Bordeaux is the kind of city that feels elegant without trying too hard. You can walk by historic buildings and then, moments later, enjoy the river or a modern art experience. If you’re planning your first trip and wondering where to start, this guide to Bordeaux sightseeing is here to help.
Known for wine, history, and creative attractions, Bordeaux has more than just vineyard tours. The city blends old-world charm with modern experiences, making it perfect if you want variety without feeling rushed. If you’re making your list of things to do in Bordeaux city or just looking for inspiration, these stops will help you see the best of Bordeaux at a comfortable pace.
Top Bordeaux tourist attractions
1. Musée du Vin et du Négoce
Wine bottles displayed inside Musée du Vin et du Négoce
Looking for an easy way to understand Bordeaux’s wine history? This small but interesting museum is a great place to start. The Musée du Vin et du Négoce explains how wine trading helped shape the city. It’s set inside old wine cellars, which makes the visit feel more real and personal.
You don’t need to know anything about wine to enjoy this stop. The displays are clear and simple, and the pace is relaxed. One of the best parts is the guided wine tasting at the end. It helps you connect what you learned to real flavors. For many travelers, this is a must during your Bordeaux sightseeing.
📍Address: 41 Rue Borie, 33300 Bordeaux, France
🚋How to get there: Tram B to Chartrons, then walk about 5 minutes
2. Les Bassins des Lumières
Immersive digital art projections at Les Bassins des Lumières
If you’re looking for something creative and different, Les Bassins des Lumières is one of the most exciting things to do in Bordeaux. This digital art space is inside a former submarine base, which already makes it special.
Inside, you can see giant projections cover the walls and reflect on the water. You can also walk around, take photos, or just stand and watch the art move. There’s no set direction, so you can explore at your own speed. This makes it great for all ages. Adding this stop to your Bordeaux sightseeing plan brings in a modern and fun vibe.
📍Address: Impasse Brown de Colstoun, 33300 Bordeaux, France
🚋How to get there: Tram B to Bassins à Flot, then walk about 10 minutes
3. Garonne River
Garonne River with historic bridge in Bordeaux
Want to see Bordeaux without rushing? A Garonne River cruise lets you sit back and enjoy the views. You’ll pass by historic buildings, bridges, and riverbanks while learning about Bordeaux’s past.
This cruise is great if you want a break from walking. It’s also a nice way to see the city from a new angle. Many tourists say it’s one of the most relaxing Bordeaux things to do. If you’re planning what to do in Bordeaux, this experience fits well into any schedule.
📍Address: Near Quai Richelieu, Bordeaux
🚋How to get there: Tram C to Place de la Bourse, then walk to the river
4. La Cité du Vin
Modern glass exterior of La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux
If you’re looking for the most famous attraction in the city, La Cité du Vin is one of the top Bordeaux tourist attractions. This modern museum teaches you about wine from around the world, not just Bordeaux.
The exhibits are interactive and easy to follow. You can watch videos, listen to stories, and explore at your own pace. The visit ends with a wine tasting and city views from the top floor. For many travelers, this becomes the highlight of their Bordeaux sightseeing trip.
📍Address: 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux, France
🚋How to get there: Tram B to La Cité du Vin
5. Khufu Horizon VR
Journey through time and uncover the secrets of the Great Pyramid of Khufu in Bordeaux
Looking for a break from museums? Khufu Horizon VR has something totally different for you. This virtual reality experience lets you explore places like ancient Egypt without leaving the city.
Everything is guided, so it’s easy even if it’s your first time using virtual reality. The experience feels exciting but not confusing. It’s a fun choice if you’re travelling with teens, families, or anyone who wants to add variety to their things to do in Bordeaux city list.
📍Address: 56 Rue Château d’Eau, 33000 Bordeaux, France
🚋How to get there: Tram A to Hôtel de Ville, then walk 5 minutes
6. Place de la Bourse
Place de la Bourse reflected in the Water Mirror during daytime | Photo Credit: Wojciech Rzepka on Unsplash
Place de la Bourse is one of the most beautiful and famous spots in the city. This grand square is right along the river and shows off Bordeaux’s elegant architecture. Just in front of it, you’ll find the Water Mirror, a shallow pool that reflects the buildings like glass.
Klook Tip: Visit early in the morning for clear reflections, or come back at sunset when the Water Mirror lights up and the square feels more lively.
This area is free to visit and easy to enjoy at any time of day. In the morning, it’s calm and peaceful. In the evening, it becomes lively as people gather to take photos and relax. Walking here is one of the simplest but most rewarding Bordeaux sightseeing experiences. If you’re deciding what to do in Bordeaux, this spot should be high on your list.
📍Address: Place de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux, France
🚋How to get there: Tram C to Place de la Bourse stop
FAQs about Bordeaux sightseeing
What not to miss in Bordeaux?
Don’t miss the wine culture and river views. Places like La Cité du Vin and the Garonne River show what makes Bordeaux special. Mixing history and relaxing activities gives you a better experience.
What to do in Bordeaux in 3 days?
Spend one day at wine museums, one day exploring the river and city center, and one day trying creative attractions. This balance keeps your Bordeaux sightseeing fun and not rushed. Three days is enough to see the highlights.
What is Bordeaux famous for?
Bordeaux is famous for wine, elegant buildings, and its river. It’s also known for being easy to walk around. These features make it popular with first-time tourists. If you want to see where its world-class wines come from, join a half-day Saint-Émilion tour from Bordeaux and explore the vineyards beyond the city.
Is Bordeaux worth visiting for tourists?
Yes, Bordeaux is worth visiting. The city has culture, food, and unique attractions without feeling too crowded. Many travelers enjoy its calm and friendly atmosphere. If you’re looking to save time and money, the Bordeaux City Pass makes Bordeaux sightseeing much easier. It includes entry to top attractions and unlimited public transport.
What is the #1 tourist attraction in Bordeaux?
La Cité du Vin is usually seen as the top attraction. It combines learning, tasting, and great views. Even travelers who don’t drink wine enjoy it.
Time to discover Bordeaux
Bordeaux is easy to enjoy once you know where to go. From wine museums and river cruises to digital art and virtual reality, these Bordeaux sightseeing spots help you see both the classic and modern sides of the city. With a little planning, your Bordeaux trip can be smooth, memorable, and full of great moments.
More Bordeaux travel inspiration
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