The cultural achievements and sights of Bordeaux are far from all that this region is capable of surprising. The fame of local wines is the strongest argument for many when choosing a place to relax. And believe me, everyone will find something to see in Bordeaux, regardless of the purpose of the trip. The city owes its second name “little Paris” to a huge number of monuments of ancient architecture. Analyze the sights of Bordeaux in advance with photos with names and descriptions and make up a rich program for yourself in order to have time to cover all the most interesting things.
What to see in Bordeaux first of all
The view of Bordeaux in summer and in winter is very different. But regardless of the season you choose, the sights of Bordeaux are always magnificent.
1. Exchange Square
The fountain “Water Mirror” and the Exchange Square in the style of classicism (XVIII century)
The view of this square will be perhaps the best impression received from the trip. She is the highlight of Bordeaux, its calling card. Thanks to the huge number of fountains and the water spilling around, it seems to be mirrored. By the imagination of the masters who created this architectural ensemble, two long buildings are curved so that they repeat the smooth curves of the river. In warm weather, the entire palace is reflected in a thin layer of water, which makes an indelible impression.
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2. Parliament Square
Parliament Fountain in the central part of Parliament Square in Bordeaux Marc Ryckaert (MJJR)
Start your trip to Bordeaux by visiting its main squares. The mansions with impressive, lavishly decorated stucco facades bordering Parliament Square were built in the XVIII century. There is a fountain with nymphs in the center, restaurants and open cafes with approximately the same pricing policy are located throughout the area. In the evenings, you can hear live music here.
3. Kincons Square
43-meter column with a swimming pool on Kincons Square
Depending on the time of year, a lunapark with large-scale attractions can work here, and sometimes beach competitions are organized. The central accent of the square is a monument with huge squares and fountains. It is this place that serves as a guide for tourists for appointments and meetings.
4. Port of the Moon
Port of the Moon is the name of the bend of the Garonne River, dividing the city into two banks of the Oliwan
The port is listed as a UNESCO site. It owes its name to the shape of the bend of the Garonne River flowing in the city. In reality, this is not a port, but a stunning architectural ensemble with buildings in the classical style. Among them are the best sights of Bordeaux.The pedestrian St. Catherine Street, the longest in Europe, runs through the territory. This street is a historic shopping mall with more than 250 shops.
5. The Bolshoi Theatre
Modern lighting of the Bolshoi Theatre on Comedy Square
A beautiful building with a facade decorated with 12 powerful columns. Special recommendations from tourists relate to performances that are worth getting to. Tickets are sold without specifying seats, and there is an arbitrary seating arrangement in the hall. Pay attention to the roof of the facade, where statues of goddesses and muses are installed. A sculpture depicting a woman’s head stands on the square in front of the theater. You can appreciate its full beauty by going around from all sides. The building is considered the headquarters of the National Opera and was built in the neoclassical style.
Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Bordeaux!
6. Rogan Palace
English-style landscape park around Rogan Palace
The city hall is located here. The palace consists of a large main building and two smaller wings. The grandeur of the building is emphasized by columns and two porticos crowning the facade. The interior of the palace is also richly decorated: a monumental staircase, salons on the ground floor with elegant wooden decoration, a luxurious dining room. There is a beautiful park on the territory around the palace.
7. St. Michael’s Church
View of the western facade of the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel on Menard Square Jean-Christophe BENOIST
We will advise you what to visit in Bordeaux from the holy relics. The grandeur of the building does not correspond to its location in the Arab quarter. This temple is not always open. If you’re lucky, you can get to free concerts and organ music festivals here. The bell tower, separated from the main building, serves as an excellent observation deck with a wonderful view of the city. The interior is interesting with a lot of colorful stained glass windows.
8. Saint Andre Cathedral
St. Andrew’s Cathedral on Pius Berlan Square
The impressive Gothic-style building is visible from afar. Located in the historical center, it evokes solemn awe with its grandeur. The reviews mention an unreleased part, reminiscent of antiquity and as if taking us back half a century. The interior of the cathedral is also grandiose and decorated with statues and paintings.
9. Pe-Berlan Tower
View of the Pe Berlan Tower in the early morning
There are many places in Bordeaux that offer a beautiful view from above, where you can take amazing photos. So, what to see in Bordeaux for selfie lovers and fans of professional photography? This tower, which belongs to the Cathedral of Saint Andre, although slightly removed from it, is ideal for them. Towering at almost 70 m., it is decorated with a sparkling gilt statue of the Virgin Mary with a baby. The spire is surrounded by a terrace, which can be reached by stairs. The panorama that opens will be a reward for those who overcome more than 200 steps. You will also see the city from the second-floor balcony, but the picture will be incomplete.
Official website: https://www.pey-berland.fr
10. The Church of Notre Dame in Bordeaux
Interior of the Church of Notre Dame in Bordeaux
The structure of Baroque architecture is probably the most spectacular in the city. The high rating of the church provides a luxurious facade, lavishly decorated with sculptures and relief elements. A stained glass window depicting the Virgin Mary is placed in the center between the columns. The cathedral is well lit inside. The altar is very beautiful, for the construction of which several types of marble were used, and an organ made of oak and walnut. On the walls you can see paintings by a Dominican monk.
11. The City of Wine Museum
The building of the cultural center “City of Wine” (La Cité du Vin) in Bordeaux Oli Lynch
All guides in Bordeaux advise you to visit this place, which was recently opened. The building, unique in its architecture, is made of aluminum and glass. It looks very unusual and in its outlines resembles either a twisted vine, or a splash of wine pouring into a glass. The museum exhibition is based on interactive exhibits telling about the history of wine. The stand offering to evaluate the flavors of this drink looks funny.
Official website: https://www.laciteduvin.com
12. Aquitaine Museum
Facade of the Aquitaine Museum in Bordeaux Own work
What to see in Bordeaux in 1 day for those who are interested in the history of the city? Come here and admire the extensive collection of exhibits telling about the history of the region, the periods of its development, the diverse activities of Bordeaux and its role in world history. Sculptures and household items are presented here, many exhibits are devoted to marine subjects, including ship models. The use of interactive technologies, albeit in small quantities, “”enlivens the exhibition, facilitating the assimilation of information.
Official website: https://www.musee-aquitaine-bordeaux.fr
13. Kayo Gate
View of the Cayo Gate from the Blaue Max town Square
Once they served as the main entrance to the city and the road from them led to the palace. The crenellations, loopholes and dormer windows placed along the perimeter remind of their ancient defensive function. But the elegant towers on the roof, arched windows and a canopy over the niches set up a peaceful mood. Tourist reviews mention a beautiful coat of arms on the facade from the city side. It depicts lilies, the coat of arms itself is supported by two angels.
14. The Grosse Kloche Tower
The ancient city gate with the dial of the astronomical clock – the Grosse Kloche Tower
The tower is part of the city’s fortification system. Once it was the bell tower of the old town hall, today it is a landmark in France with an astronomical clock installed in the central part in the middle of the XVIII century. At the same time, conical roofs were installed on the side towers. From the north, the facade is decorated with figures of fabulous gargoyles. The image of the tower is on the field of the city coat of arms.
15. St. Catherine Street
The famous Saint Catherine shopping street in Bordeaux Superbass
There are interesting places in Bordeaux that you should just walk through for an excursion into the architectural past of the city. There are many ancient monuments on this longest (by European standards) pedestrian street. Developing as a busy shopping area, today it is known for a huge number of shops, including well-known brands. More than 250 stores located within one kilometer is a record figure for Europe!
The sights of Bordeaux: What else to visit in Bordeaux?
Is it possible to list the main attractions of Bordeaux briefly, if the taste and color, as they say… Let’s recommend a few more noteworthy objects.
16. Pont de Pierre Bridge
At night, the Stone Bridge over the Garonne is illuminated by a multitude of spotlights
The bridge replaced the ferry that plied between the banks of the Garonne. At the beginning of this century, it was declared a historical monument, its image was even applied to the postage stamp of France. The pillars of the bridge are decorated with a profile of Napoleon, because it is believed that he was involved in its construction. The bridge serves as a good background for photography, at night it is beautifully illuminated by spotlights.
17. Jacques Chaban-Delmas Bridge
Passage of large ships under the Jacques Chaban-Delmas Bridge on the Garonne River
The longest drawbridge in Europe, equipped with a vertical elevator, has been raised to a height of 77 meters. Its weight is supported by 4 independent support towers, which also provide it with smooth movement. Not far from the bridge there are hotels in Bordeaux, offering to experience the exquisite French service.
18. Submarine base
Former submarine bunker in Bordeaux P. Charpiat
The base is located in an abandoned port, not far from the center. A narrow channel leads here, one can only guess how the submarines passed through it. Many excursions to Bordeaux include routes here, because both the object and its history are interesting. The order to build the base was given by Hitler, the project was implemented using the labor of prisoners of war. There is a monument to them at the entrance. The capacity of the base was 11 units. Today it is an exhibition exhibit.
19. The Garonne River
View of the Garonne River and the docks of Bordeaux
A river with a swift current divides the city into 2 parts. Where to go in Bordeaux after a busy day filled with emotions and impressions? On the banks of the river you will feel peace, looking at its troubled waters. The total length of the river from the Pyrenees to the Bay of Biscay, where it flows, is 647 km. Sometimes it overflows its banks due to high water.
20. Bordeaux is a wine-growing region of France
The vineyards of Saint-Emilion, one of the main red wine production areas in the Bordeaux region
The area of land given over to vineyards is amazing. Occupying about 120 hectares, they annually produce so many grapes that they are enough to export more than 700 million bottles of the drink, and how many more remain in the country! And all this is not only due to the mild oceanic climate prevailing in the province, the calcium-rich soil and the proximity of rivers. In many ways, the success of the local wine business depends on the hands of craftsmen who put a piece of their heart into the production of the product.
Official website: https://www.bordeaux.com
It’s worth a visit. And not only to pay tribute to a wonderful drink. Walking along the quays of the Garonne, the view of ancient buildings, great shopping will remain in your memory for a long time. Read also about the sights of Lyon and be inspired to travel further in France.
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