Bordeaux, a city in southwestern France, is well-known for its stunning architecture, world-renowned wine and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or art lover, history buff or wine enthusiast, there won’t be a dull moment here in Bordeaux. With so many attractions and things to do, planning your trip can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll show you the best things to do in Bordeaux, including top tourist attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore Bordeaux together!

The 16 Best Family Activities to Do in Bordeaux

1. Saint Emilion Half Day Morning Tour With Wine Tastings
2. Bordeaux Sightseeing by Side Car
3. Bordeaux Saint Emilion and Medoc Full Day Wine Experience
4. Bordeaux 15 Hour Mystery Walking Tour in French
5. Unesco Village St Emilion and Its Wines Private Tour
6. Bordeaux Wine Tour St Emilion Pomerol Full Day Wine Tour
7. St Emilion Half Day Bordeaux Wine Tour
8. Bordeaux Visit and Half Day Wine Private Tour
9. 2 Hour Bordeaux Electric Scooter Tour
10. Bordeaux Cruise Along the Garonne With a Glass of Wine
11. 2 Hour Bordeaux Segway Tour
12. 1 Hour Pedego Tour
13. Bordeaux La Cite Du Vin Permanent Tour Wine Tasting
14. Bordeaux Private 4 Hour Wine Tour in a Citroen 2cv
15. Segway Tour 2 Hours
16. Vip 1 Hour Bordeaux Segway Tour

The 16 Best Family Activities to Do in Bordeaux

1. Saint Emilion Half Day Morning Tour With Wine Tastings

Experience the stunning Saint Emilion area with this half day morning tour and wine tastings. Begin your tour at 8:30am, meeting your guide at an agency before driving to Saint-Emilion. Get a presentation of the region on the way, then start your guided walking tour at the UNESCO listed medieval village of Saint-Emilion at 9:15am. At 10:00am, indulge in a wine tasting session in the heart of the village before heading to a local winery and enjoying a tasting of their wines at 11:15am. Drive back to Bordeaux at 12:15pm and end the tour at 1:00pm with a drop-off at the Rustic Vines agency. The tour includes transport, a driver/tour guide, visit at a local winery, wine tastings, and a guided walking tour in the village of Saint-Emilion. You’ll have the chance to visit and wine taste at a local chateau, experience a guided tour in the UNESCO village, and enjoy friendly wine tour guidance. The tour also includes a minimum of 6 wine tastings, giving you the chance to experience a variety of wines.

2. Bordeaux Sightseeing by Side Car

Experience the best of scenic Bordeaux on an open-air tour in a fashionable side car with a knowledgeable guide and motorbike driver. See some of the city’s most important historic and cultural sites including the Place des Quinconces, Place de la Bourse, Saint Michel Basilica, Grosse Cloche bell tower, Pey Berland Cathedral Tower, and Grand Opera. Your guide will provide live commentary as you go, giving you insight into the city’s history, architecture, and daily life. The tour starts from a convenient meeting point just in front of the Bordeaux tourist office, and your itinerary may vary according to your wishes and the traffic. The price is for 1 or 2 passengers/side car. If your group is larger than two, you are welcome to book additional side cars.

3. Bordeaux Saint Emilion and Medoc Full Day Wine Experience

Spend a day immersed in the world of Bordeaux wines with a guided tour of Saint Emilion and Medoc. You’ll visit three wineries and sample eight delicious local wines, all with the help of a wine expert as your guide. Take a break from tasting to enjoy a picnic of local specialties in the grounds of a stunning French castle in Margaux. The trip also includes a guided visit to the UNESCO village of Saint-Emilion and the opportunity to discover two Bordeaux wine regions in a single day. The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan, informative brochures and tips. Please note that the tour is not suitable for children under 16 years old.

4. Bordeaux 15 Hour Mystery Walking Tour in French

Get ready for a fascinating journey through Bordeaux’s dark and mysterious past with this 1.5-hour walking tour. Led by a French-speaking guide, you will explore the city’s winding cobblestone streets, large squares and narrow lanes from north to south. Along the way, you will hear tales and legends that have haunted the residents of the city for centuries.

The tour begins at the breathtaking Basilica of Saint Severinus and takes you on an insider’s journey to learn about Charlemagne’s ties to the city, why inhabitants were imprisoned and the incredible bestiary that terrified the once-medieval city’s citizens.

This walking tour is the perfect opportunity to see Bordeaux in a new light, learn about the medieval city’s dark and fascinating past and enjoy a journey filled with historical facts and well-known legends. Join this group tour today and take a step back in time to explore the mystery and magic of Bordeaux.

5. Unesco Village St Emilion and Its Wines Private Tour

Explore the village of St Emilion and its wines on this private tour. Your expert guide will meet you at the Monument aux Girondins where you will start your walking tour of the city. You will have the opportunity to see the Grand Theatre Bordeaux Cathedral and Place de la Bourse. Choose from morning or afternoon departure times and the duration that suits your schedule. This tour offers a unique and personalized way to explore the best of Bordeaux. Learn insider stories about life in the city and its history. Entrance to any monuments is included, making it a hassle-free experience. The tour concludes at Place de la Bourse in the heart of Bordeaux. Don’t miss out on the chance to see the highlights of Bordeaux with a local’s perspective.

6. Bordeaux Wine Tour St Emilion Pomerol Full Day Wine Tour

Explore the wine region of Libournais on a full-day tour to Pomerol and St-Emilion. You will visit and enjoy wine tastings at three classified growth chateaux, with a group of maximum eight passengers. This tour includes a short walking tour of St Emilion village, with comfortable and fully equipped minivans for transport during the day. Free Wi-Fi access is available onboard. Please note that entrance fees to monuments, museums, and attractions other than those mentioned are not included, as well as meals, drinks, and eventual gratuities. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Join us to discover the best of Bordeaux’s wine country.

7. St Emilion Half Day Bordeaux Wine Tour

Take a half-day tour to the picturesque village of St Emilion, which dates back to medieval times and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a guided walking tour along the steep and narrow laneways, exploring the charming Romanesque churches and ruins.

Learn about the history of wine making in the region, dating back to the 2nd century when the Romans first introduced wine making to the village. Visit the Classified Growth Chateau of St Emilion for a wine tasting experience.

The village was named after the monk Émilian, who settled in a hermitage carved into the rock in the 8th century. Reminders of the Roman techniques of wine planting can be seen in some of the estates including Chateau Bellevue, owned by the world-famous Angelus winery.

This tour is a must-do for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike who want to experience the beauty and culture of St Emilion.

8. Bordeaux Visit and Half Day Wine Private Tour

Explore the beautiful city of Bordeaux like a local and learn about the region’s world-renowned wine on this private half-day tour. Accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver/guide, travel in a fully equipped air conditioned minivan and enjoy live commentary as you drive through the scenic countryside. Visit a pre-selected winery to taste some of Bordeaux’s finest wines and learn about the vineyards and the history of winemaking in the region. The tour also includes a visit to a Saint-Émilion wine cellar. This is a private tour, exclusively for your group, allowing for a personalized experience. Please note that personal expenses, meals, drinks, and entrance fees to monuments, museums or attractions are not included in the tour. You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. Whether you’re a wine buff or simply curious, this tour offers the perfect opportunity to discover the best of Bordeaux’s wine culture.

9. 2 Hour Bordeaux Electric Scooter Tour

Zip around Bordeaux effortlessly on a two-hour electric scooter tour, covering double the distance in half the time. Experience the scenic Garonne riverfront, Place de la Comédie, and Place des Quinconces while admiring local monuments like Bordeaux Cathedral and Pont de Pierre. An eco-friendly and fun way to navigate around the city, with stops along the way for perfect photo opportunities. Get insider tips on what to see and do in Bordeaux from a local guide. Choose from morning or afternoon tour departure times. The tour includes a guide, electric scooter and helmet, and transport to and from attractions. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Meeting point is at 59 Cr Victor Hugo, Bordeaux and the tour ends at the same location.

10. Bordeaux Cruise Along the Garonne With a Glass of Wine

Explore the beauty of Bordeaux from a different perspective with a cruise along the Garonne river on the vintage post-war yacht, Le Luna. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights about the history of the city while you indulge in a glass of wine, hot drink or soft drink and a piece of canelé cake. Admire the stunning architecture of 18th and 19th-century mansions, art museums, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gothic Cathedral. Experience an unforgettable tour on this unique journey with guided commentary throughout the trip.

11. 2 Hour Bordeaux Segway Tour

See the best sights of Bordeaux in just two hours with this fun and efficient Segway tour. Your experienced local guide will provide a brief orientation before taking you on a scenic ride along the Garonne River. Marvel at landmarks like La Grosse Cloche, Sainte-Catherine Street, the Cathedral, Place des Quinconces, and Place de la Comédie. With the help of your Segway, you can easily cover a lot of distance while taking in the beautiful scenery. A poncho will be provided in case of rain, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, provided they’re at least 14 years old and wearing flat shoes. The meeting point is located at 59 Cr Victor Hugo, near public transportation. Once the tour ends, you’ll return to the meeting point. Please note that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included. Confirmation will be sent within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

12. 1 Hour Pedego Tour

Breeze around Bordeaux on an easy-to-pedal electric bike with this 1-hour sightseeing tour. Pass popular sights like Bordeaux Cathedral, Place de la Comédie and Quinquonces Place, pedal along the banks of the Garonne and see the futuristic City of Wine. This tour is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a great choice for families. There are several departures throughout the day, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Your tour includes a guide, cycle tour, bike rental, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Meeting point is at 59 Cr Victor Hugo and the end point is the same. This 1-hour tour is the perfect introduction to Bordeaux for first-time visitors or those short on time looking to make the most of their stay.

13. Bordeaux La Cite Du Vin Permanent Tour Wine Tasting

Explore an immersive sensory and interactive museum dedicated to wine with the Bordeaux La Cite Du Vin Permanent Tour Wine Tasting. This standing itinerary covers 18 exhibits on the theme of wine. The tour is skip-the-line, and you’ll get a unique digital travel companion to guide you throughout the tour in 8 different languages.

From the 35-meter-high belvedere, you’ll have a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Bordeaux and its surroundings. Enjoy the view while sipping on a glass of wine at a complementary wine-tasting session with regularly renewed selections of 15 world wines.

After your visit, you can browse through the on-site boutique and visit the wine cellar with a vast international selection. Also, there are restaurants on the premises, one of which offers a panoramic view of the city from the 7th floor while you enjoy a panini and a glass of wine.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the world of wine with the Bordeaux La Cite Du Vin Permanent Tour Wine Tasting!

14. Bordeaux Private 4 Hour Wine Tour in a Citroen 2cv

Explore the vineyards of Bordeaux on a private 4-hour wine tour in a Citroën 2CV. Enjoy the beautiful views of French country roads as your chauffeur takes you to visit world-renowned châteaux and taste Bordeaux wines. Choose between private tours in the Médoc, Pessac-Léognan, or Saint-Emilion vineyards, all of which include visits to two prestigious chateaux for wine tastings. Listen to commentary provided by your chauffeur en route and learn about the rich history of both the vineyards and their chateaux. This is a unique experience that allows you to discover the vineyards in a different way, comfortably seated in the back seat of the iconic 2CV. Book your private wine tour now and make the most of your time in Bordeaux.

15. Segway Tour 2 Hours

Discover the beautiful city of Bordeaux on a fun 2-hour Segway tour. Expert guides will teach you how to use the self-balancing Segway, then you’ll zip around the city’s stunning UNESCO-listed monuments. The tour takes in the famous Bordeaux Cathedral, lively Quinquonce Place, and the picturesque Saint Pierre quarter. Along the way, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to hop off and take photos or simply marvel at the city’s stunning landmarks. This small-group tour ensures a personalized experience, with full instruction provided for complete beginners. It’s a perfect introduction to Bordeaux for first-time visitors or those short on time. The meeting point is at 59 Cr Victor Hugo, and helmets are provided.

16. Vip 1 Hour Bordeaux Segway Tour

A Bordeaux Segway tour is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city’s top sights. With this VIP tour, you’ll have the undivided attention of a private guide who will take you at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll admire views along the Garonne River, visit landmarks like Bordeaux Cathedral, Place de la Comédie, and Place des Quinconces, and stop to take photos. The tour is available at any time of day, and you’ll receive insider tips and advice on the city from your local guide. The tour includes a Segway and helmet, a poncho in case of rain, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Note that food, drinks, and gratuities are not included. The meeting point is at 59 Cr Victor Hugo, and the tour ends back at the same location. Confirmation of your booking will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bordeaux – Your Ultimate Guide

Bordeaux, the wine capital of the world, is a stunning city that offers a mix of rich history, culture, and charming architecture. Known for its vast vineyards, world-class wine, and gastronomic delights, it attracts millions of tourists every year from all around the globe. The city of Bordeaux sits along the Garonne River and is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwestern France. In this blog post, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions that tourists might have about this beautiful city.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a city that can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from May to September. During this time, the weather is ideal, and the city is bustling with life. It is the peak season for tourists, and there are plenty of festivals, events, and activities to keep you entertained. However, if you prefer less crowd and want to have a budget-friendly trip, you can visit in the offseason between October and April.

2. How many days should I spend in Bordeaux?

The amount of time you should spend in Bordeaux depends on how much you want to explore the city and the surrounding areas. If you want to see all of the top attractions, visit the vineyards and experience the nightlife, we recommend staying in Bordeaux for at least three to four days. However, if you have a specific agenda or want to visit only specific attractions, you can spend two days in the city and still have an enjoyable trip.

3. What are the must-visit sights in Bordeaux?

There are so many exciting places to see in Bordeaux that it is impossible to cover them all in one visit. Some of the must-visit sites we recommend include:

a. The Cité du Vin:

This museum is dedicated to wine and offers an interactive exhibit that showcases the wine’s history and its impact on the world. The museum is a must-visit attraction for all wine enthusiasts.

b. Place de la Bourse:

This beautiful square sits in the heart of Bordeaux and features a stunning water mirror that reflects the surrounding buildings. It is an excellent place to relax and take photos.

c. Saint-Émilion:

This UNESCO-listed medieval town is a must-visit for all those who love wine. It is a short train ride from Bordeaux and features beautiful vineyards, wineries, and restaurants.

d. Cathédrale Saint-André:

This beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of Bordeaux and features stunning architecture that dates back to the 13th century.

4. How do I get around in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a small city and easy to navigate on foot. You can also rent a bike or take the tram to get around the city quickly. The city’s public transport system is affordable and efficient, and you can purchase a day pass to explore the city.

5. What is Bordeaux famous for?

Bordeaux is famous for its wine, which is considered the best in the world. It is also famous for its architectural heritage, which has earned it the UNESCO World Heritage Status. The city is renowned for its gastronomic delights, which include cheese, foie gras, and seafood.

6. What are the best food specialties in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is famous for its unique culinary culture, and some of the must-try food specialties are:

a. Canelé:

It is a small cake with a custard center and caramelized crust.

b. Entrecôte à la Bordelaise:

It is a delicious steak served with a sauce made from red wine and shallots, which is the specialty of the region.

c. Oysters:

Bordeaux is located near the Atlantic Ocean and is famous for its fresh seafood, especially oysters.

7. What are the best wine regions to visit around Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has several wine regions that are worth visiting. Some of the popular ones include:

a. Saint-Émilion:

This region, known for its rich red wine, is located near Bordeaux and is a popular tourist destination.

b. Médoc:

This region is famous for its vineyards, Châteaux, and its excellent red wine.

c. Sauternes:

This region is known for its sweet white wine and is located south of Bordeaux.

8. Is it safe to walk around Bordeaux at night?

Bordeaux is generally a safe city to visit, and walking around at night is safe, but it is always advisable to take adequate precautionary measures. Avoid visiting deserted areas and always stay alert in crowded places.

9. Is it easy to communicate in English in Bordeaux?

Although French is the official language of Bordeaux, most locals speak English, especially the ones working in the tourism industry. Most hotels, restaurants, and bars have their menus and signs in English, and you can easily communicate with the locals.

10. What are the best places to stay in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious villas. Some of the best places to stay in Bordeaux include the historic center, the Chartrons district, and the Quinconces district. The historic center is the most popular one and is perfect for sightseeing. The Quinconces district is an ideal place for those who want to explore the nightlife and want to be close to the shopping areas.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a beautiful city located in the southwestern part of France. It is known for its world-renowned vineyards and chateaus, great food, and historic sites. If you are planning to visit Bordeaux as a tourist, there are plenty of things to see and do. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time in Bordeaux.

1. Visit the Bordeaux Wine Museum

If you are a wine enthusiast, you will love visiting the Bordeaux Wine Museum. It is located near the city center and chronicles the history of wine in the city and its surrounding regions. You will learn about the wine-making process, the different grape varieties used to make wine, the history of the wine trade in Bordeaux, and more. There are also tasting sessions where you can sample different wines and learn how to properly taste them.

2. Explore the City’s Historic Sites

Bordeaux is home to several historic sites, including the Place de la Bourse, the Cathedrale Saint-Andre de Bordeaux, and the Porte Cailhau. The Place de la Bourse is a stunning 18th-century square that overlooks the Garonne River. The Cathedrale Saint-Andre de Bordeaux is a beautiful Gothic cathedral that took over two centuries to build. The Porte Cailhau is an ornate 15th-century arch that was once the main entrance to the city.

3. Take a Walking Tour of the City

One of the best ways to explore Bordeaux is on foot. There are several guided walking tours available that will take you through the city’s narrow streets, historic sites, and vineyards. You can also opt to explore the city on your own by following one of the many self-guided walking tours available online.

4. Visit the Famous Vineyards

Bordeaux is famous for its vineyards, and no trip to the city would be complete without a visit to one of them. There are several vineyards located just outside the city that offer tours and tastings. Some of the most famous vineyards in the region include Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Margaux, and Chateau Haut-Brion.

5. Try the Local Food

Bordeaux is known for its delicious local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include confit de canard (duck confit), escargots (snails), and foie gras (duck liver). There are plenty of restaurants in the city that serve these dishes as well as other French classics like coq au vin (chicken in wine) and bouillabaisse (fish soup).

6. Shop in the City’s Markets

Bordeaux is home to several great markets where you can shop for local produce, cheeses, and other products. The Marche des Capucins is one of the city’s biggest markets and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more. The Marche des Quais, located along the riverbank, is another great market to visit.

7. Attend a Festival

Bordeaux is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Bordeaux Wine Festival and the Bordeaux Fete le Vin. These festivals celebrate the city’s culture, food, and wine and are a great way to experience the local atmosphere.

8. Relax in the Public Parks

Bordeaux has several public parks where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. The Jardin Public is one of the city’s oldest parks and features a lake, a rose garden, and several other attractions. The Parc Bordelais is another great park to visit and features a playground, a mini-golf course, and several walking trails.

Book Your Tour Now

Bordeaux is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. Whether you are a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a great experience, Bordeaux has something to offer. Follow this guide to make the most out of your time in Bordeaux and enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer.