15 days in Bordeaux & Marseille Itinerary

With a long history of producing regional wines since the Romans brought grapevines here during the first century, so many people consider Bordeaux to be the wine capital of the world.

Do some cultural sightseeing at Place de la Bourse and Chateau Cantenac. Change things up with these side-trips from Bordeaux: La Rochelle (Aquarium La Rochelle & Spas), Chateau Gravas (in Barsac) and Chateau Siaurac (in Neac). There's much more to do: admire the landmark architecture of La Cite du Vin, snap pictures at Pont de Pierre, admire the natural beauty at Jardin Public, and make a trip to Quinconces Esplanade (Esplanade des Quinconces).

To find where to stay, more things to do, ratings, and tourist information, refer to the Bordeaux trip itinerary planner.

Washington DC, USA to Bordeaux is an approximately 14.5-hour flight. Traveling from Washington DC to Bordeaux, you'll lose 6 hours due to the time zone difference. In November, daily temperatures in Bordeaux can reach 57°F, while at night they dip to 44°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 3rd (Thu) early enough to travel to Marseille.

The 2013 European "Capital of Culture," Marseille is the largest port city on the breezy Mediterranean coast and the second largest city in France.

Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and The Panier. Explore Marseille's surroundings by going to Avignon (Musee Calvet, Pont d'Avignon, &more), Les Baux de Provence (Chateau des Baux de Provence & Carrieres des Lumieres) and Aix-en-Provence (Cours Mirabeau, Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence, &more). There's still lots to do: explore the world behind art at Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, wander the streets of La Croisette, get to know the fascinating history of Vallon des Auffes, and take in the waterfront at Le Vieux Port.

To see photos, more things to do, and tourist information, read our Marseille planner.

Getting from Bordeaux to Marseille by flight takes about 3.5 hours. Other options: drive; or take a train. When traveling from Bordeaux in December, plan for somewhat warmer days in Marseille, with highs around 56°F, while nights are about the same with lows around 40°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 10th (Thu) to allow time for travel back home.