Things To Do
in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a charming city located in southwestern France, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant riverfront, and world-renowned wine industry. The city is famous for its UNESCO-listed historic center, which boasts elegant 18th-century buildings and picturesque squares. Bordeaux is also a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of delicious dishes and gourmet experiences.
With its rich cultural heritage, lively atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings, Bordeaux is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of French sophistication and charm.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $200
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day visiting the Cité du Vin to explore the history of wine-making in Bordeaux. Enjoy a tasting session to experience the region's finest wines.
Take a guided vineyard tour in the nearby MĂ©doc region. Savor a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque vineyards.
Dine at a local bistro, enjoying classic French cuisine paired with Bordeaux wines. Stroll along the Garonne River and admire the illuminated city.
Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Garonne River. Stop by the Place de la Bourse and capture some stunning photos.
Visit the CAPC Musée d'Art Contemporain to explore modern art exhibits. Enjoy lunch at a café nearby with river views.
Experience a river cruise dinner, taking in the sights of Bordeaux from the water. Delight in a selection of local dishes while watching the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-renowned wine region known for its high-quality vineyards.
- Rich culinary heritage with diverse gastronomic experiences.
- Beautiful architecture and historic sites, including the Place de la Bourse.
- Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, exhibitions, and events.
- Proximity to the Atlantic coast and picturesque countryside.
- Cost of living can be high, particularly in desirable areas.
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons may be overwhelming.
- Public transportation can be limited in more rural areas.
- Weather can be quite rainy and humid, particularly in winter.
- Language barrier for non-French speakers in some local interactions.
Best Activities in Bordeaux
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the famous vineyards and wineries in the Bordeaux region on a guided wine tour.
Enjoy cycling along the Garonne River or through the scenic countryside around Bordeaux.
Take a relaxing boat cruise along the Garonne River and enjoy picturesque views of the city.
Visit one of Bordeaux's beautiful parks, such as Jardin Public, and enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bordeaux with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bordeaux
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the reflecting pool and the water mirror, framing the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings.
Provides a picturesque view of the Garonne River and the city skyline, especially during sunset and at night.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the belvedere, offering a unique perspective of Bordeaux and its surroundings.
Food in Bordeaux
Bordeaux Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A succulent rib steak cooked in a rich red wine and bone marrow sauce, typically served with frites. Try it at Le Bar du Boucher for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
This unique dish features lamprey fish stewed in Bordeaux red wine with a touch of foie gras. Maison Darricau is renowned for their exquisite preparation of this local delicacy.
These small caramelized pastries with a soft custard center are a Bordeaux specialty. Visit Baillardran to savor these delectable treats.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bordeaux better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The oldest market in Bordeaux, offering a dazzling array of fresh seafood, cheese, baked goods, and local specialties. Don't miss the oyster stalls for a truly authentic taste of the sea.
A bustling hub of street food stalls serving everything from crepes and churros to Moroccan tajine. It's a vibrant spot to sample global flavors and mingle with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bordeaux, it is customary to greet people with a kiss on each cheek, starting with the left cheek. This is a common display of warmth and friendliness in social interactions.
Mealtime is highly regarded in Bordeaux, and it is important to respect the local dining customs, such as enjoying leisurely meals and savoring the food and wine. It is also polite to wait for the host or hostess to begin eating before starting your meal.
While Bordeaux residents are generally warm and welcoming, it is important to be mindful of personal space. Physical contact is common during greetings, but it's essential to respect personal boundaries and use polite language and gestures in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bordeaux with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bordeaux
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bordeaux, France, tipping is usually included in the service charge or as an add-on to the bill. It is not mandatory to leave an additional tip, but rounding up the total bill or leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation is considered courteous.
In Bordeaux, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular. Some establishments may have a minimum spend requirement for card payments, so it's advisable to have some cash on hand for small purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bordeaux.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Bordeaux as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and outdoor events. It's a lovely time for wine tastings and exploring the charming streets of Bordeaux.
Summer is peak tourist season in Bordeaux with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities, vineyard tours, and enjoying the picturesque beaches along the Atlantic coast.
Autumn is harvest season in Bordeaux, making it an ideal time for wine enthusiasts to visit. The weather remains pleasant, and the fall foliage adds a beautiful backdrop to the vineyards and countryside.
Winter in Bordeaux is relatively mild, and the city is less crowded with tourists. While some wineries may have limited hours, it's a great time to experience the festive holiday atmosphere and enjoy the cozy ambiance of the local cafés and wine bars.
Bordeaux at Night
Hiking in Bordeaux
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park in the center of Bordeaux featuring walking paths, picnic areas, and lovely oak trees, making it perfect for short hikes and leisurely strolls.
Located near Bordeaux, this forest offers several trails through serene nature. It's ideal for a day hike, surrounded by pine trees and wildlife.
This regional park, a short drive from Bordeaux, boasts vast forests, lakes, and a variety of trails. Perfect for day hikes and enjoying the natural landscapes.
A coastal park situated along the estuary offering several hiking trails with stunning views of the water and local wildlife, great for nature lovers.
A scenic coastal trail that runs along the rocky coastline, providing hikers with breathtaking views, accessible within a few hours' drive from Bordeaux.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bordeaux through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bordeaux by plane.
The main international airport serving Bordeaux, located approximately 12 km west of the city center.
An international airport located about 205 km south of Bordeaux, serving the coastal city of Biarritz.
Located approximately 206 km southeast of Bordeaux, this airport serves Pau and the surrounding region.
Situated around 182 km northwest of Bordeaux, this airport serves La Rochelle and the Ăle de RĂ©.
Located around 245 km east of Bordeaux, this is the main airport serving Toulouse and the surrounding region.
Approximately 290 km northeast of Bordeaux, this airport serves the city of Saint-Ătienne.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing demographic group in Bordeaux, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes individuals from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, often significant in the city's social fabric.
Representing various communities, this group adds to the multicultural identity of Bordeaux.
People from other European countries living in Bordeaux, contributing to the cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Includes communities from Southeast Asia, East Asia, and South Asia, enriching the local culture.
The local population which primarily populates the region, forming the foundation of Bordeaux's demographics.
The Soul of Bordeaux
Discover the essence of Bordeaux through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Bordeaux, with the city having a storied history and a strong fan base. The Union Bordeaux BĂšgles is the local professional rugby team that competes in the top tier of French rugby.
Football is immensely popular in Bordeaux, with the city being home to the FC Girondins de Bordeaux, a well-known professional football club that competes in Ligue 1 and has a rich history in French football.
Basketball has gained popularity in Bordeaux, with the local team, Bordeaux MĂ©tropole Basket, competing in France's professional leagues. The sport has a strong following among youth and adults alike.
Bordeaux is known for its cycling culture, with many residents using bicycles for both transportation and recreation. The city's flat terrain and cycling paths make it an ideal location for cyclists.
Handball is another popular sport in Bordeaux, with local clubs and teams participating in various competitions. The sport has a dedicated following and community.
Tennis is widely played in Bordeaux, with numerous clubs and facilities available for residents. The city hosts tournaments and has produced several notable players over the years.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bordeaux.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bordeaux's food scene is increasingly accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with several restaurants like Soya Cantine Bio offering creative plant-based dishes.
Many eateries in Bordeaux offer gluten-free alternatives, with dedicated menus or the flexibility to cater to gluten-free dietary needs. Le 33 serves up an array of gluten-free options in a stylish setting.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bordeaux with these cultural adventures.
