With it’s breathtaking architecture, bustling city vibe, and abundance of amazing wine, Bordeaux is a fascinating city that quickly captured my heart. There are so many things to do in Bordeaux that it would be easy to spend a few weeks exploring. But if your time is limited to only a few days, it’s still possible to hit the highlights of this lovely region. Here are my recommendations for the top 5 things to do in Bordeaux.
Explore the town by foot
Bordeaux is an extremely walkable town and the best way to explore is by foot. Here are some highlights that should not be missed.
The Girondins Monument
The monument honors the Girondists that were victims of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution. The pedestal and fountain are decorated with large bronze horses and troops. The tall center column is topped with a statue representing the spirit of liberty breaking free from her chains.
Carrousel Palace 1900
Located at 1900 Allées de Tourny, this colorful merry-go-round is open daily from 10am-7pm. It’s fun for all, big or small!
L’intendant Grands Vins De Bordeaux
This remarkable wine cellar and merchant is home to vintages dating back to 1945. The over 15,000 bottles of Bordeaux are displayed along the walls of a circular staircase. It is a must-see!
Take a sunset boat cruise on the River Garonne
Bordeaux is a port city on the River Garonne. The river flows from the central Spanish Pyrenees to the Gironde estuary at the port of Bordeaux. Hop on one of the many boat cruises to get a spectacular view of the city while sipping on a glass of wine and munching on fresh seafood.
Go wine tasting
Bordeaux is a world-famous wine making region, primarily known for it’s red blends. The region is divided by the Gironde Estuary into a Left Bank area and a Right Bank area. The Left Bank is known for it’s Cabernet based wines and includes the Médoc and Graves regions. The Right Bank is known for it’s Merlot based wines and includes the Libournais, Bourg and Blaye regions. I opted to visit the Left Bank and two of my favorite wineries were Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte and Vignobles Reynaud.
Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte is breathtakingly beautiful and the grounds include a luxury hotel, restaurant, and spa. They are one of the most well-known Grand Cru wineries in Bordeaux. They also have the largest barrel room in all of Europe!
Vignobles Reynaud is a much smaller, low key winery but produces excellent wines at very affordable prices. I highly recommend the Jeep Vineyard Tour, an exhilarating off-road tour through the vineyards followed by a picturesque wine tasting under a beautiful oak tree.
Enjoy a cappuccino and croissant at an outdoor café
France is known for it’s amazing coffee and croissants and there is no shortage of cute outdoor cafés in Bordeaux. If you only have the opportunity to visit one, I highly recommend L’alchimiste, referred to as having the best coffee in Bordeaux.
Take a day trip to Cap Ferret
An hour outside of Bordeaux is the picturesque town of Cap Ferret. Often referred to as the Cape Cod of France, this laid-back beach town is known for it’s sandy beaches, fisherman’s cottages, casual bars, and freshly shucked oysters. Stroll through the quaint town, charter a boat to cruise the bay, and be sure to grab some oysters!
If you are planning a trip to France, Bordeaux is a must and I hope you find my recommendations for the Top 5 Things to Do in Bordeaux helpful! Au revoir!
Trip hosted by Clink Different and Wines of Bordeaux. All opinions are my own.
Love wine? Check out these other posts: