Bordeaux: top 40 things to do

Bordeaux travel tips for a great stay: 

• Book your transfer at the best prices
• See the best activities in Bordeaux
• Car hire in Bordeaux (rated 4.7 on Trustpilot)
• Best hotels in Bordeaux (top rated)

Staying in Bordeaux? Remember to get the Bordeaux City Pass, which includes free entry to 20 of the city's most emblematic museums and monuments, as well as unlimited use of public transport.

Main attractions in Bordeaux: our top 10 things to do

Here are a few suggestions for visits and leisure ideas during your stay.

1. La Cité du Vin with a tasting 

Go and explore this interactive museum dedicated to the world of wine with exhibitions, tastings and a panoramic view over Bordeaux. It is one of our must-do activities in Bordeaux, especially if you love culture, architecture and, of course, wine! What we like: 

• its spectacular structure on the banks of the Garonne, inspired by the swirls of wine
• its immersive journey through the thousand-year history of wine, with interactive exhibitions,
• its tasting workshops
• its fun activities for children
• And last but not least, its panoramic bar offering an international tasting

2. Visit the Chartrons district by bike 

Did you know that the Chartrons district was once a centre of the wine trade?  Today, it's a trendy, dynamic district of Bordeaux that we invite you to explore by bike! It's known for its elegant 18th-century mansions, antique shops, lively cafés and vibrant arts scene. A joyful mix of historical heritage and creative modernity

3. Place de la Bourse and its Miroir d'eau 

This site is emblematic of the city. You can't miss this large neoclassical square and its water mirror reflecting the monuments of Bordeaux. In summer, this square turns into a huge paddling pool for children with its water jets!
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4. Saint-André Cathedral 

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This magnificent Gothic cathedral dating from the 11th century is also part of our top 10 "Bordeaux: activities to discover". Embellished over the centuries, it is a Gothic jewel in the heart of Bordeaux. You'll be amazed by its impressive architecture, its sumptuous stained-glass windows and its organ, testament to its rich heritage. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it immerses you in the religious and artistic history of the region.

5. Place de la Comédie and the Grand Théâtre 

This superb 18th-century neoclassical building, designed by Victor Louis, houses the Opéra National de Bordeaux. Located on Place de la Comédie, it stands out for its columns and richly decorated interior. While staying in Bordeaux, we recommend checking the programme of performances on the official website.

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6. The Musée d'Aquitaine

This fascinating museum traces the history of the region from prehistory to the present day. Its rich collections, ranging from Gallo-Roman artefacts to colonial remains, offer you a complete immersion in the cultural, social and economic heritage of Bordeaux and Aquitaine.

7. The quays of the Garonne 

Stroll along the quays, lined with gardens offering a splendid view of the Garonne. With its cycle paths, play areas and many restaurants, it's a perfect place to relax, have a picnic or cycle while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city! 

8. The Saint-Pierre district 

Go and wander through this historic district, with its picturesque charm, cobbled lanes, little shops and many restaurants. It is home to lively squares such as Place du Parlement, revealing the rich architectural heritage of Bordeaux.

9. The Jardin Public

Want a break after walking around the city? Enjoy this soothing green space in the heart of the city, perfect for relaxing. We love its shady paths, peaceful lake and children's play area. It's also a popular place for picnics and for spending a weekend with the family, with the natural history museum.

10. The Bassins de Lumières

This former submarine base turned digital art centre is now a magical place. The immersive projections on its massive walls and in its basins create a fascinating show, plunging visitors into a spectacular artistic world. No doubt about it, you'll love it!

If it's your first time in Bordeaux, don't miss visiting: 

• The Pey-Berland tower
• Place du Parlement, formerly called Place de la Quiconque, is a picturesque square in the heart of the Saint-Pierre district in Bordeaux. Lined with elegant buildings with carved façades and animated by its café and restaurant terraces, it gives off a friendly atmosphere and offers a glimpse of the city's historic charm.
• The Marché des Capucins: a lively market where you can taste local specialities.
• The Palais Rohan, Bordeaux's town hall 
• For architecture lovers, the Hôtel Frugès located on Place des Martyrs de la Résistance
  

And of course, let yourself be charmed by the famous canelés bordelais! For addresses, go to these two traditional houses: Chez Baillardran or Chez La Toque Cuivrée.

Family activities: 10 ideas for outings with children

Here is a suggestion of activity ideas in Bordeaux to do as a family

Explore the Museum of Illusions

Get ready to trick your senses at the Museum of Illusions in Bordeaux. Dive into mazes, optical games and illusions that defy reality. You and your children will be amazed throughout the visit.

Go to Bordeaux Pessac Zoo

Visit the exotic animals at Bordeaux Pessac zoo. With its lions, giraffes and many other residents, this zoo offers a day of adventure and discovery for the whole family.

Explore Cap Sciences

Dive into a world of discoveries at Cap Sciences. Test your knowledge with interactive exhibitions, fun workshops and the most entertaining science experiments. Recommended for young and old alike!

Another family activity in Bordeaux: a treasure hunt in the city

Want to show your children Bordeaux in a fun way? Why not take part in a treasure hunt in the historic heart of the city. The best way to visit Bordeaux as a family. 

See the Natural History Museum in the Jardin Public

Dive into the fascinating world of fauna and flora at the Natural History Museum. Enjoy captivating, interactive exhibitions in an enchanting setting.

Go to an adventure park

Try out the tree-climbing courses at an adventure park. Climb, jump and test your skills at height, in a fun and safe atmosphere. For a fun day, you have: 

• Tépacap Mérignac: a few minutes from the centre of Bordeaux, this park offers varied tree-climbing courses suitable for all ages, with zip lines, monkey bridges and other challenges.
• Arbor et Sens: located in Saint-Genès-de-Lombaud, this adventure park offers tree-climbing courses in a beautiful forest, with activities for children and adults.

Cycle along the quays of Bordeaux

On a morning or an afternoon, hire a bike and ride along the quays of Bordeaux. Admire the river, the magnificent buildings and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. Your children will be delighted to discover Bordeaux while having fun! Perfect for those who grumble when walking 🙂

Explore the Musée Mer Marine in Bordeaux

If you want to discover the Musée Mer Marine, get ready for a fascinating journey through world maritime history and the evolution of ships through numerous explorations. Your children will love admiring detailed models, discovering the captivating stories of great navigators and exploring humanity's relationship with the oceans. An enriching experience for all sea lovers and for the curious looking for new discoveries.

Unusual activities in Bordeaux and hen party activities

Here is a suggestion of the best ideas for a weekend in Bordeaux, as a couple or with friends.

Treat yourself to a Segway ride 

Want to discover Bordeaux in a fun way ? A Segway ride is always a good idea when you're looking for a hen party activity in Bordeaux. Gliding smoothly along the historic streets, lively quays and grand squares, you admire iconic sights such as the Grand Théâtre, Place de la Bourse and the Garonne. The Segway lets you cover more ground than on foot, while enjoying freedom and fresh air. It's a pleasant way to explore Bordeaux while marvelling at its architectural and cultural splendours.

Go on a cruise on the Garonne with a glass of wine

What activity to do in Bordeaux? Here is a suggestion of the best cruises on the Garonne: 

This cruise idea is one of our favourites, which is why we suggest it in our special list "Bordeaux: activities to discover". A cruise on the Garonne with a glass of wine is a great experience to give. As the boat glides gently along the river, you discover the emblematic monuments of Bordeaux, whether lit by the sun or the lights of the night. A lovely way to admire the beautiful historic façades, the lively quays and the Pont de Pierre. Above all it's a nice moment to relax and enjoy the warm atmosphere of the city with your girlfriends.

Visit Bordeaux by jet ski

Ready to discover Bordeaux by jet ski ? Have a thrilling adventure speeding along the Garonne with its lively quays, old bridges and the buildings that line the river. It's a perfect mix of speed and discovery, a great outing for those who like action while enjoying the Bordeaux landscape from the water.

Explore the city in a 2CV

If you're looking for activity ideas in Bordeaux, here is one that could surprise you and leave unforgettable memories. Exploring the city in a 2CV is a fun way to visit Bordeaux with your girlfriends. At the wheel of this vintage car, you travel through picturesque streets and admire the most emblematic monuments and lively districts. A way to enjoy the city differently and pleasantly.

Activities around Bordeaux 

Here is a suggestion of the best ideas for outings around Bordeaux.

Visit Saint-Émilion, a grand cru estate with tasting

Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a medieval village known for its grands crus. It is truly the unmissable place to taste wines in the region's historic cellars. Don't miss the monolithic church carved out of the rock, and enjoy a relaxing walk discovering the history of the place and its lanes. A favourite visit if you love wine and pleasant scenery.

Half-day visit to Margaux

From the centre of Bordeaux, set off on a scenic drive to the region's greatest châteaux. Taste wines and discover the unique characteristics of each appellation. First visit Margaux to learn more about its history and winemaking techniques, then admire the vineyards and chat with local oenologists. You'll see the famous Château Margaux and visit a château classified as a 5th Grand Cru.

Visit the most beautiful vineyards 

Discover the Bordeaux vineyards on a guided tour, where you can explore different wine regions such as the Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Graves, Sauternes or the Entre-deux-Mers. Departing from the Bordeaux tourist office to visit two estates a day, learn the winemaking process and taste their wines. Your guide will share information about local varieties and the influence of the seasons on flavours. On Mondays and Sundays, the tour focuses on Saint-Émilion, with an exploration of the village and its underground church.

Visit the Arcachon Bay, the Dune du Pilat and an oyster lunch

From Bordeaux, a visit to the Arcachon Bay is well worth the detour. Less than an hour's drive away, discover fine sandy beaches, charming oyster-farming villages and the majestic Dune du Pilat. Climb to the top of the dune for a breathtaking view over the ocean and the forest, then taste the local oysters in a seaside restaurant. A perfect getaway to breathe in the sea air, enjoy the sun and explore the region's natural treasures. 

Excursion in the Médoc 

From the centre of Bordeaux, join a small-group excursion to discover the famous appellations of the Médoc, including Margaux, Saint-Julien, Pauillac and Saint-Estèphe. Visit three Premier Cru or Cru Bourgeois vineyards, where you'll learn about their history, the winemaking process and production techniques before tasting their wines. 

For information, the Médoc wine region mainly produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, as well as other grape varieties. Then follow the château route to admire emblematic estates such as Château Margaux, Château Palmer and Château Pichon-Longueville.

Visit the most beautiful châteaux in the Bordeaux region 

As an activity in Bordeaux and its surroundings, you can also visit vineyards within sublime châteaux. Here are a few that are worth a visit if you have time:

• Château de la Rivière
• Château du Taillan
• Château Rayne Vigneau
• Château Maucaillou
• Château Le Grand Verdus
• Château Saint-Georges
• Château de Camensac
• Château de Cérons

FAQ Bordeaux: activities to discover

Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions if you want to spend a weekend in Bordeaux.

Where to have fun in Bordeaux?

Try the tree-climbing courses in adventure parks such as Tépacap Mérignac, or dive into the digital art of the Bassins de Lumières. Cap Sciences also offers interactive exhibitions that appeal to all ages, while the bars in the Saint-Pierre district offer a festive atmosphere. It all depends on what you feel like! Find all the information in the article on outing ideas for families.

What is there to do in Bordeaux?

Stroll through the Saint-Pierre district to admire the architecture, taste local delights at the Marché des Capucins, or explore the shop-lined streets of the Chartrons. The Jardin Public is also perfect for relaxing or for a family walk. Also don't miss Rue Sainte-Catherine.

Where to go out in Bordeaux?

Enjoy the nightlife around Place de la Victoire, the lively bars of the Saint-Michel district, or savour cocktails in the wine bars of the Chartrons district. The quays also have restaurants with views over the Garonne.

Where to go out in Bordeaux in your 30s?

The wine bars of the Chartrons or Saint-Pierre offer trendy atmospheres, and the Bootleg hosts varied music evenings. The pubs and cocktail bars near Place Gambetta also attract young professionals.

Where to go out as a couple in Bordeaux?

Have dinner in a fine-dining restaurant near the Grand Théâtre or opt for a romantic cruise on the Garonne. The hidden cafés of the Saint-Michel district or an evening stroll along the Miroir d'eau also offer an intimate atmosphere.

Which district of Bordeaux is best to stay in?

We recommend the Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul districts, as this is the historic heart of the city. Lively and dynamic districts of Bordeaux, where you can visit Bordeaux on foot with its emblematic monuments such as the Miroir d'eau and Place de la Bourse. 

Free activities in Bordeaux?

Stroll along the Garonne or explore the free exhibitions at the Submarine Base. The Miroir d'eau and Place de la Bourse offer a striking visual spectacle, while the local markets let you taste specialities at no cost. So, are you tempted?

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Our special article "Bordeaux: activities to discover" ends here. We hope all this information will help you plan your weekend in Nouvelle-Aquitaine or on a road trip in the south-west of France. All that's left is to wish you a great trip and plenty of good vibes 😎