Disclosure - This is a collaborative post
Travelling to France is a regular occurrence for us. We visit Disneyland Paris more times than I can count on my fingers and toes, we've made it to Paris and last year we stayed in Nice which was stunning. One thing we haven't done is explored the rest of the beautiful country. France has so many outstanding places that are definitely worth your time. I have been doing some research and one place that continues to pop up is Bordeaux. For us it would be a flying visit so we would want to pack in as much as we could in a day or two so here is our suggestions on how to explore Bordeaux in 24 hours.
What Makes Bordeaux Special?
Bordeaux looks like a stunning city that visitors say is impossible not to love. The peaceful Garonne River and the promenade along it, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, create a fairytale-like setting. The lively cultural scene and the stunning architecture in all the city’s districts ensure that no matter where you are in Bordeaux, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. However, what makes Bordeaux special and famous around the world is the world-class wine produced in its regions and it's the perfect place to explore in 24 hours.
How to Arrive in Bordeaux
By Train
Train services operate efficiently, allowing travel from Bordeaux to Paris, Toulouse, and other French cities, and vice versa.
By Car
For those who prefer to travel at their own pace and on their own terms, driving is a great option. The road network is well-developed and maintained, making it easy to cover long distances between beautiful cities by car.
By Air
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport serves frequent flights from both within France and various European cities.
How Hire a Car at Bordeaux Airport
It is clear that Bordeaux possesses a plethora of attractions and landscapes worth visiting. You can save time and energy by hiring a car to explore them comfortably.
Where to Hire a Car at Bordeaux Airport
You can view your car hire options at your own convenience by visiting holidaycars.com. The site makes it easy to compare affordable offers for a variety of hire cars, providing a comprehensive list with all necessary information clearly stated. With Holiday Cars, you have no hidden fees or terms to worry about.
What to See in 24 Hours in Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. With just 24 hours, you can still see a lot. Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your day 24 hours in Bordeaux.
Morning
Place de la Bourse
Start your day at Place de la Bourse, one of Bordeaux’s most iconic landmarks. The square is especially famous for the "Miroir d’eau," the world’s largest reflecting pool, which offers beautiful reflections of the 18th-century buildings.
Stroll along the Garonne River
Take a leisurely walk along the Garonne River. The promenade offers fantastic views of the city’s architecture and the river. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere and see some of Bordeaux’s bridges, like the Pont de Pierre.
Visit the Cité du Vin
Head to the Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s modern wine museum. It's a must-visit for wine lovers. The building itself is architecturally striking, and inside, you can learn about wine history and culture from around the world. Finish with a wine tasting on the 8th floor, where you’ll get panoramic views of Bordeaux.
Late Morning
Place des Quinconces
Walk to Place des Quinconces, one of the largest city squares in Europe. The Monument aux Girondins, a fountain and column, is a key feature here, celebrating the French Revolution.
Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Visit the Grand Theatre, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. You can admire its stunning neoclassical facade or, if time allows, take a guided tour of the interior. The theatre is one of the oldest wooden frame opera houses in Europe.
Lunch
Lunch at a Traditional Brasserie
Head to a traditional brasserie in the city centre. Bordeaux is known for its cuisine, so try local specialties like foie gras, entrecôte à la bordelaise, or fresh seafood. Pair your meal with a glass of Bordeaux wine.
Afternoon
Explore the Historic Centre (Saint-Pierre District)
Wander through the Saint-Pierre district, the heart of old Bordeaux. The narrow streets are filled with cafes, boutiques, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the Porte Cailhau, a medieval gate, and the Grosse Cloche, a large bell tower.
Bordeaux Cathedral and Pey Berland Tower
Visit the Bordeaux Cathedral (Saint-André Cathedral), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. If you’re up for it, climb the nearby Pey Berland Tower for a fantastic view of the city.
Late Afternoon
Musée des Beaux-Arts
Spend some time at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest art galleries in France outside of Paris. The museum houses works by artists such as Rubens, Titian, and Delacroix.
Early Evening
Jardin Public
Relax at Jardin Public, a beautiful 18th-century park with lovely landscaping, a pond, and a small natural history museum. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Evening
Dinner and Wine in Chartrons District
Head to the Chartrons district for dinner. This neighbourhood is known for its wine bars and bistros. Enjoy a leisurely meal paired with some of the best wines from the Bordeaux region.
Night Walk and Wine Bars
End your day with a night walk along the Garonne River to see the city’s lights. If you have the energy, stop by a wine bar to savour one last glass of Bordeaux wine before turning in for the night.
This itinerary gives you a taste of Bordeaux’s rich culture, history, and, of course, its famous wine, all within 24 hours.
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