How to plan your Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour

Bordeaux is a city that has everything to offer to its tourists – rich history, stunning architecture, delectable food, and of course, fine wine. One of the best ways to explore the city and make the most of your trip is by taking a walking tour. And if you are a history buff, the Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour is just the thing for you. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour and what to expect.

The Experience

The Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour is a 2-hour walking tour of the city. The tour takes you through the medieval part of the city, where you will discover the French and English past of Bordeaux. You will walk through one of the oldest neighborhoods of Bordeaux, visit the impressive Place de la Bourse, and discover the port of Bordeaux – the first port of the French kingdom in the 18th century. But that’s not all. You will also get to taste and learn about the famous Canelé, a delightful pastry that is exclusive to Bordeaux. And, finally, you will end the tour on the largest square in Europe – Place des Quinconces.

The Highlights

The Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour is full of highlights. Here are some of the things you will get to see and experience:

Place du Palais

The tour starts from the Place du Palais, an impressive square that was once the location of the Palais de l’Ombrière, the home of the Archbishop of Bordeaux. The Palace is no longer there, but the square remains an important landmark for the city.

Place Saint-Pierre

From Place du Palais, you will walk to Place Saint-Pierre, a square that dates back to the Middle Ages. The square is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, making it an excellent spot to soak up the local culture.

Place de la Bourse

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the Place de la Bourse. This impressive square is home to the Bordeaux Chamber of Commerce and the Musée national des douanes. But what is most impressive about this square is the Miroir d’Eau – a large reflecting pool that creates a stunning mirror effect.

Canelé Tasting

No trip to Bordeaux is complete without tasting the famous Canelé. The Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour gives you the opportunity to taste and learn about this delightful pastry from a local expert.

Place des Quinconces

The tour ends at Place des Quinconces, the largest square in Europe. Here, you will get to see the Monument aux Girondins, a stunning fountain that pays tribute to the Girondins, a political group during the French Revolution.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour is easy. Simply visit the following link: book the tour here. The tour is offered by a third-party company, so be sure to read the terms and conditions before booking.

Book Your Tour Now

The Bordeaux: History and Highlights Walking Tour is an excellent way to explore the city and learn about its rich history. With stunning architecture, delectable food, and fine wine, Bordeaux is truly a city that has everything to offer. Book your tour today and make the most of your trip to this beautiful city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a stunning cosmopolitan city in southwestern France, and it is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. This city is known for its prestigious wines, rich history, and striking architecture.

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux, you probably have a lot of questions about what to do, where to eat, and what to see. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answered them in detail to help you plan your trip to this beautiful city.

1. What are the must-visit attractions in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has many incredible sights and attractions that you’ll want to add to your itinerary, no matter your interests. Here are a few must-see spots:

• Place de la Bourse: Located in the heart of the city, this square boasts stunning 18th-century architecture and reflects beautifully in the Miroir d’Eau fountain.
• Basilique Saint-Michel: This Gothic-style cathedral is an impressive landmark with a stunning bell tower and intricate stone carvings.
• Musée des Beaux-Arts: This museum houses an impressive collection of fine arts, including works by Rubens, Delacroix, Matisse, and many others.
• Saint-Emilion: A charming medieval village known for its wine production, with narrow cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and vineyards.

2. What are the best times to visit Bordeaux?

The best times to visit Bordeaux are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. If you’re planning to visit during the summer months (June to August), know that the weather can be hot and humid, and there will likely be more tourists.

3. What is the local cuisine of Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is known for its rich culinary tradition, which includes many delectable dishes and wines. Here are a few local specialties that you must try:

• Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: This is a steak grilled and served with a red wine and shallot reduction.
• Cannele: A small, pastry-like cake that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Chartrons Market: A large indoor market with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, and more. Don’t forget to try the oysters!
• Bordeaux Wine: Bordeaux is known worldwide for its wine production. Be sure to visit a vineyard for a tasting or a tour.

4. How can tourists get around Bordeaux?

The best way to get around Bordeaux is by foot, bike, tram, or bus. The city is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance from one another. Bikes are available to rent throughout the city, and there are several bike lanes to make cycling easier. The tram system is also efficient and affordable, with several lines that cover much of the city.

5. What are some budget-friendly things to do in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has plenty of affordable activities and attractions that won’t break the bank. Here are a few ideas:

• Take a self-guided walking tour: There are many free walking tour routes available online that take you through the city’s historic districts.
• Visit a park: Bordeaux has many beautiful parks, including Jardin Public and Parc Bordelais, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Check out a local market: You can find everything from artisanal cheese to fresh produce at the city’s markets, like the Marché des Capucins.
• Visit a museum on a free day: Many museums in Bordeaux offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month, like the Musée d’Aquitaine.

6. How safe is Bordeaux for tourists?

Bordeaux is considered a safe city for travelers. However, you should still exercise caution when walking alone at night or in crowded areas. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in tourist areas, so keep an eye on your belongings.

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

While French is the primary language spoken in Bordeaux, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic French phrases, though, as it can make your trip more enjoyable and help you connect with locals on a deeper level.

8. What’s the best way to experience Bordeaux’s wine culture?

To get the most out of Bordeaux’s wine culture, you should consider visiting some vineyards and taking a wine tour. There are many local tour operators that offer wine-tasting experiences, from small-group tours to private tastings. Bordeaux also hosts an annual wine festival, the Fête le Vin, where you can taste a variety of wines, enjoy live music, and learn about the region’s wine-making history.

Book Your Tour Now

Bordeaux is a beautiful city with much to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its stunning architecture and wine production, there’s something for everyone in this cosmopolitan destination. We hope this FAQ has helped answer some of your questions about what to expect during your stay in Bordeaux and has provided you with some helpful tips for planning your trip. Bon voyage!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a stunning city located in western France that is known for its vineyards, wine, and rich history. Bordeaux is also known for its beautiful architecture, lively culture, and delectable cuisine. If you are planning to travel to Bordeaux soon, here is an ultimate guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Bordeaux.

1. Visit the Cité du Vin

The Cité du Vin is one of the must-visit places in Bordeaux. This museum is dedicated to the history of wine and winemaking. Visitors can learn about the different wine-making techniques, explore the wine cellar, and taste different types of wine. Additionally, the museum has a panoramic restaurant on the top floor that offers stunning views of the city.

2. Discover the Saint-Emilion

The Saint-Emilion is a UNESCO World Heritage site located a short distance away from Bordeaux city center. Visitors can explore the medieval town, which has numerous historic churches and charming streets. Additionally, visitors can walk through vineyards and participate in wine tours offered by local wineries.

3. Explore the Place de la Bourse

The Place de la Bourse is one of the most famous landmarks in Bordeaux. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its stunning water mirror, which reflects the grand architecture surrounding it. Additionally, visitors can explore the galleries and boutique shops that are housed in the surrounding buildings.

4. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is one of the most important art museums in France. The museum has an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures and other works of art from the 15th century to modern times. Visitors can admire works by famous painters such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Matisse.

5. Walk along the Garonne River

The Garonne River is the main river that runs through Bordeaux. Visitors can walk along the riverfront and admire the stunning views of the city. The riverfront is lined with restaurants and cafes that serve local cuisine and wine. Additionally, visitors can take a boat tour along the river to explore the city from a different perspective.

6. Taste the Local Cuisine

Bordeaux is known for its delicious cuisine. Visitors can taste local specialties such as foie gras, oysters, and canelés, a small pastry made from vanilla and rum. Additionally, visitors can explore local markets such as the Marché des Capucins, which offers a wide variety of fresh produce, cheese, and other local food items.

7. Visit the Place des Quinconces

The Place des Quinconces is one of the largest public squares in Europe. The square is lined with beautiful trees and is home to several monuments, including the Monument aux Girondins, which is dedicated to the martyrs of the French Revolution. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby Allées de Tourny, which has numerous boutiques and cafes.

8. Explore the Grosse Cloche

The Grosse Cloche is a medieval bell tower that is one of the most iconic buildings in Bordeaux. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city. Additionally, visitors can explore the clock tower and learn about the history of the building.

9. Visit the Place de la Victoire

The Place de la Victoire is a bustling square in the heart of Bordeaux. The square is home to numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby Saint-Michel area, which has a thriving street art scene and a vibrant nightlife.

10. Tour Bordeaux’s Vineyards

Bordeaux is known for its wine and vineyards. Visitors can take a tour of local vineyards and wineries to learn about wine-making techniques and taste different varieties of wine. Additionally, visitors can take part in wine-tasting events and workshops to learn more about the different types of wine produced in Bordeaux.

Book Your Tour Now

Bordeaux is a beautiful city that offers a wide range of activities for tourists. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting local cuisine and wine, there is something for everyone in Bordeaux. So, if you are planning to visit Europe soon, be sure to add Bordeaux to your itinerary.