Bordeaux, a beautiful city located in southwestern France, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and of course, its world-renowned wine. I was thrilled to explore Bordeaux. Over my several days in this magnificent city, I visited some truly iconic attractions that left me in awe. In this blog post, I will share my experiences visiting six must-see attractions in Bordeaux, providing detailed information on their locations, how to get there, ticket prices, discounts, and my personal thoughts. So, let’s dive in!
1. La Cité du Vin – A Journey Through the World of Wine
Location: 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
How to Get There: La Cité du Vin is located along the Garonne River, in the Bacalan district of Bordeaux. From the city center, you can easily reach the museum by walking for about 30 minutes or taking the tram. The tram’s Line B takes you directly to the “La Cité du Vin” stop, which is right by the museum’s entrance.
Ticket Prices: Regular entry costs €20 for adults, but there are discounts available for students, children, and groups. Tickets for a guided tour or special wine tasting events may cost extra.
Discounts: You can often find discounted tickets online, especially if you book in advance. For example, the Bordeaux City Pass offers free entry to La Cité du Vin along with several other attractions.
My Experience: Visiting La Cité du Vin was an unforgettable experience. As a wine enthusiast, I was particularly excited to explore this museum, which is dedicated to all things wine. The design of the building itself is stunning—its shape is said to resemble a wine decanter, which is a beautiful tribute to the museum’s focus. Inside, the exhibits take you through the history of wine, its global journey, and its cultural importance across centuries.
I was particularly impressed with the interactive exhibits, including a wine tasting workshop that allowed me to sample a variety of wines from Bordeaux and other regions. The highlight of my visit was the panoramic terrace on the top floor, which offers a breathtaking view of Bordeaux, the Garonne River, and the city’s iconic bridges. I stayed there for a while, sipping my wine and taking in the beauty around me.
Recommendation: I highly recommend visiting La Cité du Vin if you’re a wine lover or someone curious about the cultural significance of wine in France. It’s a modern, educational, and fun experience for all ages.
2. Place de la Bourse – The Jewel of Bordeaux
Location: Place de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux
How to Get There: Place de la Bourse is located in the heart of Bordeaux, on the left bank of the Garonne River. You can easily walk here from most major attractions in the city center, including the Bordeaux’s historic district. The tram also stops nearby, at the “Place de la Bourse” station (Tram Line C).
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Discounts: As this is a public square, there are no entry fees or discounts.
My Experience: Place de la Bourse is arguably one of the most stunning and iconic spots in Bordeaux. This elegant square was built in the 18th century and is surrounded by beautiful classical buildings. What makes it truly unique, however, is the Mirror d’Eau (Water Mirror) located in front of the square. It’s the world’s largest reflective water mirror, and it creates an almost magical illusion of the buildings floating on water.
When I visited, I was lucky enough to catch the sunset, and the soft golden light reflected in the water made for an absolutely mesmerizing scene. People were lounging around, taking photos, and enjoying the stunning atmosphere. This square is also a great spot to people-watch, relax, or take a leisurely stroll by the river.
Recommendation: The Place de la Bourse is a must-visit for anyone in Bordeaux. It’s perfect for photography, relaxation, and soaking in the city’s charming architecture.
3. Bordeaux’s Historic Center – A Stroll Through the Past
Location: Bordeaux City Center
How to Get There: Bordeaux’s historic center is easily accessible by foot, as it’s located in the heart of the city. You can reach it by walking from major landmarks like Place de la Bourse or the Bordeaux Cathedral. If you’re taking the tram, get off at “Hotel de Ville” station.
Ticket Prices: Free to explore the streets and squares, but individual museums or landmarks like the Bordeaux Cathedral may charge entry fees (around €5–€10).
Discounts: You can often find discounts on entry tickets to museums or attractions with the Bordeaux City Pass.
My Experience: The historic center of Bordeaux is a true delight. As I wandered through the narrow, cobbled streets, I was transported back in time. The architecture in this part of town is a mix of classical French style and medieval charm, with beautiful buildings, squares, and churches.
One of the most striking landmarks in this area is the Bordeaux Cathedral, or Cathédrale Saint-André. Its Gothic façade and impressive interior are a must-see, and the climb to the top of the tower offers an incredible view of the city. I also visited the Grosse Cloche, a medieval bell tower that has stood since the 15th century.
Recommendation: Spend a few hours just walking around the historic center, taking in the sights, and popping into local cafés for a quick espresso. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
4. The Bordeaux Wine Museum – A History of the City’s Most Famous Export
Location: 41 Rue Borie, 33000 Bordeaux
How to Get There: The Bordeaux Wine Museum is located in the Chartrons district, which is a short tram ride from the city center. I took Line C and got off at the “Chartrons” stop, from where it was just a 10-minute walk.
Ticket Prices: Entry costs €10 for adults. Wine tastings and guided tours may be extra.
Discounts: Check for discounts online, as some tours and packages offer special pricing.
My Experience: If you’re passionate about wine and want to understand Bordeaux’s rich history, this is the place to go. The museum offers an insightful journey through the city’s long-standing relationship with wine, starting from ancient times to the modern day.
The exhibits include artifacts, historical wine bottles, and interactive displays that let you learn about the wine-making process. I particularly enjoyed the wine tasting session at the end of the tour, where I sampled several local wines while overlooking the Garonne River. The museum also has a lovely wine shop where you can purchase bottles to take home.
Recommendation: I highly recommend visiting this museum, especially if you’re a wine enthusiast or interested in the history of the Bordeaux region.
5. Jardin Public – A Green Escape in the Heart of the City
Location: 33000 Bordeaux, France
How to Get There: The Jardin Public is located in the center of Bordeaux, near the Museum of Natural History. You can easily walk from the city center or take tram Line B to the “Jardin Public” station.
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Discounts: None.
My Experience: Jardin Public is one of the most beautiful green spaces in Bordeaux, and it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. I visited this park to take a break from the city hustle and bustle, and it was a breath of fresh air. The park features beautiful gardens, tranquil lakes, and winding paths that lead you through lush greenery.
I also stopped by the Museum of Natural History located within the park, which was a fascinating and educational experience. The museum features exhibits on everything from geology to wildlife, and the best part is that entry is free!
Recommendation: If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature, Jardin Public is the perfect destination.
6. Bordeaux’s Modern Waterfront – A Blend of Old and New
Location: Along the Garonne River, Bordeaux
How to Get There: The modern waterfront area is easily accessible by walking along the river from places like Place de la Bourse. It’s also connected by tram lines and buses.
Ticket Prices: Free to explore the waterfront.
Discounts: None.
My Experience: I spent a few hours walking along Bordeaux’s modern waterfront, and I was really impressed by how well the city has blended contemporary architecture with its historic roots. The area has been revitalized in recent years and now features chic cafés, galleries, and modern buildings. The architecture along the riverfront is a mix of sleek modern designs with classical influences, creating a fascinating contrast.
I particularly enjoyed visiting the Darwin Ecosystem, a unique space that promotes eco-friendly businesses and sustainable living. The creative vibe in the area made it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a meal by the water.
Recommendation: If you’re interested in seeing how Bordeaux balances its past and present, a walk along the modern waterfront is an absolute must.
Bordeaux is a city that beautifully combines history, culture, and modern charm. From the world of wine at La Cité du Vin to the serene atmosphere of Jardin Public, there’s something for everyone in this stunning city. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Bordeaux offers an unforgettable experience.
