South-west France’s wine capital, lined with 18th-century stone facades along the Garonne; its “Port of the Moon” centre is UNESCO-listed, and it is a base for day trips to vineyards such as Saint-Émilion.
The liveliest time for winery tours in Saint-Émilion, the Médoc and beyond. source
May–June
Good weather for the riverside quays and the Water Mirror. source
Weather: May–June and September–October are pleasant, and September–October is harvest time in the vineyards; summers are hot and sunny, winters often rainy. source
Times to avoid: November–February is often rainy; bring an umbrella and mix in indoor sights like the Cité du Vin and museums. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Bordeaux
Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror Bordeaux’s signature view: the 18th-century square reflected in a shallow water mirror, especially lovely when lit at night. source
La Cité du Vin An interactive museum of world wine culture; the ticket includes a glass at the rooftop belvedere. source
Pey-Berland Tower The cathedral’s bell tower; climb the stairs for city views, with timed booking. source
Musée d’Aquitaine Bordeaux and south-west France from prehistory to the port city’s modern era. source
Where to stay in Bordeaux
Rue Sainte-Catherine / Quinconces
The shopping and tram hub, walkable to most sights.
Chartrons
The old wine merchants’ quarter of antique shops and cafés, near the Cité du Vin.
What to eat in Bordeaux
Canelé — Rum-and-vanilla pastry with a caramelised crust and soft centre
Entrecôte — Rib steak with Bordeaux-style sauce and fries
Pralines de Blaye — Almonds in crunchy caramelised sugar
Bordeaux tips and things to watch out for
Bordeaux travel tips
Trams link the old town and riverside sights, and a one-hour single ticket covers transfers. source
Airport to city: tram line A runs from the Aéroport stop at Bordeaux-Mérignac into town on a standard single ticket. source
Good to know in France
French restaurants use service-included pricing, and tipping is not mandatory; check the bill before paying. source
Many shops close on Sundays, while some in tourist areas open; check opening hours before visiting. source
Watch out for in France
Pickpockets work tourist sites and the metro; wear your bag in front. source
Avoid people pushing petitions or friendship bracelets on you. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Bordeaux are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in France.
Bordeaux attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
La Cité du Vin permanent exhibition + 1 glass (Adult): €22.00 ~ €23.00