best places to visit in bordeaux

Bordeaux is a vibrant city in southwestern France, known for its world-renowned wines and stunning architecture. From historic landmarks to picturesque gardens, here are six of the best places to visit in Bordeaux⁚

La Cité du Vin

Immerse yourself in the world of wine at La Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to the history, culture, and production of wine. Explore the permanent exhibitions, which take you on a journey through the vineyards of the world, from ancient times to the present day.

Don’t miss the panoramic views of Bordeaux from the Belvedere, located at the top of the museum. And for a truly immersive experience, book a wine-tasting session or attend one of the many workshops and events held throughout the year.

Here are some tips for visiting La Cité du Vin⁚

• Book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
• Allow plenty of time to explore, as there’s a lot to see and do at the museum.
• Take advantage of the audio guide, which is available in several languages.
• Don’t forget your camera, as there are many photo opportunities throughout the museum.
• If you’re interested in wine tasting, be sure to book a session in advance.

Address⁚ 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
Opening hours⁚ Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm
Admission⁚ €20 for adults, €15 for students and seniors, free for children under 18

Place de la Bourse

Admire the grandeur of Place de la Bourse, one of the most iconic landmarks in Bordeaux. This 18th-century square is surrounded by elegant buildings, including the Palais de la Bourse (former stock exchange) and the Musée National des Douanes (National Customs Museum).

Take a stroll around the square and marvel at the intricate details of the buildings. Don’t forget to look up and admire the Miroir d’Eau, a reflecting pool that creates a stunning illusion of the buildings floating on water.
Here are some tips for visiting Place de la Bourse⁚

• Visit at different times of the day to see the square in different lights.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the square.
• Have a drink or a meal at one of the many cafés and restaurants around the square.
• Visit the Musée National des Douanes to learn about the history of customs in France.
• Don’t forget your camera, as there are many photo opportunities in the square.

Address⁚ Place de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux
Opening hours⁚ The square is always open, but the Musée National des Douanes is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm.
Admission⁚ Free to visit the square, €5 for admission to the Musée National des Douanes

Bordeaux Cathedral

Step into the grandeur of Bordeaux Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dominates the city skyline. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its soaring spires, intricate carvings, and stunning stained-glass windows.

Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral’s fascinating history and admire the incredible craftsmanship. Don’t miss the Pey-Berland Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Here are some tips for visiting Bordeaux Cathedral⁚

• Visit during a weekday to avoid the crowds.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s history and architecture.
• Climb the Pey-Berland Tower for stunning views of the city.
• Attend a mass to experience the cathedral’s spiritual atmosphere.
• Don’t forget your camera, as there are many photo opportunities inside and outside the cathedral.

Address⁚ Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux
Opening hours⁚ Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm; Sunday, 2pm to 6pm
Admission⁚ Free to visit the cathedral, €5 for admission to the Pey-Berland Tower

Musée d’Aquitaine

Embark on a journey through the rich history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region at the Musée d’Aquitaine. This fascinating museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, from prehistoric tools to medieval sculptures and modern art.

Explore the interactive exhibits to learn about the region’s diverse heritage, from its Roman origins to its role in the wine trade. Don’t miss the Gallo-Roman mosaics and the collection of paintings by local artists.

Here are some tips for visiting the Musée d’Aquitaine⁚

• Allow plenty of time to explore the museum’s extensive collection.
• Take advantage of the audio guides to learn more about the exhibits;
• Visit the museum shop for a unique selection of souvenirs and gifts.
• Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Jardin Public.
• Check the museum’s website for special events and exhibitions.

Address⁚ 20 Cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux
Opening hours⁚ Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 6pm
Admission⁚ €5 for adults, free for children under 18

Jardin Public

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in the tranquil Jardin Public, a sprawling park in the heart of Bordeaux. This verdant oasis offers a welcome respite for both locals and visitors alike.

Stroll along the tree-lined paths, admire the colorful flowerbeds, and relax by the picturesque lake. Take a break from sightseeing to enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns or rent a rowboat to explore the lake.

The Jardin Public is also home to several notable attractions, including the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Bordeaux Botanical Garden.

Here are some tips for visiting the Jardin Public⁚

• Visit during the spring or summer to see the gardens in full bloom.
• Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy a leisurely lunch on the lawns.
• Rent a rowboat to explore the lake and admire the park from a different perspective.
• Visit the nearby museums to learn about the region’s history, art, and natural sciences.
• Take a guided tour of the park to learn more about its history and design.

Address⁚ Cours de Verdun, 33000 Bordeaux
Opening hours⁚ Daily, 6am to 10pm
Admission⁚ Free

Quais de Bordeaux

Take a leisurely stroll along the Quais de Bordeaux, a picturesque waterfront promenade that stretches for over 4 kilometers along the Garonne River; This vibrant area is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the river, historic buildings, and modern architecture.

Admire the grand facades of the 18th-century buildings that line the quays, and stop to explore the many shops, restaurants, and cafes that occupy their ground floors. Cross the Pont de Pierre, a majestic stone bridge that connects the city center to the La Bastide neighborhood.

For a unique perspective of the city, take a boat tour along the river. Several companies offer cruises that depart from the quays, providing commentary on the city’s history and landmarks.

Here are some tips for visiting the Quais de Bordeaux⁚

• Take a walk or bike ride along the promenade to enjoy the views and fresh air.
• Stop at one of the many cafes to enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while watching the world go by.
• Visit the Musée d’Art Contemporain de Bordeaux, located on the quays, to see a collection of modern and contemporary art.
• Take a boat tour along the river to see the city from a different perspective.
• Attend one of the many events that take place on the quays throughout the year, such as concerts, markets, and festivals.

Address⁚ Along the Garonne River, 33000 Bordeaux
Opening hours⁚ Always open
Admission⁚ Free