Things To Do
in Coutras

Coutras is a charming commune located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. Nestled between the bustling cities of Bordeaux and Libourne, it offers a tranquil escape with its picturesque landscapes and rich history. The town is known for its beautiful architecture, including the historic Church of Saint-Pierre.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of rural French life while being close to urban amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Coutras
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of Saint-Pierre, where you can admire its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before exploring the quaint streets of Coutras, stopping at local shops and markets.

evening
:

Dinner at a traditional French restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short drive to the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne for a morning hike amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Return to Coutras for lunch, then visit local art galleries to appreciate regional artistry.

evening
:

End your trip with a wine tasting experience at a local vineyard, enjoying the flavors of the Bordeaux wine region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍷Glass of local wine$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Proximity to Bordeaux and scenic vineyards
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Fewer dining choices compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may be less frequent
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci beaucoup" - Thank you very much
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Coutras

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Saint-Pierre

Capture the stunning architecture and intricate details of this historic church, especially during the golden hour.

Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne

A scenic park that offers numerous natural landscapes perfect for nature photography.

Local Vineyards

Photograph the beautiful rows of grapevines, particularly during the harvest season.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coutras

Coutras offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of southwestern France. From traditional dishes to local wines, visitors will find a variety of options to satisfy their taste buds.

Coutras Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Confit de Canard

A classic dish made from duck leg slowly cooked in its own fat, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Must-Try!

Canelé

A small pastry with a soft custard center and a caramelized crust, originating from Bordeaux.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Coutras Market

A vibrant weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coutras enjoys a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in autumn and spring. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, particularly in the cooler months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants, and use 'Merci' when leaving.

Dining Manners

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out, as the French place importance on appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coutras is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Coutras

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) in restaurants if service is not included. Round up your bill for smaller cafés.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is advisable for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Coutras is mild, with blooming flowers and increasing tourist activity. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring local markets.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather, making it perfect for vineyard visits and outdoor dining. Expect more tourists and vibrant local events.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage and the grape harvest season, ideal for wine enthusiasts and outdoor photography.

Winter

Winter is cooler and quieter, with occasional festive markets and lights, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Nightlife Guide

Coutras at Night

Coutras features a relaxed nightlife with a few local bars and cafés where you can enjoy wine, live music, and socializing with locals. While not as vibrant as larger cities, it offers a cozy atmosphere for winding down after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Coutras

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Douves

This scenic trail offers a moderate hike along the old riverbanks, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching.

Les Coteaux du Libournais

A longer trail featuring stunning views of the Libourne vineyards and surrounding landscapes, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Coutras by plane.

Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport

Located about 45 km from Coutras, this international airport offers flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coutras is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance from one another. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. Biking is also a popular mode of transport in the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of French citizens, with a mix of families and retirees enjoying the peaceful rural lifestyle.

Tourists

Visitors from both France and abroad come to explore the historical and natural attractions, particularly during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs fostering a strong community spirit and regular matches.

Cycling

Given the scenic countryside, cycling is a favored activity, with many enthusiasts enjoying the trails and roads around Coutras.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Coutras is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include local buses that connect Coutras to nearby towns and cities, although services may be limited during off-peak hours. Visitors should consider renting a bike to explore the area more freely.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coutras.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Coutras offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Coutras is accessible, with a local pharmacy and medical clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious health issues, residents typically travel to larger cities like Bordeaux, where hospitals and specialized care are located. It’s advisable for travelers to have insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide