Things to do in Aquitaine

All about Aquitaine

When to visit

Aquitaine is vast, and there’s never a bad time to visit. Tourists flock here in the summer to spend languid days with their toes in the sand, while surfers catch waves without the crowds during the Atlantic swells in winter. Bordeaux, the largest city in Aquitaine, is always lively, but the Bordeaux Wine Festival in late June is particularly exciting, often regarded as the finest wine festival in the world.

Getting around

How to get around depends on where you want to visit. Aquitaine is a large area; you won’t cover it all in one trip! Many people base themselves in the city (usually Bordeaux) and take day trips out to the vineyards, beaches, and châteaux, but if you prefer the countryside, stay in the Dordogne. Having a car is practical if you plan to explore the whole region. Alternatively, book organized tours from Bordeaux.

Traveler tips

Bordeaux and the Dordogne hog the limelight in Aquitaine, but how much do you know about France’s Basque Country? Quieter beaches, sangria, and the village of Espelette, which produces France’s only chili pepper, make the Basque Country in southern Aquitaine perfect for travelers looking to get off the beaten track. The beaches in Hossengor, Hendaye, and the little fishing villages in between are a surfer’s paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest town in Aquitaine?

Bordeaux is the largest town in Aquitaine and the sixth-largest city in France. It’s known for being the capital of the most famous wine region in the world (wine museums and vineyards abound), spectacular architecture, notably the cathedral and main square, and centuries of history.

What is Aquitaine known for?

Aquitaine’s history is very famous. When Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II in 1152, Aquitaine became English until the end of the Hundred Years’ War, three centuries later. These days it’s known for the Saint-Émilion wine region, the châteaux of the Dordogne, and for producing some of France’s most famous culinary specialties (including foie gras).

Why should I visit Aquitaine?

Aquitaine has something for everyone. Sheltered sandy bays and long beaches for surfing, cuisine that varies from pintxos in the Basque Country to foie gras in Sarlat, some of the most famous wineries in the world, the Pyrenean mountains, and the city of Bordeaux—do you really need more reasons?

What food is Aquitaine known for?

Take a deep breath. Bordeaux wine, foie gras, truffles, Espelette chili peppers, Basque chicken, duck confit, cinnamon cake, walnuts, chestnuts, pate, caviar, cognac, strawberries, porcini mushrooms… we could go on. Follow the foie gras route for a road trip with a foodie theme.

What are the main tourist attractions in Aquitaine?

City-breakers should head to Bordeaux and day trip out to the various vineyards on the doorstep. Equally popular is the Dordogne region, known for its châteaux and markets (Sarlat has an outstanding market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays). Biarritz is France’s capital of surfing and a popular seaside resort.

Where is the best place to go in Aquitaine?

It depends on your interests, but a first-time visitor won’t go wrong staying in Bordeaux. As the largest city, it’s the easiest place for day trips to vineyards, villages, and châteaux. Prefer to get off the beaten track? Skip the vineyards at Saint-Émilion for the Lot, and stay in the Medieval city of Cahors, surrounded by Malbec vineyards.

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