Primarily famous for its wine and stunning old town, there are many beautiful places to see in Bordeaux. Both in the city and its beautiful surroundings, you can enjoy its personal charm while learning about the history and customs of one of the most important cities in France. With an unparalleled wealth of history and culture, Bordeaux is one of the most popular destinations in France. In this article we’ll tell you about the must-see places, the things to do, and also give you a travel itinerary with all the key points so you can organise your trip super easily and quickly.
Let’s go!
What are the best places to see in Bordeaux?
1. Saint-Pierre District
The Saint Pierre district is the historic heart of Bordeaux. That’s right: this is the place where one should start walking aimlessly. You can lose yourself in its many cobblestone streets while discovering the true essence of Bordeaux.
In some of its streets you will find jewels dating back to the Middle Ages. For example the Grosse Cloche, an ancient bell tower considered to be one of the most beautiful in France. Along the narrow streets, you will find small artisan stalls and excellent places to stop for lunch. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
2. Saint-Andre’s Cathedral
The Saint-Andre Cathedral is probably the most important historical monument to see in Bordeaux. This Gothic style church was declared a World Heritage Site because it began to be part of the Camino de Santiago.
Located in the Pey Berland square, it was originally supposed to have four towers with a bell tower. Finally, only two were built: one of them, the most important, is known as the Pey Berland Tower.
- How much does it cost to enter Saint-Andre Cathedral? Entrance to the cathedral is completely free, and if you want to climb the Pey Berland Tower, it costs just €6.
- What are the opening times of Saint-Andre Cathedral? The cathedral is open on Mondays from 14:00 to 19:00, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00, and on Sundays from 9:30 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00.
3. Water Mirror
The Miroir d’eau is one of the most iconic works of the eighteenth century French architecture. Also considered a Contemporary World Heritage Site, it is located in the Place de la Bourse. Definitely one of the first things you must see in Bordeaux.
It is not surprising to find out that it is one of the favourite places in the city among tourists and locals alike. In addition, it has fascinating mirror effect along the entire square. It is absolutely necessary to capture the magic of that moment!
4. Bourse Square in Bordeaux France
The first place that should top your list of things to see in Bordeaux is, without a doubt, the Place de la Bourse. Striking for its classic 18th century style, you can’t leave Bordeaux without visiting this marvel.
Located very close to the port, it took no less than twenty years to build this square; at the time it was a key point to link the city with the Garonne river. In this square you will also find the Customs Museum, an impressive building.
5. City of Wine in Bordeaux France
You have probably heard about how good Bordeaux wine is. This is not surprising considering that it even has its own City of Wine.
Located on the banks of the Garonne River, this place is a temple with a very peculiar architecture. Its shape is reminiscent of a grape vine. Inside you can enjoy an experience that will activate your senses while tasting some of the best wines in the world. What are you waiting for?
6. Stone Bridge
One of the best things to do in Bordeaux is to visit the Stone Bridge, the oldest in the city. This structure that forms a walkway full of arches was commissioned by Napoleon himself.
This bridge allows you to cross the beautiful Garonne River from end to end. It offers spectacular views of the Bordeaux skyline. Its passage is strictly limited to pedestrians, tram and bicycles, so it is ideal for a stroll. You will love it!
7. Cailhau’s Gate
A short distance from the Place de la Bourse is this gate, formed by a slender Gothic-Renaissance tower. In its day it was part of the wall that protected the city.
This tower is certainly an architectural jewel. It gives access to one of the most important districts of Bordeaux: the Saint-Pierre district. Inside you can enjoy a brief exhibition on the historical evolution of the city. In addition, you will enjoy some great views on the top floor.
8. Wine and Business Museum
As one of the best things to do in Bordeaux whether it is a grey day or not, the Wine and Business Museum is a 100% recommended if you are in the city.
Due to the great cultural value of wine in Bordeaux, inside you can discover more details about the history of this drink and the evolution of its business in the city. There is a large collection of objects and visual aids explaining the classification of wine and the work in the cellars, among other topics.
- How much does the entrance to the Wine and Business Museum cost? If you buy your ticket at the ticket office, the price is €10. If you buy your ticket online, it can cost around 7€/8€.
- What are the opening times of the Wine and Business Museum? The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 to 13:30 and from 17:00 to 20:30, and then on Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:30, while on Sundays it is only open in the morning from 10:00 to 14:00.
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9. Chartrons District
If you want to enjoy an alternative atmosphere during your trip to Bordeaux, do not hesitate to visit the Chartrons district. Also located in the northern part of the historic center, in this neighborhood you will find a typical bourgeois-bohemian atmosphere.
Meanwhile, in its streets you will find a multitude of antique shops, wine cellars and other curious stores. We recommend starting your visit on Rue Notre-Dame, where you will be fascinated by the striking mix of traditional shops and modern boutiques. An authentic experience in Bordeaux.
10. Quinconces Square
This square is, without a doubt, a must-see to add to your travel list. Not only is it the largest square in Bordeaux, but it has so much to offer.
Due to a good amount of trees around it, this square usually hosts many events throughout the year, from circuses to concerts or flea markets.
Additionally, in the center you’ll find an impressive monument that you must visit: the Column of the Girondins, crowned by a Statue of Liberty. Do not forget to take a picture!
11. Sainte-Catherine Street
Located between two very important squares in Bordeaux, the Place de la Comedie and the Place de la Victoire, this street is one of the longest shopping avenues in Europe.
Meanwhile, in this street you can enjoy a pleasant walk to see the clothing stores of the most acclaimed brands. In addition, there are a variety of cafes where you can enjoy a good coffee or hot chocolate to go.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What are the best activities to do in Bordeaux France?
1. Boat ride along Garonne River
Strolling along the banks of the Garonne River is a real treat, but imagine doing it from a boat cruising along it!
As one of our favourite things to do in Bordeaux, you can enjoy a completely different perspective of the city from one of the little boats – you can even enjoy lunch or dinner on board!
- How much does it cost to take a boat trip on the Garonne River? There are many options for a boat trip on the river, depending on your budget and interests. Prices can range from €15 for one hour on a small boat to €55 for two hours on a luxury cruise.
2. Dinner at Place du Parlement
During your trip to Bordeaux you will discover an infinite amount of squares of all styles and sizes; among them is the Place du Parlement.
In addition to its great location in the city centre, it provides beautiful views as it is surrounded by buildings that are beautiful decorated and has a fountain in the centre. We recommend dining in one of its restaurants while you enjoy the beauty and vibrancy of this place.
3. Visit the Utopia Cinema
The Utopia Cinema is not a cinema like any other. What makes this place really special is the building it is in: an old church from the fifteenth century.
In addition to being able to admire its interior decoration, the films shown in this cinema are far from the mainstream. You can also choose from a wide range of foreign films shown in the original language. An alternative plan to spend a good evening in Bordeaux.
- How much does it cost to see a film at the Utopia Cinema? You can enjoy the film of your choice for as little as €3.50 or €4, depending on the time slot.
4. Walk through the Jardin Public
Located in the very centre of Bordeaux, the Jardin Public is an ideal place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
You can walk along the banks of a small lake and watch the ducklings, or even access the botanical garden inside. If you travel to Bordeaux in spring or summer, you can also enjoy some of the special events that take place in the garden throughout the year. Some of them are book fairs, dances, and even music festivals!
Things to do around Bordeaux France
1. Visit Pilat Dune
One of the most striking things to see around Bordeaux is definitely its natural wealth. Being one of the most impressive natural sites in the Aquitaine region, you can’t leave the city without visiting the Pilat Dune.
Besides being the largest sand dune in Europe, in this place you almost feel as if you were in the Sahara desert. Also, we recommend mustering up the courage to climb to the top to enjoy the spectacular views that this place offers. You won’t regret it!
@elenamouttet | @elenamouttet | @leku
2. Roadtrip to Arcachon
The village of Arcachon is about 65 kilometers from Bordeaux, and is one of the most popular summer resorts in the area.
What makes this town so charming is the combination of the beach, the people and the peaceful atmosphere. It has a certain similarity to some of the villages of the Côte d’Azur. Definitely a wonderful place if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a relaxing morning.
3. Take a trip to Saint-Emilion
There is a lot to do in Bordeaux, but also in its surroundings. If you want to discover more about the local wine, you cannot miss a trip to Saint-Emilion.
Besides being one of the most beautiful medieval villages near Bordeaux, what is really worthwhile is visiting some of its wineries and strolling through its long stretches of vineyards. You will be able to taste and learn more about this acclaimed beverage.
@mariarozanova | @eiderleuna | @mariarozanova
Bordeaux route map
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Things to do in Bordeaux France in 1 day
- Walk around the Bourse Square
- Stroll trought Saint Pierre District
- Take a picture of the Water Mirror
- Visit the Chartrons District
- Discover the City of Wine
Things to do in Bordeaux France in 3 days
- Admire Saint-Andre’s Cathedral
- Cross the Stone Bridge
- Take a boat trip on the Garonne River
- Visit the Wine and Business Museum
- Watch a movie at the Utopia Cinema
- Walk around the Quinconces Square
- Go shopping on Saint-Catherine Street
- Reach the top of he Pilat Dune
- Taste wine at Saint-Emilion
Frequent questions
– At La Belle Campagne, located on Rue des Bahutiers, you can enjoy the best local food in Bordeaux with menus ranging from 16€-32€.
– At Le KBaroque, in the Chartrons district, you will find an extensive menu of the most traditional French cuisine in a glamorous setting.
– At Le Bistrot du Gabriel, located in the heart of the Place de la Bourse, you can try the most economical version of one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux. It offers menus ranging from 20€-30€.
In the center of Bordeaux, the only means of transport allowed is the tramway and the bicycle, in order to reduce traffic and pollution.
– The main transport is the tramway, which has numerous lines that allow you to move comfortably throughout the city.
– You can take a cab to move around Bordeaux, not including the centre.
– You can rent a bike for 15€/day to get around the city at your own pace.
– You can rent a car for quicker and more direct access via the A63 road from Bordeaux.
– You can take a TGV or TER train from Bordeaux to Arcachon station, which takes about an hour and a half, and then take a bus to Dune de Pilat, which takes about 20 minutes.
– You can cycle by taking the bike path in the direction of Teste de Buch or Pyla sur Mer. The bike ride is about three and a half hours one way, and it will be another three and a half hours on the return trip.
– The price per person is 15€.
– You can rent the boat for 10 people for 150€.
How to plan your itinerary of the places you want to see in Bordeaux France?
Download the Passporter app and plan your trip in the most organized way and according to the days and places you want to see in Bordeaux France.
With the app you can:
- Get inspired by the experiences of other travelers.
- Save information about the destinations you want to visit and that you have found on the internet. Just install the Chrome extension and save everything useful for your trip.
- Save tickets and reservations.
- Organize your route on Google maps having as a starting point your accommodation or any other that you indicate.
- Get the best travel option for each place.
- Save and publish your own photos and experiences as you go along, so that when someone asks you “How was your trip to Bordeaux?” you can reply “Visit my traveller profile on Passporter!”
If you want to learn more about how to get the most out of the Passporter app, you can read our post: How to create your travel itinerary with Passporter.
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