Bordeaux is a city that blends rich history, world-class wine, and vibrant culture into an unforgettable destination. Known as the wine capital of France, it’s a haven for wine lovers, but there’s so much more to explore beyond the vineyards. Stroll through the charming streets lined with 18th-century architecture, marvel at historic landmarks like the Grosse Cloche, and soak up the atmosphere at lively markets such as Marché des Capucins.
For foodies, Bordeaux’s culinary scene is a treat, offering everything from traditional canelés to gourmet dining experiences. Adventure seekers can hop on a public transport boat or take a day trip to nearby gems like Arcachon or Saint-Émilion. Whether you’re sipping wine with a view at La Cité du Vin or exploring the sustainable vibes of the Darwin Ecosystem, Bordeaux promises something special at every turn.
Ready to uncover the best things to do in Bordeaux? Let’s go!
What Bordeaux is Known For
Bordeaux is renowned for its wine, historic charm, and vibrant culture, all of which come together to create a city unlike any other. At its heart is its legendary wine heritage. The surrounding region is home to some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world, from Médoc to Saint-Émilion. Here, you can visit centuries-old châteaux, sample exceptional vintages, and dive into the stories behind Bordeaux’s winemaking traditions. Even within the city, wine is everywhere—La Cité du Vin offers an immersive journey into wine culture, complete with panoramic views and a glass to finish.
The city itself is an architectural masterpiece, with its UNESCO-listed center showcasing grand boulevards, intricate facades, and landmarks like the Place de la Bourse and the towering Saint-André Cathedral. Bordeaux feels timeless, but never old, as its streets buzz with life, blending tradition with modern energy.
Food lovers find plenty to savor here too. From bustling markets like Marché des Capucins to intimate bistros serving local delicacies, Bordeaux’s culinary scene is as rich as its wines. One bite of a freshly baked canelé, with its caramelized crust and soft interior, tells you everything about the city’s love for flavor and craft.
Culture thrives in every corner, with museums, festivals, and creative spaces like the Darwin Ecosystem showcasing Bordeaux’s artistic side. Whether you’re exploring its wine heritage, marveling at its historic beauty, or indulging in its food and culture, Bordeaux is a city that leaves a lasting impression.
Best Attractions and Things to Do in Bordeaux
#1 Dive into Bordeaux’s History with a Free Walking Tour
Kickstart your Bordeaux adventure with a free walking tour from Bordeaux Free Walking Tours. These two-hour tours weave through the city’s historic streets, unraveling its rich past and pointing out its most significant landmarks.
What makes these tours stand out? They end with a personalized list of recommendations, saving you hours of research by guiding you straight to the city’s best bites and wine bars. The pricing is refreshingly fair—you simply tip the guide what you feel the tour was worth. With additional paid and wine tours available, you can customize your experience and leave the itinerary to the experts.
#2 Discover Bordeaux’s Best Wine Bar
When it comes to wine, Bordeaux doesn’t disappoint, and Le Sobre Chartrons is a wine lover’s paradise. This welcoming wine bar, located in the historic Chartrons district, offers a staggering 1,200 wine options, paired with delicious French cuisine. Its iconic wine-dispensing machines let you sample pours in three sizes—30ml, 60ml, or 120ml—making it easy to explore France’s diverse wine regions. The English-speaking staff are eager to share their knowledge and help you discover hidden gems.
Insider tip: Mention Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim, and you’ll receive a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival. Cheers!
#3 Visit La Cité du Vin: A Modern Shrine to Wine Culture
For an immersive dive into the world of wine, head to La Cité du Vin, a striking museum dedicated to wine culture and history. Situated along the Garonne River, it’s easily accessible via a public transport boat from Place de la Bourse. Inside, interactive exhibits guide you through wine’s global heritage, covering its role in art, history, and society. With so much to see, plan at least three hours for your visit.
Don’t forget to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine at the rooftop bar, where sweeping views of the Garonne provide the perfect backdrop.
#4 Escape to the Coast with a Day Trip to Arcachon
Need a break from the city? A quick 50-minute train ride from Gare Saint-Jean takes you to Arcachon, a charming seaside town with stunning beaches. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the station to the shoreline, where you can relax or dip your toes in the water. After soaking up the sun, treat yourself to fresh oysters and crisp white wine at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Want to add a unique experience? Book an oyster boat tour from Thiers Pier and spend two hours exploring the region’s oyster farms while tasting some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.
#5 Wander the Medieval Streets of Saint-Émilion
For a day steeped in history and wine, take a short train ride to Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site just 30 minutes from Bordeaux. This charming village is famous for its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and exceptional wines.
Stroll through the historic center, visit the impressive monolithic church carved from limestone, or explore the underground catacombs with a guide. Wine enthusiasts will love the abundant tasting rooms and wine shops, where you can sample and purchase local vintages. Saint-Émilion offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and indulgence for a memorable day trip.
#6 Explore Bordeaux’s Vineyards on an E-Bike Tour
Bordeaux is celebrated for its wine, and exploring its stunning vineyards is an unforgettable experience. One of the best ways to do this is with the Saint-Émilion E-Bike and Wine Tour offered by Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim. Start your day with a quick 30-minute train ride from Gare Saint-Jean to Saint-Émilion, followed by a pleasant 12-minute walk to the village.
Once there, you’ll hop on an electric bike for a 25-kilometer ride through the rolling vineyards and past iconic estates like Château Angélus. The tour includes stops at two renowned châteaux and a négociant office, where you’ll sample exquisite vintages and have the chance to purchase rare bottles. A gourmet picnic lunch served in the heart of the vineyards adds to the charm, blending fine wine, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery. With top-notch reviews, this tour is a must for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Bordeaux’s wine culture.
#7 Embrace Sustainability and Art at the Darwin Ecosystem
For a different take on Bordeaux, visit the Darwin Ecosystem on the Right Bank of the Garonne. This innovative space, located in the renovated Niel military barracks, combines eco-friendly businesses, urban art, and a strong focus on sustainability. It’s a hub for alternative culture, featuring an urban farm, co-working spaces, and a massive indoor skatepark.
Street art lovers will enjoy the colorful murals and ever-changing graffiti, while foodies can indulge in locally-sourced dishes at the organic restaurant. Events focused on environmental and social issues add to the vibrant atmosphere, making the Darwin Ecosystem a favorite for those seeking a creative and conscious side of Bordeaux.
#8 Step Through Time at the Grosse Cloche
One of Bordeaux’s most iconic landmarks, the Grosse Cloche is a 15th-century bell tower steeped in history. Once part of the city’s medieval defenses, this striking structure was used to signal major events or warn of danger. Passing through the gateway under its arch is like stepping back in time.
Continue your stroll along Rue Saint-James, where you’ll find Cassonade, a patisserie famous for its canelés. These caramelized treats, with their custard-like centers, are a Bordelais specialty and a nod to the city’s winemaking history. This area offers a perfect mix of historic charm and indulgent local flavor.
#9 Relax with a Picnic at Jardin Public
Escape the city’s hustle and unwind at the Jardin Public, a sprawling 10-hectare park in the heart of Bordeaux. Created in 1746, this beautifully landscaped garden features peaceful paths lined with trees, a tranquil pond, and picturesque bridges.
The park also hosts a botanical garden and a natural history museum for those looking to explore further. Families will appreciate the playground and seasonal puppet shows, while couples or friends can enjoy a classic French picnic. Bring along fresh baguettes, artisanal cheese, and a bottle of Bordeaux wine to savor amidst this green oasis.
#10 Travel Back to Roman Times at Palais Gallien
The Palais Gallien, Bordeaux’s Roman amphitheater, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient past. Built in the 2nd century, this grand structure once hosted gladiator battles and public spectacles for crowds of up to 15,000 people.
Though only parts of the original structure remain, the towering arches and stonework are a testament to Roman engineering. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, it feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Guided tours are occasionally available, offering deeper insight into the site’s history and significance.
#11 Shop and Dine at Marché des Capucins
End your Bordeaux adventure with a trip to the Marché des Capucins, the city’s largest and most vibrant market. Known as the “belly of Bordeaux,” this Sunday hotspot offers everything from fresh produce and seafood to artisanal bread and pastries.
Browse the adjoining flea market for unique antiques and vintage finds, or treat yourself to local delicacies like oysters paired with a crisp glass of wine. Arrive early to soak in the lively atmosphere and enjoy the market at its best—it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!
#12 Experience Digital Art at Les Bassins de Lumières
For an unforgettable dive into the world of immersive art, visit Les Bassins de Lumières, Bordeaux’s spectacular digital art center. Located in a former World War II submarine base, this unique space transforms its vast industrial interiors into living canvases. Artworks by renowned masters such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Klimt are projected onto towering walls and reflected in the water-filled basins, creating a dreamlike sensory experience.
The exhibitions combine light, color, and sound to bring art to life in ways that are as moving as they are innovative. Each step you take reveals new angles and perspectives, making this experience deeply personal and interactive. Suitable for visitors of all ages, Les Bassins de Lumières is a must-see for art lovers and anyone seeking something truly out of the ordinary.
#13 Explore Creativity at the Contemporary Art Museum (CAPC)
Art meets architecture at the CAPC Musée d’Art Contemporain, a beacon for modern creativity in Bordeaux. This stunning museum, housed in a 19th-century warehouse, blends industrial charm with cutting-edge art. Its cavernous interior—featuring exposed brick walls and iron beams—adds a dramatic backdrop to its impressive collection of contemporary works.
The museum’s permanent collection showcases over 1,600 pieces by groundbreaking French and international artists, while its rotating exhibitions push the boundaries of visual and conceptual art. Highlights include sculptures, installations, and video art that challenge traditional notions of creativity. After exploring, unwind with a drink on the rooftop terrace, where panoramic views of Bordeaux await.
#14 Cruise the Garonne River for Stunning Views
See Bordeaux from a whole new perspective with a scenic cruise along the Garonne River. This waterway offers incredible views of the city’s iconic landmarks, from the elegant Pont de Pierre to the majestic Place de la Bourse and the futuristic Cité du Vin.
Daytime cruises often include commentary, providing insights into Bordeaux’s rich history and architecture. For a romantic twist, opt for an evening cruise to witness the city bathed in golden lights, with shimmering reflections dancing on the river’s surface.
Wine enthusiasts can book specialty cruises featuring tastings of Bordeaux’s finest vintages, while others explore the countryside, gliding past vineyards and picturesque châteaux. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or simply looking for a peaceful way to soak in the scenery, a Garonne River cruise is an experience you won’t forget.
#14 Discover the Historic Chartrons District
Step into Bordeaux’s past in the Chartrons District, once the epicenter of the city’s bustling wine trade. This picturesque neighborhood has evolved into a vibrant area known for its antique shops, art galleries, and charming streets. Stroll down Rue Notre-Dame, where boutique stores and vintage shops invite you to browse for unique finds.
A visit to the Musée du Vin et du Négoce is a must. Set in a historic wine merchant’s house, this small museum delves into Bordeaux’s wine trading history with exhibits featuring antique tools, ledgers, and fascinating stories of the city’s wine merchants.
As you explore, take time to relax in one of the area’s trendy cafés or wine bars. With its mix of historical charm and contemporary flair, the Chartrons District is a delightful spot to spend an afternoon.
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Written in partnership with Bordeaux Free Walking Tours to bring you the best of the city.
