Bordeaux & Basque Country Food & Wine With a Chef
Tour Overview
From the celebrated vineyards of Bordeaux to the vibrant markets of the French Basque Country, and the renowned pintxos bars of San Sebastián, this thoughtfully curated journey reveals several of Europe’s most celebrated culinary and wine regions through experiences reserved for those who truly appreciate delicious food, remarkable wines, and authentic cultural connections.
Travel alongside our Expert Host, as local producers, artisans, vintners, and chefs welcome you behind the scenes to discover traditions refined over generations. Wander lively market halls where the day’s finest ingredients inspire conversation, descend into centuries-old wine cellars beneath the medieval streets of Saint-Émilion, savor epicurean delights overlooking the Bay of Biscay, and learn the secrets of authentic Basque cooking.
Balanced with time to wander Bordeaux at your own pace, browse the boutiques of Biarritz, linger over seaside lunches, and embrace the relaxed rhythm of Basque life, every day has been thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the culture rather than simply introduce it.
This is southwestern France and northern Spain as few travelers experience them — beautifully curated, thoughtfully paced, and, as always, Expertly Done.
Premier Experiences, Premier Advantages
Private transportation and baggage portage
Experienced guides and English-speaking Premier representatives
Unparalleled Expert Host
Purposefully small groups
Delicious daily breakfast; lunches and dinners as noted
Hand-selected private experiences
Curated Accommodations
Internet (where available)
24/7 Premier support
Itinerary
Bordeaux, France — Where Wine Is Culture
Day 1: Bienvenue à Bordeaux Upon arrival at Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport, you’ll be welcomed by a Premier representative and transferred to your accommodations, one of Bordeaux’s finest boutique hotels for the following four nights.
Hidden behind a discreet façade in a quiet residential neighborhood, the hotel blends refined contemporary luxury with classic Bordeaux elegance.
Just a pleasant stroll from the city’s historic center, the hotel offers beautifully appointed guestrooms, tranquil courtyards, an inviting outdoor pool, and impeccable service—an ideal sanctuary from which to discover one of the world’s great wine capitals.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax, settle in, or begin exploring Bordeaux at your own pace.
Your culinary journey begins with a truly exclusive experience as our Expert Host collaborates on a memorable welcome dinner. Together they will showcase the exceptional ingredients, culinary traditions, and celebrated wines that define the Bordeaux region—a fitting introduction to the remarkable days ahead.
*Premier Tours & Travel will coordinate the group arrival window, so please check with us before booking your flights.
Upon arrival at Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport, you’ll be welcomed by a Premier representative and transferred to your accommodations, one of Bordeaux’s finest boutique hotels for the following four nights.
Hidden behind a discreet façade in a quiet residential neighborhood, the hotel blends refined contemporary luxury with classic Bordeaux elegance.
Just a pleasant stroll from the city’s historic center, the hotel offers beautifully appointed guestrooms, tranquil courtyards, an inviting outdoor pool, and impeccable service—an ideal sanctuary from which to discover one of the world’s great wine capitals.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax, settle in, or begin exploring Bordeaux at your own pace.
Your culinary journey begins with a truly exclusive experience as our Expert Host collaborates on a memorable welcome dinner. Together they will showcase the exceptional ingredients, culinary traditions, and celebrated wines that define the Bordeaux region—a fitting introduction to the remarkable days ahead.
*Premier Tours & Travel will coordinate the group arrival window, so please check with us before booking your flights.
Day 2: The Belly of BordeauxDiscover Bordeaux’s graceful boulevards, elegant architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center during a privately guided panoramic and walking tour.
Our exploration concludes at the legendary Marché des Capucins, affectionately known as “The Belly of Bordeaux.” More than simply a marketplace, this vibrant gathering place offers an authentic glimpse into the daily rhythm of Bordelais life.
Together with our Expert Host, wander among artisan cheesemakers, charcutiers, oyster merchants, bakers, chocolatiers, and specialty food vendors. Along the way, discover regional specialties, enjoy tastings selected by the chef, and engage with passionate local artisans whose families have preserved these culinary traditions for generations.
The balance of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy. Browse Bordeaux’s elegant boutiques, relax at a sidewalk café, discover one of the city’s exceptional wine bars, or simply savor the atmosphere of this remarkable city.
Discover Bordeaux’s graceful boulevards, elegant architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center during a privately guided panoramic and walking tour.
Our exploration concludes at the legendary Marché des Capucins, affectionately known as “The Belly of Bordeaux.” More than simply a marketplace, this vibrant gathering place offers an authentic glimpse into the daily rhythm of Bordelais life.
Together with our Expert Host, wander among artisan cheesemakers, charcutiers, oyster merchants, bakers, chocolatiers, and specialty food vendors. Along the way, discover regional specialties, enjoy tastings selected by the chef, and engage with passionate local artisans whose families have preserved these culinary traditions for generations.
The balance of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy. Browse Bordeaux’s elegant boutiques, relax at a sidewalk café, discover one of the city’s exceptional wine bars, or simply savor the atmosphere of this remarkable city.
Day 3: Saint-Émilion — Where Wine and History BlendJourney into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. Our private guide introduces us to the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Émilion, where narrow cobblestone lanes wind past centuries-old stone buildings, hidden courtyards, and remarkable underground monuments carved directly into the limestone beneath the town.
Our exploration continues with a visit to one of the region’s historic wine estates. Descend into centuries-old underground cellars before enjoying a guided tasting that reveals the finesse, elegance, and distinctive character of Saint-Émilion’s world-renowned wines accompanied by a charming picnic.
Enjoy time at leisure to browse the village’s charming boutiques, wine merchants, and artisan shops before returning to Bordeaux. Your evening is at leisure.
Journey into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. Our private guide introduces us to the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Émilion, where narrow cobblestone lanes wind past centuries-old stone buildings, hidden courtyards, and remarkable underground monuments carved directly into the limestone beneath the town.
Our exploration continues with a visit to one of the region’s historic wine estates. Descend into centuries-old underground cellars before enjoying a guided tasting that reveals the finesse, elegance, and distinctive character of Saint-Émilion’s world-renowned wines accompanied by a charming picnic.
Enjoy time at leisure to browse the village’s charming boutiques, wine merchants, and artisan shops before returning to Bordeaux. Your evening is at leisure.
Day 4: Bordeaux & Cite du Vin — Culture, Knowledge & the Art of SavoringToday is yours to enjoy exactly as you wish.
Browse Bordeaux’s elegant shopping districts, enjoy lunch at a neighborhood bistro, explore one of the city’s many wine cellars, visit a museum, or simply stroll along the beautiful Garonne River.
Late this afternoon we visit the spectacular Cité du Vin, an immersive cultural experience celebrating the history, culture, and traditions of wine from around the world. Explore the museum on a guided visit before gathering for an evening of expertly curated wine accompanied by an array of beautifully prepared small plates inspired by the region.
Today is yours to enjoy exactly as you wish.
Browse Bordeaux’s elegant shopping districts, enjoy lunch at a neighborhood bistro, explore one of the city’s many wine cellars, visit a museum, or simply stroll along the beautiful Garonne River.
Late this afternoon we visit the spectacular Cité du Vin, an immersive cultural experience celebrating the history, culture, and traditions of wine from around the world. Explore the museum on a guided visit before gathering for an evening of expertly curated wine accompanied by an array of beautifully prepared small plates inspired by the region.
French Basque Country: French Flair, Basque Soul
Day 5: Bordeaux & French Basque…From Vineyards to the SeaThis morning we bid farewell to Bordeaux and journey south toward the French Basque Country, where a distinctly different culture, cuisine, and landscape await.
En route, discover the charming Atlantic community of Hossegor, where elegant seaside promenades, bustling fishing harbors, and inviting cafés offer a wonderful introduction to France’s southwest coast.
By late afternoon, arrive in a quintessential French Basque village overlooking the Bay of Biscay, our home for the next three evenings. Nestled a peaceful landscape just minutes from the ocean, this intimate property is celebrated for its warm hospitality, refined accommodations, and extraordinary cuisine.
This evening, experience the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, where innovative Basque flavors meet impeccable French technique.
This morning we bid farewell to Bordeaux and journey south toward the French Basque Country, where a distinctly different culture, cuisine, and landscape await.
En route, discover the charming Atlantic community of Hossegor, where elegant seaside promenades, bustling fishing harbors, and inviting cafés offer a wonderful introduction to France’s southwest coast.
By late afternoon, arrive in a quintessential French Basque village overlooking the Bay of Biscay, our home for the next three evenings. Nestled a peaceful landscape just minutes from the ocean, this intimate property is celebrated for its warm hospitality, refined accommodations, and extraordinary cuisine.
This evening, experience the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, where innovative Basque flavors meet impeccable French technique.
Day 6: Bayonne & Esplette —The Flavors of the French Basque CountryToday we immerse ourselves in the flavors and traditions that define Basque cuisine.
Our morning begins in historic Bayonne, where a local guide introduces us to one of southwestern France’s most celebrated market towns. As the lively Saturday market comes to life, meet local producers while discovering the ingredients that have shaped Basque cooking for generations—from Bayonne ham and artisan cheeses to fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and regional specialties.
Later this afternoon we continue into the picturesque village of Espelette, famous throughout France for its vibrant red peppers that adorn nearly every whitewashed building. Enjoy lunch at our local Basque favorite in the village and visit a local producer to learn about the cultivation, history, and culinary importance of the protected Piment d’Espelette.
This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Guests wishing to dine in a nearby village can arrange for transportation between the hotel and the village center.
Today we immerse ourselves in the flavors and traditions that define Basque cuisine.
Our morning begins in historic Bayonne, where a local guide introduces us to one of southwestern France’s most celebrated market towns. As the lively Saturday market comes to life, meet local producers while discovering the ingredients that have shaped Basque cooking for generations—from Bayonne ham and artisan cheeses to fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and regional specialties.
Later this afternoon we continue into the picturesque village of Espelette, famous throughout France for its vibrant red peppers that adorn nearly every whitewashed building. Enjoy lunch at our local Basque favorite in the village and visit a local producer to learn about the cultivation, history, and culinary importance of the protected Piment d’Espelette.
This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Guests wishing to dine in a nearby village can arrange for transportation between the hotel and the village center.
Day 7: Biarritz — Belle Époque Glamour & the Spirit of BiarritzToday discover glamorous Biarritz, the legendary seaside resort that became the favored retreat of European royalty and aristocracy.
Our guided panoramic and walking tour showcases dramatic Atlantic vistas, Belle Époque architecture, charming fishing harbors, and the city’s sophisticated seaside atmosphere.
Following a memorable seafood lunch overlooking the ocean, enjoy free time to browse Biarritz’s stylish boutiques, artisan food shops, and inviting cafés before returning to Bidart.
Enjoy another relaxed evening at leisure.
Today discover glamorous Biarritz, the legendary seaside resort that became the favored retreat of European royalty and aristocracy.
Our guided panoramic and walking tour showcases dramatic Atlantic vistas, Belle Époque architecture, charming fishing harbors, and the city’s sophisticated seaside atmosphere.
Following a memorable seafood lunch overlooking the ocean, enjoy free time to browse Biarritz’s stylish boutiques, artisan food shops, and inviting cafés before returning to Bidart.
Enjoy another relaxed evening at leisure.
Spanish Basque Country: Ancient Roots, Gastronomic Innovation
Day 8: Saint Jean de Luz & San Sebastián — French Fishing Village to Spain’s Culinary CapitalLeaving France behind, we journey toward Spain’s celebrated culinary capital.
En route, pause in charming Saint-Jean-de-Luz, one of the Basque Coast’s most picturesque fishing villages, where colorful harbors, elegant streets, and inviting boutiques perfectly capture the region’s unique character.
Continuing into Spain, we arrive in beautiful San Sebastián and check into our accommodations for the following four nights.
This evening, experience one of the city’s most beloved traditions during a guided Pintxos Walking Tour, discovering neighborhood taverns while sampling imaginative small plates paired with regional wines and Basque cider.
Leaving France behind, we journey toward Spain’s celebrated culinary capital.
En route, pause in charming Saint-Jean-de-Luz, one of the Basque Coast’s most picturesque fishing villages, where colorful harbors, elegant streets, and inviting boutiques perfectly capture the region’s unique character.
Continuing into Spain, we arrive in beautiful San Sebastián and check into our accommodations for the following four nights.
This evening, experience one of the city’s most beloved traditions during a guided Pintxos Walking Tour, discovering neighborhood taverns while sampling imaginative small plates paired with regional wines and Basque cider.
Day 9: San Sebastián — Basque Heritage & Culinary IngenuityThis morning’s guided panoramic and walking tour introduces San Sebastián’s fascinating history, elegant Belle Époque architecture, vibrant Old Town, and spectacular coastline.
Following a leisurely group lunch, enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure to explore the city’s celebrated beaches, boutiques, cafés, and world-famous culinary scene at your own pace.
This morning’s guided panoramic and walking tour introduces San Sebastián’s fascinating history, elegant Belle Époque architecture, vibrant Old Town, and spectacular coastline.
Following a leisurely group lunch, enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure to explore the city’s celebrated beaches, boutiques, cafés, and world-famous culinary scene at your own pace.
Day 10: Getaria — Fishing Traditions & the Soul of Basque CookingVisit the charming fishing village of Getaria, birthplace of explorer Juan Sebastián Elcano and home to some of the Basque Country’s finest seafood traditions.
Explore its historic streets before gathering for a memorable lunch — a live-fire Basque cooking demonstration — celebrating the extraordinary cuisine, exceptional wines, and lasting friendships that have defined our journey through Bordeaux, the French Basque Country, and northern Spain.
Visit the charming fishing village of Getaria, birthplace of explorer Juan Sebastián Elcano and home to some of the Basque Country’s finest seafood traditions.
Explore its historic streets before gathering for a memorable lunch — a live-fire Basque cooking demonstration — celebrating the extraordinary cuisine, exceptional wines, and lasting friendships that have defined our journey through Bordeaux, the French Basque Country, and northern Spain.
Day 11: San Sebastián — Farewell to Spanish Basque FlavorsSpend the final day at leisure in San Sebastián meandering the sites or shopping the amazing boutiques.
This evening, reconnect with the group for a Farewell dinner.
Spend the final day at leisure in San Sebastián meandering the sites or shopping the amazing boutiques.
This evening, reconnect with the group for a Farewell dinner.
Day 12: Au Revoir, Adios & AgurGoodbye! Until we meet again!
A private transfer will take you to the airport for your journey home.
*Premier Tours & Travel will advise on the group departure window from San Sebastián as flight schedules are finalized. Private transfers or transfers to the Bilbao airport will be charged a supplement.
As you depart, carry home not only unforgettable memories and new friendships, but also a deeper appreciation for the remarkable culinary traditions, celebrated wines, and warm hospitality that make Bordeaux and the Basque Country among Europe’s most captivating destinations.
Explore the world through food, wine, culture, and unforgettable moments. Join us in Bordeaux & Basque Country!
Goodbye! Until we meet again!
A private transfer will take you to the airport for your journey home.
*Premier Tours & Travel will advise on the group departure window from San Sebastián as flight schedules are finalized. Private transfers or transfers to the Bilbao airport will be charged a supplement.
As you depart, carry home not only unforgettable memories and new friendships, but also a deeper appreciation for the remarkable culinary traditions, celebrated wines, and warm hospitality that make Bordeaux and the Basque Country among Europe’s most captivating destinations.
Explore the world through food, wine, culture, and unforgettable moments. Join us in Bordeaux & Basque Country!
Pre-Tour Two Nights in Paris including Premier’s preferred accommodation with daily breakfast, private arrival and departure transfers, first-class train tickets from Paris to Bordeaux, and a Highlights of Paris city tour. Optional add-ons available upon request, including private, guided tours of the Louvre and Versailles, and dinner river cruise (not included in the pricing).
From $1950 per person (double occupancy)
Post-Tour Two Nights in Madrid including Premier’s preferred accommodation with daily breakfast, private arrival and departure transfers, and a Highlights of Madrid city tour. Transportation between San Sebastian and Madrid is not included. Optional add-ons available upon request, including private tapas tour and private guided Prado Museum tour (not included). From $1935 per person (double occupancy).
Bordeaux & Basque Country Food & Wine With a Chef
Please complete the form below or call us at 1 (843) 237-9903 to arrange your Premier experience.
Our Expertly Done Culinary & Wine Travel Includes:
EXPERTLY CURATED ITINERARIES
Over 35 years of experience goes into planning every custom itinerary and represents a balanced blend of cultural, culinary, and wine-related experiences.
HAND-SELECTED EXPERT HOSTS
Carefully selected Expert Hosts to ensure each tour is enhanced with knowledgeable, approachable insights, and hands-on cooking and/or wine tasting and education.
INTENTIONALLY SMALL GROUPS
Each tour is kept intentionally small to ensure more one-on-one experiences with our Expert Hosts.
CAREFULLY CHOSEN ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotels, villas, and chateaus are expertly chosen with an eye toward modern-day comfort, amenities, and location that enhance your experience.
ASSURANCE
Our team is at the ready to assist you any time, for any reason while traveling — 24/7.
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