Bordeaux
France
Attractions & Events in Bordeaux
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Bordeaux, France
Top Attractions
Basilica of St. Michael
A Flamboyant Gothic church with a separate bell tower, offering insights into Bordeaux's medieval past.
Tips: Explore the surrounding Saint-Michel district for antique shops and local cafes.
Bassins de Lumières
An immersive digital art center housed in a former submarine base, showcasing large-scale projections of classical and contemporary artworks.
Tips: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry to this popular attraction.
Bordeaux Cathedral (Saint-André)
A Gothic cathedral dating back to the 11th century, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
Tips: Climb the adjacent Pey-Berland Tower for panoramic views of Bordeaux.
Darwin Ecosystem
A unique cultural and commercial space featuring street art, skate parks, and the largest organic restaurant in France.
Tips: Great spot for families and those interested in sustainable initiatives; check out the various workshops and events hosted here.
Girondins Monument
A monumental fountain and column dedicated to the Girondins, a political group during the French Revolution.
Tips: Visit during the day to appreciate the intricate sculptures, and return at night to see it beautifully illuminated.
Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
An 18th-century neoclassical opera house renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural performances.
Tips: Attend a ballet or opera performance; book tickets in advance to secure a seat.
Jardin Public
An 11-hectare public garden established in 1746, featuring a variety of plants, a small lake, and a natural history museum.
Tips: Perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic; visit the natural history museum within the park for an educational experience.
La Cité du Vin
A contemporary wine museum offering interactive exhibits on global wine cultures, with a panoramic tasting room.
Tips: Allocate a few hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and wine tasting; consider purchasing tickets online to avoid queues.
Marché des Capucins
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies.
Tips: Arrive early to experience the market at its liveliest and sample regional specialties from various vendors.
Musée du Vin et du Négoce
A museum located in an 18th-century cellar, detailing the history of Bordeaux's wine trade.
Tips: Enjoy the included wine tasting at the end of your visit; it's a more intimate experience compared to larger museums.
Palais Rohan
The city hall of Bordeaux, an 18th-century palace with impressive architecture and art collections.
Tips: Guided tours are available; check the schedule in advance to explore the interior and learn about its history.
Place de la Bourse and Miroir d'Eau
An iconic 18th-century square featuring classical architecture, adjacent to the world's largest reflecting pool that creates stunning mirror-like reflections.
Tips: Visit in the evening to see the illuminated buildings reflected in the water mirror for a picturesque experience.
Place des Quinconces
One of the largest city squares in Europe, featuring the Monument aux Girondins and hosting various events and fairs.
Tips: Check the local event calendar to catch festivals or markets held here throughout the year.
Pont de Pierre
A historic stone bridge commissioned by Napoleon I, connecting Bordeaux's left and right banks with 17 elegant arches.
Tips: Ideal for a scenic walk or bike ride, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
The longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe, lined with a mix of international brands and local boutiques.
Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds; explore side streets for unique shops and cafes.
Events & Festivals
Reggae Sun Ska Festival
A major reggae music festival featuring international and local artists, held in the Médoc region near Bordeaux.
When: August
Tips: Book accommodations early, as nearby lodging can fill up quickly during the festival.
Marché de Noël
A festive Christmas market offering local delicacies, handmade crafts, and unique gifts in a cozy winter setting.
When: December
Tips: Try traditional French treats like macarons and madeleines while browsing the stalls.
Saint-Émilion Jazz Festival
A festival combining jazz performances with wine tastings in the picturesque village of Saint-Émilion near Bordeaux.
When: July
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance and consider staying overnight to fully enjoy the evening concerts and local wines.
Metropolitan Summer (L'Été Métropolitain)
A summer-long series of cultural events including music, dance, theater, and gastronomy across Bordeaux's metropolitan area.
When: July and August
Tips: Check the official program for event details and locations to plan your itinerary.
Bordeaux Fête le Vin
An annual wine festival celebrating Bordeaux's renowned wines with tastings, workshops, and cultural events along the Garonne River.
When: June
Tips: Purchase a Tasting Pass in advance for access to various wine pavilions and events.
Fête de la Musique
A nationwide music festival where streets and squares are filled with live performances by local and international artists.
When: June
Tips: Explore different neighborhoods to experience a variety of musical genres and performances.
Carnaval des Deux Rives
A vibrant carnival featuring parades, music, and performances, celebrating the cultural diversity of Bordeaux.
When: March
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route.
Foire aux Plaisirs
The largest funfair in Aquitaine, offering numerous attractions and rides for all ages.
When: March and October
Tips: Visit on weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds and enjoy shorter lines.
Bordeaux International Fair (Foire Internationale de Bordeaux)
A large-scale fair featuring exhibitions, agricultural shows, and cultural events, attracting visitors from across the region.
When: May
Tips: Allocate a full day to explore the diverse exhibits and activities offered at the fair.
Bordeaux International Independent Film Festival (FIFIB)
An annual film festival showcasing independent films from around the world, including competitions and special screenings.
When: October
Tips: Check the festival's official website for schedules and ticket information to plan your visit.