Things To Do
in Bordeaux
Bordeaux, located in southwestern France, is renowned for its world-class wine production and stunning architecture. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Its vibrant cultural scene includes art galleries, theaters, and a plethora of museums.
With picturesque riverfront views along the Garonne, Bordeaux offers a charming blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Place de la Bourse, admiring its stunning architecture and the reflected beauty in the water mirror, Le Miroir d'eau. Enjoy a traditional French breakfast at a nearby café.
Visit the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts and take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin Public, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Dine at a local bistro in the Saint-Pierre district, followed by a wine tasting tour to discover Bordeaux's famous wines.
Take a half-day trip to the nearby wine region of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can tour vineyards and taste exquisite wines.
Return to Bordeaux and visit the Marché des Capucins, the city's vibrant food market, to sample local delicacies and fresh produce.
Enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, experiencing fine dining with a focus on local ingredients and wine pairings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🍷Glass of Wine | $5 |
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $20 |
| 🚌Public Transport Ticket | $2 |
| 🏨Hotel per Night | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- World-class dining and wine experiences.
- Beautiful architecture and scenic river views.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
- Public transport may be limited in some areas.
- Higher prices in tourist hotspots compared to local areas.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Bordeaux
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning square featuring classical architecture and the reflective water mirror, perfect for iconic shots.
A modern architectural marvel dedicated to wine, offering unique angles and vibrant colors for photography.
This historic stone bridge offers picturesque views of the city and is especially beautiful at sunset.
Food in Bordeaux
Bordeaux Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A small, rum-flavored cake with a soft and tender custard center and a dark, caramelized crust.
Must-Try!
A classic dish of steak served with a rich red wine sauce made with Bordeaux wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bordeaux's largest market, famous for its local produce, cheeses, meats, and a variety of street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting is important; always say 'Bonjour' (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants.
It’s customary to keep hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals and to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.
Using 's'il vous plaît' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) is expected and shows respect towards locals.
Safety
Tipping in Bordeaux
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Bordeaux is generally not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Bordeaux is mild and vibrant, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying blooming gardens.
Summer can be hot, making it ideal for wine tours and riverside activities, but be prepared for occasional heatwaves.
Autumn offers a beautiful display of colors in vineyards and is also the grape harvest season, making it a great time for wine enthusiasts.
Winter is generally mild, but can be rainy; it’s a good time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy cozy restaurants.
Bordeaux at Night
Hiking in Bordeaux
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful lake located about an hour's drive from Bordeaux, offering scenic hiking trails and opportunities for water sports.
A vast natural park south of Bordeaux, featuring diverse landscapes, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Bordeaux by plane.
Located about 12 km from the city center, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bordeaux is home to a large student population, thanks to its universities and vibrant academic environment.
Given its world-renowned wine reputation, many visitors and locals are passionate wine enthusiasts, contributing to the city's wine culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a major sport in Bordeaux, with the local team, Union Bordeaux Bègles, having a passionate following and playing in the top French league.
Football is also popular, with the local club, FC Girondins de Bordeaux, historically known for its success in French football.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bordeaux.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bordeaux offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to check menus in advance.
While French cuisine is often centered around bread, there are gluten-free options available in many restaurants.