Getting to Saint-Émilion and getting around
How do you get to Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux?
Saint-Émilion is accessible from Bordeaux by car, train and, depending on the time of year, by bus. By car, allow around 35 minutes from Bordeaux, depending on traffic. By train, Saint-Émilion station is served by the Bordeaux–Sarlat TER line and is located around 1.5 km from the village.
→ See train timetables and directions for getting to Saint-Émilion
Can you visit Saint-Émilion without a car?
Yes, it is possible to visit Saint-Émilion from Bordeaux without a car. The village can be reached by train and by bus, depending on the time of year. From Saint-Émilion TER station, the village is around a 20-minute walk away. Once in the village, the main monuments, restaurants and shops are all within walking distance.
To explore more of the vineyards without a car, some wine estates can also be reached on foot or by bicycle from the village.
→ Getting to Saint-Émilion without a car
Can you get to Saint-Émilion by train?
Yes, Saint-Émilion has a TER railway station located around 1.5 km from the village. The station is served by the Bordeaux–Sarlat line. From the station, allow around 20 minutes on foot to reach the village.
→ See train timetables
How do you get to the village from Saint-Émilion railway station?
Saint-Émilion railway station is around 1.5 km from the village, approximately a 20-minute walk. It is also possible to book a transfer with Tuk-Tuk des Cordeliers (€5) or use e-dog scooters, subject to availability.
→ See information on getting to Saint-Émilion from the railway station
Is there a TGV station in Saint-Émilion?
No, Saint-Émilion railway station is a TER station. It is served by the Bordeaux–Sarlat line. The nearest TGV stations are Bordeaux Saint-Jean and Libourne.
Can you drive into the village of Saint-Émilion?
Yes, cars can access the medieval town of Saint-Émilion subject to certain conditions. Vehicles more than 2 metres wide or weighing more than 6 tonnes GVW cannot drive through the town. Several car parks are available around and within the village.
→ See the Saint-Émilion car park map
Parking in Saint-Émilion
Where can you park in Saint-Émilion?
Several free car parks are available around Saint-Émilion, including the Espace Guadet car park, the car park behind the gendarmerie and the railway station car park. As spaces are limited, it is advisable to arrive early during busy periods.
Paid car parks are also available in Saint-Émilion village. Parking around the collegiate church and Place Bouqueyre allows you to get closer to the historic centre.
As parking rates and conditions may change, check the latest information before your visit.
→ See the car park map
Where can you park a motorhome in Saint-Émilion?
Part of the Espace Guadet car park, located behind the gendarmerie, is accessible to motorhomes. Overnight parking is permitted, but this is not an equipped motorhome service area.
→ Download the list of motorhome service areas
Where can coaches park in Saint-Émilion?
Coaches have dedicated parking spaces in Saint-Émilion, notably at the Villemaurine car park and the railway station car park. Conditions and charges vary depending on the car park.
Visiting Saint-Émilion
What is there to do in Saint-Émilion?
Saint-Émilion can be explored through its medieval village, underground heritage, wine estates and vineyard landscapes, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the Monolithic Church, take a guided tour of the village, discover a wine château, taste Saint-Émilion wines or explore the vineyards on foot or by bicycle.
→ Discover all the things to do in Saint-Émilion
What is there to see in Saint-Émilion?
Saint-Émilion's highlights include the Monolithic Church, the cloister of the collegiate church, the catacombs, Émilion's hermitage, the narrow streets of the medieval village and the surrounding vineyard landscapes. A guided tour allows you to discover several of these monuments and gain a better understanding of the village's history.
→ Discover Saint-Émilion's must-see sights
Is Saint-Émilion worth visiting?
Yes, Saint-Émilion is particularly well suited to a day trip from Bordeaux or to a stay of several days. Half a day is enough to discover the essentials of the village, while a full day allows you to add a visit to a wine estate. If you stay for several days, you can explore the 22 municipalities of the Greater Saint-Émilion Area.
How long do you need to visit Saint-Émilion?
Allow at least half a day to discover the village and ideally a full day to enjoy the main sights and a wine experience. A two-day stay, or longer, gives you time to add a cycling tour through the vineyards and discover the surrounding villages.
In summary:
Half a day: discover the village and its main points of interest;
1 day: village + underground heritage + wine tasting or château visit;
2 days or more: village + vineyards + activities and villages in the Greater Saint-Émilion Area.
Heritage and guided tours
How can you visit the Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion?
The Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion can only be visited as part of a guided tour led by a guide from the Tourist Office. Self-guided visits of the underground monuments are not possible.
The “Underground Saint-Émilion” tour currently includes four monuments: Émilion's hermitage, the Trinity Chapel and its medieval paintings, the catacombs and the Monolithic Church. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
→ Book the Underground Saint-Émilion tour
Can you visit the Monolithic Church of Saint-Émilion without a guide?
No, the Monolithic Church and the other underground monuments included in the “Underground Saint-Émilion” tour are not open for self-guided visits. They can only be visited with a guide from the Tourist Office.
How long does the Monolithic Church tour last?
The “Underground Saint-Émilion” tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. It allows visitors to discover four of Saint-Émilion's underground monuments, including the Monolithic Church.
Do you need to book a tour in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended for guided tours of Saint-Émilion, as places are limited. Tickets can be booked online through the official Tourist Office ticketing service or purchased on site, subject to availability.
→ Book a tour in Saint-Émilion
What guided tours can you take in Saint-Émilion?
The Tourist Office offers several guided tours exploring the heritage, history and vineyards of Saint-Émilion. These include “Underground Saint-Émilion”, which explores the town's main underground monuments.
→ See all guided tours
Wine and châteaux
Which châteaux can you visit in Saint-Émilion?
Many wine estates in the Greater Saint-Émilion Area welcome visitors to discover their vineyards, cellars and wines. Visiting conditions vary from one estate to another, and some can only be visited by reservation.
→ See the wine estates open to the public
How can you visit a wine château in Saint-Émilion?
You can book a wine château tour directly with an estate or choose a tour offered by the Tourist Office. Tours may include a visit to the vineyards and cellars as well as a wine tasting.
It is strongly recommended that you book your château visit in advance.
→ Discover château tours
Can you visit a wine château with children?
Yes, some wine estates offer family-friendly tours and activities. However, children's admission and facilities vary from one estate to another.
→ See family-friendly wine estates
Can you visit a wine château with a dog?
Yes, some estates welcome visitors with dogs, but conditions vary from one property to another. It is recommended that you check whether dogs are welcome when making your booking.
→ Discover dog-friendly activities
Where can you taste wine in Saint-Émilion?
You can taste Saint-Émilion wines at wine estates, wine shops and some establishments in the village. Some tastings are offered without a full tour, while others form part of a visit to an estate.
Can you taste wine in Saint-Émilion without taking a full tour?
Yes, some estates and establishments offer tastings without a full tour. Access conditions and opening times vary depending on the establishment.
Can you buy wine directly in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, you can buy wine in Saint-Émilion directly from wine estates, wine shops and the Maison des Vins. Some estates also allow you to order their wines directly after a visit.
What is the difference between Saint-Émilion and Saint-Émilion Grand Cru?
Saint-Émilion and Saint-Émilion Grand Cru are two distinct appellations in the Saint-Émilion wine region. They cover the same wine-growing area, but the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation's specifications include, among other things, lower yields and specific ageing and control requirements.
→ Find out more about Saint-Émilion appellations
Saint-Émilion with children
What can you do in Saint-Émilion with children?
Saint-Émilion offers several family-friendly activities, including treasure hunts, themed tours and activities introducing visitors to the vineyards.
Families can take part in a Terra Aventura trail, the Robin's Trails or certain child-friendly guided tours. Other activities are available depending on the season.
Can you visit Saint-Émilion with a pushchair?
Yes, but some of Saint-Émilion's streets are cobbled, narrow and steep. For greater comfort, a baby carrier may be preferable. The Tourist Office provides a map showing the streets that are most accessible with pushchairs.
→ Download the Saint-Émilion map
Saint-Émilion with your dog
Can you visit Saint-Émilion with a dog?
Yes, Saint-Émilion welcomes visitors with dogs and has been awarded the Toutourisme label. A dedicated guide identifies activities, tours and establishments suitable for visitors with pets.
→ Download the Toutourisme guide
Are dogs allowed on guided tours in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, dogs kept on a lead are allowed on some guided tours in Saint-Émilion. The current “Underground Saint-Émilion” tour, for example, allows dogs on a lead.
Which châteaux allow dogs in Saint-Émilion?
Some wine estates allow dogs, but conditions vary from one property to another. It is recommended that you check this directly with the estate before booking.
→ See dog-friendly wine estates
Accessibility
Is Saint-Émilion accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Saint-Émilion presents accessibility challenges due to its medieval heritage, including cobbled and sometimes steep streets. The Greater Saint-Émilion Tourist Office has held the Tourism & Disability (“Tourisme & Handicap”) label since 2026 and provides specific information and resources to help visitors plan an accessible visit.
→ Plan an accessible visit to Saint-Émilion
Can you visit Saint-Émilion in a wheelchair?
Yes, but not all streets and monuments in Saint-Émilion are wheelchair accessible. An adapted map identifies the most accessible routes. For guided tours, it is recommended that you contact the Tourist Office before booking to check accessibility conditions.
→ Download the accessibility map
Which monuments in Saint-Émilion are accessible to people with disabilities?
Accessibility varies depending on the monument and the visiting conditions. The Tourist Office can provide information about adapted tours and access conditions for the different sites.
→ See the accessibility brochure
Restaurants and accommodation
Where can you eat in Saint-Émilion?
Saint-Émilion offers a wide range of dining options, from fine-dining restaurants to traditional restaurants, wine bars, bakeries and takeaway options.
→ See restaurants in Saint-Émilion
Do you need to book a restaurant in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, it is advisable to book your restaurant in advance, particularly at weekends and during the peak tourist season. Some establishments fill up quickly.
Where can you stay in Saint-Émilion?
The Greater Saint-Émilion Area offers a range of accommodation, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, holiday cottages and campsites. You can stay in the village itself or in the surrounding municipalities.
→ See accommodation
Can you stay in a wine château in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, some wine estates and properties in the Greater Saint-Émilion Area offer accommodation. Options vary depending on the property.
→ Discover accommodation at wine estates
Practical information
Where can you find public toilets in Saint-Émilion?
Several public toilets are available in Saint-Émilion, both in the upper and lower parts of the village. Facilities can be found at Espace Villemaurine, Place Bouqueyre and near the wash houses.
→ See toilets on the village map
Is there a cash machine in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, there is a cash machine in Saint-Émilion. For its exact location, check the map or the Tourist Office's practical information.
Can you pay by card in Saint-Émilion?
Credit and debit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants and tourist services in Saint-Émilion. However, it is advisable to have another means of payment available for some small shops or service providers.
Is there a pharmacy in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, there is a pharmacy in Saint-Émilion. Check its listing for its address and opening hours, which may vary depending on the day and time of year.
Can you exchange currency in Saint-Émilion?
There is no currency exchange office in Saint-Émilion village. A currency exchange office is available in Libourne, around 10 minutes away by car.
Is there free Wi-Fi in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available at the Tourist Office and at the Maison des Vins.
Where can you find a launderette near Saint-Émilion?
A self-service launderette is located at 6 Rue des Écoles in Montagne, a few minutes from Saint-Émilion. It is open 7 days a week from 7am to 10pm. As prices and opening hours may change, check the latest information before travelling.
Where can you leave your luggage in Saint-Émilion?
There is currently no luggage storage facility at Saint-Émilion railway station or at the Tourist Office. If you arrive by train with luggage, you should therefore arrange storage before your visit.
What are the opening hours of the Saint-Émilion Tourist Office?
The Greater Saint-Émilion Tourist Office is open all year round, with opening hours varying according to the season. Specific closures may apply on certain days in winter and on 25 December.
→ See the Tourist Office's latest opening hours
Tips for visiting Saint-Émilion
How can you visit Saint-Émilion comfortably?
Wear comfortable, flat shoes when visiting Saint-Émilion, as the village has cobbled, sometimes steep and uneven streets. If you are visiting the underground monuments or certain cellars, also bring a warm layer: the temperature there is around 13°C.
What can you do in Saint-Émilion when it rains?
Rain does not prevent you from enjoying Saint-Émilion: the underground heritage and historic monuments provide opportunities to explore the destination under cover. The “Underground Saint-Émilion” tour allows you to discover several monuments carved into the limestone.
→ Discover things to do when it rains
Can you visit Saint-Émilion in winter?
Yes, Saint-Émilion can be visited all year round. Winter is a quieter time to discover the village, although the opening hours of some wine estates, restaurants and activities may be reduced.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Émilion?
Saint-Émilion can be visited all year round. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for exploring the village and vineyards, while summer is the busiest period. In July and August, consider visiting in the morning or at the end of the day for more comfortable conditions.
Markets, harvests and events
When is the Saint-Émilion market held?
The Saint-Émilion weekly market currently takes place on Tuesdays during the high season, at Parc Guadet. As dates and arrangements may change depending on the season, check the events calendar before your visit.
→ See the Saint-Émilion events calendar
What are the main events in Saint-Émilion?
The Greater Saint-Émilion Area hosts numerous cultural, heritage, music and wine events throughout the year. Highlights include Les Grandes Heures, Philosophia, Vino Voce, the Montgolfiades hot-air balloon festival and the Battle of Castillon.
→ See all events in the Greater Saint-Émilion Area
Is there a Christmas market in Saint-Émilion?
Yes, Christmas markets and festive activities are organised throughout the Greater Saint-Émilion Area during the festive season. Dates and locations vary from year to year.
When does the grape harvest take place in Saint-Émilion?
The grape harvest in Saint-Émilion generally takes place in September, but the exact timing depends on grape maturity and weather conditions for each vintage.
Can you take part in the grape harvest in Saint-Émilion?
It is possible to discover the world of the grape harvest through certain experiences and activities offered by wine estates. Opportunities vary from year to year depending on the estates and the harvest schedule.
