31 Best Things To Do In Bordeaux | 2024 (with Photos)

Located in southwestern France, Bordeaux is known for its wine and stunning architecture that includes beautiful neoclassical buildings and grand mansions. 

This beautiful French city is situated on the banks of the Garonne River and is home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, as well as a thriving cultural scene.

Today, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it has beautiful parks, gardens and some of the world's most famous vineyards.

Read on to discover our comprehensive list of the best things to do in Bordeaux, and what makes it a perfect destination for those interested in history, architecture, food, or wine. 

Table of Contents

1. Learn About Bordeaux's history

2. Explore the World of Wine at La Cité du Vin

3. Visit the Natural History Museum of Bordeaux

4. Explore the Contemporary Art Museum of Bordeaux

5. Go on a Bordeaux Street Art Tour

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1. Learn About Bordeaux's history

The city of Bordeaux was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD and was known as Burdigala. It was an important commercial center during the Middle Ages, thanks to its location on the Garonne River and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

Bordeaux played a major role in the French Revolution, with many citizens participating in the uprising against the monarchy.

Medieval Bordeaux had renowned wine production which helped to establish the city as a major center of economic and cultural activity in the region. Today, their wine trade is one of the most known in the world, and it's a heaven for wine lovers.

Whether you are interested in visiting some of the greatest wine regions, taking a walk trough the city center or enjoying some of Bordeaux attractions, this city will become a part of you.

2. Explore the World of Wine at La Cité du Vin

La Cité Du Vin is Bordeaux's world-famous wine museum that was opened in 2016. La Cité du Vin is a unique museum ****and cultural center that offers visitors unforgettable wine-tasting tours. They have a selection of red, white, and rose wines, as well as some rare and exclusive vintages.

In addition to the La Cité Du Vin, there is also Belvedere located on the 8th floor. This is ideal spot for visitors to relax and enjoy a glass of wine while having a panoramic view of the city and the Garonne River.

Learn more about wine history, what are the perfect wine pairings and enjoy in some of the best Bordeaux wines.

3. Visit the Natural History Museum of Bordeaux

The Natural History Museum of Bordeaux, also known as the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Bordeaux, is located in the heart of Bordeaux. The museum is housed in a stunning 18th-century building, which was originally the home of the Royal Academy of Sciences.

The museum has an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, exhibits that showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the region, and an extensive collection of animal specimens. This is an absolute must-see place in France.

It also has a planetarium, which offers visitors the chance to explore the night sky and learn about astronomy.

4. Explore the Contemporary Art Museum of Bordeaux

The Contemporary Art Museum of Bordeaux, or CAPC for short, is located in the former warehouse which has been carefully renovated and transformed into a stunning contemporary art space.

The museum's collection is dedicated to contemporary art from the 1960s to the present day and includes works by some of the most important artists of the last few decades.

In addition to the permanent collection, it has a range of temporary exhibitions, which showcase the work of emerging artists and explore contemporary themes.

5. Go on a Bordeaux Street Art Tour

Once a rundown area, the Saint-Michel district is one of the most well-known areas for street art in Bordeaux. Bordeaux street art is a reflection of the city's creative and progressive spirit that welcomes artists from all over the world.

This is one of the more cultural and beautiful things to do in Bordeaux. You will notice when you visit Bordeaux how artistic and vibrant this town is.

6. Take a Walk Through Bordeaux's Jardin Public

The Jardin Public is a beautiful and historic park in Bordeaux that was created during the reign of Louis XV in the 18th century. Originally designed as a botanical garden, it was home to many exotic plants and trees that had been brought back from overseas.

Today, the Jardin public covers over 10 hectares and features a stunning mix of formal French gardens, open lawns, and tree-lined walkways.

The central pond is one of the favorite spots in the park and it's home to many species of birds and fish and it's surrounded by beautiful lush greenery.

7. Visit the Church of Saint Michel

The Saint Michel Basilica is a historic church, built during the 14th and 15th centuries in the late Gothic style. It has had various additions and alterations made over the centuries and it is renowned for its stunning facade, which has intricate carvings and a distinctive bell tower.

One of the tallest towers in France, the basilica offers breathtaking views of Bordeaux and the surrounding countryside.

The Church of Saint Michel is home to a number of important religious relics. While inside, the visitors can admire a range of beautiful artwork and architectural features.

8. Go Shopping in Rue Sainte Catherine

Located in the heart of the historic city center, from Place de la Victoire to Place des Grands Hommes, Rue Sainte Catherine is the longest shopping street in Europe.

It's home to a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. In addition to shopping, both international and local clothing brands, Rue Sainte Catherine is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine of Bordeaux.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxing coffee or a glass of local wine while taking in the sights and sounds of the street.

9. Take a Day Trip to Saint Emilion

Located in the Bordeaux wine region of France, Saint Emilion is a gorgeous town to explore. It is known for its excellent wines, which are produced in the surrounding vineyards.

The whole city of Saint Emilion is surrounded by beautiful vineyards where visitors can explore and taste some of the delicious wines that are produced in the region.

In addition to wine, Saint Emilion is also known for its delicious cuisine, offering a wide range of traditional French dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Some of the most famous wines from Saint Emilion include Château Cheval Blanc, Château Ausone, and Château Angelus.

10. Spend a day at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux

One of the largest museums in the country, the Musée des Beaux-Arts ****(Museum of Fine Arts), has an impressive art collection.

This Bordeaux museum was established in 1801 by Pierre Lacour and it has an impressive collection of over 18,000 works of art spanning from the 15th century to the present day.

Its galleries are dedicated to different periods of time and artistic movements and they are arranged thematically over three floors.

In addition to its impressive collection, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is also known for its beautiful architecture. The Palais Rohan, which houses the museum, was built in the 18th century and features stunning Baroque and Rococo elements.

11. Visit the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Bordeaux

The Musée des Arts Décoratifs is a museum that showcases decorative arts and design from the 18th century to the present day. It is housed in the former Hôtel de Lalande, a beautiful 18th-century building located in the heart of Bordeaux's historic district.

The museum's collection consists of furniture, ceramics, glassware, textiles, and jewelry. No Bordeaux trip is complete without a visit to this stunning museum.

12. Visit the Musée National des Douanes in Bordeaux

The Musée National des Douanes (National Customs Museum) is a museum dedicated to the history and role of customs services in France and around the world. It is a unique museum located in the historic district of Chartrons.

The Musée National des Douanes Bordeaux is home to a rich collection of objects, documents, and works of art that relate to the history and evolution of customs. The collection includes uniforms, weapons, tools, and equipment used by customs agents, as well as objects seized by customs officers over the years.

Visitors can also find a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art that explore the theme of customs and their relationship to society and culture.

13. Visit the Marché des Capucins in Bordeaux

The Marché des Capucins ****(Capucins Market) is a popular market in the Bordeaux center. It offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, baked goods, spices, and more.

Visitors can enjoy many restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer a wide range of local and international cuisine. This is a great Sunday morning activity in Bordeaux.

The vendors at the market are known for their high-quality products, many of which are sourced locally from the surrounding region.

This is a social gathering place that has many food festivals and cooking demonstrations that highlight the diverse culinary traditions of the region.

14. Visit the Place de la Comédie Square in Bordeaux

The Place de la Comédie is a grand square located in the city center. The name comes from the Théâtre National de Bordeaux, also known as the Grand Théâtre, which dominates the southern end of the square.

Soak up the city's rich culture and history while walking through the spacious and elegant square, surrounded by a variety of beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops.

The square has several more notable buildings and landmarks, besides the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. Some of them are the Opéra National de Bordeaux and the Hôtel de la Préfecture.

Also located in the square is the Monument aux Girondins, a large fountain and memorial dedicated to the Girondist politicians who were executed during the French Revolution.

15. Saint-André Cathedral in Bordeaux

Saint-André Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Andrew, the patron saint of fishermen. Its construction began in the 11th century and the cathedral played a significant role in the history of the region.

The stunning stained glass windows are one of the most recognizable features that were added in the 14th and 15th centuries. The glass windows are some of the most beautiful examples of Gothic stained glass in France and they depict scenes from the Bible.

16. Land of Historic Castles

Take a day trip and explore the famous Château de La Brède 14th-century castle. The birthplace of philosopher Montesquieu, this ****is one of the most known castles in the Bordeaux region.

Today, the castle is open to visitors from Easter to 11 November who can explore the castle and its beautiful grounds. The castle is home to a fascinating museum and Montesquieu's private apartments.

Some of the castles in the area are Château Margaux, a rare French château of Neo-Palladian style, and Château Guiraud (Sauternes) which was owned by the Monts de Saint Poly family.

17. Place de la Bourse Public Square

Place de la Bourse was constructed in the 18th century, during the reign of King Louis XV, and designed by architect ****Ange-Jacques Gabriel. It has a unique architecture, which consists of a large central fountain and two pavilions that frame the square's eastern and western sides.

The Place de la Bourse square's most prominent feature is Palais de la Bourse, today used for cultural exhibitions and events.

Another popular feature of the Place de la Bourse square is The Miroir d'Eau. The Miroir d'Eau, otherwise known as the Water Mirror, is the world's largest reflecting pool in front of the Palais de la Bourse.

At night, Place de la Bourse comes to life with a spectacular light show that illuminates the square's architecture and water features.

18. Place des Quinconces Public Square

Covering an area of 12 hectares, the Place des Quinconces is one of the largest public squares in Europe. The designer of the square, Louis-Urbain-Aubert de Tourny, was inspired by the Place de la Concorde in Paris.

It features a symmetrical layout with two monumental fountains at its center. Monument aux Girondins, a bronze statue commemorating the Girondins**,** is one of the most notable landmarks. The Girondins were a political group that played a crucial role in the French Revolution.

Place des Quinconces is also well connected to all parts of the city, thanks to the several tram and bus lines.

19. Take a Walk on The Stone Bridge Bordeaux

Known also as Pont De Pierre, The Stone Bridge, spans across the Garonne River. The idea for the bridge was initiated by Napoleon Bonaparte during his reign in the early 1800s.

Its purpose was to connect the left and right banks of the Garonne River and improve transportation in the region.

The bridge played an important role during World War II and today is an important symbol of the city and a popular tourist attraction. The bridge offers a stunning view of the Garonne River and the city skyline.

Visitors can walk across the bridge and explore the shops and restaurants located on both sides of the river. This is one of the most iconic things to do in Bordeaux.

20. Sightseeing cruise on the Garonne River

A perfect way to experience the beauty and charm of Bordeaux is a sightseeing cruise on the Garonne River.

The river flows through the heart of the cité du Vin, offering stunning views of historic landmarks, iconic buildings, and beautiful bridges.

A typical Garonne River cruise starts at the Quai Richelieu or the Quai des Chartrons and lasts for about an hour.

21. Discover Bordeaux on a Sidecar Tour

If you want a unique way to explore Bordeaux, France, then a sidecar tour is the right way to do it. A sidecar tour is the perfect way to visit the Bordeaux vineyards, explore the charming narrow streets, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Garonne river.

Make sure to stop at the Musee de Vin et Negoce (the Wine and Trade Museum) after the tour for some wine tasting and a spot of history. This will bring the whole day together nicely.

22. The Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux

Bordeaux Botanical Garden was founded in 1855 and it spans over 4 hectares. It is a home to over 3,000 plant species from all over the world and it has various sections.

The Bordeaux botanical garden has a rose garden, a medicinal plants garden, a palm grove, and a Japanese garden, among others. The garden also has a large pond, which is home to a variety of aquatic plants and animals.

The greenhouse, located in the Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux, is home to a collection of exotic plants, including tropical orchids, cacti, and carnivorous plants.

23. National Opera of Bordeaux

Grand-Théâtre de Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's symbol of the city's cultural heritage. The main auditorium is particularly impressive, with seating for over 1,100 people and a ceiling adorned with a magnificent fresco by the artist Jean-Baptiste Robin.

The National Opera of Bordeaux at the Grand-Théâtre is known for its world-class performances of opera, ballet, and classical music. The opera house has a full calendar of performances throughout the year, featuring both local and international artists.

The repertoire includes classic operas such as Carmen, La Traviata, and Don Giovanni, as well as contemporary works by emerging composers.

24. Bordeaux Wine Tours

During these tours, visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the different grape varieties grown in the region, and see the wine-making process in action.

There are many options for Bordeaux wine tours available, ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day trips. If you opt for a day trip, there is an option to visit vineyards such as Chateau Margaux, Chateau Lafite-Rothschild, and Chateau Mouton-Rothschild.

Make sure to check out the wine shop at whichever vineyard you visit. You will taste wine you never want to forget in the Bordeaux wine regions.

25. A Day Trip to the Dune du Pilat

Located in the Aquitaine region, the Dune du Pila is a massive sand dune situated in Arcachon Bay, just south of Bordeaux.

It's the tallest sand dune in Europe, standing at a towering 110 meters tall. Over time, the sand carried from the ocean and the winds that sweep across the coast built up to create an impressive natural phenomenon.

Besides the phenomenal views, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, such as sandboarding, paragliding, and hiking.

26. A Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide

On a private walking tour, you can explore Bordeaux with a friendly and passionate local and discover the city like a resident. Make new friends, find out where is the best place to purchase local products, and ask your guide where to eat.

Make sure to visit the Port de la Lune, which is the crescent-shaped harbor in Bordeaux. This is a gorgeous outdoor spot renowned for its great views of the city and lovely architecture.

Moreover, visit the Basilique Saint-Seurin, which is a church that used to be a stop on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.

27. Enjoy a Bike Tour

One more unique way to explore the city is to get on a bike and get some exercise and fresh air. You can cycle through the historic center, stop at some antique shops and visit the iconic Bordeaux bell tower at speed.

One popular bike tour route in Bordeaux is the Quais de Bordeaux tour, which is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for all levels of fitness. It takes you along the banks of the Garonne River and you can see landmarks such as Place de la Bourse, the Pont de Pierre, and the Chartrons district.

The left bank of the Garonne is a spectacular waterfront and home to a riverside promenade that is worth checking out.

28. Librairie Mollat Bordeaux

For book lovers, there is a hidden gem located in the city center, the Librairie Mollat. This is considered to be one of the largest and oldest independent bookstores in France and Europe, with a history dating back to 1896.

It has been in the Mollat family for four generations and has gained a reputation for its extensive collection of books, knowledgeable staff, and unique atmosphere.

The library is decorated with vintage furniture and features cozy reading corners where customers can browse through books at their leisure.

29. Parc Palmer

Parc Palmer covers an area of over 30 hectares and is known for its lush greenery, picturesque lakes, and variety of outdoor activities. The park is named after the Palmer family, who once owned the land on which it now stands.

It is home to over 20,000 trees, including some rare and exotic species, that create a natural canopy that creates a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

If you are looking for a perfect spot to relax and unwind, take a walk around the lake or rent a paddle boat to explore the water. The park has several lakes and ponds, and the largest lake in the park is home to a variety of water birds, including ducks and swans.

30. Bois de Thouars

For nature lovers, there is more to explore around Bordeaux. The Bois de Thouars or the Wood of Thouars is a beautiful forest located in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

The forest is the home of many animals, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels, which can be spotted in the early morning or evening hours.

There are several trails that crisscross the forest, providing visitors with a chance to explore the different areas of the reserve. Besides the well-marked paths, there are a lot of benches and picnic areas for relaxation.

31. Cape Ferret

An hour's car ride from Bordeaux lies a beautiful beach on the small peninsula of Cape Ferret, located in the region of Aquitaine.

This region is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque lighthouse, and relaxed way of life. There are several beaches for visitors to enjoy, such as Plage de l'Océan, Plage des Américains, and Plage de la Pointe.

The Phare du Cap Ferret ****lighthouse stands at 52 meters tall and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the peninsula and its surroundings.

FAQs Regarding Things to Do in Bordeaux

Let's take a look at some frequently asked questions about things to do in Bordeaux, France.

Is Bordeaux worth visiting?

Yes, the beautiful city of Bordeaux is definitely worth visiting. Bordeaux has a fascinating history, beautiful views, great food and wine, and vibrant nightlife. You can enjoy wine tasting and fine arts in the historic center as well as various day trips to vineyards.

How many days in Bordeaux is enough?

To experience the culture, architecture, food, and wine fully, 3 - 5 days would be ideal. That said, the ideal length of stay in Bordeaux depends on your interests and travel preferences. To explore the main attractions in the historic center, such as the Bordeaux town hall, Place des Quinconces, and the harbor, you will want at least 2 full days.

Is Bordeaux a walkable city?

Yes, Bordeaux's center is walkable. Visitors can easily explore the historic center on foot using many pedestrian-friendly areas and wide sidewalks. In addition, the city has an extensive network of bike lanes, making cycling another popular mode of transportation. From Bordeaux airport, the city is reachable by car or public transportation.

What is Bordeaux best known for?

Bordeaux is best known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and its world-renowned wine. Bordeaux wines are known for their complex flavors and aging potential. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with many buildings dating back to the 18th century. In addition to its wine and architecture, Bordeaux is also known for its art, culture, and food.

Summing Up: The Best Things To Do In Bordeaux

Overall, Bordeaux city has a lot to offer for everybody. It is a truly remarkable city that offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers of all kinds. 

The city's rich history is reflected in its most iconic landmarks, including La Cité du Vin and Pont de Pierre.

With its lively atmosphere and incredible shopping atmosphere, don't forget to check out the Rue Sainte Catherine. But above all, the biggest draw for wine enthusiasts is the opportunity to try some of the best wine in the world.

This wine region boasts numerous vineyards and wineries in the surrounding countryside. 

As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do in Bordeaux.