A Taste of Southern France - Bordeaux to Toulouse

Welcome to Bordeaux, a city known for its rich wine culture and beautiful architecture. Upon arrival at Bordeaux-Merignac Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel. At 5 pm, join your tour leader for a guided walk of Bordeaux's highlights, including the Monument of Girondins, St Andre Cathedral, and the Place de la Bourse. The day concludes with an aperitif at a local bar and an optional group dinner. If you arrive earlier, consider a stroll along the Garonne River or a visit to the Contemporary Art Museum.

Start your day with a scenic train ride from Bordeaux to the charming seaside town of Arcachon. Explore the vibrant fish market and sample the town's famous fresh oysters. Enjoy a unique lunch experience at Le Bouchon Market, a treasure trove of local produce and specialties. In the afternoon, return to Bordeaux and visit the city's renowned wine museum, the Cite du Vin. Cruise along the Garonne River to the museum and explore at your leisure before returning to your hotel.

Today, take a train to the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, nestled in the heart of Bordeaux's wine country. Visit Chateau Coutet, one of the largest and oldest Barsac estates in France, where you'll learn about winemaking and sample world-class vintages. Afterward, explore the charming village of Saint-Emilion, steeped in centuries of winemaking tradition. On your return to Bordeaux, stop at a local patisserie to enjoy the famous Cannelé pastry, a classic sweet treat from the Bordeaux region.

Say goodbye to Bordeaux and head to Sarlat, a town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich food history. Upon arrival, visit a local black truffle producer and learn about these prized fungi. Later, explore Sarlat with your tour leader, wandering through its narrow streets and visiting the impressive 12th-century cathedral. In the evening, dine at a local family-run restaurant and sample the region's famous duck dishes.

Start your day with a visit to the famous Sarlat market, where you'll sample regional cheeses, duck sausage, and walnut cakes. After exploring the market, you'll have free time to discover more food stalls or the local handicrafts section. In the afternoon, you can choose to take a cookery class with a local chef or enjoy a guided canoe tour on the Dordogne River, weather permitting.

After breakfast, leave Sarlat and head to the mesmerizing Gouffre du Padirac cave. Explore its winding tunnels and take a boat ride on the underground river. Afterward, savor a cheese-themed lunch at a local farm. Continue your journey to the medieval town of Rocamadour, perched dramatically on a cliffside. Finally, drive to the vibrant city of Toulouse, where you'll uncover the secrets behind the renowned chocolatine at a local pastry shop.

Today, make a day trip to the spectacular walled fortress of Carcassonne. Explore the heart of Carcassonne, known as 'La Cité,' including the Château Comtal and the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire. After lunch, sample Blanquette de Limoux, a local sparkling wine, at a local shop. End the day with a group meal at a small local restaurant, where you'll try Cassoulet, a hearty and flavorful dish typical of French cuisine.

Your memorable journey through France concludes today. After breakfast at your hotel in Toulouse, you are free to depart at any time. If you need a transfer to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, please arrange it in advance. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some additional time to explore Toulouse or purchase last-minute souvenirs.