How to Get to Bordeaux from New York [2025 Guide]

How to Get to Bordeaux from New York [2025 Guide]

Planning a trip from New York City to Bordeaux, France? Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, or just seeking a charming European escape, Bordeaux is an ideal destination. This comprehensive 2025 travel guide covers all the best ways to get to Bordeaux from New York—including flights, trains, and local transport—with travel tips to help you plan a smooth journey.

✈️ Best Way to Get to Bordeaux from New York: Flights

The most convenient way to reach Bordeaux from New York is by air. While there are no direct flights from NYC to Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD), several one-stop options make it easy to connect via major European hubs.

Airlines offering one-stop service in 2025:

• Air France via Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• Lufthansa via Frankfurt (FRA)
• KLM via Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)
• British Airways via London Heathrow (LHR)
• Iberia via Madrid (MAD)

Departure airports from NYC:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Flight duration: ~10–12 hours total (including layover)
Bordeaux Airport Code: BOD

🚄 How to Travel from Paris to Bordeaux by Train

If you fly into Paris, you can easily connect to Bordeaux via high-speed rail. The TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) is a fast and scenic way to travel.

• Departure station: Paris Gare Montparnasse
• Arrival station: Bordeaux Saint-Jean
• Duration: Around 2 hours
• Operator: SNCF (French national rail service)
• Booking: Tickets available on oui.sncf

🚌 Bus from Paris or Other Cities to Bordeaux

For travelers on a tighter budget, long-distance buses are available between major French and European cities and Bordeaux.

Popular bus operators:

• FlixBus
• BlaBlaBus

Duration from Paris to Bordeaux: 8–9 hours
Perks: Wi-Fi, USB ports, and luggage included

🚗 Driving from New York to Bordeaux? Not Quite

Driving to Bordeaux from New York isn’t possible due to the Atlantic Ocean. However, you can rent a car upon arrival in Paris or Bordeaux for a self-guided road trip through southwest France, especially if you plan to visit nearby wine regions like Saint-Émilion or Médoc.

🚢 Is There a Cruise or Ferry from New York to Bordeaux?

While not a common route, some transatlantic cruises depart from New York and make port calls in French coastal cities like Le Havre. From there, Bordeaux can be reached by train. These cruises are seasonal and can take several days to cross the Atlantic.

🧭 Suggested Travel Itinerary

1. Fly from New York to Paris CDG (Air France or Delta)
2. Take the TGV train from Paris Gare Montparnasse to Bordeaux
3. Optional: Rent a car in Bordeaux to explore wine country

🛂 Visa and Travel Requirements (2025)

As of 2025, U.S. citizens can visit France for up to 90 days without a visa under the Schengen Agreement. However, you must register with ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before traveling. Apply online before departure.

🧠 FAQs

Q: How do I get to Bordeaux from New York?
To get to Bordeaux from New York, fly to a major European hub like Paris, London, or Amsterdam, then take a connecting flight or a high-speed TGV train to Bordeaux. Total travel time is typically 10–14 hours.

Q: Is there a direct flight from New York to Bordeaux?
There are no direct flights from New York to Bordeaux in 2025. However, one-stop flights with airlines like Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa connect via European cities.

Q: How long is the train from Paris to Bordeaux?
The high-speed TGV train from Paris to Bordeaux takes around 2 hours. Trains run frequently from Paris Gare Montparnasse to Bordeaux Saint-Jean station.

Q: Can I get to Bordeaux by cruise from New York?
While there are no regular cruises directly to Bordeaux, some transatlantic cruises from New York stop in France. From there, Bordeaux is accessible by train or domestic flights.

Q: Do I need a visa to travel from New York to Bordeaux?
U.S. citizens don’t need a visa for short stays in France but must register with ETIAS before traveling to any EU Schengen country, including France.

🧳 Final Tips for Traveling from NYC to Bordeaux in 2025

• Book flights early to get the best prices on connecting routes.
• Consider flying into Paris and enjoying a scenic TGV ride to Bordeaux.
• Use SNCF Connect for French train schedules and reservations.
• Carry a universal travel adapter for European sockets.
• Don’t forget to register with ETIAS before departure.

Trusted Sources

• U.S. Department of State – France Travel
• SNCF – French National Rail
• ETIAS – European Travel Authorization