Capital of the Aquitaine region, Bordeaux is celebrated for its thoughtfully preserved 18th-century architecture. Together, its glorious buildings, many of them built on the wine trade, comprise the world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, honored as a City of Art and History, Bordeaux is a “Little Paris” of beautiful boulevards, Gothic and baroque churches, and lovely parks and gardens. The towering spire of the flamboyant Basilica of St. Michael is visible from all over the city, while the city’s green spaces are a delight to explore on foot.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Bordeaux on Foot
Take a guided walk through historic Bordeaux, the heart of France’s wine-growing region.
Leisurely Bordeaux on Foot
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Bordeaux, the heart of France’s wine-growing region.
A Taste of Cognac
Learn Cognac history and sample the cherished brandy on a Privileged Access visit to the historic Camus distillery.
Full Day Arcachon & Cap Ferret
Travel to the elegant resort town of Arcachon and discover the daily life of the oyster farmer.
Walking Tour to the Blaye Citadel
Explore the scenic citadel complex along the banks of the Gironde estuary, a grand fortress built for Louis XIV.
An Evening Walk
View Bordeaux’s stunning architecture, sprawling squares and sculpted fountains by night.
Cadillac City Walk & Visit to a Castle
Take a leisurely stroll in the port town of Cadillac, a riverside gem on the Garonne.
Château de Roquetaillade
Tour a magnificent castle dating to the days of Charlemagne, the last English-designed fortress built in France.
Home-Hosted Visit: Château Siaurac
Drive into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions to enjoy a tour and lunch at a family-owned vineyard.
The Kitchen Table
Drive into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions to enjoy a tour and lunch at a family-owned vineyard.
Cité du Vin Museum
Explore Bordeaux and visit the Cité du Vin museum to learn about local and international wines.
Epicurean Experience at Château du Tertre
Dine at the historic Château du Tertre, a prestigious estate in the renowned Margaux appellation.
Médoc Vineyards on Foot
Enjoy a stroll through the vineyards of Margaux in the heart of Bordeaux’s wine region.
Vintage Wine Tasting at a Historic Château
Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s wine culture during a visit to Château Kirwan and a tasting of a selection of wines.
Bouliac Cooking Class
Learn how to prepare classic dishes during a hands-on cooking experience led by talented chefs.
Châteaux of Aquitania
Call at one of Aquitania’s impressive châteaux and spend time exploring its rooms during a guided visit.
Saint-Émilion
Visit the village and vineyards of Saint-Émilion, a region shaped by wine production since Roman times.
Videos
Viking: Celebrating Exploration and Growth
First, Viking invented modern river cruising in 1997. Then, in 2015, we reinvented ocean cruising. In 2022, we began perfecting expedition cruising with journeys to the ends of the earth and closer to home on board the Viking Polaris and the Viking Octantis. Learn more about our company's growth and our determination to create meaningful travel experiences for our guests.
French Language Lesson
Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!