24 Unforgettable Things to Do in Bordeaux

I’ll be honest, here. I love love LOVE Bordeaux. I think it’s one of the most beautiful and fascinating big cities in France.

In fact, after my first trip to Bordeaux, I came home and gushed about the city to my husband. When I finally got to bring him along on another trip, it only took a couple of hours before he remarked, “Okay, I get it – Bordeaux is amazing.”

So what makes Bordeaux so great? It’s a city of iconic landmarks, towering medieval gates, Gothic cathedrals, picturesque Haussmannian streets, elegant squares, and neighborhoods rich in history.

The city’s architectural identity is defined by its Haussmannian style—ornate and elegant stone facades developed under the direction of Georges Haussmann, a Bordeaux native who later reshaped Paris itself. This has given Bordeaux the nickname of “Mini Paris of Southern France.”

And, of course, Bordeaux’s global reputation is tied to its wine culture. Dubbed the wine capital of France, Bordeaux is the perfect place to dive into the world of wine—learning about its production, blends, flavors, and notes, and exploring the many wine shops that dot the city.

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24 Best Things To Do in Bordeaux

So, let’s explore the top things to do in Bordeaux! For ease of use, this guide is divided up by the different neighborhoods that make up historic Bordeaux:

• Saint Pierre
• Triangle d’Or
• Les Chartrons
• Saint Michel
• A few miscellaneous attractions that are just outside of these neighborhoods

✔️Things to Do in Quartier Saint Pierre

Quartier Saint Pierre, the oldest district in Bordeaux, is a must-visit neighborhood in Bordeaux. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and many charming squares, it’s the historic heart of the city.

This picturesque area is bustling, especially in the evenings, when locals and visitors gather at outdoor cafes, shop along pedestrian streets, or relax in the lively squares.

The neighborhood’s architecture reflects Bordeaux’s 18th-century prosperity, with regal buildings that practically transport you back in time as you wander its maze-like streets.

Many of Bordeaux’s top attractions are located in St. Pierre, making it a perfect spot to explore history and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

1. Porte Cailhau

Bordeaux was once a walled city with six grand gates that served as entrances. These fortifications, built over centuries, were originally constructed to defend against Germanic invasions.

In the 18th century, the medieval walls were demolished to allow for city expansion, leaving the gates standing on their own. All six gates remain today as historical monuments that visitors can explore.

One of the most popular gates is Porte Cailhau (Palace Gate), one of the oldest and most ornate. (It almost looks like something out of Disneyland!) You can climb its narrow spiral staircase to the rooftop, where small windows offer stunning views of the Garonne River and the city.

Right in front of Porte Cailhau is Place du Palais, a beautiful square steeped in history. Once the site of Palais Ombrière, the medieval home of the Aquitaine dukes, the square has transformed over the centuries.

Today, it’s a great spot for al fresco dining, offering picturesque views of the city gate.

• Hours: Varies depending on the season
• Price: €5

2. Grosse Cloche

The Grosse Cloche, or the “Big Bell”, is the biggest gate in Bordeaux, making it one of the most iconic and easily recognizable spots in the city. It holds a giant bell that rings six times a year during special occasions, such as Bastille Day – a national holiday that commemorates the fall of Bastille on July 14, 1789.

Not only that, but it has dungeons inside that used to jail young people who didn’t follow the curfew or public order. You can see these dungeons in person and learn about the history of this monument on a 30-minute guided tour during spring, summer, and fall.

• Hours: Open to the public during spring, summer, and fall
• Price: €6 

3. Pont de Pierre

Pont de Pierre (formerly Napoleon Bridge) was the very first bridge that was built in Bordeaux under the leadership of Napoleon I. If you look closely, you will find 17 arches on the bridge, which was intentional to match the number of letters on Napoleon I’s name – Napoleon Bonaparte. Interesting, right?

As the name implies, this beautiful bridge was made of stones and bridge and embellished with wrought-iron lamp posts, making it look and feel regal – especially with the Roman-style Porte de Bourgogne at one end.

For 150 years, Pont de Pierre was the only infrastructure that connected the left bank and right bank of Bordeaux. Toady, however, many other bridges connect the communities on both sides of the river.

4. Place de la Bourse + Miroir d’Eau

If you can only visit one of the squares in Bordeaux, it should be the Place de la Bourse – the biggest and fanciest square in the city. It’s the only open square in Europe where the square is open to the river instead of being enclosed by buildings or city.

As mentioned, one side of the square faces the Garonne River. From that side, you can also find the iconic Miroir d’Eau, which is an enormous reflection pool that also functions as a splash pad in warmer months.

By the time it was built, Bordeaux had been exporting wines and exchanging goods with other countries, particularly the Americas. King Louis XV commissioned the square to be as luxurious and elegant as possible, showcasing the grandeur of Bordeaux and his power to the foreign trading ships arriving in the port.

In fact, there was once a statue of King Louis XV in the fountain of the square. However, it was destroyed during the French Revolution and replaced with the current statue of the Three Graces.

5. Saint André Cathedral

Saint André Cathedral is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in France, thanks to its enchanting Gothic architecture and interesting historical background.

The cathedral is made beautiful by its towers, high-vaulted ceilings, religious sculptures, stained glass windows, its “Royal Gate” entrance, and its huge organ, which is one of the largest in France.

This is where the 13-year-old Eleanor of Aquitaine, a beloved French historical figure, married her first husband, King Louis VII of France, in 1137. (I know…13 years old!) Then, at one point, it was used to store fodder during the French Revolution until a devastating fire happened in the 19th century.

Trivia: Most of the churches and cathedrals back then used colorful stained glass windows to attract people. When most couldn’t read, the images also helped to tell important stories to the population.

6. Pey Berland Tower

The Pey Berland Tower is the free-standing bell tower of Saint André Cathedral. Originally constructed in 1440, the original bell was replaced in 1853 by an 11-tone tenor bell, the fourth largest in France.

In Bordeaux, bell towers are built separately from churches due to the city’s marshy soil, which can’t support heavy structures. This is also why Bordeaux doesn’t have an underground metro system and why most buildings are limited to four stories.

Although you can admire its beauty from the outside, especially from Rue du Loup, Pey Berland Tower is best experienced by climbing its 229-step staircase to the top of the tower.

From there, you can gete up close and personal with the gargoyles as you admire the breathtaking panoramic view of the cathedral and the city of Bordeaux. (See the picture at the top of the Saint André Cathedral section, just aabove).

• Hours: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm
• Price: €9 – must book your tickets online in advance, no tickets are sold on-site

7. Librairie Mollat

The Librairie Mollat is the oldest and largest independently-owned bookstore in France. This bookshop is so massive that it occupies almost the entire block (about 3/4 of its length). 

It has 15 different departments, offering thousands of books in different languages and genres. From art, literature, and science to travel, comics, and children’s books, this bookstore provides endless options for bookworms and the general public.

Good to know: Libraire means “bookstore” in French, while Bibliotheque means “library.”

• Hours: Daily from 10 am to 8 pm (from 2 pm to 7 pm on Sundays)

8. Rue Sainte Catherine

Rue Sainte-Catherine, stretching 1,200 meters, is the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe and a hub of activity in Bordeaux. Starting in the upscale Triangle d’Or district, it runs through the historic Saint Pierre neighborhood and ends near the vibrant Saint Michel district.

The northern side of Rue Sainte-Catherine is home to major French chains and includes the entrance to Galerie Bordelaise, just steps from the Grand Théâtre.

The southern side of the street offers a different vibe, with bargain clothing stores, Asian shops, grocery stores, and North African eateries, making it a favorite among students and young adults. This end of the street is also where you’ll find the Porte d’Aquitaine, one of Bordeaux’s historic city gates.

9. Private Walking Tour

If you’re short on time or want a quick introduction to Bordeaux’s history and culture, a private walking tour is a fantastic choice. Over the course of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, a local guide will lead you through key streets, squares, and monuments, sharing captivating stories and historical insights.

While the tour doesn’t include entering churches or towers, it offers an excellent overview of the city’s highlights. Guides often provide great local recommendations, making it easy to decide which attractions to revisit in more depth later.

Getting a private guided tour was actually one of my favorite parts of visiting Bordeaux. I felt like I knew nothing about the city’s history beforehand, and ended the tour learning so much and having so much more context about the history and sites we were seeing.

It certainly made the entire trip so much more meaningful!

>>Check prices and availability for this private walking tour here

10. Promenade Along the River

Walking the riverside promenade along the Garonne River is a great way to take in the views of Bordeaux. The wide promenade next to the river has plenty of space and stunning views of the river and the historic old town, perfect for those looking for pleasant and relaxing walks during the day or night.

Plus, the promenade gives you access to our next item…

11. River Cruise

Another very enjoyable activity you can do in Bordeaux is to book a relaxing river cruise along Port de la Lune and the Estuary. This is a fascinating way to view the city from the water and sail under its beautiful bridges.

There are several types of river cruises that you can book in Bordeaux.

One of them is a Sightseeing Cruise, a 2-hour cruise tour with guided commentary, glass of wine, and canelé.

Another other option is the Dinner Cruise, where you can enjoy a 3-course meal while taking in the views of the city from the water.

✔️Things To Do in the Golden Triangle (Triangle d’Or) Neighborhood

The Triangle d’Or, or Golden Triangle, is one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious neighborhoods, known for its upscale accommodations, luxury shopping, and historic significance.

In the 18th century, this was the preferred area for Bordeaux’s bourgeoisie, and it remains home to some of the city’s most exclusive addresses.

Cours de l’Intendance, one of the avenues forming this triangle-shaped district, is lined with high-end boutiques, making it a top destination for luxury shopping.

Despite its compact size, the Triangle d’Or is an elegant neighborhood with a few unique attractions that shouldn’t be missed in Bordeaux.

12. Grand Theatre of Bordeaux

The Grand Théâtre of Bordeaux, built in the late 18th century, is one of the city’s most iconic and beautiful landmarks. During its construction, workers discovered 2,000-year-old remains of a Roman temple beneath the site, adding to its historical significance.

Today, the theater hosts plays and performances, and visitors can enter by either attending a show or joining a 50-minute guided tour operated by the Tourist Office.

The theater is located in Place de la Comédie, one of Bordeaux’s most upscale squares. It’s surrounded by the Intercontinental Hotel and several high-end restaurants, including Le Bordeaux, owned by Gordon Ramsay, and the Michelin-starred Le Quatrième Mur, led by renowned local chef Philippe Etchebest.

13. Place des Quinconces

Place des Quinconces is one of the largest public squares in Europe, covering an impressive 12 hectares in the heart of Bordeaux. Created in the early 1800s, the square was designed to provide an open space for public gatherings and events.

Its name comes from the quincunx arrangement of trees planted around the square, a pattern of five trees.

At its center stands the Monument aux Girondins, a stunning fountain and column that honors the Girondin deputies who were victims of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. The square is flanked by grand statues of Montesquieu and Montaigne, notable figures from Bordeaux’s history.

14. Place Gambetta

Another must-visit square in Bordeaux is the beautiful Place Gambetta. Completed in 1770, it was one of the first major developments outside the historic city walls.

What makes this square particularly notable is its dark history—it served as the site of the city’s guillotine during the French Revolution. It’s chilling to imagine how much blood was shed here during that turbulent time.

Take a moment to look at the windows of the surrounding 18th-century buildings. You’ll notice small sculptures of human faces, known as mascarons. Some of these intricate details are even modeled after real people.

✔️Things to Do in Les Chartrons

Les Chartrons is a chic and trendy neighborhood just outside Bordeaux’s city center, blending a bourgeois and bohemian vibe reminiscent of Le Marais in Paris.

Developed in the 18th century by wealthy wine merchants, it was originally an extremely exclusive and upscale community designed around the wine trade, with long, narrow streets specifically designed for building wine cellars.

Today, Les Chartrons is a vibrant and charming district. Rue Notre Dame, one of its main streets, is lined with colorful shopfronts, local boutiques, restaurants, and winery shops, making it a delightful place to explore.

The neighborhood’s wine heritage lives on, with many wine cellars still scattered throughout the neighborhood and fine wines readily available at its restaurants.

15. Jardin Public

I love visiting gardens in France—they truly go all out for their green spaces, and the Jardin Public is no exception. Bordered by elegant buildings with upscale terraces, sculptures, large flower pots, and even some cafes, the park feels like a special place from the moment you enter through its massive wrought iron gate.

Within the garden, you’ll find a playground, a carousel, a children’s area, a bridge over the pond, and plenty of benches to relax on. Despite its size, the park feels easy to explore, thanks to its lush greenery and scenic, winding paths.

At the far end, you’ll discover a beautiful botanical garden, accessible through an old pavilion with an ornate stone arch. This structure, once part of the garden’s greenhouse, is now known as the Palais du Capitole.

• Hours: Daily, usually from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
• Price: Free to visit

16. Eglise Saint Louis des Chartrons

The Saint Louis des Chartons church is a lovely and prominent cathedral in the middle of Rue Notre Dame. It was built in the late 1800s by Bordeaux architect Pierre-Charles Brun with a neo-Gothic architectural style.

More than anything, it’s praised for its beautiful stained glass windows and altars. Its massive organ and baptismal fonts made of Carrara marble are also some of the highlights inside the cathedral. You may also want to visit during the heritage days in September to get a glimpse of its mahogany sacristy.

Hours: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

17. Musée du Vin

If you’re interested in learning about Bordeaux’s wine culture, the Musée du Vin is an excellent place to start. Located in a former wine shop, this small museum highlights the history of wine-making and trade specifically in Bordeaux and the surrounding region.

The exhibits cover various aspects of the wine trade, production processes, and even how wine barrels are crafted. To round out your visit, you can enjoy a tasting of two locally-made wines, with grape juice available for kids and non-drinkers.

Good to know: As early as the 1200s, the “Privilege of Bordeaux wines” was established, meaning that only wines from estates of the Bordeaux burghers were allowed in the city limits.

• Hours: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm
• Price: €10

✔️Things to Do in Saint Michel

The Saint Michel neighborhood is a vibrant, cosmopolitan district in Bordeaux that borders the Saint Pierre neighborhood. Historically home to sailors, merchants, and craftsmen, the area also housed Spanish and Portuguese immigrants.

Today, it’s home to North African, Turkish, and Kurdish communities, as well as a significant student population.

This mix of cultures makes Saint Michel a fantastic spot for food lovers, with numerous North African and Turkish restaurants and bakeries serving delicious, authentic dishes.

18. Marché des Capucins

Marché des Capucins is the largest market in Bordeaux and a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic local goods. Here, you’ll find an incredible variety of items, including fresh meat, cheese, seafood, pasta, flowers, pastries, and chocolates—all showcasing the flavors and craftsmanship of the region.

The market is also home to numerous small eateries and restaurants, offering a range of dishes and cuisines. It’s a lively and exciting place to explore, whether you’re shopping for local specialties or tucking into a freshly cooked meal.

Hours: Daily from 6 am to 2 pm (closed on Mondays)

19. St Michel Basilica (Basilique Saint-Michel)

The St. Michel Basilica, originally built in 700 AD, was expanded and developed between the 14th and 16th centuries. It features classic Gothic architecture, complemented by antique stained glass windows, religious paintings, and intricate altarpieces.

Unfortunately, the original stained glasses were destroyed by a World War II bombing. It was then replaced by the modern stained glass artworks we now see today.  Nonetheless, the church and its intricate details remain a must-see attraction in the city

Like any other cathedral in Bordeaux, St Michael Basilica has a separate spire, known as “La Fleche,” to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the church. This spire is recognized as the fourth tallest bell tower in France.

• Hours: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

20. Food Tour

I love doing food tours in big cities in France (for example, I’ve had the best time on the food tours I did in Nice and Aix-en-Provence) and Bordeaux was no exception. This Bordeaux food tour was an exceptionally delightful experience, and a must-do for anyone who’s even a little bit of a foodie.

The tour begins at Marché des Capucins, and takes you through local markets and eateries through the Saint Michel and Saint Pierre neighborhoods, where you can sample traditional French food and desserts.

Make sure to arrive hungry—portions are generous, and skipping breakfast is highly recommended. During the tour, you’ll indulge in a variety of savory and sweet dishes, including:

• Cheese: Sample high-quality varieties like comté and chèvre.
• Mussels and Fries: A French favorite often served with cream, featuring tender mussels without a fishy taste.
• Dune Blanche: A light choux pastry filled with cream and dusted with powdered sugar.
• Roulé: A rolled pastry with mix-ins like red fruits, bacon, onions, or cream.
• Canelé: Bordeaux’s iconic dessert, and you’ll get the best version in the city.
• Crepes: A classic French treat, served plain or with toppings like cream and fruits.

>>Check prices and availability for this food tour here

✔️Other Things to Do in Bordeaux

21. Cité du Vin

Cité du Vin is a must-visit destination whether you’re a wine drinker or not. Unlike the traditional Musée du Vin, this museum offers a modern, immersive experience that explores wine-making and trade practices not just in Bordeaux, but around the world.

The lower floors are filled with educational exhibits and interactive displays that cover topics like global wine history (from Mesopotamia to Egypt), vineyard cultivation, and wine cultures across countries. You can also dive into the nuances of wine types—white, rosé, red, sparkling—and learn about their preparation and tasting.

Some of our favorite features included the “smelling station,” Via Sensoria, where you can explore the aromas and notes of wine, and a fun “grape-stomping game.”

At the top floor, enjoy a wine tasting with stunning panoramic views of Bordeaux. Choose from 10 to 12 wines from Bordeaux, France, and beyond, or opt for grape juice, perfect for non-drinkers and kids.

• Hours: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm
• Price: €37.40 (permanent exhibits + top floor + sensory tasting journey)

22. Bassins des Lumières

The Bassins des Lumières is a breathtaking light and art installation inside a submarine bunker that was constructed by Germans during World War II when they controlled the south of France.

The structure in itself is just a piece of large gray concrete, but once you step inside of it, you will be transported to a large piece of moving art.

It features four spacious, interconnected rooms, each with a large water basin that reflects the stunning light show, all set to relaxing music.

While the entire compound displays the same art set at once, walking through the different rooms never feels boring or repetitive. The moving art is designed to constantly change, grow, and shift, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. Whether you’re an art lover or not, this is a must-visit!

• Price: €15
• Hours: Daily from 10 am to 7 pm (until 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays)

23. Eat Canelé

No visit to Bordeaux is complete without trying a canelé, the city’s signature pastry and one of the most delicious regional foods you can eat in France. This iconic dessert features a dark, caramelized crust and a soft, custard-like center, flavored with rum and vanilla—a combination that’s simply irresistible.

Believed to have originated in the 16th century, canelés were first made in convents around Bordeaux’s wine region. Over time, they became a beloved local delicacy and remain a must-try treat for visitors.

You can find canelés throughout the city, but for an authentic experience, head to one of the seven La Toque Cuivrée locations in and around the city center.

24. Visit Saint Emilion

Saint Emilion is a quintessential wine-making village just 30 minutes by car or train from Bordeaux. This medieval village, with over 2,000 years of winemaking history, is surrounded by world-famous vineyards and also known for its stunning medieval architecture and monuments.

The village is named after Emilion, a monk who fled from Vannes and sought refuge here. He lived in the area for decades, serving the local people and performing miracles that led to his sainthood.

Saint Emilion’s unique geology and microclimate make it ideal for growing grapes like merlot and cabernet sauvignon. In fact, it became the first vineyard in the world to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

If you want to have some wine-tasting experiences, you can join a guided winery tour and tasting or enjoy gourmet picnics, blending lessons, or a glass of wine at a local restaurant.

>>>Check prices and availability for this guided day trip with winery tastings in Saint Emilion

Map of Bordeaux Attractions

How Many Days Do You Need in Bordeaux?

While 1-2 days will give you a nice taste of the city, I’d recommend 3-5 days to really see and do everything on this list at a leisurely pace, with time to just walk around and soak up the atmosphere.

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