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Bordeaux is the world's wine capital. From its stunning architecture to its exquisite cuisine, Bordeaux offers a feast for the senses.
Bordeaux is famous for its wine production, which dates back to Roman times. The city is surrounded by some of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, such as Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Sauternes. You can visit some renowned châteaux, taste their wines, and learn about their history and terroir.
Thanks to its remarkable architectural heritage, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It boasts over 350 historical monuments, ranging from Roman ruins to 18th-century mansions.
Here are ten must-sees and do when you visit this beautiful city.
Visit the Cité du Vin
The Cité du Vin is a state-of-the-art wine museum showcasing wine's history, culture, and diversity worldwide. Its panoramic tasting room allows visitors to explore interactive exhibits, watch multimedia shows, and taste different wines. The Cité du Vin is a must for any wine enthusiast who wants to learn more about this fascinating beverage.
Explore the Grand Théâtre
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The Grand Théâtre is one of the most impressive buildings in Bordeaux. It was built in the 18th century and features a neoclassical facade with Corinthian columns and statues of the nine muses. The interior is equally stunning, with a blue and gold auditorium that hosts opera, ballet, and musical performances. The Grand Théâtre symbolises the artistic and cultural excellence of Bordeaux.
Stroll along the Garonne River
The Garonne River is the lifeblood of Bordeaux, and its banks have been transformed into a vibrant and green space for locals and visitors alike. You can walk, bike, or skate along the riverfront, enjoy the gardens and playgrounds, relax on the grass and watch the boats go by. You can also admire the architectural landmarks that line the river, such as the Pont de Pierre, the Place de la Bourse, and the Miroir d'Eau.
Discover the medieval St Pierre district
The St Pierre district is the oldest and most charming part of Bordeaux. It is a maze of narrow streets and alleys filled with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cosy cafes. You can admire the Gothic churches, Renaissance mansions, and medieval gates that mark the district's boundaries. You can also sample some local specialities, such as the canelés and pastries made with rum and vanilla.
Visit the Bordeaux Cathedral
The Bordeaux Cathedral is a majestic Gothic edifice that dates back to the 11th century. It is famous for its intricate sculptures, stained glass windows, and organ. It is also where Eleanor of Aquitaine married Louis VII, the future king of France, in 1137. The cathedral is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France.
Shop at the Marché des Capucins
The Marché des Capucins is the largest and most popular market in Bordeaux. It is open every day except Monday and offers a wide range of fresh and local products, such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, fish, bread, and flowers. You can also find ethnic and exotic foods, such as Moroccan, Vietnamese, and Portuguese specialities. The market is a great place to mingle with the locals and taste the flavours of Bordeaux.
Taste the Sauternes wine
Sauternes is a sweet white wine produced in the appellation of the same name in the south of Bordeaux. It is made from grapes affected by a fungus called Botrytis cinerea, which shrivels the grapes and concentrates their sugars and flavours. Sauternes is a complex and elegant wine with honey, apricot, and citrus aromas. You can visit some of the famous Sauternes châteaux, such as Château d'Yquem, Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, and Château Guiraud, and taste this liquid gold.
See the contemporary art at the CAPC
The CAPC is Bordeaux's museum of contemporary art, housed in a former colonial warehouse. It features a permanent collection of more than 1,300 works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Richard Long, and Anish Kapoor. The CAPC also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events that showcase the latest trends and innovations in the art world. It is a dynamic and creative space that reflects Bordeaux's modern and cosmopolitan spirit.
Enjoy the nightlife at the Bassins à Flots
The Bassins à Flots are the former wet docks of Bordeaux, where ships used to load and unload their cargo. Today, they have been redeveloped into a trendy and lively area where you can find bars, restaurants, clubs, and cultural venues. You can also see some of the industrial heritage of the docks, such as the cranes, the silos, and the submarine base, which hosts concerts and exhibitions. The Bassins à Flots are the place for a fun and festive night out in Bordeaux.
Visit the Château de Vayres
The Château de Vayres is a stunning castle overlooking the Dordogne River, 30 minutes from Bordeaux. It was built in the 13th century and has been modified and expanded over the centuries, resulting in a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and classical styles. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens, where you can admire the fountains, statues, and river views. The Château de Vayres is one of the Gironde's most impressive and historical fortresses.
How to get to Bordeaux
Bordeaux is located in the southwest of France, in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, about 600 km (370 mi) from Paris.
Bordeaux is well connected by high-speed trains (TGV) to Paris and other major cities in France and Europe. The journey from Paris takes about two hours, and the trains arrive at the Gare Saint-Jean.
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