Bordeaux, with its provincial charm and urban elegance, offers a tourist destination like none other. Due to its romantic setting alongside the crescent bend of the Garonne river, it is well-known as the ‘Port of the Moon’. With flourishing trade in the past, a rich cultural heritage was nourished and the same dates back to the antiquity. In 1998, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bordeaux tourist attractions and its wealth or architectural treasures, make it a must visit attraction in Southwest France.
Explore the gorgeous 10 best places to visit in Bordeaux in 2023
Bordeaux has some of the most spectacular tourist attractions. The architectural masterpieces, the weather and the scenic beauty of the place ensures a highly enriching and refreshing holiday for you. Check out these 10 best places to visit in Bordeaux for your next vacation:
- Miroir D’eau
- Cathedral St. Andrew
- La Cité du Vin
- Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
- Left Bank Quays
- Modern Art Museum
- Place de la Bourse
- Porte Cailhau
- Bordeaux Submarine Base
- Margaux
1. Miroir D’eau
Literally meaning mirror, the Miroir D’eau is one best places to visit in Bordeaux and a jewel of France. An evening walk, with a breathtaking sight, shall leave you absolutely mesmerized. The reflective granite floor has a layer of two centimeters of water on it. It reflects a sheer divine reflection of the magnificent Place de la Bourse, making it among the most frequented places to visit in Bordeaux. More than mere words, the experience can encapsulate the true beauty of the sight.
Address: Place de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Open Time: 10 AM to 10 PM
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2. Cathedral St. Andrew
Amongst the finest standing representations of Gothic architecture, the Roman Catholic church is a sight to behold. It is definitely a strong mark on the Bordeaux tourist map and a must visit for architecture, art and history enthusiasts. The sublimity with which the structure of the cathedral stands evokes awe. The cathedral has stood through the blunt brunts of men and the test of time. Its serenity remains unparalleled.
Address: Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 526 810
3. La Cité du Vin
If you want to on a Bordeaux wine tour, this is where you must come. Standing a class apart from anything you have ever seen, this massive structure finds home in the top places to visit in Bordeaux and is the only cultural center globally, dedicated to appreciation as well as the understanding of the lineage and tradition of wine. This is among the best Bordeaux points of interest, for wine connoisseurs as well as individuals who wish to learn the sophisticated yet subtle art of wine tasting. Any individual who wishes to learn about the tradition of wine which has thrived in Bordeaux over centuries, this is the place to visit. La Cité du Vin is one of the major Bordeaux points of interest.
Address: Esplanade de Pontac, 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 162 020
Open Time: 10AM to 7PM
Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Bordeaux That Will Make You Fall In Love With This French City
4. Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Still resonating with a storehouse of talent in new artists and art forms, the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux stands ever so elegant. New avenues of pleasant surprises are opened by the Opera House for any individual who is an appreciator of western classical performing arts. It is among the oldest theatres in Europe and an example of architectural excellence with twelve Corinthian columns, each of which shelters a statue of the three goddesses and the nine muses. In the year 1780, it was inaugurated with a performance of a play by Jean Racine, Athalie.
Address: Place de la Comédie, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 008 595
Open Time: Tue – Sun 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Suggested Read: Top 6 Things To Do In France That May Sound Cliché But Are Totally Inevitable
5. Left Bank Quays
This is among the most famous Bordeaux attractions, which is also one of the most stupendous waterfronts in the world. Definitely, the historical structures adorning its periphery, like the 18th-century facades take the credit. In 2007, it was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has since evolved as an iconic, effervescent and versatile location. You can shop around, explore the tourist attractions and chill around basking in the beauty of the place.
6. Modern Art Museum
If you are an art enthusiast, for you this is one of the perfect places to go in Bordeaux. Contemporary art finds home at the CAPC Modern Art Museum. Half a century of culture is reflected at the museum and it features numerous new forms of contemporary art. Emerging arts are a major focus of this museum created in a former colonial warehouse, about forty years ago. Exhibitions, discussions, and lectures on the history of art are also organized here, besides guided tours.
Address: 7 Rue Ferrere, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 008 150
Open Time: Tue 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Wed 11:00 am – 8:00 pm Thu – Sun 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
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7. Place de la Bourse
Built from 1730 to 1755, this is a beautiful horseshoe-shaped square, right next to the Garonne. Two buildings hem it in, namely the former Hotel des Fermes in the south and the Palais de la Bourse in the north. In the middle of the square, the Fontaine des Trois Grâces stands proudly, while the 18th-century façade is elegantly reflected by the river. It is among the most frequented Bordeaux sightseeing options.
Address: Quai du Maréchal Lyautey, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 102 030
8. Porte Cailhau
Decorative as well as defensive elements form the beautiful fort palace which was built in 1495 and dedicated to Charles VIII. Not much inside the palace has changed since its construction in the 15th century. The top floor offers a splendid view of the Pont de Pierre and Garonne. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Bordeaux city from the top of this castle which once used to be the entry to this city. It’s among the top places to visit in Bordeaux and must not be missed!
Address: Place du Palais, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 006 600
Open Time: Apr-Oct: 10am-noon, 1pm-6pm; rest of year: weekends and school holidays 10am-noon, 1pm-6pm – closed 1 Jan, 25 Dec
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9. Bordeaux Submarine Base
This massive structure is a combination of concrete, steel, and water (penetrating the base). An impressive remnant of World War II, it was built as a house for the 12th Submarine Flotilla of the German Nave, between 1941 to 1943. The rugged construction is pretty much indestructible and was designed to withstand even the aerial bombardment. Today, it stands as a center for cultural events and a host for contemporary art exhibitions.
Address: Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux, France
Phone: +33 556 111 150
Open Time: 1.30pm-7pm – closed Mon and Bank Holidays
10. Margaux
Margaux is the global renown Médoc wine region near Bordeaux. You can take delight in the natural beauty or rejoice wine tasting at the place well-known for its reputation as well as the unrivaled quality of wine produced. The French definitely know the best secrets! Enjoy the best merlot and cabernet sauvignon you’ve ever had. One reason Bourdeaux and even Margaux should be on your list is because of the impeccably tasting wine.
Further Read: Honeymoon In France: 10 Gorgeous Places That’ll Make You Wish Time Stood Still, Forever!
The list of best places to Bordeaux doesn’t really end here, it is definitely a place which can be better learned by exploration. And if you want to witness its beauty, you must add it your France tour package. Do not miss out this place at any cost.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Bordeaux
What are the top attractions in Bordeaux?
Some of the top attractions to explore during your visit to Bordeaux include Cathédrale Saint-André, Grand Théâtre, Place de la Bourse, Basilique Saint-Seurin, Basilique Saint-Michel, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Palais Gallien, and Abbaye de la Sauve-Majeure
What is there to do outdoors in Bordeaux?
The best things that you could do outdoors in Bordeaux include visiting various elegant cathedrals, enjoying a performance at Bordeaux theater, and exploring several impeccable museums and palaces.
Is it safe to visit Bordeaux during covid times?
The French Government has eased on some of the restrictions due to covid as the cases were decreasing, but there are some important protocols to be followed while traveling to France. For fully vaccinated individuals, the RT PCR test is not required. The unvaccinated visitors have to provide a negative covid test report prior to departure.
What is Bordeaux known for?
Bordeaux is one of the popular destinations that you could visit in France. It is known for the various architectural marvels that were built during the medieval times such as various cathedrals, palaces, museums, theaters, etc.
What is there to do in Bordeaux for 2 days?
If you are planning on visiting Bordeaux for 2 days then you may be able to cover some of the popular attractions such as Cathédrale Saint-André, Grand Théâtre, Place de la Bourse, and Basilique Saint-Seurin.
What can you do in Bordeaux at night?
Bordeaux is a vibrant city that rejuvenates after the sunset. Some of the best things to do at night include dining at various renowned restaurants and trying out savory French cuisines, strolling around the city, and attending a football game at Bordeaux stadium.
What are the best months to visit Bordeaux?
Bordeaux can be visited anytime of the year depending upon the places you are visiting. Many travelers visit during the winter months because of the Christmas season. You may also visit during the summer months as you may be able to experience several attractions situated near the countryside.
How many days are required to explore Bordeaux?
For a brief visit to Bordeaux, a 2 days tour is recommended in order to explore the major attractions in the city but if you want to go for a thorough and relaxing vacation, then 3-4 days are sufficient to explore the hidden gems of the city.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.