The most visited country in the world, France is packed with an endless array of things to do. In Paris alone, you can spend days on end cruising along the River Seine, exploring the art collections inside the Louvre, and admiring the sunset and nighttime views from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
But if you can spare some time during your trip, why not go beyond the capital and try some things to do outside Paris, such as a trip to the Palace of Versailles, the French Riviera for its Mediterranean coastline, or even Bordeaux to visit its vineyards and wineries?
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit in Bordeaux. Read on below to know more.
1. See medieval monuments at Saint Émilion
See medieval landmarks and ruins at the Saint Émilion
One of the most famous Bordeaux tourist attractions, the Saint Émilion is a must for history buffs. Walk along steep and narrow streets lined with Romanesque monuments and landmarks, which include an underground monolithic church. You can also opt to explore the nearby vineyards and wineries to learn about and even sample some of the best Merlot in the country.
For a no-frills visit, we recommend going on a guided tour to Saint Émilion, which includes round-trip transfers, a guided tour of the area, and even wine tasting at the Grand Cru Chateau.
2. Sample local wines at Medoc
Learn all about Bordeaux’s vineyards and winemaking process
Famous for its wines, the local vineyards are always going to be essential Bordeaux tourist attractions. At this winery tour of Medoc, you’ll walk through the vineyards that produce grapes used for the best Cabernet Franc and Carménère wines and even try some during the tasting sessions as you learn about the history of the estates and techniques used in winemaking.
3. Learn more about Bordeaux’s wines at Cite du Vin
Visit Restaurant Le 7 on the topmost floor of Cité du Vin for some of the best views in Bordeaux
One of the most iconic Bordeaux tourist attractions, Cité du Vin stands out with its curved architecture that’s said to resemble a glass of swirling wine. Here, you’ll learn everything there is to know about making - and serving - wine: this includes the winemaking process, differentiating wines based on various senses, and even the art of setting the table.
Stop by Restaurant Le 7 on the topmost floor for fantastic views of the city from above. Though access is free, we recommend staying for a meal to try out various wine pairings and some of the best pastries in the city.
Klook tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, or purchase tickets to the Cite du Vin online to skip the line.
4. Cruise along the Garonne River
A trip to Bordeaux wouldn’t be complete without a cruise along the Garonne River
See Bordeaux from a different perspective as you board the Le Luna and embark on a journey along the Garonne River. One of the most popular Bordeaux tourist attractions, a scenic cruise on the Garonne River gives you the opportunity to see landmarks such as the Gothic Cathedral, Port de la Lune, and more as you sip on a glass of wine and feast on freshly baked pastries.
5. Feast on local dishes
Try local cheeses, pastries, and more at Bordeaux
Sample local flavors with a gourmet food tour of Bordeaux, which takes you to some of the best cafes and restaurants in the city. Learn how local cheeses like comté are made and feast on freshly baked bread at a local boulangerie. You’ll also get to sample the canelé, a soft pastry with a custard-like center and a thick, dark, caramelized crust flavored with rum and vanilla.
Klook tip: Make sure to order a drink on the side; the canelé is best paired with coffee, tea, or even rich dessert wines that complement its unique flavors.
6. Take a souvenir photo at Mirror D’eau
Visit the Mirror D’eau at sunset for views you’ll never forget
Bordeaux sightseeing wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the famous Mirror D’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool. When the water is completely still, you’ll get to see the spectacular sight of the sky and the surrounding buildings reflected perfectly on the surface - just like a mirror would! It’s definitely the perfect place to take your souvenir shot of Bordeaux.
Klook tip: The Mirror D’eau changes throughout the day, operating on 25-minute cycles with fountains and even cooling mists. Try to stay for the entire duration of a cycle to catch sight of the full effect.
7. Enjoy Coastal Views at Arcachon Bay
Enjoy some of the best coastal views in France at Arcachon Bay
A natural jewel just a short drive from Bordeaux, Arcachon Bay stuns with its panoramic views of the ocean and the nearby Landes’ forest. For the best views, climb up the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune, where you can savor a glass of white wine and sample some delicious, fresh oysters as you admire the scenery.
FAQs
What are the top tourist attractions in Bordeaux?
Some of the most famous Bordeaux tourist attractions include Saint Emilion, the Garonne River, and the Mirror D’eau. Bordeaux is also famous for its wine, so a trip to local vineyards, wineries, and the Cite du Vin are also a must!
To ensure hassle-free travel, make sure you have all the essentials on hand, like your France eSIM, so you can stay connected 24/7.
What are the best things to do in Bordeaux for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, essential Bordeaux things to do include wine tasting, sampling local pastries, and sightseeing along the Garonne River.
Klook tip: Get access to 20 museums and attractions plus unlimited access to public transport with the Bordeaux City Pass!
How many days do you need to see Bordeaux?
Many visit Bordeaux on a day trip, which gives you just enough time to visit a couple of attractions. However, if your itinerary allows for it, then we recommend staying at least 3 - 4 days to fully experience the best of Bordeaux.
Is Bordeaux worth visiting for tourists?
Yes, Bordeaux is worth visiting, especially for first-time visitors to France who wish to escape the crowds at Paris. At Bordeaux, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel as you sample wine, taste famous pastries like the canelé, and walk around to explore the local landmarks.
What are the best places to visit in Bordeaux city center?
In Bordeaux, things to do in the city center include visiting local cafes and restaurants, cruising along the Garonne River, and shopping at Rue Sainte-Catherine. Other popular options include Mirror D'eaux, Jardin Public, and museums like Cite du Vin.
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