Bordeaux - Discovering France

Travelling to Bordeaux

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bordeaux, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bordeaux and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bordeaux, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Bordeaux for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city in southwestern France, known for its exceptional wines, elegant architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is located in the Aquitaine region, on the banks of the Garonne River. Bordeaux has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007 due to its well-preserved 18th-century neoclassical architecture. The city has a population of around 250,000 people and is France's fifth-largest metropolitan area. Bordeaux is also a popular tourist destination, with its many museums, galleries, parks, and restaurants. Additionally, the city is surrounded by renowned vineyards and wineries, making it an ideal location for wine tours and tastings.

What to visit in Bordeaux

Sure, below are some of the major tourist attractions in Bordeaux, France: 1. Place de la Bourse: It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bordeaux, built in the eighteenth century. It has a large water mirror which acts as an amazing reflecting pool.
2. Cathédrale Saint-André: This magnificent cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is a great example of Gothic architecture.
3. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux: This art museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum has a collection of over 600 works of art, including some famous paintings by great artists like Rubens.
4. Jardin Public: This is the largest park in Bordeaux, perfect for a picnic, walking or jogging, and offers great views of the city.
5. La Cité du Vin: This museum is dedicated to the history of wine and offers great insight into the culture, history, and science of wine.
6. Château de la Brède: This is an amazing castle located just outside Bordeaux, which dates back to the 14th century.
7. Pont de Pierre: This bridge offers stunning views of the river Garonne and is a perfect place for walking and biking.
8. Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux: This theatre is a great example of neoclassical architecture and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
9. Place des Quinconces: This large public square is the largest square in Europe, and is a great spot for people watching.
10. Musée d'Aquitaine: This museum showcases the history of the Aquitaine region, with over 70,000 works of art, artifacts, and documents.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bordeaux.

When to go on holiday to Bordeaux

The best time to visit Bordeaux is generally from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The peak months for tourism are July and August, so if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience, consider visiting in May, June, or September. Keep in mind that Bordeaux is known for its wine, and many vineyards hold events or festivals in the fall to coincide with the grape harvest. Additionally, winter can be quite cold and damp in Bordeaux, so it may not be the best time for outdoor activities, but it is a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bordeaux

There are several ways to get to Bordeaux, here are a few: 1. By Plane: Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is located about 12 km west of Bordeaux. There are direct flights from major cities across Europe. From the airport, you can take the shuttle bus, taxi or hire a car to get to the city center.
2. By Train: Bordeaux has two main train stations - Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean and Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean. Both stations are well connected to other cities in France and Europe.
3. By Bus: There are several bus companies offering routes to Bordeaux from major French cities. You can also take a bus from Spain or Portugal to Bordeaux.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, Bordeaux is well-served by motorways. Bordeaux is about a 6-hour drive from Paris, 2 hours from Toulouse, and 3.5 hours from Lyon.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Bordeaux!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bordeaux, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bordeaux

Sure, here are some typical foods of Bordeaux, France along with a brief description for each: 1. Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: This dish consists of a succulent steak cooked with a rich and flavorful sauce made from shallots, red wine, and bone marrow.
2. Lamprey à la Bordelaise: A true local specialty, the lamprey is a type of eel-like fish that is served in a tasty, dark red wine sauce.
3. Canelé: These small, sweet cakes are made with rum and vanilla, and have a dense, custard-like center surrounded by a caramelized exterior. They make for a perfect afternoon snack with a cup of coffee.
4. Tarte aux Noix: This is a classic French pastry consisting of a buttery pastry crust filled with creamy walnut filling.
5. Asparagus from Blaye: This dish is made with locally grown asparagus that is cooked until it is perfectly tender, and then served with a tangy vinaigrette sauce.
6. Escargots à la Bordelaise: These delicious snails are cooked with garlic and herbs, and then finished with a sprinkling of breadcrumbs and herbs.
7. Bordeaux-style fish soup: This hearty soup is made with a variety of fish and shellfish, along with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, and is served with a thick slice of bread on top.
8. Dune du Pilat Oysters: These are some of the best oysters found in the world, grown in the nearby Arcachon Bay.
9. Boeuf à la mode: A hearty beef stew made with red wine, root vegetables, and bacon.
10. Tourin à l'Ail: This traditional garlic soup is made with chicken broth, garlic, and eggs, and is served hot with a slice of bread on top.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Bordeaux an expensive destination for tourists?

Bordeaux is generally considered to be a more expensive destination for tourists in France, as it is a popular city with a high standard of living. However, the cost of a trip to Bordeaux will depend on a variety of factors, including your travel dates, the type of accommodation you choose, and the activities you plan to do while you are there. To save money on your trip to Bordeaux, consider visiting during the off-season, booking your accommodation in advance, and eating at local cafes and bistros rather than high-end restaurants.

Where to find accomodation in Bordeaux

The best areas to find accommodations to visit Bordeaux (France) are in the city center or in the neighborhood of Saint-Pierre, which is known for its charming architecture, restaurants, and nightlife. Another great option is the Chartrons neighborhood, which is home to art galleries, markets, and antique shops. Additionally, the Saint-Michel area is worth considering for an authentic and diverse experience.
You can check hotel prices at Bordeaux here:
Booking.com

Is Bordeaux a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bordeaux is considered a relatively safe city for tourists. It is a popular destination for visitors from all around the world and has a low crime rate compared to other major European cities. However, as with any urban area, some areas can be more unsafe at certain times of the day or night. It is always advisable to take basic precautions like staying alert, not walking alone in less-traveled areas at night, and securing your valuables while in crowded areas. Overall, Bordeaux is a beautiful and safe city to explore, and its tourism industry is well-developed, with plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions available to visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bordeaux.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bordeaux the most?

Bordeaux is a charming and elegant destination, and it offers something for everyone. Here are some types of travelers who will enjoy the most in Bordeaux: 1. Couples: If you are looking for a romantic getaway, Bordeaux is an ideal destination. The city is filled with beautiful architecture, wine bars, and fine dining. You can take a stroll around the old town, visit the museums and galleries, or explore the vineyards together.
2. Wine lovers: Bordeaux is renowned for its wine, and it's a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. You can take a wine-tasting tour and visit some of the famous wineries in the region.
3. Families: Bordeaux is a family-friendly city with many parks, museums, and activities. The kids will love the water mirror, the zoo, and the many playgrounds scattered throughout the city.
4. History buffs: Bordeaux is filled with history, and you can explore it by visiting the many historical buildings and museums. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are many monuments and landmarks to discover.
5. Foodies: Bordeaux is a food lover's heaven, and you can taste some of the best French cuisine in the world. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, cheese, and pastries.
In summary, Bordeaux is an ideal destination for couples, wine lovers, families, history buffs, and foodies.

How to get around Bordeaux

In Bordeaux, you can use public transportation such as buses and trams to move around the city. You can also rent bicycles through the VCub bike-sharing system or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt. Taxis are also available in Bordeaux. Lastly, walking is a great option for exploring the city center, which is very pedestrian-friendly.

What to see around Bordeaux

Sure thing! Here are a few great day trip options from Bordeaux: 1. Saint Emilion: This charming medieval village is known for its picturesque vineyards, stunning architecture, and delicious wine. It's located just 25 miles (40 km) northeast of Bordeaux.
2. Arcachon: This seaside town is located about 40 miles (65 km) southwest of Bordeaux and offers stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and beautiful views across the bay.
3. Médoc Wine Region: Just northwest of Bordeaux, the Médoc wine region is home to some of the world's most famous vineyards and châteaux. It's a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
4. Dune du Pilat: Located about an hour's drive southwest of Bordeaux, the Dune du Pilat is Europe's tallest sand dune and offers breathtaking views across the ocean and forest.
5. Bergerac: This charming town on the banks of the Dordogne River is full of historic architecture, quaint cafes and restaurants, and traditional markets. It's just over an hour's drive east of Bordeaux.
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