Activities and Things to Do in the Historic Centre of Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux’s Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with stunning 18th-century architecture, historic landmarks, museums, and vibrant squares. It is also famous for wine, gastronomy, and lively cultural experiences. Here are the best activities and things to do when exploring this charming area.
1. Visit Place de la Bourse & Miroir d’Eau
- Place de la Bourse is Bordeaux’s most iconic square, built in the 18th century with elegant Neoclassical architecture.
- Right in front of it is the Miroir d’Eau (Water Mirror), the world’s largest reflective water feature, which creates stunning mirror-like reflections of the buildings.
- Best time to visit: Sunset, when the lights make the reflections even more magical.
2. Explore Bordeaux’s Historic Gates & City Walls
Bordeaux was once a walled medieval city, and some of its grand entrance gates remain:
- Porte Cailhau – A fairy-tale-like stone gate, once the main entrance to the city in the 15th century.
- Grosse Cloche – A massive bell tower and one of the city’s oldest landmarks.
3. Stroll Along Rue Sainte-Catherine (France’s Longest Shopping Street)
- Rue Sainte-Catherine is 1.2 km long, making it the longest pedestrian shopping street in France.
- It’s lined with boutiques, cafés, local shops, and major brands.
- Perfect for: Shopping, people-watching, and enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere.
4. Admire Bordeaux’s Stunning Cathedrals & Churches
- Cathédrale Saint-André – A UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral where King Louis VII and Eleanor of Aquitaine were married.
- Tour Pey Berland – A separate bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.
- Église Saint-Pierre – A beautiful small medieval church in the heart of Bordeaux.
5. Visit the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux (One of the Most Beautiful Theaters in Europe!)
- A magnificent 18th-century opera house with a stunning Neoclassical façade and grand interiors.
- Attend an opera, ballet, or guided tour to see its luxurious chandeliers and grand staircases.
6. Walk Along the Garonne River & the Quays
- The Bordeaux quays (Les Quais de Bordeaux) stretch along the Garonne River and are perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying river views.
- You can also take a Garonne River cruise for a unique perspective of the city.
7. Explore Place des Quinconces (One of Europe’s Largest City Squares)
- Home to the Monument aux Girondins, a tall column with fountains dedicated to the French Revolution.
- Often hosts festivals, concerts, and open-air markets.
8. Visit Museums to Learn About Bordeaux’s History & Art
- Musée d’Aquitaine – Explore Bordeaux’s history from Roman times to modern days.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts – Home to European paintings by Rubens, Delacroix, and Renoir.
- CAPC Musée d’Art Contemporain – For lovers of modern and contemporary art.
9. Discover Bordeaux’s Wine Culture
- Bordeaux is famous for its world-class wines, and the Historic Centre offers great places to taste them.
- Top wine bars to visit:
- Le Bar à Vin – A historic wine bar with an excellent selection of Bordeaux wines.
- Cité du Vin (near the city center) – A wine museum with immersive experiences and tastings.
- Les Chartrons District – The historical wine trade area of Bordeaux, with wine cellars and shops.
10. Enjoy Traditional Bordeaux Cuisine at Local Restaurants
- Try the famous "Entrecôte à la Bordelaise" (steak with Bordeaux wine sauce).
- Sample fresh seafood from the Bay of Arcachon, like oysters and mussels.
- Taste the local dessert "Canelé", a small caramelized pastry with vanilla and rum flavors.
Recommended Restaurants:
- La Tupina – Famous for traditional Bordeaux cuisine.
- Le Quatrième Mur – A fine-dining experience by a Michelin-starred chef.
- L’Entrecôte – Specializes in steak-frites with their secret sauce.
11. Enjoy Bordeaux at Night in Place du Parlement
- A lively square filled with restaurants, cafés, and wine bars.
- Perfect for: Evening drinks, local cuisine, and soaking up the ambiance.
12. Take a Day Trip to Vineyards & Châteaux Near Bordeaux
- If you have extra time, visit nearby wine regions like:
- Saint-Émilion – A medieval town famous for its vineyards and wine cellars.
- Médoc Wine Route – Explore prestigious wine estates like Château Margaux.
Final Thoughts
Bordeaux’s Historic Centre is a mix of history, culture, and modern elegance, offering stunning architecture, charming streets, vibrant squares, and world-class wine experiences. Whether you enjoy sightseeing, food, shopping, or history, Bordeaux has something for every traveler.