One of the most-visited wine villages in Bordeaux’s Right Bank, Saint-Émilion has been a popular destination for oenophiles for centuries, if not millennia. Grapes have been cultivated here since Roman times, and the region’s heritage earned it UNESCO World Heritage Status in 1999. Today, Saint-Émilion is known for its Merlot-based blends, and its top-rated Grand Crus can go for hundreds of dollars a bottle, if not more. Visiting wineries for tastings tops the things-to-do list, as does wandering the charming village and spying landmarks like the Monolithic Church (and its lofty bell tower).
Saint-Émilion is one of France’s top wine destinations, and every summer this UNESCO-listed village is packed with tourists looking to soak up the sun and sip world-class wine. For a calmer experience (and to avoid August, when many smaller producers close for the summer holidays) it’s worth coming in May or June—just be sure to avoid timing your visit with the annual Vinexpo event in Bordeaux, which many producers attend.
The regional Saint-Émilion Station (Gare de Saint-Émilion) connects the village to Bordeaux, while several bus routes run between Saint-Émilion and nearby hubs including Libourne, as well as surrounding villages. Saint-Émilion itself is very compact, and its cobbled center is best explored on foot. A taxi or rental car can be used to visit the surrounding wineries, though guided tours remove the hassle of choosing a designated driver.
If you want to go for tours and tastings at Saint-Émilion’s top wineries, it’s wise to do some preplanning. Unlike at many American wineries, Saint-Émilion wineries are not always open to walk-ins, and you’ll need to make an appointment in advance of your visit. However, the Saint-Émilion tourist office will post a short list of wineries that are open to visitors without reservations each day. Alternatively, book a guided tour to leave the logistics to a local expert.
