The Bassin des Lumières

The Bassin des Lumières is a must-see destination for fans of digital art and immersive experiences. Located in the former submarine base of the city Located in Bordeaux, this art center features monumental exhibitions that immerse visitors in the works of the greatest artists.

History and transformation of the submarine base

Built during World War II, the Bordeaux submarine base initially served as a shelter for German submarines. With its imposing walls and rugged architecture, it long remained a symbol of the city’s military past. In 2018, the city of Bordeaux issued a call for proposals to renovate the site. The company «Culturespaces» was selected to transform the base into a digital art center. After extensive renovations, the Bassin des Lumières opened its doors to the public on June 10, 2020.

The Basin of Lights - A unique immersive experience

The Bassin des Lumières boasts impressive dimensions: four 110-meter-long basins, offering a projection surface of 12,000 m². Thanks to 90 video projectors, the works are projected onto walls, ceilings, and even onto water, creating a fully immersive experience for visitors. The exhibitions feature iconic artists such as Gustav Klimt, Paul Klee, Claude Monet, and Salvador Dalí, allowing visitors to rediscover their works from a new perspective.

Programming and exhibitions

Since its opening, the Bassin des Lumières has offered a rich program:

• 2020 : «Gustav Klimt: Gold and Color» and «Paul Klee: Painting Music.».
• 2021 : «Monet, Renoir… Chagall, Journeys in the Mediterranean» and «Yves Klein, The Infinite Blue.».
• 2022 : «Venice, La Serenissima» and «Joaquín Sorolla.».
• 2023 : «Dalí, the Endless Enigma» and «Gaudí, Architect of the Imagination.».
• 2024 : «From Vermeer to Van Gogh: The Dutch Masters» and «The Little Prince: An Immersive Odyssey.».

These exhibitions offer a sensory immersion into the heart of the works, combining visual projections and soundscapes for an unforgettable experience.

The Bassins à flot district

The Bassin des Lumières is located in the Bassins à Flot neighborhood, a rapidly evolving area that blends industrial heritage with modernity. Once dedicated to port activities, the neighborhood has undergone a major transformation over the past few decades. Today, it is home to contemporary housing, offices, cultural spaces, and entertainment venues. Its proximity to the Garonne River and the docks provides a pleasant setting for walks, with landscaped waterfronts and breathtaking views of the river.

Other tourist attractions in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city rich in heritage and attractions. Here is a selection of must-see sites:

The Place de la Bourse and the Pond

A symbol of 18th-century classical architecture, the Place de la Bourse is one of the most beautiful squares in Bordeaux. Across from it, the Miroir d’eau, inaugurated in 2006, offers a fascinating spectacle by reflecting the facades of the buildings and creating mist-like effects.

The Cité du Vin

A museum dedicated to wine and its culture, thehe Cité du Vin offers an interactive tour to explore the history of wine around the world. Its bold architecture, reminiscent of the swirling motion of wine in a glass, has become a modern symbol of the city

Le Grand Théâtre

A masterpiece by architect Victor Louis, the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is a remarkable example of neoclassical architecture. Opened in 1780, it is now home to the Opéra National de Bordeaux and offers a varied program throughout the year.

Pey-Berland Tower and Saint-André Cathedral

The Pey-Berland Tower, a bell tower separate from Saint-André Cathedral, offers a panoramic view of the city after climbing its 231 steps. The cathedral itself is an iconic Gothic monument where Eleanor of Aquitaine married the future King Louis VII.

The Stone Bridge

First bridge built in Bordeaux under Napoleon I, the Stone Bridge connects the two banks of the Garonne. With its 17 arches, it offers a picturesque view of the city and is a popular strolling spot for Bordeaux residents and visitors alike.

The Musée d’Aquitaine

This museum traces the history of Bordeaux and its region, from prehistory to the present day. Its rich and varied collections offer a journey through time, highlighting the cultural and historical heritage of Aquitaine.

FAQ Bassins des Lumières Bordeaux

How to get to the Bassin des Lumières?

To get to the Bassin des Lumières from downtown Bordeaux :

• Tramway : Take Line C toward Blanquefort or Parc des Expositions and get off at the stop Ravezies.

• Bus : From the Ravezies stop, take bus No. 9 toward Brandenburg and get off at the stop Submarine Baselocated just a 5-minute walk from the Bassin des Lumières.

Please note that the nearest tram stop is, Les Aubiers (line C), is a 21-minute walk from the site.

What is the program for the Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux in 2025?

From February 21, 2025, the Bassin des Lumières presents four new immersive exhibitions:

• Egypt of the Pharaohs : An exploration of the treasures and mysteries of ancient Egypt, from the pyramids to the majestic temples.

• The Orientalists : A journey through the works of 19th-century Western painters, such as Ingres and Delacroix, who were inspired by the East.

• Entropy : A contemporary work that reflects on chaos and order in our universe.

• The Giants Another contemporary creation featuring monumental figures in a striking visual universe.

Which streetcar to take to get to the Bassin des Lumières in Bordeaux?

The nearest tramway to the Bassin des Lumières is the C. Get off at the stop Ravezies, then take bus No. 9 to the stop Submarine Base.

What is the Bassin des Lumières?

Visit Bassin des Lumières is the world's largest digital art center, located in the former submarine base in Bordeaux. It features immersive exhibitions where artworks are projected onto walls and bodies of water, creating a unique sensory experience for visitors.

For more information and to plan your visit, visit the official Bassins des Lumières website.