Latest return to Paris	Around 21:00–22:00
Time available in Bordeaux	7 to 10 hours
Difficulty level	Moderate (long but feasible day)
Worth it	Yes, but better with overnight stay

This makes Bordeaux one of the easiest and fastest day trips from Paris by train.

However, I’ll be completely honest : it’s a long and intense day. If your schedule allows it, I strongly recommend staying at least one night in Bordeaux city to fully enjoy the experience.

But if you only have one day available, this guide will show you the most practical and realistic itinerary I’ve personally tested.

Is a Bordeaux day trip from Paris worth it?

In my experience, YES, a Bordeaux day trip from Paris is worth it, but only if you plan it carefully and know what to expect.

The TGV high-speed train makes Bordeaux incredibly accessible. Bordeaux Saint-Jean station is just over 2 hours from Paris Montparnasse, which is remarkably fast considering the distance.

However, it’s important to understand the realities:

• You’ll need to leave Paris early in the morning
• You’ll spend over 4 hours total on trains
• Train delays can happen
• You’ll have limited time to explore Bordeaux city center

This makes it completely feasible but not the most relaxed trip.

My honest recommendation: If possible, stay overnight. Bordeaux deserves more than a rushed visit, and the experience is much more enjoyable at a slower pace.

Still, if you’re determined to do a Paris to Bordeaux train day trip, it can absolutely be a memorable experience.

Step 1: Where to take the train from Paris to Bordeaux

All direct trains from Paris to Bordeaux depart from Paris Montparnasse station, located on the Left Bank.

• Location: corner of the 14th arrondissement, Paris
• Metro lines: 4, 6, 12, 13
• Train type: TGV INOUI high-speed train

Typical travel times to reach Montparnasse:

• Eiffel Tower → 20 minutes
• Louvre → 20 minutes
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés → 15 minutes
• Gare du Nord → 30 minutes

From experience, I strongly recommend arriving at least 20–30 minutes before departure, as Montparnasse is a large station and platforms are often announced shortly before boarding.

For a broader overview of logistics and planning, see this guide on how to plan a trip to France.

Step 2: Paris to Bordeaux train schedule (typical weekday)

The Paris to Bordeaux train schedule is frequent and reliable.

Typical departures from Paris Montparnasse:

Departure Paris Montparnasse	Arrival Bordeaux Saint-Jean	Duration
06:03	08:17	2h14
06:59	09:03	2h04
07:59	10:03	2h04
08:51	10:55	2h04
09:59	12:03	2h04

Best trains for a Bordeaux day trip from Paris:

• 06:59 → 09:03 (my preferred option)
• 07:59 → 10:03 (still very good)

These options maximize your time in Bordeaux.

Step 3: Bordeaux to Paris return train schedule

Typical return options:

Departure Bordeaux Saint-Jean	Arrival Paris Montparnasse	Duration
17:46	19:50	2h04
18:46	20:50	2h04
19:46	21:50	2h04
20:46	22:50	2h04

Best return options for a day trip:

• 18:46 → 20:50 (balanced)
• 19:46 → 21:50 (maximum exploration time)

Step 4: Realistic Paris to Bordeaux day trip itinerary

Here is the realistic timeline I recommend:

• 06:30 — Arrive at Paris Montparnasse
• 06:59 — Depart Paris
• 09:03 — Arrive in Bordeaux Saint-Jean
• 09:30–18:00 — Explore Bordeaux historic center - UNESCO World Heritage
• 18:46 — Depart Bordeaux
• 20:50 — Arrive back in Paris

Total time in Bordeaux: 8–9 hours

To manage easily the transport and the entry tickets during your day (or days) of visit, the Bordeaux CityPass is a good solution.

This pass is available for 24, 48, 72 or 96 consecutive hours. It includes:

• Unlimited access to tram, bus, river shuttle
• La Cité du Vin
• Les Bassins des Lumières
• 15 museums and monuments
• Bordeaux guided tour (tourist train or walking tour or boat tour)

Know that the CityPass has to be collect in person at the tourist office in Bordeaux Centre (12 Cours du 30 Juillet, 33000 Bordeaux).

This is enough to explore Bordeaux city center and experience its atmosphere. If you want to structure this efficiently, this guide explains how to build an itinerary in 5 steps.

Step 5: Getting from Bordeaux Saint-Jean station to city center

Bordeaux Saint-Jean station is very well connected.

Option 1 — Tram (recommended)

• Line C
• Duration: 15 minutes
• Direct access to Bordeaux historic center

This is the easiest and most efficient option. Line C is front of the train station and takes you in the best places in Bordeaux (Miroir d’eau/ Quiquonces).

Line D is also passing by the train station and can drop you on important sites.

Option 2 — Taxi or Uber

• Duration: 10–15 minutes
• Cost: €10–15

Option 3 — Walking

• Duration: 30–35 minutes
• Pleasant riverside walk

If you have a light bag you can literally walk for the station to the Miroir d’eau in 30 minutes.

Step 6: What to do in Bordeaux in one day

If you’re in Bordeaux for only 8–9 hours, the goal is simple: stay in the walkable historic center, avoid long detours, and build a loop that ends by the river before heading back to the station.

1. Place de la Bourse and Miroir d’eau

This is the “signature” Bordeaux spot and a perfect first stop.

• Best timing: before 11:00 (fewer people) or after 18:00 (golden hour).
• Plan: 15–30 minutes for photos + a short walk along the riverfront.

2. Explore Bordeaux historic center (UNESCO World Heritage)

From Place de la Bourse, wander inland through the historic streets and squares.

• Focus on a compact area (don’t try to “see everything”).
• A good rhythm: slow walk + short stops for 1.5–2.5 hours.

3. Walk along the Garonne riverfront

Use the riverfront as your “connector” between key spots.

• It’s flat, scenic, and naturally keeps you moving without getting lost.
• Great moment for a coffee break or a quick sit-down.

4. Pey-Berland Tower (optional)

If you want a viewpoint, this is the classic option — but it takes time.

• Go right at opening or later in the afternoon to avoid queues.
• Budget 45–75 minutes depending on crowds.

5. Lunch in Bordeaux

For a day trip, prioritize speed + local atmosphere.

• Quick and local: Marché des Capucins (market vibe).
• Easy central streets: around Rue Saint-Rémi / nearby squares for bistros.

6. Optional: Chartrons district or Cité du Vin

Choose based on your travel style:

• Chartrons district: more “neighborhood feel”, good if you want a relaxed stroll and shops.
• Cité du Vin: best if you love wine culture — but it’s more structured and can eat up time.

Cost of a Paris to Bordeaux day trip

Typical cost breakdown per person:

Item	Cost
Round-trip train ticket	€80–200
Tram	€1.70
Lunch	€15–30
Optional attractions	€10–20

Estimated total cost: €100–250 per person

Booking trains early significantly reduces the price.

For a detailed overview, see this realistic guide on the budget for traveling in France.

Reality check: fatigue and logistics

A Paris to Bordeaux day trip involves:

• Early wake-up (around 5:30–6:00 AM)
• Over 4 hours of train travel
• Full day of walking
• Late return to Paris

It is manageable but physically demanding.

My honest recommendation: stay overnight if possible

Staying overnight allows you to:

• Enjoy Bordeaux at a relaxed pace
• Experience the evening atmosphere
• Avoid rushing

Bordeaux is one of the most beautiful cities in France and deserves more than a rushed visit.

FAQ

Can I book Paris to Bordeaux train tickets last minute?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. TGV tickets are cheaper when booked 4–8 weeks in advance (starting at €25–40 one-way). Last-minute prices can exceed €100. Use SNCF Connect or the Ouigo app (budget option) to check availability.

Is the Bordeaux CityPass worth it for a day trip?

It depends. The 24-hour CityPass (€30) includes: ✅ Unlimited public transport ✅ Entry to Cité du Vin (€22 alone) or Bassins des Lumières ✅ Free guided tours (boat, walking, or tourist train)

Worth it if:

You plan to visit Cité du Vin (highly recommended for wine lovers).

You want to take the tram/boat tour to save time.

Not worth it if:

You’re only exploring the historic center (free) and walking along the Garonne.

What’s the best area to eat in Bordeaux for a quick lunch?

For a fast but authentic lunch, head to:

Marché des Capucins (local market): Try canelés (Bordeaux’s famous pastry) or huîtres (oysters) at Chez Jean-Mi.

Rue Saint-Rémi: Cozy bistros like Le Petit Commerce (seafood) or Bistrot du Sommelier (wine-paired dishes).

Place du Parlement: Cafés with outdoor seating, like Le Café Français (classic French dishes).

How do I avoid crowds at major attractions?

Bordeaux’s top sights (Place de la Bourse, Miroir d’Eau) get crowded by 11 AM. Here’s how to beat the rush:

Miroir d’Eau – Visit early (9:30 AM) or late (6 PM) for fewer people and golden-hour photos.

Pey-Berland Tower – Climb right at opening (10 AM) or after 4 PM to avoid tour groups.

Cité du Vin – Book the first entry slot (10 AM) or visit after 3 PM.

Historic center – Explore side streets (e.g., Rue des Bahutiers) instead of main squares.

What should I do if my train is delayed or canceled?

Train delays are rare but possible. Here’s your emergency plan: Check real-time updates on the SNCF app or Gares & Connexions.

Ask station staff for alternatives: They can rebook you on the next available train (often free if the delay is SNCF’s fault). Have a backup train: Avoid booking the last return train (20:46). The 18:46 or 19:46 trains give you a buffer. Consider a later return: If you miss your train, stay overnight and book a new ticket for the next morning (prices may be higher). Compensation: If your train is delayed by 30+ minutes, you’re entitled to a partial refund (file a claim on SNCF’s website).

Technically yes, but it’s rushed. The closest vineyards (e.g., Saint-Émilion, Pessac-Léognan) are 30–45 minutes by train/bus from Bordeaux. If you’re determined, here’s how:

⚠️ Reality check:

You’ll spend 3+ hours in transit for a 1-hour vineyard visit. Better alternative: Skip the vineyard and visit La Cité du Vin (wine museum) in Bordeaux instead.