The sun sets over the Port of the Moon, casting a glow across the elegant waterfront crescent and the 18th-century facades that define this "Pearl of Aquitaine." This is a city where history is etched into stone, from Roman ruins to the grand architecture of its golden age as one of the world's busiest ports.
Stroll through history and art
Explore the layers of time in the city center. You can witness the transition of styles at the Cathédrale St-André, a Gothic masterpiece built in 1170, or visit the Basilica Saint-Michel to see its flamboyant Gothic architecture. For those interested in the evolution of human history, the Musée d'Aquitaine offers an expansive look from the Old Stone Age through to the early modern period. If you prefer the visual arts, the Musée des Beaux-Arts provides a journey through Western art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, while the Musée d'Art Contemporain (CAPC) occupies a massive 19th-century warehouse dedicated to contemporary installations.
- Musée National des Douanes: Located on Place de la Bourse, this museum explores the history of border control and the smugglers who challenged it.
- Musée Mer Marine: A comprehensive exploration of shipping and the sea located in a historic district.
- Hôtel Fenwick: A notable house within the city's architectural landscape.
Savor the wine culture
As a world capital of wine, Bordeaux offers deep immersion into viticulture. The region is famous for its diverse appellation system and long history of production.
- Musée du Vin et du Négoce: Visit this museum to see 2,000 years of wine production history, including old equipment and new technologies; your entry includes a tasting of two wines.
- Port of the Moon: Experience the iconic waterfront area that earned its UNESCO status for its outstanding urban ensemble.
Explore the grounds and outskirts
Step into nature or witness unique engineering outside the main city center.
- Jardin Botanique du Jardin Publique: A historic garden originally established as a site for medicinal herbs in 1629.
- Jardin Botanique de la Bastide: An extension of the botanical gardens located across the river.
- Base sous-marine: Explore wartime submarine pens that have been repurposed for art installations.
- Prieuré de Cayac: A historic site from 1210 that served as a stopover on the pilgrimage to Santiago.
Explore the local neighborhoods
Wander through specific districts to find unique atmospheres and landmarks.
- Place des Quinconces: A broad, leafy square featuring the Girondins Memorial and serving as a central hub for transport.
- Chartrons: A vibrant riverbank district home to the Église Saint-Louis des Chartrons.
- Porte de la Monnaie: One of the notable sites within the city's heritage.
- Place de la Bourse: An area featuring grand buildings and a "Water Mirror" where children can play in the shallow water during warm weather.
Whether you are exploring the underground submarine pens or sampling local vintages at the Musée du Vin et du Négoce, Bordeaux offers a rich tapestry of history and culture. Begin planning your itinerary today to experience the grandeur of the Port of the Moon for yourself.