What to do in Bordeaux?
What to do in Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is a city that exudes a unique atmosphere. And those who visited it like to say that it was a real crush.
Considered one of the most beautiful in the country, the "Sleeping Beauty" is one of the destinations favored by the French, for a few days.
So if you too are tempted by a short stay there, we have prepared a small selection of the must-see sites in Bordeaux and the things to absolutely do when you are there. Just to better organize your time to enjoy the city to the fullest…
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Discover Old Bordeaux
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city center of Bordeaux is full of magnificent historical monuments to discover such as the Grand Théâtre, the Grosse Cloche or the Saint-André Cathedral.
As you stroll through the old town, pay close attention to the remarkable details of the sculpted facades of buildings dating from the 18th century.
But especially put on your program the visit of the Pey Berland Tower which is none other than the bell tower of the cathedral. From the top of its 225 steps, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city, its monuments and its surroundings.
Admire the reflections of the Water Mirror
Directed by Jean Max Llorca, the Bordeaux Water Mirror is the largest fountain in the world. Day and night (except in winter), you can see the reflection of the Place de la Bourse (which is just opposite) and that of the quays.
The spectacle of light and fog effects is superb and above all very original. Children love to soak their feet there in the summer, and adults always find this place magical and almost unreal.
Visit the City of Wine…
Impossible to stay in Bordeaux without going to the Cité du Vin. This building with its modern and astonishing architecture will dazzle you and the panoramic view you will have from the top of the building (a belvedere at 35 meters) is surprising.
By taking an entry, you will be entitled to a personalized discovery of the whole world of wine (audio guide) and you will be able to discover the permanent and temporary exhibitions held there. You can also enjoy a glass of wine to choose from a wide selection.
Then take a tour of the vineyards
Your stay in Bordeaux will also be an opportunity for you to tour the surrounding vineyards. By car, boat or bike, head south to Gradignan, Mérignac or Cadaujac to taste famous wines.
The village of Saint-Émilion is not to be missed. It has a unique charm and very good cellars.
Take a cruise on the Garonne
In the 18th century, Bordeaux was one of the main ports in Europe. Even today, many cruise liners come to stop at Port de la Lune every year.
River cruises are also often scheduled on the Garonne. All you have to do is book a walk and embark to discover the quays of the city and its bridges then the vineyards of the region, in particular on the side of Blayais and Médoc.
Note that on most of these boats, you can taste wine and have good meals or even dance. During your stopovers, you can relax on the lawns and gardens of the city such as Parc Saint-Michel and stock up on purchases at Quai des Marques, a shopping center full of major brand boutiques offering reduced prices throughout. year round.
And if you don't have time to go on a cruise, you can always take the BatCube, a shuttle-tram that will allow you to go quietly to the center of Bordeaux.
Stroll through the markets
Bordeaux is home to many markets, but the Capucins covered market has a very special charm. In this space, open every day (except Mondays), you can buy heaps of fresh produce as well as taste tapas, charcuterie and oysters.
One of the largest and liveliest markets in the city takes place every Sunday, at the Quai des Chartrons. From 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can savor delicious Bordeaux specialties and purchase various other products.
On Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Saint-Michel Market or Royal Market takes place. With nearly 160 merchants on site, you are bound to find a little souvenir to take home.
Those who prefer antiquing will prefer to stroll to the flea market which takes place every Sunday near the Saint-Michel Church.
And if you ever come to Bordeaux in December, don't forget to visit the Christmas market, located on the Allées de Tourny in the heart of the city.
Walking around Darwin
Darwin is a surprising space. This former military barracks, located on Quai des Queyries, has given way to a real ecosystem, a small city favoring the green economy and expression.
In this place, you can eat vegetarian burgers in the largest organic restaurant in France, "Le Magasin Général" and ask yourself lots of questions in front of the menu of the "Bistrot-Réfectoire".
Darwin is also a skater's paradise. They all meet at the Hangar where they can ride through many modules. By going to watch them practice their sliding sport, you will especially realize that you are in a real open-air museum. Indeed, the walls are covered with incredible and countless works of street art.
Taste Bordeaux cuisine
The canelé being the emblem of the city, you cannot leave the place without having tasted at least one. Then head to one of the "Baillardran" stores in Bordeaux, a benchmark in the field, and order one or two of these fragrant sweets. But if the prices are too high for you, go to the “La Toque Cuivrée” shops instead. On the other hand, if you want to learn how to prepare it at home, you will find a canelé school on Place Gambetta.
If you are looking for the best restaurants in Bordeaux, I invite you to consult this page.
Take advantage of your presence in Bordeaux to taste the macaroons from “La Maison Larnicol”. It is a real delight for the eyes and the taste buds.
It is also unthinkable to pass through Bordeaux without eating duck breast or semi-cooked foie gras with figs.
And as far as grand cru tastings are concerned, you can do some in the Saint-Pierre district where there is no shortage of wine bars. You can also take courses on the subject at the Wine School.
