{"id":51807,"date":"2024-01-03T16:46:37","date_gmt":"2024-01-03T15:46:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.surfingtheplanet.com\/?p=51807"},"modified":"2025-04-17T09:54:26","modified_gmt":"2025-04-17T07:54:26","slug":"things-do-bordeaux","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.surfingtheplanet.com\/en\/things-do-bordeaux\/","title":{"rendered":"Hopscotching Bordeaux: 20 Unmissable Adventures in the Heart of France"},"content":{"rendered":"

Bordeaux<\/strong> stands out as one of the most elegant gems of France<\/strong>, captivating visitors with its charm. Not only is it renowned as the symbol of fine wine<\/strong>, but it’s also a fascinating weekend destination<\/strong>, brimming with activities for all tastes. Picture yourself navigating the waters of the Garonne River<\/strong>, getting lost in the magical alleys of the old town<\/strong> (a UNESCO World Heritage site), or embarking on an exciting wine tour to the surrounding vineyards<\/strong> that envelop the city. This city holds a special place in our hearts, and we’re thrilled to share with you our detailed guide featuring 20 things to do in Bordeaux<\/strong> and its surroundings.<\/p>\n

Things to do in Bordeaux – The essentials<\/h2>\n

1. Explore the Historic Center: UNESCO Heritage<\/h3>\n

Bordeaux, one of the most bourgeois cities in France<\/strong>, has a historic center declared a UNESCO World Heritage site<\/strong> in 2007, home to over 300 historical buildings<\/strong>. Follow the elegant pedestrian promenade, Cours de Chapeau-Rouge<\/strong>, leading to the majestic Place de la Bourse<\/strong>, with buildings that evoke the glamour of the 18th century. Along the Garonne River, you’ll discover the fascinating Porte Cailhau<\/strong>, a gate built in honor of King Charles VIII.
\n\"Historic<\/p>\n

Get lost in the narrow medieval streets<\/strong> of the Saint-Pierre district<\/strong>, where every corner is a jewel from the Middle Ages. The Grosse Cloche<\/strong>, an 18th-century bell tower, stands out among the wonders, being one of the oldest and most beautiful bell towers<\/strong> in France, ringing only six times a year on special occasions. While strolling through the old town, you also can’t miss the impressive Gothic cathedral<\/strong>.
\n\"Interior<\/p>\n

2. Immerse Yourself in Bordeaux’s Essence with a Free Tour<\/h3>\n

Exploring the city of Bordeaux becomes a unique experience when you join one of the fascinating free walking tours<\/strong>. We personally recommend either this free Walking Tour of Bordeaux<\/a> or this free tour around Old Bordeaux and Saint-Michel Neighborhood<\/a>, a fantastic way to begin your discovery<\/strong> of the city. During either tour, you will explore the most picturesque squares<\/strong> and iconic monuments<\/strong> of the historic center<\/strong>. Your guide will not only share knowledge about local history<\/strong> and architecture<\/strong>, but also provide valuable restaurant recommendations<\/strong> and hints about lesser-known spots.<\/p>\n

3. Admire the World’s Largest Water Mirror<\/h3>\n

Among the unique experiences Bordeaux offers<\/strong>, its water mirror (Le Miroir d’Eau)<\/strong> stands out as the largest in the world<\/strong>. This captivating spot in the Place de la Bourse is not only beautiful but also one of the most photographed places to see in Bordeaux. A magical setting<\/strong> where children play and couples stroll, dipping their feet in the water to cool off on warm summer days.
\n\"Water<\/p>\n

4. Scenic Navigation on the Garonne River<\/h3>\n

The Garonne River<\/strong> seamlessly integrates into the daily life of Bordeaux<\/strong>, and the Batcub boats<\/strong>, part of the public transportation system<\/strong>, cross the river. One of the experiences we loved the most was discovering the city from another perspective<\/strong> using a public transport ticket to cross the river on one of these boats. From the right bank, you’ll enjoy a unique view of historical buildings. The most convenient stops are Stalingrad and Quinconces, where the boats pass every fifteen minutes, offering an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to admire the modern Chaban-Delmas Bridge<\/strong>.
\n\"Modern<\/p>\n

5. Cross the Splendid Stone Bridge<\/h3>\n

In a city intersected by a river, crossing the most impressive bridge is a must, right? The Pont de Pierre<\/strong> (Stone Bridge), located near Place de la Bourse, is the most beautiful in Bordeaux<\/strong>. Built in honor of Napoleon Bonaparte<\/strong>, this bridge, the only one in the city until half a century ago, stands out with its 17 arches<\/strong>, representing the number of letters in Napoleon’s full name. A masterpiece reflecting the charm of Bordeaux!
\n\"Stone<\/p>\n

6. Marvel at Bordeaux’s Illuminated Nights<\/h3>\n

Few cities in the world can rival the night lights<\/strong> that Bordeaux displays. The main spectacle occurs at the water mirror of Place de la Bourse<\/strong>, with the charming Fountain of the Three Graces<\/strong> in the center. This place is captivating during the day, but it transforms into a magical setting<\/strong> at night.
\n\"Night<\/p>\n

If you’re heading to France\u2014whether for a short adventure through the vineyards around Bordeaux or planning to spend a season working remotely while discovering the local lifestyle\u2014having reliable travel medical insurance is a smart move. We recommend SafetyWing<\/a>, a great choice for both travelers and digital nomads thanks to its flexibility and solid coverage. They offer two plans: Essential, ideal if you’re looking for an affordable option that covers the basics, and Complete, which includes a wider range of benefits like routine medical consultations.<\/div>\n

7. Discover Les Bassins de Lumi\u00e8res: Cultural Innovation in Bordeaux<\/h3>\n

Despite its traditionalism, Bordeaux<\/strong>, especially in its historic center, constantly reinvents itself to attract visitors. Les Bassins de Lumi\u00e8res<\/strong> is nothing less than the largest digital art center in Europe<\/strong>. This cultural gem is located in the former submarine base from World War II<\/strong>, now rehabilitated. The artistic projections<\/strong> held here are simply mind-blowing, making this place one of the must-sees in Bordeaux<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

8. Explore the Fascinating World of Wine in Bordeaux<\/h3>\n

It would be unthinkable to talk about Bordeaux without mentioning wine<\/strong>, the most emblematic product of the region<\/strong>. The Chartrons neighborhood houses a concentration of bars and bistros where you can find your favorite spot.<\/p>\n

9. Visit the Cit\u00e9 du Vin (City of Wine)<\/h3>\n

To understand the importance of wine in this city, don’t miss the futuristic Cit\u00e9 du Vin<\/strong>. Its peculiar shape represents the swirl of wine at the bottom of a glass. Inside, a complete museum<\/strong> with 19 thematic spaces provides exhaustive details about the world of wine, from the basics to fascinating information for experts.<\/p>\n

10. Immerse Yourself in the Artistic Atmosphere of the Chartrons Neighborhood<\/h3>\n

The Chartrons Neighborhood<\/strong>, one of the most modern and elegant<\/strong> places in Bordeaux, awaits you with art galleries<\/strong>, antique shops<\/strong>, and picturesque corners. Explore Rue Notre Dame<\/strong> and venture into the alleys to discover beautiful old houses<\/strong> with colorful facades and wooden windows. If you love murals<\/strong>, this is your paradise, where you can search for unique graffiti<\/strong> and come across picturesque urban gardens and markets of all kinds.<\/p>\n

Eager to explore the best of Bordeaux but short on time? Don’t miss our post with an itinerary to discover the highlights of Bordeaux in one day<\/a>.<\/div>\n

11. Exploring Contemporary Art at the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Art Contemporain<\/h3>\n

If you’re a fan of contemporary art<\/strong>, a visit to the Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Art Contemporain<\/strong> (Museum of Contemporary Art) in Bordeaux is a fascinating option. This museum, located in a charming historic building<\/strong>, houses an extensive collection<\/strong> of works by prominent artists such as Christian Boltanski, Daniel Buren, Max Neuhaus, Keith Haring, or Jannis Kounellis, Gilbert & George.<\/p>\n

12. Delight in Bordeaux’s Gastronomy<\/h3>\n

In Bordeaux, gastronomy is not just another aspect; it’s one of the main attractions! Especially for those who appreciate gourmet cuisine<\/strong>. Even renowned British chef Gordon Ramsay<\/strong> has chosen this city for his restaurant. Enjoying exquisite dishes of high-quality cuisine<\/strong> paired with the best wines of Bordeaux<\/strong> is one of the most extraordinary culinary experiences<\/strong> worldwide. Be prepared to spend a bit more, but it’s worth it!<\/p>\n

13. Marvel at the Grandeur of Place des Quinconces<\/h3>\n

Did you know that the Place des Quinconces<\/strong>\u00a0is the largest square in France<\/strong>? This vast space, with its expansive esplanade<\/strong>, gets its name from the trees that adorn it. Once home to a castle, it now serves as an immense venue for markets<\/strong>, concerts<\/strong>, and various events. Noteworthy is the spectacular Column of the Girondins<\/strong>, an imposing 43-meter-high structure. Strolling through this square and its surroundings is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating things to do in Bordeaux<\/strong>.
\n\"Place<\/p>\n

14. Immerse Yourself in the Bohemian Vibes of La Bastide Neighborhood<\/h3>\n

Bordeaux has multiple facets, and on the Rive Droite<\/strong>, you’ll find the La Bastide Neighborhood<\/strong>, known as the city’s bohemian quarter<\/strong>. The Gare d’Orleans train station<\/strong> hosts restaurants<\/strong> and cinemas, while other interesting spots include rue Honor\u00e9 Picon<\/strong>, Place Stalingrad<\/strong>, and Parc aux Ang\u00e9liques<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

15. Discover the Rise of Darwin, Bordeaux’s Modern District<\/h3>\n

Another of Bordeaux’s trendy districts<\/strong> is Darwin<\/strong>, located in a former military barracks. If you’re a fan of street art<\/strong>, this will be your favorite spot in Bordeaux<\/strong>. Noteworthy is the Hangar Darwin<\/strong>, a former factory now hosting a spacious skate park<\/strong> and frequent exhibitions of local contemporary art<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

16. Shopping on Rue Sainte-Catherine<\/h3>\n

For shopping enthusiasts, Rue Sainte-Catherine<\/strong> is one of the longest shopping avenues in Europe<\/strong>. Here, you’ll find all the latest trends from top brands. A true paradise for shopping lovers.<\/p>\n

17. Relax in the Public Garden<\/h3>\n

Bordeaux boasts several charming green spaces<\/strong>, and the Public Garden<\/strong> is one of the main ones. On sunny days, it’s common to see people enjoying picnics<\/strong> here. Relaxing in this picturesque setting is another rewarding activity to do in Bordeaux<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The Best Excursions from Bordeaux<\/h2>\n

18. Excursion to Saint \u00c9milion and its Vineyards<\/h3>\n

If you’re in Bordeaux, you’ll surely want not only to learn about local wines but also to taste them. The surroundings of Bordeaux are dotted with beautiful vineyards<\/strong> and countless wineries<\/strong> (called Chateaux<\/strong>, like castles) worth visiting. Combine a visit to some of these wineries with a trip to Saint \u00c9milion<\/strong>, the medieval village that stole our hearts<\/strong>. It can be reached by car or even by renting a bike.
\n\"Vineyards
\nSaint \u00c9milion<\/strong>, besides being a wine production center<\/strong>, is a charming medieval town<\/strong> (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The medieval architecture<\/strong> of the historic center is beautifully preserved, and from the old bell tower, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the town and its surroundings. If you want to visit the city and the vineyards on an organized tour from Bordeaux, the ideal option is the Saint Emilion Wine Tour<\/a>.<\/p>\n

19. Marvel at the Dune of Pilat, the Largest Sand Dune in Europe<\/h3>\n

Finally, we reserve for you the encounter with the Dune of Pilat<\/strong>, the largest sand dune in Europe<\/strong>, located just 70 km from Bordeaux. A natural wonder you can’t miss! With over 100 meters in height, at the foot of this dune, you’ll feel like you’re in the Sahara Desert. Climbing barefoot to the top is a somewhat demanding pleasure, but the views from the top, with the dune, the ocean on one side, and a lush forest on the other, are spectacular.
\n\"Dune<\/p>\n

20. Getaway to Arcachon and the Island of Birds<\/h3>\n

If you’re looking for a nearby coastal city<\/strong> from Bordeaux, Arcachon is the most accessible option. Although the city itself may not be as flashy, boats to the Island of Birds<\/strong> offer a fascinating excursion during the summer months<\/strong>. During the journey, you can enjoy beautiful landscapes in the Bay of Arcachon<\/strong> and observe the oyster beds, one of the region’s flagship products. A refreshing experience on the Atlantic coast!<\/p>\n

Exploring Bordeaux: Map of the Main Sights<\/h2>\n