Bordeaux in March

September hits the sweet spot—harvest season means the vineyards are buzzing with activity, temperatures hover around 22°C, and you'll catch the tail end of summer festivals. May through July works beautifully too, with long days perfect for riverside walks and outdoor dining. August gets hot and crowded with French vacationers, but the Bordeaux Wine Festival happens every two years in June (next one's 2026), turning the riverfront into one massive wine party. Winter isn't terrible—fewer crowds, cozy wine bars, Christmas markets—but many châteaux close for the season, and that Atlantic weather can be moody.