Bordeaux, a city located in the southwestern corner of France, is a destination that perfectly mixes history, culture, and gastronomy. Celebrated all over the world for its fabulous wines, Bordeaux possesses of vast architectural marvels, open vibrantly-led markets, and picturesque landscapes.
Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a history buff or even a plain tourist wishing to capture the charm of a French city, Bordeaux has something for all. Here is a list of things to do in Bordeaux that would mark a wonderful weekend visit!
1. Stroll around the Old Town
Bordeaux’s city center, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is anxious to tell a tale of the city’s rich past. Be sure to see Place de la Bourse in its beauty-steeped 18th-century backdrop. Miroir d’Eau [Water Mirror] is the largest reflecting pool in the world and provides an awe-inspiring view, particularly at sunset. Afterward, meander amid the narrow cobblestoned streets, wonder at the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, and become engulfed in the charm of this pedestrian-adapted city.
For people who love guided experiences, Tours in Bordeaux embark on great walking tours through the history of the city and its hidden gems. Their knowledgeable guides bring the story of Bordeaux alive, making it a must-do for those who visit for the first time.
2. Indulge in Wine Tasting in Bordeaux
Linked to Château travel comes a big bull in the France production wines, Bordeaux. Along with some of the most amazing people, winemakers, and great castles, in Bordeaux you will find some of the most prestigious places where wines are produced that have become acclaimed worldwide. Whether you are someone experienced or a curious novice, wine tasting experience-pacifying in Bordeaux is truly awesome.
A visit to Cité du Vin, an interactive winery museum focused on completing your wine heritage, is a must. After an interest hang-out with the collections, head to the panoramic tasting area of the museum, where wines from all over the world are tasted. For a great firsthand experience with clusters of these products, take a day trip into the nearby Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Pomerol regions, where you will tour various picturesque vineyards, meet the winemakers, and appreciate some of the powerhouses in the wine market.
3. Explore the Quaint Village of Saint-Émilion
Though it is just a short drive from Bordeaux, the medieval village of Saint-Émilion is postcard perfect. The rolling vineyards and historical charm of this village are the final home stretch for wine lovers. The monolithic church hewn from the limestone cliffs is bound to mesmerize you, and the underground catacombs present a fascinating online story.
Take up this chance to sample wine from Bordeaux’s most iconic sub-region. Several local wineries offer guided tours and tastings that allow visitors to sample the rich, velvety reds that have made Saint-Émilion famous.
4. Savor the Local Cuisine
Bordeaux isn’t only about wine; the food life of the city is just as great! Among bustling markets, swanky restaurants, and cute little bistros, this is a food lover’s paradise. Go to the Marché des Capucins, the biggest market in Bordeaux, and taste some fresh oysters, cheese, and pastries for breakfast!
It will be interesting to try dishes like entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak in a thick sauce with wine) or canelés, small caramelized cakes with soft custard in the middle. With a glass of wine, it’ll be heaven!
5. Take a Scenic Walk Along the Garonne River
The Garonne River is the lifeblood of Bordeaux, so you will find that a stroll along its banks is one of the best things to do in Bordeaux. Quais de Bordeaux runs along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the river and the city’s most iconic bridges, like the Pont de Pierre.
Rent a bike or choose to walk by the river stopping at some of the innumerable cafés for a coffee or a glass of wine. The area is especially buzzing at night, with locals and tourists alike soaking up its vibrancy.
6. Find the Green Spaces in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is somehow green, with many parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. The Jardin Public is a landscaped park in the city center good for spending a relaxed afternoon. With its lush lawns, peaceful ponds, and charming gazebo, it is a really good spot to unwind.
For more open green space, stroll along the Parc Bordelais, the most extensive park within the city. Perfect for a picnic, jogging, or simply relaxing outdoors!
7. Experience Bordeaux’s Nightlife
Nightlife awakens in Bordeaux much later, and no surprise because it is teeming with bar and club venues on Quai de Paludate and Rue Saint-Rémi, each offering everything from craft cocktails to live music. Wine bars, bars à vin, are yet another great way to enjoy local culture: One can find themselves sitting in a bar sharing a drink with locals and fellow travelers as they sip a glass of Bordeaux wine.
8. Take a Walking Tour with Tours in Bordeaux
If you want to make the best use of your time while in the city, then maybe consider a walking tour by Tours in Bordeaux. The packages are all-encompassing and comprise something for everything, from historical landmarks to hidden gems, to give you a clear picture of the city. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the experience a true educational yet fun one.
9. Visit Bassins des Lumières
An absolute must for art addicts, Bassins des Lumières is a digital art center with unique immersive exhibitions displaying a beautiful fusion of art, music, and technology-situated in a former submarine base. The projections which come alive on the enormous walls and water will almost render you speechless-unlike anything else you’ll ever encounter.
10. Spend It all on Shopping
Bordeaux is a shopper’s heaven where high-end boutiques, artisan shops, and crowded markets come together. Its stores lie along Rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe, which offers everything from fashion to souvenir shops. One other nice idea would be to make it to the Marché des Quais, where local artisans sell hand-crafted items.
Final Thoughts
Bordeaux is truly an amalgamation of history, culture, and nature. While visiting this beautiful city, wine tasting in Bordeaux’s legendary vineyards to the quaint streets and lively markets, the possibilities are endless. Even if it’s for a weekend, or perhaps a whole week, Bordeaux becomes one of those unforgettable journeys.
Or alternatively, you can go check Tours in Bordeaux for other amazing walking tour packages that may help you around the maze of Bordeaux, step by step. Raise a toast to your next adventure!
