Bordeaux Tour Guide

Bordeaux transcends the usual tourist imagination. This historic city, rich in culture and gastronomy, hase, is constantly evolving while preserving its liveliness. Visiting Bordeaux means explore a remarkable heritage recognized by UnescoBut also to immerse yourself in a dynamic and inventive atmosphere, conducive to exceptional experiences and leisure activities.

Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, a gourmet or a slow-tourist, Bordeaux is sure to satisfy your appetite for discovery!

This tourist guide reveals a wide range of activities and must-dos in Bordeaux.s. It's packed with practical recommendations, guided tour options, unmissable points of interest and tips on how to make the most of your visit. Let us guide you!

Discover Bordeaux's heritage

Let's explore Bordeaux, a city celebrated for its rich historical and cultural heritage, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover below some of the city's most emblematic monuments and sites.

La Cité du Vin: an immersion in the world of wine

La Cité du Vin stands out for its immersive wine experienceThis building, remarkable for its innovative architecture, houses a permanent interactive exhibition, enriched by temporary exhibitions, tasting sessions, screenings, lectures and various workshops. The building, remarkable for its innovative architecture, houses a permanent interactive exhibition, enriched by temporary exhibitions, tasting sessions, screenings, conferences and various workshops.

Don't miss the panoramic view of Bordeaux from the Belvedere, where you'll be offered a wine tasting. Open daily from 10am to 7pm.

The Miroir d'Eau and Place de la Bourse: architectural icons

The Water Mirrorthe largest installation of its kind in the worlde, covers an area of 3,450 m2 and is located opposite the Place de la Bourse, an imposing 18th-century building.

This enchanting place offers a visual spectacle fluctuating between shimmering reflections and evanescent mists, capturing the elegant facades of the square, famous for its beauty and a testament to Bordeaux's golden age. At the heart of the square stands the Fontaine des Trois Grâces, emblematic of the city.

Saint-André Cathedral and Pey-Berland Tower

Bordeaux's spiritual emblem, Saint-André Cathedral has been the scene of many historic eventss, including the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1137. This Gothic cathedral features a majestic nave, colorful stained glass windows and a finely sculpted portal. Pey-Berland Tower, independent bell towerThe church of Notre-Dame d'Aquitaine stands proudly beside it, offering a breathtaking view of the city after climbing 229 steps.

The Grand Théâtre: a jewel of the 18th century

The Grand Théâtre, a jewel of neo-classical architecture inaugurated in 1780is praised as one of the world's most elegant theaters. Its façade is crowned by 12 Corinthian columns supporting statues of muses and goddesses. It is home to the Opéra National de Bordeaux and the Ballet National, promising top-quality performances. Inside, the grandiose staircase, artistically painted ceiling and Italian-style auditorium will captivate you.

A culinary and oenological adventure

If you're looking for authentic moments, whether it's a traditional market, an exceptional wine tasting or a regional specialty, Bordeaux is the place for you. Visiting Bordeaux, renowned for its gourmet delights, reveals an incomparable palette of flavors and local products. Discover our recommendations for a memorable gastronomic experience.

Local markets: Capucins and Chartrons

Exploring the markets is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of fresh, seasonal produce, and to share warm moments with the Bordelais. The city is home to numerous markets, among which the Marché des Capucins and the Marché des Chartrons stand out. Nicknamed "the belly of Bordeaux", the Marché des Capucins is the oldest and largest, offering a wide range of products: charcuterie, cheeses, fruit, vegetables, fish, shellfish, not forgetting spices and flowers.

You can also enjoy a gourmet break on site, with oysters, tapas, crêpes or cannelés. The Capucins market is open Tuesday to Sunday, 6am to 2pm. The more recent Chartrons market, located along the banks of the Garonne, offers high-quality products, including international dishes such as sushi, nems, samoussas and empanadas. You'll also find handicrafts, books, clothes and jewelry. The Chartrons market opens its doors to you on Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Wine tasting in the Bordeaux vineyards

Bordeaux, the undisputed wine capital, is home to more than 60 appellations and over 7,000 châteaux.. It would be unthinkable to leave this city without tasting its prestigious wines. For total immersion, opt for a vineyard tour, discovering landscapes, cellars, winemaking techniques and, of course, tasting wines. A variety of tours are available to suit all budgets and preferences, exploring different wine-growing regions such as Médoc, Saint-Émilion and Sauternes, and discovering red, white, rosé and sweet wines to suit your tastes.

For those who prefer to stay in town, tasting workshops offer an introduction to the secrets of Bordeaux wines, helping you to identify aromas, grape varieties and perfect food and wine pairings. These workshops are available in key Bordeaux locations, such as the Cité du Vin and the Office de Tourisme.

Bordeaux specialities: canelés, entrecôte à la bordelaise

Bordeaux is also famous for its emblematic culinary specialities such as cannelésThese crunchy, moist cakes, flavored with vanilla and rum, reflect the city's history since the 18th century. You'll be able to sample these pastries at renowned artisans like La Toque Cuivrée.

Entrecôte à la bordelaise, another jewel in the crown of local gastronomy, is a delicacy consisting of grilled beef steak, topped with a sauce rich in red wine, shallots and marrow, often served with French fries or fried potatoes, available in traditional establishments such as La Brasserie Bordelaise. As for gratton de Lormont, a delicatessen speciality, it can be enjoyed hot or cold, a testament to the richness of Bordeaux flavours, and can be found in the city's renowned butcher's shops.

Unique experiences and leisure activities

Visiting Bordeaux, with its endless charms for culture, nature and sports enthusiasts, offers a multitude of diverse experiences. Whether your interests lie in art, river walks, interactive city tours or peaceful green spaces, Bordeaux is sure to enchant. Discover below some of the exciting activities not to be missed during your stay.

Les Bassins de Lumières: digital art in an underwater bunker

The state-of-the-art Bassins de Lumières is the world's largest digital art center, housed in a World War II German submarine base. This unique setting features immersive exhibitions dedicated to iconic figures from art history and contemporary art, with projections on walls, floor and water, offering a breathtaking visual experience.

The Bassins de Lumières welcome visitors every day from 10am to 7pm.

Stroll along the Garonne: discover Bordeaux from the water

The relationship between Bordeaux and the Garonne, the source of its name and wealth, is best explored on a river cruise. The cruises, offered by various companies departing from several pontoons, offer an exceptional panorama of the city and its quays, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Choose from a range of options including guided cruises, wine tastings, estuary explorations or even evening entertainment. Unlicensed boat hire is also available for an adventure at your own pace.

Urban routes: on foot, by bike or segway

Exploring Bordeaux, with its rich historical center, monuments and green spaces, is ideal on foot, by bike or segway, thanks to its excellent pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. Opt for a themed tour, or simply let your curiosity lead you.

You can also take advantage of the GR® métropolitain, France's first urban GR®, which connects the city's main parks and natural areas over 160 km. Maps, guides and transportation rentals are available in the center of Bordeaux.

Bordeaux's green spaces: Jardin Public, Parc Bordelais

Bordeaux breathes life into more than 150 parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. The Jardin Public, a veritable oasis in the heart of the city, and the Parc Bordelais, with its vast expanse of greenery, stand out for their beauty and varied facilities, offering relaxation for all.

The Jardin Public, an oasis of tranquility, offers lawns, ponds, flowers and majestic trees, as well as a natural history museum, a library and play areas for children. The Parc Bordelais, meanwhile, invites discovery with its 28 hectares of nature, ideal for a relaxing getaway.

Conclusion

Bordeaux, an exceptional city, will charm you with its rich heritage, delicious gastronomy, prestigious wines and wide range of activities. Whatever the length of your visit, whether for a short weekend or a long stay, a visit to Bordeaux promises unforgettable moments.

Discover the jewels of Bordeaux, from the majestic Cité du Vin to the picturesque Miroir d'eau, the historic Cathédrale Saint-André and the elegant Grand Théâtre. Let yourself be tempted by local flavors, such as the unmissable canelés, authentic entrecôte à la bordelaise or the famous gratton de Lormont. Immerse yourself in unique experiences, from the dazzling Bassins de Lumières to peaceful strolls along the Garonne River, not forgetting exciting city trails.

Plan your Bordeaux adventure today!

Of course, you can also visit the other tourist towns on the Atlantic coast:

• Royan and its beautiful sandy beaches
• La Rochelle and its famous towers that watch over the old port

FAQ

Where to go for a walk in Bordeaux?

In Bordeaux, there are plenty of places to stroll. Here are two not to be missed:

- The waterfront: perfect for a walk along the Garonne. Admire landmarks such as the Place de la Bourse and its water mirror, the Port de la Lune, the Chaban-Delmas Bridge and the Darwin eco-district.

- Les Bassins des Lumières: located in a former submarine base, this digital art center offers breathtaking immersive exhibitions featuring famous works of art.

How to visit Bordeaux in a day

To discover Bordeaux in a day, there are several options to suit all tastes: electric scooter tour, private guided tour, exploration by bike or walking tour. Opting for a walking tour lets you explore the historic center and admire its jewels, such as the Place de la Bourse, the Cité du Vin, the Grand Théâtre, the cathedral and the Port de la Lune.

How to visit Bordeaux in 3 days?

If you have 3 days, here is a suggested itinerary:

- Day 1: Explore the historic center, with its must-see monuments such as Place de la Bourse, Saint-André Cathedral and Porte Cailhau. Don't miss the water mirror.

- Day 2: Visit the Saint-Michel district, its museums, the big bell, the Saint-Michel basilica, and immerse yourself in the world of wine at the Cité du Vin.

- Day 3: Take a trip to Arcachon. Climb the Dune du Pilat, enjoy fresh oysters and visit a wine château.

How to visit Bordeaux in 2 days?

Here is a program for a 2-day visit:

- Day 1: Immerse yourself in the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the Place de la Bourse, the Grand Théâtre, Saint-André Cathedral and Pey-Berland Tower. Discover the Cité du Vin and end the day with a panoramic view from its belvedere.

- Day 2: Explore the Chartrons district, visit the quayside market, and be captivated by the Bassins de Lumières. Admire the Grosse Cloche and the Saint-Michel spire. End the day at the Musée Mer Marine, celebrating Bordeaux's maritime history.