St. Emilion, France

St. Emilion is a hilltop village in France’s Bordeaux wine region.

Overview

St. Emilion, France Cruise Port

St. Emilion, a captivating medieval village nestled amidst rolling vineyards in the heart of Bordeaux's famed wine region, is a highlight for many river cruise passengers exploring the Dordogne or Garonne rivers in southwestern France. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, St. Emilion is celebrated not only for its exceptional wines, particularly its rich Merlot-dominated reds, but also for its remarkably preserved historical core, much of which is carved directly into the limestone.

This enchanting village invites visitors to step back in time, wandering its cobbled streets, exploring its impressive monolithic church (the largest in Europe), and delving into a fascinating subterranean world of catacombs and ancient quarries. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, St. Emilion offers a quintessential French experience, blending centuries of winemaking tradition with profound historical and architectural beauty.

Top Things to Do in St. Emilion, France

Explore the Monolithic Church

Discover the remarkable Monolithic Church, the largest underground church in Europe, carved entirely out of a single limestone rock. Take a guided tour to explore its vast interior, learn about its history, and marvel at this unique architectural feat.

Tip: Access to the Monolithic Church is only possible via a guided tour, which can be booked at the tourist office. Tours often sell out, especially in peak season, so consider booking in advance.

Indulge in Wine Tasting at a Grand Cru Estate

St. Emilion is synonymous with world-class wine. Take the opportunity to indulge in a wine tasting at one of its prestigious vineyards, many of which hold the coveted "Grand Cru Classé" designation. Learn about the winemaking process and savor the region's rich red wines.

Tip: Many excursions will include a wine tasting, but if you have free time, seek out a smaller, family-run vineyard for a more personal experience.

Climb the Bell Tower of the Monolithic Church

For breathtaking panoramic views of St. Emilion and the surrounding vineyards, climb the bell tower located above the Monolithic Church. From its summit, you'll gain an unparalleled perspective of the village's rooftops, the patchwork of vineyards, and the distant horizon.

Tip: The climb involves many steps, but the reward of the view is well worth the effort. It's also an excellent photo opportunity.

Wander the Cobbled Streets and Enjoy the Medieval Charm

Simply get lost in the cobbled, winding streets of St. Emilion. Discover charming squares, hidden archways, artisan boutiques, and quaint cafes. The entire village is a joy to explore on foot, allowing you to soak in its medieval atmosphere.

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the streets are often steep and uneven. Take your time to browse the local shops offering regional delicacies and wine-related souvenirs.

Visit the Underground Quarries and Catacombs

Explore more of St. Emilion's fascinating subterranean world beyond the Monolithic Church. Guided tours often include visits to ancient underground quarries and catacombs, revealing the history of limestone extraction and early Christian burials.

Tip: The underground tours can be cool, even in summer, so a light jacket is advisable.

See the King's Keep (Le Château du Roi)

Discover the King's Keep (Le Château du Roi), the only remaining Romanesque keep in Gironde. Climb its tower for a different perspective of the village and learn about its historical role, including its use for the annual "Jurade" ceremony, where local winegrowers taste and judge the new vintage.

Tip: If you're visiting in September, you might witness the Jurade wine festival, a colorful and historic event.

Overview