8 Fun Trips From Bordeaux By Train

If you're spending some time in stunning Bordeaux but fancy a change of scene, you'll be blown away by the exceptional places to visit nearby that are only a short train ride away. To help you plan a stress-free train trip from Bordeaux, our experts have put together the best places to visit near Bordeaux by train, with some being in completely different countries (you've got to love Europe!).

Where to visit near Bordeaux by train:

1. La Rochelle, France
2. Biarritz, France
3. Toulouse, France
4. Barcelona, Spain
5. Tours, France
6. Carcassonne, France
7. Angers, France
8. Paris, France

Some of these trips from Bordeaux by train you'll have definitely heard of before and some you may not have, but not to worry, keep on reading to get the lowdown on exactly why each destination is worth a visit and what to do there.

8 Places To Visit Near Bordeaux By Train

1. La Rochelle, for a stroll through a port city with maritime charm

First on our list of the best places to visit near Bordeaux by train is La Rochelle. It's super easy to plan a train journey from Bordeaux, thanks to the many direct trains linking the 2 cities. In just two hours, you can reach this port city with its rich historical heritage and captivating maritime atmosphere.

The Vieux-Port, the beating heart of the city, is guarded by three emblematic medieval towers: the Tour Saint-Nicolas, the Tour de la Chaîne and the Tour de la Lanterne, which we strongly recommend you visit. La Rochelle is also the starting point for exploring the neighbouring islands, such as the Île de Ré, which can be reached via a bridge, and the Île d'Aix, which can be reached by boat. These excursions allow you to discover unspoilt landscapes and remarkable biodiversity, perfect if you want to enjoy a relaxing break close to Bordeaux.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to La Rochelle

• Trip time: 2 hours 20 minutes (direct train)
• Train companies: SNCF
• Fare: from €19*

*Indicative price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in La Rochelle on your train trip from Bordeaux

If you have chosen to organise a train journey from Bordeaux to La Rochelle, we recommend that you take advantage of one of the following activities during your journey:

• Take a trip to the Île de Ré: take advantage of the bridge linking La Rochelle to the Île de Ré to discover its charming villages, beaches and unspoilt landscapes. Make sure to go in summer as this tiny town shuts down when the season ends.
• Watch the sunset on a catamaran: end your day in style with a sunset cruise on a catamaran, for a magical maritime experience.
• Take a boat trip to admire Fort Boyard: set off on a cruise that allows you to contemplate the iconic Fort Boyard from the sea. An unmissable experience for history buffs and television buffs alike.

Where to sleep in La Rochelle during your stay

• Maison des Ambassadeurs - ★★★★★ :
  This luxury boutique hotel, located just a stone's throw from the Old Port, will win you over with its elegant charm, exceptional spa and intimate atmosphere, ideal for a refined stay in the heart of La Rochelle.
• Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites - La Rochelle Vieux Port - ★★★★ :
  With its inspiring decor and privileged location facing the Old Port, this design hotel offers a unique experience combining modern comfort and breathtaking views of La Rochelle's iconic towers.

2. Biarritz

The second unmissable trip from Bordeaux by train takes us to the serene Basque coast. Biarritz is a great train trip for those needing to recharge by the sea while admiring the eclectic architecture of the Basque town.

As soon as you arrive, the Grande Plage welcomes you with its golden sand and waves prized by surfers from all over the world. The proximity of the ocean gives the town an invigorating atmosphere, conducive to relaxation and water sports activities. Biarritz town centre has an eclectic mix of Belle Époque and Art Deco architecture. Stroll through the lively streets, discover the local boutiques and savour Basque gastronomy in the many restaurants and cafés. In the evenings, enjoy the animation of the seaside bars and restaurants to create wonderful holiday memories.

Known as one of the most authentic seaside resorts in France, Biarritz promises an incredible seaside holiday. The perfect place to recharge your batteries for a weekend.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Biarritz

• Trip time: 2 hours (direct train)
• Fare: from €25*

*Indicative price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger, which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Biarritz for an unforgettable trip

During your stay in Biarritz, we strongly recommend that you take the time to do one of the following activities:

• Explore the sea caves by paddle or kayak: set off on an adventure along the cliffs of the Basque coast and discover hidden caves accessible only by sea, for an immersive and disorientating experience.
• Take a surf lesson with a local: learn the basics of surfing directly on the Basque Coast, where the sport is a veritable institution.
• Admire the sunset from the 100 Marches: this terrace perched above the beach offers an exceptional view, often accompanied by a friendly, musical atmosphere.

Biarritz is one of the best surfing destinations in Europe. Discover the best spots and other must-see destinations in our guide:

Where to sleep in Biarritz during your stay

• Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites - La Rochelle Vieux Port - ★★★★ :
  Ideally located facing the ocean and just a few steps from the Grande Plage, Hôtel de La Plage captivates with its warm atmosphere and stunning views, perfect for an authentic and relaxing stay in Biarritz.
• Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites - La Rochelle Vieux Port - ★★★★ :
  This design hotel is a renovated former garage and blends industrial architecture with contemporary elegance, offering a unique hotel stay just a stone's throw from the beach and the centre of Biarritz.

3. Toulouse

Next up on our list of the best cities to visit by train from Bordeaux is Toulouse. Less than 2=3 hours by train from Bordeaux, this sunny destination is a real escape to the cicadas and the Occitan region. This metropolis in southwest France is perfect for a weekend away, with its vast pedestrian esplanade lined with cafés and boutiques.

You can admire its terracotta brick facades and neoclassical architecture, which give the town a romantic atmosphere. River lovers will love the banks of the Garonne, ideal for relaxing, especially at sunset. For those who want to make this a fun trip, be sure to visit the Cité de l'Espace or the Airbus factories, which are must-sees in the Toulouse region.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Toulouse

• Trip time: 2 hours 30 minutes (direct train)
• Train companies: SNCF, Ouigo, TGV InOui
• Fare: from €12*

*Target price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger, which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Toulouse for an unforgettable trip

During your stay in the beautiful Occitan city of Toulouse, we recommend the following activities:

• Explore the Jacobin Convent: a Gothic masterpiece from the XIIIᵉ century, this monument impresses with its elegant architecture, including its famous ‘palm tree’, a one-of-a-kind starry vault.
• Visit the Cité de l'Espace: this interactive theme park offers a fascinating immersion into the world of astronomy and space exploration, with captivating exhibitions and life-size replicas of spaceships.
• Wander through the Carmes district: this historic district of cobbled streets is renowned for its artisanal shops and friendly cafés, offering a typically Toulousian atmosphere.

Where to sleep in Toulouse during your stay?

• Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges - ★★★★ :
  Located in the heart of Toulouse, this modern and elegant hotel offers privileged access to the emblematic sites of the Pink City, with spacious rooms and a rooftop pool.
• Plaza Hotel Capitole Toulouse - ★★★★ :
  Set on the mythical Place du Capitole, this elegant hotel combines modern comfort with historic charm, offering stunning views and direct access to the cultural treasures of the Pink City.

4. Barcelona

In 4th place in our ranking of cities to go to on a train trip from Bordeaux is the Catalan capital, Barcelona. With a journey time of around 6 hours, you can reach the Mediterranean coast while enjoying views of the beautiful Aquitaine and Occitan regions.

As soon as you arrive, let yourself be seduced by the masterpieces of architect Antoni Gaudí, such as the majestic Sagrada Família and the Parc Güell, a testament to his creative genius and two Barcelona must-sees. For a relaxing break, head to the beaches of Barceloneta, where the golden sands and the azure waters of the Mediterranean invite you to unwind.

Barcelona is the ideal destination if you want to get away from it all for a few days, just a stone's throw from Bordeaux. With its sunny atmosphere, avant-garde architecture and gastronomy that invites you to live a much more epicurean lifestyle, Barcelona is the city to choose for a train journey from Bordeaux!

If you've decided to travel to Barcelona by train from Bordeaux, don't miss out on our complete guide to a unique experience:

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Barcelona

• Trip time: 6 hours 20 minutes (with a connection at Narbonne)
• Rail companies: SNCF, Ouigo, TGV InOui, Renfe
• Fare: from €54*

*Indicative price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger, which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Barcelona for an unforgettable trip

During your stay in Barcelona, we recommend you take advantage of the following activities:

• Wander around Parc Güell: discover this fairytale park designed by Gaudí, with its colourful mosaics and spectacular views over the city.
• Sip a cocktail on a secret rooftop: try hidden terraces like the one at the Casa Bonay hotel for a chic and relaxing moment.
• Spend a day at PortAventura World: located around an hour from Barcelona, this theme park offers thrilling rollercoasters, exciting shows and themed areas for an unforgettable experience.

Where to stay in Barcelona during your stay

• Hotel Casa Bonay - ★★★★ :
  Located in the heart of Barcelona, this design hotel combines bohemian charm and modernity, with a welcoming rooftop and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for discovering the city while enjoying a unique and warm setting.
• Hotel Colón Barcelona - ★★★★ :
  Ideally located opposite Barcelona Cathedral, this emblematic hotel seduces with its classic elegance, rooftop with panoramic views and perfect location for exploring the Gothic Quarter.

5. Tours

The next stop on our list of the best places to see near Bordeaux by train is Tours. This city at the entrance to the Loire Valley, famous for its castles, vineyards and chateaux.

In Tours, itself, the medieval Vieux Tours will captivate you with its half-timbered houses and bustling terraces that transport you back to a bygone era. Near Place Plumereau, the majestic Cathedral of Saint-Gatien, a masterpiece of Gothic art, will impress you with its dazzling stained-glass windows and slender architecture.

Tours is also the ideal starting point for exploring the famous châteaux of the Loire, such as Chenonceau, Amboise or Villandry, easily accessible by car or organised excursion.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Tours

• Trip time: 2 hours 30 minutes (with a connection at St-Pierre-des-Corps)
• Train companies: SNCF, Ouigo, TGV InOui
• Fare: from €12*

*Target price for a one-way journey from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger, which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Tours, France

During your stay in Tours, we recommend that you organise one of the following activities to make your stay unique:

• Visit the châteaux of Chenonceau, Amboise and Chambord: explore these Renaissance treasures, between architectural elegance, enchanting gardens and immersion in the world of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Participate in a wine tasting in Vouvray: discover the unique grape varieties of the Loire Valley by savouring the famous white wines of Vouvray, direct from the local winemakers.
• Enjoy a sidecar excursion along the banks of the Loire: treat yourself to an unusual experience as you travel along the banks of the Loire in a sidecar, combining adventure, discovery and spectacular panoramas.

Where to stay in Tours during your stay?

• Hôtel du Cygne - ★★★:
  Located in the heart of Old Tours, the Hôtel du Cygne captivates with its authentic charm and refined decor, offering a warm and intimate setting ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
• Hôtel Les Trésorières - ★★★★★ :
  Nestled in the heart of Tours' historic district, Les Trésorières is an exceptional boutique hotel offering an intimate atmosphere, a luxurious spa and refined surroundings, perfect for a stay imbued with charm and elegance.

6. Carcassonne

Around 3 hours by train from Bordeaux, Carcassonne is the 6th must-see destination for a train journey from Bordeaux. This fortified city, which plunges you back into the era of knights and medieval legends, offers a unique immersion in history.

With its double ramparts and 52 imposing towers, Carcassonne is a city to marvel at. You can stroll through its cobbled streets and discover the château comtal, the basilique Saint-Nazaire which are true witnesses to the past. For those who also want to take advantage of this getaway from Bordeaux to get some fresh air, we highly recommend taking a trip along the canal du Midi, hiring a bike or embarking on a boat cruise.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Carcassonne

• Trip time: 3 hours 20 minutes (direct train)
• Train companies: SNCF, Ouigo
• Fare: from €21*

*Target price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger, which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Carcassonne for an unforgettable trip

To make the most of a unique trip to Carcassonne, we advise you not to miss out on the following activities:

• Visit the Château Comtal: discover the medieval architecture of this 12thᵉ century castle, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.
• Navigate the Canal du Midi: enjoy a peaceful cruise on this historic canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Taste the local delicacies: savour sweet specialities such as Carcassonne croquants and honey cassoles, gourmet witnesses to the local terroir.

Where to stay in Carcassonne during your stay

• Hôtel Les Trésorières - ★★★★★ :
  Nestled in the heart of the ramparts of the medieval city, this charming hotel combines timeless luxury with breathtaking views, offering an enchanting setting for an unforgettable stay in Carcassonne.
• Hôtel Les Trésorières - ★★★★★ :
  Set in a green setting near Carcassonne, Domaine d'Auriac captivates with its refined elegance, Michelin-starred restaurant and peaceful ambience, perfect for a luxurious, gourmet getaway

7. Angers

Another Loire Valley destination easily accessible on a train journey from Bordeaux, Angers less than 3 hours from Bordeaux city centre. The Château d'Angers will welcome you as soon as you arrive in the city and is a must-see once you're there.

Like Tours, Angers has some very pretty half-timbered houses in its city centre creating a picturesque atmosphere during your stay. Angers is a green city, with its many parks and the banks of the Loire inviting you to explore. Make the most of your stay and take advantage of the authentic atmosphere and ever-present nature of Angers to lift your spirits and enjoy the present moment.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Angers

• Trip time: 3 hours (with a connection at St-Pierre-des-Corps)
• Train companies: SNCF, Ouigo
• Fare: from €30*

*Indicative price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Angers for an unforgettable trip

During your stay in the pretty city of Angers, don't miss out on the following activities:

• Ride the Loire by Bike: take the cycle routes along the Loire to discover the picturesque landscapes surrounding the city.
• Visit the Château d'Angers: explore this imposing 13thᵉ century fortress, home to the famous Tapestry of the Apocalypse, a medieval masterpiece unique in the world.
• Discover Terra Botanica: immerse yourself in Europe's first theme park dedicated to plants, offering an immersive experience at the heart of biodiversity.

Where to stay in Angers during your stay?

• Hôtel d'Anjou - ★★★★ :
  Located in the heart of Angers city centre, the Hôtel d'Anjou captivates with its ideal location for exploring the city's historical and cultural treasures. Its modern, minimalist rooms offer unique comfort on the banks of the Loire.
• Château des Forges - ★★★★ :
  Nestled in a green setting, this historic residence combines old-world charm with modern comforts, offering a breathtaking view over the Loire Valley for a peaceful and refined stay in Angers.

8. Paris, to experience the cultural and historical excitement of the City of Light

Everyone's heard of the iconic French capital, Paris. So if you're in the country why not make the most of the TGV and take the train from Bordeaux to Paris?  It's only 2 hours by TGV from Bordeaux, so easily done in a day or an extended trip if you want more time to soak up the Parisian vibes.

It's difficult to make a list of all the places not to be missed during your visit. Without dwelling too long on mythical landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Elysées, the Pont Neuf and the incredible Notre Dame, recently restored and now accessible, we also recommend stopping for falafel in the Marais, viewing art at the Musée d'Orsay and pushing on to Versailles to visit the Palace of the Sun King.

Practical information for organising a train journey from Bordeaux to Paris

• Trip time: 2 hours (direct journey)
• Train companies: SNCF, Ouigo, TGV InOui
• Fare: from €25*

*Indicative price for a one-way journey departing from Bordeaux for a full-fare passenger, which varies according to travel dates/times, number of passengers and options selected.

What to do in Paris for an unforgettable trip

During your stay in Paris, we recommend that you take advantage of one of the following activities:

• Visit the Musée d'Orsay: housed in a former train station, this art gallery houses an impressive collection of Western art from 1848 to 1914, including many Impressionist works.
• Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Seine: embark on an unforgettable evening savouring a gourmet meal while cruising along the Seine, admiring the iconic monuments of Paris illuminated.
• Visit the catacombs by day or night: discover what goes on behind the scenes with an exclusive night-time tour or an immersive experience combining historical accounts, fascinating anecdotes and period sound reconstruction.

Where to sleep in Paris during your stay

• Le Relais Montmartre - ★★★★ :
  Located in the charming Montmartre district, this elegant hotel offers an intimate and romantic atmosphere, just a stone's throw from the Sacré-Coeur Basilica and Paris's iconic bohemian alleyways.
• Modernist Hotel - ★★★★ :
  In the heart of the 15ᵉ arrondissement, the Hôtel Moderniste captivates with its contemporary design, chic ambience and ideal location close to the Eiffel Tower and major Parisian thoroughfares.

FAQs About Train Travel From Bordeaux

Now you know the best places to visit near Bordeaux by train but if you do still have a few questions about how to organise your train trip from Bordeaux, check out our FAQs below!

Which cities does Bordeaux station connect to?

Bordeaux Saint-Jean station, the rail hub of the French Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a great starting point for exploring a multitude of destinations in France and the region. Thanks to its many national, regional and international links, it connects Bordeaux to the region's major cities and landmarks.

What are the direct trains from Bordeaux?

Bordeaux Saint-Jean mainline station offers many direct train connections from the capital of Aquitaine. These include the following main direct lines:

• Paris: to Gare Montparnasse in 2 hours with TGV INOUI, several daily departures.
• Angoulême: Fast, direct TER connections.
• London: Access with Eurostar, connections required, flexible journeys.
• Barcelona: Direct links via Renfe and SNCF, fast immersion in Catalonia.

What are the TGV lines from Bordeaux?

Several rail companies now offer high-speed train services between Bordeaux and many French cities. Some of the most popular routes include:

TGV INOUI:

• Paris: Reach Paris Montparnasse in around 2h04 thanks to the LGV, with more than 33 daily round trips, including direct trains.

OUIGO:

• Paris: OUIGO trains offer an economical alternative with journeys to Paris lasting similar to those on the INOUI TGV.

SNCF and other companies:

• Nantes: Bordeaux and Nantes are linked in around 3 hours 27 minutes by TGV.
• Bayonne and Biarritz: There are direct links to these towns in the Basque Country in just over 2 hours.

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