Bordeaux in One Day: Uncover the 12 Best Things to Do

Can you imagine strolling through a city that seamlessly blends its historical heritage with a vibrant contemporary scene? Welcome to Bordeaux, one of the most beautiful cities in southwestern France, where every corner tells a story, and each cobblestone street is a journey through time. Having visited the “City of Light” on numerous occasions, after our latest trip, we decided to share our itinerary with you: 12 must-visit places in Bordeaux in one day. Ready to explore this unique city? Let’s go!

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Things to do in Bordeaux in 1 day – The perfect itinerary

1. Place de la Bourse

Our day in Bordeaux started at the iconic Place de la Bourse, where historical charm meets modern life. Local cafes, scattered along the cobblestones, offer a vibrant view of the city. This starting point is more than just a square; it’s the heart of the historic center of the city.

2. Water Mirror

The Water Mirror, proclaimed as the largest in the world, was our next stop. This contemporary marvel not only reflects the city but also creates a magical scene (especially at night). It’s a unique spot where the city merges with its own reflection.

3. Old Town

From Place de la Bourse, after passing through the famous Cailhau Gate, we got lost in the charming alleys of the Old Town, a true treasure considered a World Heritage Site! The cobblestone alleys and architecture brimming with history transported me to distant times.

Don’t miss the imposing St. Michael’s Basilica, the iconic Grosse Cloche, the impressive Bordeaux Cathedral, and the panoramic views from the Pey-Berland Tower! These are must-visit stops on our list of essential places to see in Bordeaux.

4. Free Walking Tour

This time, we chose to discover Bordeaux in a special way by joining a free walking tour. Guided by local storytellers, we explored picturesque alleys and squares full of captivating stories, creating a special connection with the authentic essence of Bordeaux. We took this free tour of Bordeaux’s highlights, and the free tour around Old Bordeaux and the San Miguel neighborhood.

5. River Cruise in Bordeaux

One of the most enriching experiences of our day was the river cruise on the Garonne, offering us a unique perspective of Bordeaux. The panoramic views felt like a breath of fresh air, adding a relaxed touch to our day of exploration.

6. Pont de Pierre (“Stone Bridge”)

In Bordeaux, there are several bridges, but crossing the imposing Pont de Pierre was truly special. As we gazed at the city from the center of this historic bridge, we admired its beauty and reflected on the fascinating history enclosed within the city. An experience that left us in awe!

If you’re interested in learning more details about the city, feel free to check out our article with 20 activities to enjoy in Bordeaux and its surroundings.

7. La Bastide District

Crossing the river to the bohemian La Bastide District was like stepping into another world. Here, street art and alternative culture brought the streets to life in a unique way. Exploring this modern facet of Bordeaux allowed us to discover its creativity and welcoming atmosphere.

8. Darwin Ecosystem

Exploring Darwin was delving into an urban space beyond the conventional. This ecosystem features sustainable projects, street art, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a former military headquarters transformed into a hub of creativity and environmental awareness. We loved it!

9. Cité du Vin (Wine City)

If there’s one museum you can’t miss in Bordeaux, it’s the Cité du Vin, where we learned about the city’s rich wine tradition maintained for centuries. The interactive exhibits offered a unique sensory adventure, while the tastings took us directly to local vineyards, merging wine culture with modernity.

10. Jardin Public (Public Garden)

After exploring the city, we found a bit of peace and tranquility in the Public Garden, a green refuge in the heart of the city. Amid winding paths and serene ponds, we could relax and enjoy nature amidst bustling Bordeaux.

11. Chartrons District

We ended our day by exploring the elegant Chartrons District. Here, commercial streets and art galleries created a unique setting where historical richness merged with modern boutiques. We let ourselves be carried away by the elegance of the shops and marveled at the artistic creations adorning the galleries.

12. Illuminated Nights and Exquisite Gastronomy

The magical transformation of Bordeaux at dusk was an even more special moment of our day. The cobblestone streets and illuminated historical monuments created a romantic atmosphere that enveloped us. Every corner of the city was adorned with warm lights, and the air was filled with the magic of the nighttime setting.

Of course, we couldn’t leave Bordeaux without enjoying a gastronomic dinner, savoring the delicacies of the local cuisine. This time we opted for the restaurant Tante Charlotte, a small place where we could try some traditional dishes at an honest price.

Map for Your Perfect Day in Bordeaux

If, after exploring all the magical corners of Bordeaux, you’re curious to discover its surroundings, you might consider an escape to the outskirts of the city. A trip to Saint-Émilion – a town that has us enchanted – will take you to the charming vineyards of the region, immersing you in the rich wine culture and giving you the opportunity to taste exceptional wines.

If you’re up for it, you could consider a Saint Emilion Wine Tour. On the other hand, the visit to the Dune of Pilat, the largest sand dune in Europe, left us impressed with an astonishing landscape we didn’t expect to find.

And thus concluded our unforgettable day in Bordeaux! We hope this itinerary with the 12 must-visit places in Bordeaux in 1 day inspires you to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of this gem in southwestern France. Bon voyage!