Bordeaux in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Bordeaux
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Wine cellars are at perfect temperature year-round - February's cool weather makes cellar-hopping comfortable without the summer crowds that pack châteaux from April-October
- Oyster season peaks in February - Arcachon Bay oysters are at their plumpest and most flavorful, with prices 30-40% lower than summer months
- Pruning season offers unique vineyard experiences - witness winter vineyard work and attend intimate tastings with winemakers who have more time before spring rush
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% from peak season - luxury properties in city center average €120-180 versus €250-400 in summer, with better availability
Considerations
- Limited château hours - many prestigious wineries reduce visits to weekends only or close entirely for maintenance during February
- Unpredictable rain disrupts outdoor plans - expect sudden downpours lasting 1-2 hours that can derail vineyard cycling or walking tours
- Shortened daylight until 6:30pm limits afternoon activities - outdoor wine tours must start earlier and indoor venues fill up quickly by 5pm
Best Activities in February
Saint-Émilion Winter Wine Tours
February is prime time for intimate château visits in this UNESCO village. Winemakers have more availability for detailed tastings, cellars maintain perfect 12-14°C (54-57°F) temperatures, and you'll avoid the tour bus crowds of warmer months. The medieval village looks atmospheric in winter light, and many estates offer special reserve tastings unavailable during busy season.
Bordeaux City Center Food Tours
February showcases winter specialties like canelés, fresh Périgord truffles, and comfort dishes at covered markets. The cool weather makes 3-4 hour walking food tours comfortable, and you'll experience authentic local dining without tourist markup. Les Capucins market and Marché des Grands Hommes offer seasonal products and warming indoor venues.
Arcachon Bay Oyster Farm Visits
February is peak oyster season when Gravette d'Arcachon oysters reach optimal flavor. The 45-minute train ride from Bordeaux to Arcachon Bay offers scenic winter coastlines, and oyster cabins provide cozy indoor tastings with harbor views. Prices are lowest before spring season, and farms offer educational tours about winter harvesting techniques.
Médoc Château Underground Cellar Tours
Winter weather makes Médoc's famous wine road perfect for château-hopping focused on underground cellars and barrel tastings. February offers access to prestigious estates like those near Pauillac and Margaux with more personalized attention from sommeliers. The cool, damp weather enhances the cellar experience, and you'll learn about winter wine processes.
Bordeaux Museum and Cultural Indoor Experiences
February's unpredictable weather makes Bordeaux's world-class museums ideal. La Cité du Vin offers interactive wine culture experiences in climate-controlled comfort, while Musée d'Aquitaine and CAPC contemporary art museum provide cultural depth. The newly renovated Bassins des Lumières digital art center in the submarine base offers spectacular immersive exhibitions.
Dordogne Valley Castle and Cave Tours
February offers uncrowded access to prehistoric caves like Lascaux IV and medieval castles throughout the Dordogne, 90 minutes from Bordeaux. Indoor cave tours maintain constant 13°C (55°F) temperatures, perfect for February weather, while castle visits offer cozy medieval halls with fewer tourists. Truffle season adds culinary appeal to day trips.
February Events & Festivals
Bordeaux Wine Festival Planning Season
While the main festival occurs in June, February is when wine professionals gather for industry tastings and early planning events. Visitors can access trade tastings at Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux and witness behind-scenes preparation at major wine institutions.
Truffle Season Peak
February marks peak Périgord truffle season in nearby Dordogne markets. Weekly truffle markets in Sarlat and Périgueux offer real feels, with locals bringing their harvest for sale. Many restaurants feature special truffle menus throughout the month.