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The Ultimate Bordeaux Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Bordeaux? This post is all about the ultimate Bordeaux Travel Guide
Ah, Bordeaux! The charming wine-filled city in Southwestern France. If you want to feel like a medieval queen with exquisite taste in everything art, wine, and architecture – Bordeaux is your city.
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Why You Should Visit
Bordeaux is worth a visit, just for the whimsical 18th-century architecture alone. Many of the buildings were commissioned by Napoleon I and even inspired several modern buildings in Paris. The city itself is a work of art.
As you meander through the cobblestone streets you’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time.
Let’s not forget how this majestic city is a world capital for wine. If you’re a wine lover, this is the place to be.
This destination is perfect for anyone interested in architecture, wine tastings, and the arts.
Don’t Forget Your FREE Bordeaux Checklist for your trip
How to Get to Bordeaux
Getting to Bordeaux is simple, just about any type of transportation will lead you there.
Bus – Flix Bus tickets are no doubt one of the cheapest ways to get to Bordeaux.
Train – Browse Rome to Rio for the best train tickets from your city.
Plane – Fly into Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport. A bus runs from the airport to the city center every 30 minutes from the airport from 05:45 am to 8 pm during weekdays and every hour on weekends.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Bordeaux has plenty of options for anyone.
I’ve personally stayed at Hostel 20 and loved my experience in the all-female dorm. It’s in Chartrons district which is one of the most desirable neighborhoods of the City.
$ Hostels – Hostel 20 or Central Hostel.
$$ Budget Hotel – JUST Hotel or IBIS Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean
$$$ Moderate Hotel – Hotel De Tourny or Villa Victor Louis
$$$$ Luxury Hotel – Hotel Le Palais Gallien or Hotel des Quinconces
Shop my Bordeaux Essentials
Get the “Bordeaux look” with these stylish essentials.
Bordeaux Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Bordeaux
1. Grosse Cloche de Bordeaux
This fascinating middle-aged grand gate was an entrance to the city dating back all the way to the 15th century. The bell would ring on special occasions or alert the city of an attack.
Nowadays the bell is used only 5 times a year on special holidays to preserve it.
2. Place de la Bourse Square & Miroir d’Eau (water mirror)
Place de la Bourse Square symbolizes freedom from the medieval architecture that confined the once-walled city.
You’ll marvel at the glorious 18th-century classical french style square.
Just across from the square, you’ll see one of the most iconic modern landmarks of Bordeaux, the Water Mirror.
3. Wine Tasting
Of course, you can’t go to Bordeaux without drinking a scrumptious glass of wine.
Since Bordeaux is a wine capital, be sure to book a wine-tasting or wine tour on your visit. They book fast so you’ll want to prepare in advance.
4. Walk the Pont de Pierre
200 years ago, the “stone bridge” was the first bridge to be built across the River Garonne.
No trip to Bordeaux is complete without walking across this historic path!
5. Go Shopping on Rue Sainte Catherine
Speaking of iconic places to walk in Bordeaux, you’ll definitely want to check out the famous shopping street in the city.
Just like Barcelona’s La Rambla or New York’s 5th avenue. Rue Saint Catherine is THE place to shop when in Bordeaux.
6. Go to the Opera
The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is a beautiful and intricate opera house and a wonderful place to spend an evening in Bordeaux.
Check out shows and prices on their website here. For anyone under the age of 28, you can score a last-minute seat for under $10.
7. Monument aux Girondins
Monument aux Girondins is a striking memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Reign of Teror.
8. Take a Day Trip to Saint Emilion
Venture close by to Saint Emilion. Many wine tours from Bordeaux will take you to the quaint village, or you can go on your own time.
By train, it’s about 35 minutes to St Emilion. Or if you aren’t on a strict budget and looking for a more inclusive tour, check out these day trip tours below that depart from Bordeaux.
9. Go on a Free Walking Tour
I take a free walking tour in every city I visit. I SWEAR by them! They are undoubtedly the best way to explore a new city in a limited amount of time. Plus you’ll be guided by a local and may even meet some new friends!
The free walking tour I took can be found here.
How Long to Visit Bordeaux
June – August is the best time to visit Bordeaux for the vineyard experience. Although, it’s also hot and filled with tourists.
September is also a great time when vineyards are still open and summer is coming to an end.
Planning the length of your trip to Bordeaux largely depends on your interest. To get a full taste of what the city has to offer, I would recommend staying for 3-4 days.
Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
Overall, Bordeaux is a glorious city packed with many things to do and explore. I would definitely recommend visiting this picturesque city,
This post was all about the ultimate Bordeaux Travel Guide & the best things to do in Bordeaux.
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