25 Epic Things to Do in Bordeaux (From Wine Tours to Views!)

Last Updated on February 27, 2025 by April Nicole

Looking for the best things to do in Bordeaux? Bordeaux, France, is a dream destination for wine lovers, history buffs, and food enthusiasts. Located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, this stunning city offers world-class wine tasting, picturesque architecture, and vibrant local culture.

I’ve visited multiple times, and each trip has been filled with unexpected discoveries—whether it’s stumbling upon a hidden wine bar, biking along the Garonne River, or indulging in the best canelés.

In this ultimate Bordeaux travel guide, I’ll share the top places to visit, best tours, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!

Psst! This blog post about contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy. Merci!

If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of things to do in Bordeaux:

🥇 Top 5 Things to Do in Bordeaux (If You Have Limited Time)

1️⃣ Visit Place de la Bourse & Miroir d’Eau – The city’s most famous landmark with a stunning water reflection.
2️⃣ Explore Vieux Bordeaux – Walk through Old Town, see the Grosse Cloche, and visit hidden courtyards.
3️⃣ Go Wine Tasting – Take a day trip to Saint-Émilion or visit Cité du Vin for an interactive wine experience.
4️⃣ Climb Pey Berland Tower – Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Bordeaux from the cathedral’s bell tower.
5️⃣ Bike Along the Garonne River – Rent a bike and explore Quai des Chartrons or take a scenic river cruise.

Top Landmarks & Historic Sites

1. Explore Place de la Bourse & the Water Mirror

Start your Bordeaux city tour at Place de la Bourse, one of the most iconic landmarks in France.

This elegant 18th-century square, designed in the classical French style, is a masterpiece of symmetry and grandeur. It’s also home to Miroir d’Eau, the largest reflecting pool in the world, which creates a stunning mirror effect of the surrounding buildings.

I joined a small-group walking tour, where our guide shared fascinating stories about the hidden history of the square. Originally, it was meant to be part of a much bigger palace—a vision that was never fully realized. Seeing the Miroir d’Eau at sunset while hearing these stories made the experience even more magical.

🧐 Pro Tip: Book a late afternoon tour so you can see the city in daylight and at sunset—it’s worth it!

2. Climb the Pey Berland Tower for Stunning Views

For the best panoramic view of Bordeaux, climb the Pey Berland Tower, located next to the Bordeaux Cathedral. The 231-step climb is worth it for breathtaking views of the city and wine region.

3. Discover Bordeaux Cathedral (Saint-André)

The Bordeaux Cathedral, or Saint-André Cathedral, is a UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece that stands as one of the most important religious and historical landmarks in Bordeaux, France. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, the cathedral showcases stunning Gothic architecture with soaring vaulted ceilings and intricate stone carvings.

Inside, admire the breathtaking stained-glass windows, which depict biblical stories in vibrant colors, and the historic organ, which has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries. The cathedral also has strong historical significance, as it was the site where Eleanor of Aquitaine married the future King Louis VII of France in 1137.

4. Wander Through Old Bordeaux (Vieux Bordeaux)

Strolling through Old Bordeaux feels like stepping back in time. Walk along Rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest pedestrian street in Europe, and discover charming cafés, local boutiques, and historical squares. This bustling avenue is a shopper’s paradise, featuring both international brands and independent shops offering unique finds.

Don’t forget to visit the Grosse Cloche, one of the oldest bell towers in France. This medieval gate once served as part of Bordeaux’s defense system and remains a striking architectural landmark. Nearby, wander through hidden alleyways filled with vibrant street art, leading to charming courtyards and unexpected gems.

💡 Local Insider Tip: Most travelers walk straight down Rue Sainte-Catherine, but if you take a detour down Passage Sarget, you’ll find a hidden gem. This passageway, built in the 19th century, features stunning Belle Époque architecture and houses Bordeaux’s oldest chocolate shop, Cadiot-Badie (established in 1826).

5. Visit the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux

One of the most beautiful opera houses in France, the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is a must-see. Built in 1780, this architectural masterpiece was designed by Victor Louis and is renowned for its neoclassical facade adorned with 12 Corinthian columns. The theater’s grand interior, with its opulent blue and gold decor, chandeliers, and stunning ceiling frescoes, makes it one of the most breathtaking venues in the country.

If you can, book a ticket to see a ballet, opera, or classical music performance inside this 18th-century masterpiece. Guided tours are also available for those who want to learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the venue without attending a performance.

🎭 Check show schedules, guided tour options, & book your tickets here.

6. See the Girondins Monument

On my first visit to Bordeaux, I stumbled upon the Monument aux Girondins while wandering through Place des Quinconces, and I was immediately struck by its sheer grandeur. The 43-meter-high column, crowned with a statue of Liberty breaking free from chains, towered over the square, while the massive fountains below came alive with galloping bronze horses, symbolizing movement and triumph.

As I sat on a nearby bench, a local explained its deep connection to the French Revolution and the Girondins political group it honors. Whether you’re visiting during the day to admire the sculptures or catching it beautifully illuminated at night, it’s one of those places in Bordeaux that truly makes you stop and appreciate the city’s history.

7. See the Remains of Gallo-Roman Bordeaux

One of the most fascinating stops on my Bordeaux bike tour was the Palais Gallien, the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater hidden among modern buildings. As we parked our bikes, our tour guide painted a vivid picture of what it once was—a grand arena that held up to 15,000 spectators for gladiator games and public events nearly 2,000 years ago.

Most people don’t realize that Bordeaux once had a huge Roman amphitheater! Built in the 2nd century AD, Palais Gallien was used for gladiator battles.

🏛 What happened?

• In the Middle Ages, local families used the amphitheater’s stones to build their houses, leaving only a small section standing today.
• It’s one of France’s least-known Roman ruins—but one of Bordeaux’s best-kept secrets.

🕵️ How to Visit: It’s tucked away on a quiet street (Rue du Colisée)—look for the unmarked alley that leads to the ruins!

8. Step Back in Time at Porte Cailhau

One of Bordeaux’s most striking medieval landmarks, Porte Cailhau stands as a fairy-tale gateway between the Garonne River and the historic city center. Originally built in 1495 to honor King Charles VIII, this Gothic-Renaissance archway once served as the main entrance to Bordeaux.

Walking beneath its pointed towers, I felt transported back in time, imagining the traders and travelers who once passed through its gates. Climbing to the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the river and Place du Palais, making it a perfect stop for history lovers and photographers alike.

Best Wine & Culinary Experiences

1. Visit the Cité du Vin – A Wine Lover’s Paradise

The Cité du Vin isn’t just a wine museum—it’s an immersive experience that transforms the way you think about wine. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, including a scent wall where you can test your ability to identify wine aromas.

My favorite part? The Belvedere wine tasting. Sipping a Grand Cru while enjoying panoramic views of Bordeaux was unforgettable! 🍷

👉 Planning a visit?
✅ Buy tickets in advance to skip long lines—especially during peak season.
✅ Join a wine tasting workshop—it was one of the best experiences of my trip!

2. Take a Wine Tour in the Bordeaux Vineyards

A trip to Bordeaux wouldn’t be complete without visiting the nearby vineyards. Whether you prefer a Médoc wine tour, a Pessac wine tasting, or an excursion to Graves, there are plenty of options. Many small-group guided tours offer tastings at family-run wineries, where you can savor the best of French wine.

The Pessac region is famous for its prestigious wine estates and Château Pape Clément (which I highly recommend visiting), offering an immersive experience into the world of Bordeaux reds.

3. Try Bordeaux’s Famous Canelé Pastries

A trip to Bordeaux isn’t complete without tasting a canelé, a small caramelized pastry with a soft, custard-like center. These bite-sized delights, flavored with vanilla and a hint of rum, have a rich history dating back to the 18th century, when they were created by Bordeaux nuns.

While Baillardran is the most famous, my Airbnb host told me a better recommendation—La Pâtisserie San Nicolas. Their canelés are made fresh in small batches, with a crispy caramelized crust and a custard-like center that melts in your mouth. I also found a hole-in-the-wall bakery near the Marché des Capucins that serves warm canelés straight from the oven—pure bliss!

✅ Pro Tip: Ask the bakery for ‘canelés bien caramélisés’ if you love a deeper caramel flavor.

🥐 Best places to try canelés: Baillardran | La Toque Cuivrée | Pâtisserie San Nicolas.

4. Experience Bordeaux’s Nightlife

Bordeaux comes alive at night with a vibrant mix of wine bars, rooftop lounges, and live music venues. Whether you’re looking for an elegant wine-tasting experience or a lively club scene, the city offers a diverse range of nightlife options.

• Best Wine Bars: Le Bar à Vin – A must-visit for wine lovers, offering an extensive selection of Bordeaux wines in a sophisticated setting.
• Best Rooftop Bars: InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel – Sophisticated atmosphere with panoramic city views and top-tier cocktails. A great place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.
• Best Live Music & Clubs: I.Boat – Located on a converted ferry, this club is one of the most unique nightlife venues in Bordeaux, featuring live bands, DJ sets, and an electric atmosphere.

🎭 Tip: Some bars in Bordeaux require reservations, especially on weekends—so call ahead or arrive early!

5. Visit Marché des Capucins

Known as “the belly of Bordeaux,” Marché des Capucins is the city’s largest and most vibrant food market, offering a true taste of Bordeaux’s culinary scene. Wander through lively stalls filled with fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, local wines, and pastries, and soak in the lively atmosphere as locals shop for their daily ingredients.

💡 Local Insider Tip: If you arrive just before closing time (around 1:30 PM on Sundays), some oyster vendors will offer free samples of their best Arcachon Bay oysters to avoid waste!

Scenic Walks & Outdoor Adventures

1. Walk Along the Garonne River & Quai des Chartrons

A scenic walk along the Garonne River is one of the best ways to enjoy Bordeaux’s beauty. The Quai des Chartrons is a lively waterfront district with wine bars, small restaurants, and art galleries, making it a great place to soak in the local culture. The area was historically home to Bordeaux’s wine merchants, and remnants of its past can still be seen in the beautifully preserved warehouses that now house trendy eateries and boutiques.

For an active experience, rent a bike and cycle along the picturesque promenade, or enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the Bordeaux skyline. The riverside is also dotted with green spaces, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a moment of relaxation. On Sundays, don’t miss the Quai des Chartrons Market, where you can browse local produce, artisanal cheeses, and fresh seafood.

2. Discover Secret Courtyards in Old Bordeaux

Most tourists stick to the main streets, but hidden courtyards and passageways in the old town offer some of the most charming, Instagrammable spots. Behind the unassuming doors of Rue du Mirail, you’ll find some of the most picturesque secret courtyards in Bordeaux, hidden away from tourists.

🕵️ How to Find Them?

• Look for open gates along Rue Bouquière and Rue du Mirail—many old 18th-century townhouses have stunning courtyards that are open to the public during daylight hours.
• The most beautiful one? Cour du Chapelet—a peaceful oasis once used by wine merchants to store barrels before shipping them along the Garonne River.

3. Explore Bordeaux by Bicycle

Bordeaux is one of the most bike-friendly cities I’ve ever visited. I rented a V3 Bordeaux bike and cruised along the Quai des Chartrons, stopping at little cafés along the way.

For my first visit, I took a 2-hour guided bike tour, which was a great way to get oriented while learning about Bordeaux’s history. We rode through hidden alleyways, past Palais Gallien (Bordeaux’s ancient Roman amphitheater), and along the Garonne River. The guide even pointed out the best spots for canelés and local wine bars—insider info I wouldn’t have found on my own!

🚲 Tip: If you’re short on time, rent a bike for just a few hours and cycle along the river—it’s the most scenic route in the city!

4. Explore Public Parks and Gardens

One of the things I loved about Bordeaux was how easy it was to escape the city’s hustle and relax in its beautiful parks and gardens. Jardin Public, the city’s most famous green space, quickly became one of my favorite spots to unwind. As I strolled along its tree-lined paths, I passed locals enjoying picnics, children playing near the pond, and even an old-fashioned carousel spinning in the shade.

Another hidden gem is Parc Bordelais, a quieter, more residential park with wide open spaces, perfect for a morning walk or a peaceful break with a book.

5. Evening Cruises on the Garonne

Sailing the Garonne River at sunset offers a stunning view of Bordeaux’s illuminated landmarks, including Place de la Bourse, Pont de Pierre, and Cité du Vin. Choose from wine tastings, gourmet dinners, or live music cruises for a relaxing way to experience the city by night. Whether it’s a romantic dinner cruise or a casual aperitif sail, this is one of the most scenic ways to enjoy Bordeaux.

6. Enjoy a Night-Time Walk Through Quartier Saint-Michel

At night, Quartier Saint-Michel comes alive with glowing landmarks, buzzing wine bars, and live music. Walking past the illuminated Basilique Saint-Michel, I soaked in the mix of lively cafés, street musicians, and the peaceful Garonne River. Whether for a quiet stroll or a spontaneous night out, this district is a must-see after dark.

7. Walk Across Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas

Spanning the Garonne River, Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas is Bordeaux’s tallest vertical lift bridge, offering stunning views of the city and waterfront. Walking across it at sunset, I watched as boats passed beneath its massive rising deck, an impressive feat of engineering.

The bridge connects the lively Bacalan district to the Right Bank, making it a great route for exploring both sides of Bordeaux. Whether you’re on foot or cycling, this modern landmark provides a unique perspective of the city’s mix of history and innovation.

Museums & Cultural Hotspots

1. Explore Darwin Ecosystem

The Darwin Ecosystem is an alternative cultural space featuring street art, eco-friendly shops, and co-working spaces. It’s a great spot to experience Bordeaux’s local creative scene. The area is home to a dynamic community of entrepreneurs, artists, and sustainability advocates, making it a hub for innovation and culture.

One of the highlights of Darwin is its ever-changing street art, with colorful murals decorating the old military barracks that house the space. Visitors can also explore various eco-friendly shops, selling sustainable fashion, organic products, and handcrafted goods.

🥗 Where to eat: Try Magasin Général, a top-rated organic restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes and sustainable ethos.

2. Visit Bordeaux’s Best Museums

Bordeaux is home to a range of museums that offer insight into its rich history, vibrant art scene, and deep connection to wine culture. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, contemporary art, or winemaking, there’s a museum for you.

• Musée d’Aquitaine – A deep dive into Bordeaux’s history, from prehistoric artifacts to exhibits on the city’s role in the colonial trade. It’s the perfect place to understand the cultural and economic influences that shaped the region.
• CAPC Musée d’Art Contemporain – A must for modern art lovers, housed in a former warehouse. The museum features an impressive collection of contemporary artworks from international and French artists.
• Musée du Vin et du Négoce – Focuses on the wine trade and local history. Located in the historic wine merchants’ district, this museum provides a fascinating look at Bordeaux’s winemaking heritage, including old documents, barrels, and tools used in the trade. Wine tastings are available at the end of the visit.

For those with more niche interests, consider visiting Musée des Beaux-Arts, which features an outstanding collection of classical paintings, or La Cité Frugès – Le Corbusier, which showcases modernist architecture by the legendary designer.

🎟️ Save time & money with a Bordeaux museum pass. Get yours here!

3. Visit Cap Sciences

Located along the Garonne River, Cap Sciences is a hands-on museum with interactive exhibits on technology, space, and the environment. I loved experimenting with VR experiences, hands-on displays, and rotating exhibitions that made learning fun and engaging.

After exploring, the rooftop café offers great river views, making it a perfect spot to unwind. Whether you’re visiting with kids or just love discovery, Cap Sciences is a great break from Bordeaux’s wine and history.

4. Visit the Bordeaux Submarine Base

One of Bordeaux’s most unexpected attractions is the Bordeaux Submarine Base, a massive concrete bunker built by the German Navy during World War II as a strategic U-boat base. Once an imposing wartime structure, it has since been transformed into an immersive digital art space known as Les Bassins des Lumières, where enormous projections of famous artworks bring the space to life.

Walking through the dimly lit halls, surrounded by reflections of vibrant digital paintings on the water, is a mesmerizing experience unlike anything else in Bordeaux. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or art, this site offers a unique contrast between its wartime past and modern creative revival.

💡 Tip – Get the Bordeaux City Pass for free access to several museums and attractions and free use of public transport.

5. Enjoy the Bordeaux Puppet Theatre

Step into a Bordeaux tradition at Guignol Guérin, France’s oldest puppet show since 1853, held in the Jardin Public. Watching the lively performances, surrounded by laughing children and nostalgic locals, felt like a glimpse into Bordeaux’s past.

Even without French fluency, the expressive storytelling and humor make it a delightful experience for all ages. A fun, unexpected way to enjoy the city!

Best Day Trips from Bordeaux

1. Take a Day Trip to Arcachon & the Dune du Pilat

Take a day trip from Bordeaux to Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding forests. Climb to the top and experience the golden sand stretching as far as the eye can see—it’s a perfect spot for photography and adventure lovers.

Pair your visit with a trip to Arcachon Bay, a charming coastal town famous for its fresh oysters and seafood markets. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, enjoy a boat ride to the Île aux Oiseaux, or relax on one of the sandy beaches. The bay is also home to stunning Belle Époque architecture, adding a unique touch to your seaside getaway.

For the best experience, visit during sunrise or sunset to witness the spectacular hues over the bay. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider paragliding off the Dune du Pilat for an unforgettable experience.

2. Take a Day Trip to Saint-Émilion

Just 40 minutes from Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion is a dream destination for wine lovers and history buffs alike. I visited on a warm summer day, opting to rent a bicycle to explore the village and its rolling vineyards at my own pace. Riding through cobblestone streets lined with historic wine shops, I made my way to Château Cantenac, a family-run estate where I took a guided tour of the vineyards and cellar, learning about the intricate process behind Saint-Émilion Grand Cru wines.

After the tasting, I cycled past endless rows of grapevines, stopping to admire the monolithic church carved into limestone—a sight that felt like stepping back in time. Whether you choose a guided wine tour or a leisurely bike ride, Saint-Émilion offers a magical escape into France’s winemaking heritage.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Bordeaux (Best Local Spots!)

✔️ Affordable Wine Bar: Le Bar à Vin (run by Bordeaux Wine Council!)
✔️ Foodie Heaven: Marché des Capucins for oysters & cheese.
✔️ Best Local Bistro: La Tupina – rustic French cuisine at its finest!
✔️ Michelin Star Treat: Le Chapon Fin (fine dining in a historic setting).

🍽️ Want to book a top-rated Bordeaux restaurant? Check availability here!

🏨 Best Hotels to Stay in Bordeaux

• 💎 Luxury: InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel – A five-star hotel in the heart of Vieux Bordeaux, offering historic elegance, a Michelin-star restaurant, a rooftop bar with panoramic city views, and a full-service spa.
• 🏙️ Mid-Range: Hôtel de Sèze & Spa – A stylish boutique hotel near Rue Sainte-Catherine, combining classic French charm with modern comforts, featuring elegant rooms, a relaxing spa, and access to a private golf course.
• 💰 Budget: Mama Shelter Bordeaux – A trendy and affordable stay with bold design, a lively social atmosphere, a fantastic rooftop bar, and a central location perfect for exploring Bordeaux’s top attractions on foot.

📍 Best Itineraries for Bordeaux:

🍷 1-Day Bordeaux Itinerary: Best of the City in 24 Hours

(For First-Time Visitors & Short Stopovers)

If you only have one day in Bordeaux, focus on the city’s most iconic sights, wine culture, and scenic riverfront.

☀️ Morning: Historic Old Town & Iconic Landmarks

✅ Breakfast at Pâtisserie San Nicolas (best canelés in town!)
✅ Explore Place de la Bourse & Miroir d’Eau – Best for photos in the morning light.
✅ Walk through Old Bordeaux: Grosse Cloche, Rue Sainte-Catherine (pedestrian street), and Place du Parlement.

🍷 Afternoon: Wine & Gastronomy

✅ Lunch at Le Bar à Vin – Sample Bordeaux wines & charcuterie.
✅ Visit Cité du Vin – An interactive museum about wine culture.
✅ Optional: Quick vineyard tour – If time allows, visit a winery in Pessac-Léognan (just 20 minutes from the city).

🌆 Evening: Riverside Sunset & Dinner

✅ Sunset drinks at Mama Shelter Rooftop – Amazing city views.
✅ Dinner at L’Entrecôte Bordeaux – Famous for steak-frites with secret sauce.

🍷 3-Day Bordeaux Itinerary: A Balanced Experience

(For Wine Lovers, Culture Seekers & Food Enthusiasts)

A 3-day trip gives you time to explore Bordeaux’s history, vineyards, and the coast.

🗓 Day 1: Bordeaux’s Historic Charm & Wine Culture

☀️ Morning: Walk through Place de la Bourse, explore Old Town, breakfast at Café Piha.
🍷 Afternoon: Visit Cité du Vin, wine tasting at Le Bar à Vin, lunch at a local brasserie.
🌆 Evening: Dinner at La Tupina (rustic French food), riverside walk at Quai des Chartrons.

🗓 Day 2: Vineyard Tour & Saint-Émilion

☀️ Morning: Train to Saint-Émilion (45 minutes) for a full-day wine tour. Visit historic vineyards, explore underground wine caves.
🍷 Afternoon: Wine tastings at Château Villemaurine & Château Coutet. Lunch in a medieval square.
🌆 Evening: Return to Bordeaux for a relaxed dinner at Symbiose, a speakeasy-style bistro.

🗓 Day 3: Local Food & Riverside Adventure

☀️ Morning: Breakfast at Marché des Capucins, the city’s best food market.
🍷 Afternoon: Rent a bike & explore hidden courtyards & Garonne River path. Optional: Kayaking on the Dordogne River.
🌆 Evening: Sunset dinner at Le Chapon Fin, followed by wine bar hopping.

🚆 How to Get to Bordeaux

✈️ By Air: Fly into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD). From there, take a 30-minute bus or taxi to the city center.
🚄 By Train: High-speed TGV trains from Paris (2 hours!) make Bordeaux an easy stop on a France itinerary.
🚗 By Car: Renting a car is great for vineyard trips—just beware of limited parking in Old Bordeaux.

📝 Personal Tip: If you’re taking the train from Paris, book a seat on the left side—the views of the French countryside are incredible!

🚋 Getting Around Bordeaux

✅ Walking & Biking – The best way to explore Old Bordeaux! Rent a bike to cruise along the riverfront.
✅ Trams & Buses – Super easy & reliable. Get a Bordeaux Métropole City Pass for unlimited rides!
✅ Taxis & Ubers – Available but pricey. Taxis rarely stop on the street—book ahead via G7 Taxi App.

📝 Personal Tip: The Bordeaux tram system is fantastic, but trams can get packed during rush hour—avoid them between 8-9 AM!

🇫🇷 Bordeaux is an unforgettable destination, whether you love history, wine, or food. With this guide, you’ll be able to explore the best landmarks, hidden gems, and local experiences.

💬 Got questions or need recommendations? Leave a comment below!

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