Bordeaux in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Bordeaux
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Vignerons open their chai doors for spring tastings before tourist season - many estates offer barrel samples of new vintage unavailable to summer visitors
- April marks the start of asparagus season in Bordeaux - local markets overflow with white Landes asparagus paired perfectly with young Bordeaux whites
- Château gardens reach peak bloom without summer crowds - you'll have places like Parc Bordelais and Jardin Public nearly to yourself on weekdays
- Hotel rates remain 30-40% lower than May-September peak season, with luxury properties in Saint-Émilion still offering shoulder season pricing
Considerations
- Unpredictable rainfall means 10 days of showers averaging 20-30 minutes each - outdoor vineyard tours frequently get rescheduled or moved indoors
- Cool mornings at 8°C (46°F) require layers that become cumbersome by afternoon when temperatures hit 18°C (64°F)
- Some riverside restaurants and seasonal wine bars don't fully reopen until May 1st, limiting waterfront dining options along the Garonne
Best Activities in April
Underground Wine Cave Tours
April's cool, damp weather makes this perfect for exploring Bordeaux's limestone caves beneath the city. The 14°C (57°F) constant temperature feels comfortable when it's drizzling above ground. Many caves offer exclusive spring tastings of wines aged in these natural cellars, unavailable during busy summer months.
Right Bank Château Visits
Saint-Émilion and Pomerol estates are less crowded in April, offering intimate tastings impossible in summer. Vignerons have time to discuss terroir and winemaking techniques. Spring pruning season means you'll see vineyard work in action. Cool weather is ideal for the 2 km (1.2 mile) walks between châteaux.
Covered Market Food Tours
April showcases spring produce at Marché des Capucins and Marché Saint-Michel. White asparagus season peaks now, along with early strawberries from Périgord. Covered markets provide shelter during brief April showers while offering tastings of seasonal specialties like canelés and fresh oysters from Arcachon Bay.
Museum and Cultural Center Visits
Rainy April days are perfect for Bordeaux's world-class museums. CAPC contemporary art museum and Musée d'Aquitaine offer climate-controlled environments and special spring exhibitions. The new Cité du Vin has interactive wine experiences ideal when outdoor vineyard visits are weather-dependent.
Garonne River Cruises
April's mild temperatures make river cruises comfortable with provided blankets and covered seating areas. Spring high water levels from mountain snowmelt create optimal cruising conditions. You'll see Bordeaux's UNESCO-listed architecture without summer heat haze, and many boats offer wine tastings during the 90-minute cruises.
Médoc Bicycle Tours
Cool April weather is ideal for cycling between châteaux in the Médoc. Morning temperatures around 10°C (50°F) warm to comfortable 16°C (61°F) by afternoon. Spring vineyard scenery with budding vines and fewer tour buses make this the year's best cycling season. Routes cover 15-25 km (9-16 miles) at leisurely pace.
April Events & Festivals
Printemps des Vins de Blaye
Annual spring wine festival in the Blaye region featuring over 50 local producers offering tastings in historic châteaux and along the Gironde estuary. Features barrel tastings of new vintages and traditional food pairings with local cheeses and charcuterie.
Marché aux Fleurs Extraordinaire
Extended spring flower market takes over Place des Grands Hommes with specialty vendors from across Aquitaine. Local gardening workshops and demonstrations of traditional French garden design alongside spring plant sales.