Things to do in Bordeaux

All about Bordeaux

When to visit

Summer in Bordeaux kicks off with the biennial Wine Festival in June, one of France’s flagship wine events. Summer festival season provides plenty to fill up your calendar, especially if you’re a foodie or music lover, but the city—and the surrounding wineries—get especially busy in July and August. To dodge the heat and crowds, fall is the ideal compromise; plus fall is also harvest time at Bordeaux’s vineyards and wine chateaux.

Getting around

Bordeaux’s broad quays and spacious plazas are a delight to walk or cycle, and most of the city’s central sights are easily reached on foot. If you get tired, hop on the tram—the four lines connect to just about everywhere in the city, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods. Driving in Bordeaux is best avoided wherever possible, but if you must drive, be sure to comply with the city’s strict pollution policies and display a Crit’Air sticker.

Traveler tips

On the right bank of the Garonne, Darwin is one of Bordeaux’s coolest urban hubs. Step inside the former military barracks, and you’ll find a skate park, coworking space, street art displays, artisan workshops, and restaurants. Come for brunch at an eco café, pick up some hand-crafted souvenirs, and then continue to the quayside park for a riverside stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bordeaux best known for?

Bordeaux is the wine capital of France, famous for its St-Emilion, Medoc, and Graves wine appellations, and its Grand Cru wine châteaux. The riverside city is also a cultural hub, packed with museums and attractions, and is the largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 350 listed monuments.

Why is Bordeaux wine so good?

Bordeaux’s famous ‘terroir’—the result of its fertile soils, changeable climate, and cool Atlantic breezes—and rich winemaking history combine to produce some of the world’s most acclaimed wines. Bordeaux is also known for its wide variety of grapes, blended together to produce full-bodied red and sweet white wines.

Is Bordeaux worth visiting?

Yes. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or foodie, Bordeaux is one of France’s most dynamic cultural hubs with a vibrant nightlife to boot. Visitors come to enjoy wine tasting at the world-famous vineyards, admire the UNESCO-listed architecture, and browse the many markets, shops, and museums.

Is Bordeaux a walkable city?

Yes, Bordeaux’s compact center makes it easy to explore on foot. Start your walking tour at Place des Quinonces, stroll down the quay to Place de la Bourse, then loop around to see the Place de Palais and St Andres Cathedral before heading back up to the Golden Triangle.

How many days do you need in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux’s most popular attractions can be enjoyed on a day tour, but a weekend or 3-day trip is recommended. This will give you time for a visit to the medieval town of St Emilion, a wine tasting tour of the surrounding vineyards, and a chance to experience Bordeaux’s legendary nightlife.

What is there to do in Bordeaux at night?

Bordeaux is renowned for having some of the best nightlife in France, and it’s as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. The central Saint-Pierre district is brimming with wine, beer, and cocktail bars, plus some popular LGBTQ bars, while the nightclubs along the quay open their doors at midnight.

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