Best 20 things to do in Bordeaux, France

In the enchanting city of Bordeaux, where wine aficionados frolic and baguette enthusiasts unite, there are more delightful activities than you can shake a freshly baked croissant at. First up, venture to the city's iconic Cité du Vin, where grape juice magically transforms into heaven in a glass. Next, immerse yourself in Bordeaux's rich history by exploring the whimsical narrow streets of the medieval Saint-Pierre district, but be sure to maintain your balance, as charming cobblestones have been known to trip even the most elegant travelers. Finally, top off your Bordeaux experience with a leisurely river cruise, allowing you to enjoy the splendid sights while contemplating which wine pairs best with a sunset.

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1. La Grosse Cloche

4.6 (4713)

Rue Saint-James, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Bordeaux, where history meets hilarity! La Grosse Cloche, charmingly known as "The Big Bell," is a sight that will make your heart chime with laughter. Towering over the city like a giant with a sense of humor, this 15th-century medieval gate is not for the faint-hearted – but don't worry, there are no dragons guarding it, just some sleepy pigeons with questionable angst! Marvel at the intricate architecture, snap a selfie next to it, and don't forget to wave at the bell just in case it grants you a wish – or maybe even rings for your presence!

www.visiter-bordeaux.com

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2. Saint-Émilion

Saint-Émilion, France

Welcome to the charming and utterly delightful Saint-Émilion, the wine lover's paradise nestled in the heart of Bordeaux! Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking vineyards that stretch endlessly, arms raised high in glorious grapevine victory. This picturesque town is known for its time-honored winemaking traditions, so be sure to bring your taste buds along for an adventure they won't soon forget. Prepare for a whirlwind of grape-stomping festivities, majestic castles that were clearly designed for wine royalty, and enchanting cobblestone streets that will have even the most elegant lady in heels questioning her life choices. Come thirsty, my friend, for Saint-Émilion's world-famous wines are as abundant as the laughter shared among the locals, and their flavors will dance on your tongue like a tipsy grapevine macarena. Cheers to unforgettable memories and countless bottles of wine – here's to Saint-Émilion, making every sip feel like a passionate love affair between you and the grape gods.

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3. Marché des Capucins

4.4 (3026)

Pl. des Capucins, 33800 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Marché des Capucins in Bordeaux, the gastronomic Disneyland of food markets! Prepare to have your taste buds tickled and your senses dazzled as you plunge into this delightful maze of delightful delicacies. From the freshest seafood that could put a siren to shame, to the mind-boggling variety of cheese that will make even the lactose-intolerant weak at the knees, this market has it all and more. Don't forget to bring your appetite and superhuman willpower to resist buying everything in sight because let's face it, you'll struggle to resist the aromatic charm of Marché des Capucins!

marchedescapucins.com

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4. Quai des Chartrons

Quai des Chartrons, Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Quai des Chartrons in Bordeaux, the neighborhood where wine flows like the eloquent speech of a tipsy philosopher! Brace yourself for a tastefully eccentric blend of vintage boutiques, elegant wine bars, and charming cobblestone streets that will leave you questioning whether you've stumbled into a historic French film set. Prepare to embrace your inner connoisseur as you embark on a delightful journey through the intoxicating world of Bordeaux's finest wines, surrounded by the city's effortlessly cool crowd - a perfect blend of hipsters, locals, and effortlessly chic French poodles.

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5. Cité du Vin

4.2 (19344)

134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Cité du Vin, the wine lover's paradise and the ultimate excuse to sip your way through Bordeaux! With its sleek and curvaceous design that resembles a wine decanter, this architectural gem stands tall, beckoning you to quench your thirst for all things grape-related. Inside, you'll find an oenophile's dream come true—an enchanting journey through the world of wine, where you can indulge in tastings, immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, and maybe even stumble upon a secret door leading straight to Bacchus himself.

www.laciteduvin.com

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6. Darwin Ecosystem

4.4 (6450)

87 Quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Bordeaux, where wine flows like a river and innovation is ripe in the air! One of the must-visit places for tech enthusiasts is the Darwin Ecosystem, a former military barracks turned into a hipster haven with a touch of eco-consciousness. As you wander through the graffiti-covered walls, brace yourself for an eclectic mix of urban farmers, startup gurus, and even a stray chicken or two – because at Darwin, they believe in embracing both the nerdy and the feathery sides of life!

www.darwin.camp

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7. Place de la Bourse

Pl. de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, where architecture and imagination converge to create a delightful visual buffet for your eyeballs. This stunning square is like a seductive fling between a grand palace and a picturesque water mirror. With its mesmerizing symmetry and reflections, you'll feel like you've stumbled into a fairytale kingdom ruled by the mighty King Louis XIV and his fashionable court of swans. Just make sure to bring your camera and your best "ooh-la-la" face - you won't want to miss the chance to blend in with the babelicious beauty of Place de la Bourse.

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8. Pont de Pierre

Pont de Pierre, Bordeaux, France

Welcome to the delightful city of Bordeaux! Don't worry, we won't leave you hanging when it comes to the iconic Pont de Pierre. This bridge, also known as the "Gateway to Bordeaux," connects the city's left and right banks like a real-life relationship counselor, ensuring both sides of the river stay connected, even during arguments about who makes the better wine. So grab your camera and stride across this marvel of 19th-century engineering, feeling like a tightrope walker without the risk of plunging into the Garonne River below.

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9. La Cité Fruges

Cité Frugès, 33600 Pessac, France

Nestled amid the charming streets of Bordeaux, La Cité Fruges awaits with its whimsical charm and rich history. As you wander through this architectural marvel, prepare to be amused by its rather peculiar features, like the belfry that suspiciously resembles a giant croissant freshly baked by a mischievous baker. Don't miss the chance to explore the nooks and crannies of La Cité Fruges; who knows, you might stumble upon an enchanted wine cellar where the bottles magically refill themselves!

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10. La Victoire

4.2 (129)

33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Bordeaux, where you'll find La Victoire, a lively neighborhood that likes to proudly proclaim itself as the "victorious" heart of the city. Prepare to be smitten by this vibrant area, where trendy boutiques, charming cafes, and students in need of caffeine always seem to reign supreme. With its perfect blend of historic charm and modern flair, this district promises to make any visitor feel like a conquering hero (or heroine) in no time!

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11. Basilique Saint-Michel

4.4 (4617)

Pl. Meynard, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Nestled among vineyards and wine bars, the Basilique Saint-Michel in Bordeaux stands tall, ready to grace your Instagram feed with some serious architectural swag. If you're tired of sipping on the rich Bordeaux wines, why not take a momentary pause and soak in the glory of this charming Gothic beauty? With its stunning bell tower that seems to reach for the heavens, you could say it's the Eiffel Tower's lesser-known and slightly jealous cousin.

www.sacrecoeurbordeaux.info

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12. Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux

4.1 (2758)

Esp. Linné, 33100 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux, where plants outnumber tourists and photosynthesis is the unofficial language! This green oasis is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, where flowers bloom passionately, trees sway in harmonious dance, and dandelions consider themselves the true divas of the garden. So, grab your floral fanatics, botanical buffs, and anyone seeking the ultimate "grape" escape, because this jardin is about to take you on a photosynthetic joyride like no other!

jardin-botanique-bordeaux.fr

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13. Jardin Public

4.6 (11683)

Cr de Verdun, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Jardin Public in Bordeaux, the park where nature and relaxation join forces to give you a break from sightseeing and wine tasting. Stroll through lush gardens with strategically placed benches, perfect for those moments when your feet refuse to cooperate after a night of indulging in Bordeaux's finest vintages. Embrace your inner child and hop on the swan-shaped paddle boats while gracefully avoiding collisions with fellow enthusiasts, because nothing says "I’m having a sophisticated vacation" like pretending to be a feathered creature on a pond.

www.bordeaux.fr

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14. Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux

4.6 (8145)

Pl. de la Comédie, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to the majestic Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, a place where angels in gilded robes welcome you with open wings (though they might be a bit dusty). Feast your eyes upon its opulent façade that whispers secrets of bygone eras, seducing visitors into a dance with history. Step inside and prepare to have your breath stolen by the grand staircase, a swirling marvel that screams, "I'm fancy, but I won't say no to a good tap dance!"

www.opera-bordeaux.com

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15. Rue Sainte-Catherine

Rue Sainte-Catherine, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Rue Sainte-Catherine in Bordeaux, the street that can cure even the most competent map reader's directional confidence! With its never-ending length, this lively thoroughfare has become a testing ground for marathon runners inadvertently looking to amp up their distance records. Prepare for a tantalizing array of shops, where you'll be tempted to buy everything from fashionable attire to a Viking longship—because who doesn't need one of those in their backyard?

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16. Cap Sciences

4.3 (3277)

Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Cap Sciences in Bordeaux, the wonderfully wacky world of science exploration! Get ready to unleash your inner nerd and embark on a journey of scientific discovery that will leave you giggling with joy. From mind-boggling experiments to interactive exhibits that will have you questioning your own intelligence, Cap Sciences is the ultimate playground for curious adventurers. So, remember to pack your sense of humor and prepare for a hilariously enlightening experience like no other!

www.cap-sciences.net

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17. Porte Cailhau

4.5 (4484)

Pl. du Palais, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Nestled in the heart of beautiful Bordeaux, the Porte Cailhau stands tall and mighty, like a well-dressed giraffe among pigeons. This magnificent stone gate, dating back to the 15th century, was built with the sole purpose of being absolutely impressive to anyone who dared to enter the city. It's like the gateway to Narnia, but instead of a fantasy land, you'll find yourself transported into a world of charming French architecture and delicious wine.

www.visiter-bordeaux.com

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18. Musée d'Aquitaine

4.5 (3468)

20 Cr Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to the Musée d'Aquitaine in Bordeaux, a place where history gets a hip makeover! This spacious museum is a treasure trove of awesomeness, where you can dive headfirst into the fascinating past of Aquitaine region, without letting boredom ruin your day. From ancient artifacts to quirky exhibitions, this place guarantees to fuel your brain with knowledge and give you a few chuckles along the way.

www.musee-aquitaine-bordeaux.fr

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19. CAPC Musée d'Art Contemporain

4 (2642)

7 Rue Ferrere, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Tucked away in Bordeaux lies the CAPC Musée d'Art Contemporain, like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous art aficionados. This contemporary art mecca boasts an impressive collection of mind-boggling creations that will leave you scratching your head and questioning your own artistic abilities. Prepare to be bamboozled by jaw-dropping installations, abstract masterpieces, and avant-garde sculptures that will make even the most seasoned art critic exclaim, "What on earth is that?"

www.capc-bordeaux.fr

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20. Palais Rohan

3.4 (513)

Pl. Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Welcome to the marvelous Palais Rohan, a palace fit for a king or queen! This stunning architectural masterpiece in Bordeaux is bound to leave you feeling regal and fancy. Prepare to be transported back in time as you wander through elegant rooms filled with historical artifacts and exquisite decor. Don't forget to wear your most extravagant outfit, as this palace surely deserves a grand entrance!

www.bordeaux.fr

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bordeaux, France by plane is to fly to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) from your departure city. Many airlines, such as Air France, Delta, and KLM, offer multiple daily flights to Bordeaux from major cities around the world. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle to downtown Bordeaux.

Car

The best way to get to Bordeaux, France by car is to drive from your departure city or rent a car once you arrive in France. Bordeaux is easily accessible by car from major cities in France and Europe, and there are many highways and roads that lead to the city. Once you arrive in Bordeaux, you can park your car in a public or private parking lot and explore the city on foot, by bike, or by public transportation.

Train

The best way to get to Bordeaux, France by train is to take a high-speed train from Paris. The trip takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes on the TGV train, and trains leave from Paris' Montparnasse station. Once you arrive in Bordeaux, you can take a bus, taxi, or metro to your final destination.

Boat

The best way to get to Bordeaux, France by boat is to take a river cruise on the Garonne River. Many companies, such as CroisiEurope, offer multiple-day trips that start and end in Bordeaux and take you through the vineyards and historic sites of the region. Once you arrive in Bordeaux, you can explore the city's attractions and fine dining scene or take a wine tour in the surrounding areas.

Bus

The best way to get to Bordeaux, France by bus is to take a long-distance bus from Paris. Many companies, including FlixBus, offer multiple daily trips between the two cities. The trip takes around 7 hours, and buses usually depart from Paris' Porte Maillot bus station. Once you arrive in Bordeaux, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to your final destination.

More guides

Savoring Bordeaux: A Wine-Tasting Day Trip

A trip to Bordeaux, France as a tourist is a treat for the senses. From the beautiful architecture to the exquisite wine, there's something for everyone. Explore the historic city center, try some local cuisine, and indulge in a wine tasting adventure in one of the many vineyards surrounding the city.

Escape to Bordeaux: The Ultimate 4-Day Adventure

As a tourist in Bordeaux, one can expect to explore the historic city center with its charming architecture, including the magnificent Saint-André Cathedral. Wine lovers can savor the renowned wines produced in the surrounding vineyards with tours and tastings. Additionally, a stroll along the riverfront with stunning views of the Garonne River is a must-do activity.

Escape to Bordeaux: A Romantic Weekend Getaway

Experience the incredibly romantic atmosphere of Bordeaux, France, with its stunning architecture, world-renowned wine, and picturesque setting nestled along the Garonne River. Delight in intimate moments at charming cafés, stroll the narrow streets of the old town or take a leisurely biking and wine-tasting tour through the vineyards of the surrounding countryside. Finally, savor traditional French cuisine at fine dining restaurants before retiring to a cozy hotel room for an unforgettable night.

Bordeaux Bliss: The Ultimate 4 Day Family-Friendly Adventure

A family-friendly trip to Bordeaux, France offers a blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Explore the charming medieval streets of the city, visit grand chateaux in the famous wine region, and delight in a range of child-friendly attractions like parks, museums, and boating on the Garonne River. Indulge in sumptuous French cuisine and reward your taste buds with local specialties like Bordeaux wine and canelés for a memorable family adventure.