Bordeaux

Probably the most photographed spot in Bordeaux—and for good reason. The 18th-century buildings around Place de la Bourse are part of the city’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, and they reflect perfectly in the shallow pool of the Miroir d’eau just across the road. It looks great early in the morning, but the reflections are just as striking in the evening when everything’s lit up. Kids run through the mist when it sprays every 15 minutes in summer, and photographers camp out for that symmetrical shot.

Place des Quinconces is one of the biggest squares in France, laid out in the early 1800s where a château used to stand. At its centre is the Monument aux Girondins—a tall column topped with Liberty, surrounded by bronze fountains mid-splash. It was built to honour the Girondin deputies executed during the Revolution. The square is wide open, lined with trees, and often hosts something: funfairs, antique markets, food stalls, or temporary exhibitions.

Built in 1495, Porte Cailhau was one of the main gates into medieval Bordeaux and still stands nearly unchanged. It’s about 35 metres high and part of the old city walls. Climb to the top for a good view over the river, the Pont de Pierre, and the city rooftops.

Spend a day sipping French reds and whites in the Saint-Emilion and Pomerol wine region on a day trip from Bordeaux. Visit two chateaux to taste the region’s famous wines and then stroll through the charming streets of the medieval town of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

About an hour from Bordeaux, Arcachon Bay is known for its calm waters and wide sandy beaches, shaped by oyster farming that still thrives here. You can cycle along quiet paths, spot birds on the nearby Île aux Oiseaux, and stop for fresh oysters at one of the local seafood shacks. Just next door is the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, rising over 100 metres. Climbing it rewards you with wide views across the bay and the Atlantic beyond. Together, the peaceful bay and the towering dune make a great day out, whether you’re after nature, fresh air, or just some impressive scenery.

Opened in 1780, the Grand-Théâtre is one of Bordeaux’s standout buildings — all columns, symmetry, and old-world grandeur. It was built on the site of a former Roman temple and still feels like a place where something serious is about to happen. Inside, the auditorium is known for its acoustics and classical style, and it hosts opera, ballet, and orchestral concerts throughout the year.

Basilique Saint-Michel is a Gothic church dating back to the 14th century, and it stands out for its separate, 114-metre bell tower — the tallest in southern France. You can climb the tower for great views over Bordeaux. Inside, there are plenty of chapels with old artwork, and the whole place is part of the UNESCO-listed Routes of Santiago pilgrimage.

Set in a former 16th-century convent, this museum dives deep into Bordeaux and Aquitaine’s history, with more than 70,000 items on display — from prehistoric tools to objects linked to the city’s past as a busy port.

L'Intendant Grands Vins de Bordeaux is a must-visit wine cellar, set in an impressive space featuring a stunning circular staircase. Along its walls, you’ll find fine vintages dating back to 1945, offering a deep dive into Bordeaux’s rich wine heritage.

Marché des Capucins is Bordeaux’s bustling food market and a true local institution. Right in the heart of the city, it’s the place to find fresh produce, cheeses, and wines, plus ready-to-eat treats and coffee.

Experience a classic slice of local life at the Saint‑Michel markets along Quai de Salinières. On Saturdays, the Marché Royal is the livelier option, with everything from fresh produce and cheese to ceramics and vintage finds. Mondays are for Marché Neuf, a bit more low-key but great for second‑hand clothes, books, and curiosities. It’s a favourite weekend ritual for many locals—part treasure hunt, part people-watching, and always worth a stroll.

Les Noisettines du Médoc is a small, family-run shop that specialises in hazelnut-based treats from the Médoc region. If you’re into artisanal sweets, this place is a little gem — crunchy pralines, creamy spreads, and chocolates that highlight the rich, nutty flavour of local hazelnuts. It’s perfect for picking up authentic, handmade goodies that make for great souvenirs for those back home.

Librairie Mollat has been part of Bordeaux since 1896, and it shows. Tucked into the city’s historic centre, this independent bookshop is more than just shelves and spines—it’s a local institution. The selection is vast, covering everything from literature and philosophy to cookbooks and comics, with plenty of art and science in between.

For wine lovers who don't want to venture out to the distant wineries and chateaux, Bordeaux's streets and squares are generously peppered with wine merchants. One of the oldest and most renowned among them is Badie. Offering a selection of rare champagnes, high-end wines and premium liquors, Badie is housed in an elegant 18th-century building, providing an exquisite shopping experience right in the heart of the city.

Pétrusse is the spot if you’re looking to take home something a bit special. Set inside a historic building near the Grand Théâtre, the shop is known for its elegant scarves, shawls, and pashminas—many made from silk, cashmere, or wool and often designed in-house.

If you feel like giving your credit card a little workout, Galeries Lafayette Bordeaux is the place to go. Housed in an elegant historic building, this department store offers a carefully curated selection of high-end fashion, beauty, and accessories. It’s a stylish and comfortable spot to browse premium brands with attentive service to match.