If you love Cuba for its rich culture, beautiful colonial cities, and world-class wines like Santiago de Cuba rum, then Bordeaux, France might just be your next favorite destination. This southwestern gem blends Old World elegance with a vibrant modern pulse, offering visitors a delightful mix of history, gastronomy, and relaxed riverside charm.Â
Here are the 10 best things to do in Bordeaux, France, a city that has earned its UNESCO World Heritage status and continues to enchant travelers from all over the world.
1. Stroll Along the Garonne River and the Miroir d’Eau
Bordeaux’s riverfront is one of the most picturesque in Europe. Start your exploration along the Garonne River where you’ll find tree-lined promenades, floating restaurants, and the iconic Miroir d’Eau — the world’s largest reflecting pool. Located across from Place de la Bourse, the mirror creates mesmerizing photo opportunities and offers a refreshing mist in summer. It’s a great way to appreciate Bordeaux’s commitment to blending art, architecture, and urban nature.
2. Explore the Historic Center and Place de la Bourse
The historic center of Bordeaux is a living museum, with neoclassical architecture, grand plazas, and narrow alleys leading to quaint cafés. At its heart lies Place de la Bourse, an 18th-century masterpiece that reflects beautifully in the Miroir d’Eau. The symmetry and grandeur of the buildings offer an Instagram-worthy experience, especially at golden hour. Taking guided tours in Bordeaux is a smart way to uncover the deeper stories behind these architectural wonders.
3. Visit the Cité du Vin – A Temple for Wine Lovers
If wine is your passion, you’ll be amazed by La Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to the culture and history of wine. Shaped like a swirling wine glass, this futuristic building houses exhibitions, wine-tasting rooms, and a panoramic wine bar overlooking the city. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a true oenophile, this immersive experience is a must in the wine capital of the world.
4. Get Lost in the Chartrons District
Just north of the city center, Chartrons was once the hub of the Bordeaux wine trade. Today, it’s one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, full of antique shops, art galleries, wine bars, and cafés. The vibe is bohemian, the streets are peaceful, and the architecture speaks of a rich past. Be sure to visit the Sunday morning market along the river — locals come for oysters, cheese, wine, and fresh baguettes.
5. Marvel at the Bordeaux Cathedral and Tour Pey Berland
The Saint-André Cathedral, also known as Bordeaux Cathedral, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its twin towers soar above the old town, and its interior is equally magnificent. For a bird’s-eye view of the city, climb the adjacent Tour Pey Berland, a separate bell tower with panoramic vistas that reward your efforts.
6. Enjoy Local Gastronomy at Marché des Capucins
Nicknamed the “Belly of Bordeaux,” the Marché des Capucins is a culinary heaven for foodies. This lively market offers fresh produce, seafood, charcuterie, pastries, and wines — all in a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. Try canelés, Bordeaux’s signature caramelized custard cakes, or savor oysters with a glass of white Bordeaux wine for an authentic local experience.
7. Cycle Through the City or Along the Vineyards
Bordeaux is one of France’s most bike-friendly cities. Rent a bike and cruise through its elegant boulevards, along the Garonne, or across the historic Pont de Pierre. For a more ambitious route, cycle into the surrounding wine regions like Médoc or Saint-Émilion, where vine-covered hills and châteaux await. It’s a refreshing way to combine sightseeing with physical activity.
8. Take a Day Trip to Saint-Émilion
Just 40 minutes from Bordeaux by train or car, Saint-Émilion is a medieval town surrounded by world-famous vineyards. It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its underground monolithic church, cobbled streets, and award-winning wines. Book a vineyard tour to taste Grand Cru wines straight from the source and explore ancient cellars carved into limestone cliffs.
9. Experience Bordeaux’s Nightlife in Rue Parlement Sainte-Catherine
When the sun sets, Bordeaux comes alive with bars, jazz clubs, and intimate wine lounges. The Rue Parlement Sainte-Catherine and surrounding streets in the Saint-Pierre district are buzzing with nightlife. Whether you prefer a quiet glass of Bordeaux red or a late-night dance floor, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on a rooftop bar for city views with a glass in hand.
10. Catch a Performance at Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Finish your visit with a cultural experience at the Grand Théâtre, one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe. Built in the 18th century, its neoclassical façade and grand interior reflect Bordeaux’s golden age. Whether it’s a ballet, opera, or orchestra performance, the ambiance alone is worth the price of admission.
Final Thoughts: Bordeaux Beyond the Bottle
Bordeaux may be world-renowned for its wine, but the city is much more than just vineyards and vintages. From its architectural treasures to its dynamic neighborhoods and delicious cuisine, Bordeaux offers a well-rounded travel experience that appeals to history buffs, foodies, culture lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re arriving by train from Paris, disembarking from a cruise ship, or planning a wine-focused road trip through southwestern France, Bordeaux is the kind of destination that draws you in and makes you want to stay longer. And much like the best rum in Cuba, the longer you savor Bordeaux, the richer it gets.
