Bordeaux is primarily served by Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), which is the main international airport in the region. It's located in the commune of Mérignac, approximately 12 kilometres west of Bordeaux city centre. The airport provides flights to numerous destinations across Europe and some international locations. It's well connected to the city by public transport, making it convenient for travellers.

The 30’Direct offers a direct 30-minute service between Bordeaux Airport and Saint-Jean train station. Bordeaux tramway's Line A links the airport with the city centre since the end of April 2023.

Taxis are available outside Hall A. An average trip to the city centre will cost you about €30 during the day and €45 at night.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/01/55b38595ec8815b3b682fc809af2b35a.jpg

Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD)

Bordeaux offers a variety of public transportation options, making it easy to navigate the city. The TBM (Transport Bordeaux Métropole) network operates trams, buses and a river shuttle. The tram system is particularly comprehensive with four lines (A, B, C and D) that cross the city and connect major points of interest. Buses complement the tram services and cover more extensive areas. The river shuttle, Bat3, offers a scenic route along the Garonne River. For those preferring self-guided transport, the V3 (also known as VCub) bike rental service is a popular choice, with numerous docking stations around the city.

A good tip is to invest in a Bordeaux City-Pass card that you can buy in the tourist office. It includes free entry to several museums as well as free travel on municipal buses and trams.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/14/bef7ccdfcc09ef5252260ecfcbff5b62.jpg

Public Transport

There are many taxis and taxi stations available all around Bordeaux.

Taxis Mérignac : +33 05 56 97 11 27
Taxis 33 : +33 05 56 74 95 06
Taxis Alliance : +33 05 56 77 24 24
Taxis Télé : +33 05 56 96 00 34
Taxis Girondins : +33 05 56 80 70 37

Bicycle-Taxis are also available in the city centre.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/04/855b98cc54ff782eef20bd2ddf946799.jpg

Taxi

Bordeaux is well-serviced by a network of post offices, typically found in shopping centres and on main streets, with varied operating hours. Additionally, stamps can conveniently be purchased in "Bureaux de tabac". Letters or postcards can be posted in the distinct yellow and blue post boxes scattered around the city. These post offices also provide international postage and parcel services, making it easy to send a piece of Bordeaux to loved ones abroad.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/01/55b3b56a9d3dfa1e0d2ffd8fd66237ee.jpg

Post

Pharmacies in Bordeaux are easily identified by the green cross, often illuminated, on their exteriors. They are well-stocked with over-the-counter medications and also fulfil prescriptions. However, note that only a select few remain open after 10pm. In case of a late-night medicinal need, check the SOS Medecins website or call 3237 to find the closest on-duty pharmacy.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/03/707dabf778edcfd40c0e1df1f2759c8d.jpg

Pharmacy

Country code + 33

Bordeaux Council offer free WiFi hotspots around the city, in libraries and main attractions.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/04/dc9bfa96cc4c12f30a110bc9dff00ed5.jpg

Telephone & WiFi

In Bordeaux, as in the rest of France, the power supply is 220-240 volts and 50Hz. The plug type used is the Type C plug, which has two round pins. Plug type E has an additional hole for the socket's male earthing pin.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/10/f5a50408af429591d0a0b210ae7e0606.jpg

Electricity

Celebrating wine, gastronomy, arts and culture, Bordeaux is a city that represents the very essence of the French spirit. Located in the southwest of France, on the Garonne River, Bordeaux casts its charms around the region through its broad pedestrian boulevards, gorgeous squares, modern buildings and historical architecture. Pay a visit to Bordeaux on your next trip to France and see why the city was once elected as "European Best Destination".

Extremely scenic, the Place de la Bourse is a good spot to get a first impression of Bordeaux and find yourself in complete awe. It is also a very photogenic square, especially thanks to the Water Mirror which creates a perfect reflection of the buildings. The emblematic site is on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its incredible architecture and its history.

The "Place de la Bourse" in Bordeaux was designed by the royal architect Jacques Ange Gabriel in 1775

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/05/5af9c7c15fe736198dff56c8b1a78c1f.jpg

Place de la Bourse & the Water Mirror

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.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/08/896591edbebe714c42dbd9841e9646f5.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/08/4e5fba21a7e039cd88fc929743a6e06d.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/16/d33ecedd52431cfc1eb4818850d35b2e.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/10/632556c4472153a29e767a432b6b06f5.jpg

Saint-Emilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings from Bordeaux

This gigantic cultural centre devoted to wine was opened in June 2016 and offers an experience close to that of an amusement park. The post-modern building itself is worth the detour, but the visits are almost impossible to exhaust with 19 thematic modules, tours given in 8 languages and over 120 audiovisual productions. The Cité is also to be experienced through performances, concerts, tastings, a multi-sensory space, a panoramic restaurant and more.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/03/cc82dec40e907d0c496588691e017132.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/03/c1fb6fe47946520a7d23b63922a64b55.jpg

La Cité du Vin

Just an hour's drive away from Bordeaux, the Arcachon Bay offers deep blue waters, shiny white sand, a "bird island" and stunning views in a pleasant micro-climate. It has inspired poets, writers, singers, but also movies and is ideal for a day at the beach or a long bicycle ride. Shaped by oyster culture, it is also a great dining spot.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/14/b3552289936367438b6a87700a8d5f44.jpg

Oyster culture in water on sandy beaches is a tradition in the Bay of Arcachon during tides

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/05/1e5cdf2a8857478464d2bc07ea9e6efc.jpg

Oyster port of La Teste, Bassin d'Arcachon, France

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/12/4d98d3322c740a461694aaf54741fbd8.jpg

Arcachon Bay

If you are looking for some serious sensations, go rent a jet ski on the other side of the Garonne. Ideal for a super fun afternoon or a bachelor/bachelorette party, Bordeaux Jet will make your stay in the city unforgettable. You can also go on a jet ski tour in the area.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/01/91cd3e763255fd18a60d7e195824311b.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/00/d26e7ca25e3fc8f7edeba421f651f99d.jpg

Bordeaux Jet

Just 35 kilometres northeast of Bordeaux lies the world's first active UNESCO-designated wine region. This medieval city is truly breathtaking, brimming with historical monuments and museums. Some of these intriguing sites are even tucked away underground! It's a must-visit for any wine enthusiast or history lover.

Saint-Emilion-Vineyard landscape-Vineyard south west of France, Bordeaux Vineyard

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/12/dfe31fc2605c3eff74ef71249abe8c38.jpg

Saint-Émilion

If you are among those who are always tempted to press the big red button, this is your chance. Jump aboard the cockpit of an Airbus A320, fasten your seatbelt, fly and attempt the hardest landings of the world in this flight simulator. A dream come true for many, an incredible adventure for everyone.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/05/ec113484b35e45dfc57ad7ceeec40d98.jpg

AviaSim Bordeaux

The National Opera of Bordeaux, or Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, is a stunning building constructed on a Roman temple's site. Inaugurated in 1780, it hosts operas, ballets and classical music performances, with ticket prices varying based on seating categories. Featuring 12 Corinthian columns and a splendid auditorium with perfect acoustics, it's an architectural gem steeped in history — be sure not to miss the rare guided tours to fully appreciate this French treasure.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/10/f54a60d41b080e8d381e0d3c16719536.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/19/30d054a5ec086bd460e52a2838d0d4ff.jpg

Night view of Grand Theater Bordeaux (1780, designed by Victor Louis), home to the National Opera Bordeaux, Aquitaine, France

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/10/f00dec579b2691faea938ac14517a38c.jpg

National Opera

Yet another astonishing religious building in Bordeaux. The first version of the cathedral was constructed in the 11th century, though the structure has undergone many changed through the ages. Outside the cathedral you will find a square with many cafes, perfect for a short coffee break. You can also see the St Andre Cathedral from a different perspective by climbing the Tower of Pey-Berland.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/17/9d1ae536bbe598e6cabb7e664815c325.jpg

Saint Andre Cathedral (11th-15th c.), Bordeaux, France

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/08/488ed0b061647a3f0a645110bd585d2e.jpg

Bordeaux Cathedral of St Andrew

Bordeaux’s wine school, L'École du Vin, offers courses on wine and the Bordeaux vineyards, as well as on the topic of pairing wine with cheese and other foods. Of various duration and existing both in English and French, these short training classes will allow you to act like a true connoisseur. To perfect the practice, each course also features several wine tastings.

Glasses of Wine and a Variety of Cheese on a Table

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/04/801f15785a6820c913624fdbb7fcca04.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/09/5e37c4edafa2f2ce07dfaa4200c78de4.jpg

Wine School

The Grosse Cloche de Bordeaux, literally the Big Bell of Bordeaux, is a belfry on the old Medieval Town Hall, above a former dungeon for juveniles. You can see two 40 meter towers standing to the sides of a central building. The 18th-century bell has an impressive weight of 7,800 kilograms and rings out to mark special occasions.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/10/ba781592793094fa05e04d9c3d6ede6a.jpg

Clock of the Grosse Cloche door at Bordeaux, France

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/07/38c022453c6a44ec289294035d6e9e71.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/18/66b9edb0869f1007652f104cf1e19d3c.jpg

Grosse Cloche

Hosted within the former St Simeon's church, Utopia is a unique fusion of a film theatre, cafe, lunch spot and cultural hub. Specialising in alternative films shown in their original language with French subtitles, Utopia offers a memorable movie experience in a comfortable and nostalgic setting. Even if you're not in the mood for a film, the building itself is a noteworthy French cultural landmark worth exploring.

Aside from its cinematic offerings, Utopia features a charming bar and restaurant with indoor seating and a street terrace. Enjoy a variety of delicious lunch options and drinks in this cool, atmospheric space. While the service may be leisurely, it's a perfect spot to unwind and savour the experience.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/04/d6a59c86fc6411276d6bbc5d8beb4997.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/04/801827b9224ff1e616f80cbacae65bd2.jpg

Empty comfortable red seats with numbers in cinema

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/17/5c250671e4db40e4cf30983da5769964.jpg

Cinéma Utopia

The Notre-Dame de Bordeaux, an 11th-century Roman Catholic church, is a significant landmark in Bordeaux. Renowned for its Romanesque architecture, the church's statuary-adorned west front is a masterpiece of religious art. Inside, you'll find the walls covered with beautiful murals. Whether bathed in sunlight or under the soft glow of street lamps, the church is a stunning sight, with its facade transforming with the changing light. It's truly an architectural marvel worth visiting both day and night.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/00/0f4cd8d96ce30fbbae54d3984d16eca7.jpg

Church of Notre Dame in Bordeaux, France.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/05/5449315f1f126167827f34568e8f6273.jpg

Church of Our Lady of Bordeaux

The Museum of Aquitaine is a treasure trove of regional and non-European archaeological and ethnological artefacts. Housed on a site that was once a 16th-century convent, it offers a fascinating insight into the history of Bordeaux and Aquitaine. With over 70,000 pieces tracing the region's history from prehistoric times to the present day, alongside 5,000 artefacts from Africa and Oceania, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the city's rich past and harbour history.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/05/5a70c5f1b7440fa339e2178c3f289ee6.jpg

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/11/37d0a9d70dc9dd456809ef51cd5d850a.jpg

Museum of Aquitaine

Embark on a bike tour to explore the expansive city of Bordeaux in a unique way — this experience follows a meticulously planned route that takes you to all the must-see spots. Guided by a local, you'll traverse a 14 km path discovering street art, lush green spaces, and historical sites, all while unravelling Bordeaux’s rich history and hidden gems. This bike tour not only allows you to cover more ground than walking, but it also helps you uncover sights and picturesque spots that could easily be missed when exploring alone.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/15/77710ff0060dafaafcc681ef3d7abbe6.jpg

Bordeaux by Bike

A classic of tourism in France, le Petit Train might be a bit kitsch but it is a good way to see the old town and learn all its stories, especially if you have children or simply do not wish to walk. Each seat has headphones where you have multiple language options for the ride.

https://d1taxzywhomyrl.cloudfront.net/s3/ag-images-eu/19/30098a6769cb502ec7781c5c0b299e68.jpg

Hello, bordeaux

Need help to make the first move?

Talk to our agents

Best things to do in bordeaux

Plenty of things to do and see

Museum of Aquitaine

Cinéma Utopia

AviaSim Bordeaux

Saint-Émilion

City Information

Selection in bordeaux

Best things to do in bordeaux

Picked recommendation for you