Bordeaux has a rich history, beautiful buildings, and famous wine, mixing the old with the new. A great way to enjoy this city is by taking a walking tour of Bordeaux.
Bordeaux is a famous wine area in France, defined by its flawless fusion of contemporary style and vintage charm. A day in this vibrant place might almost feel like a trip through a living postcard due to the diverse range of cultural activities, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine that await you at every turn.
I’m going over the benefits of taking a Walking Tour of Bordeaux, our tour experience, some of the must-see locations, and some helpful advice in this guide.
So, why do a Bordeaux walking tour
Discover the Rich History of Bordeaux: A Walking Tour of Bordeaux can reveal much about the city’s culture and history.
Bordeaux was first settled more than 2,000 years ago when the Roman Empire brought vineyards and winemaking to the city. England ruled Bordeaux during the Middle Ages, and their influence may be seen in the city’s history and architecture.
Bordeaux’s modern architecture is primarily influenced by the neoclassical architecture of the 18th century, when the city was wealthy and thriving due to the wine trade.
Easily Take in the Highlights: This is a valuable primer for the remainder of your trip if you spend a few days in Bordeaux, as I strongly advise. On the other hand, if you only have a day in Bordeaux, this is a great way to see much of the city quickly.
The logic behind Bordeaux’s design and the historical value of its numerous monuments, structures, gates, areas, and squares were among the many things we discovered.
In addition, the locals gave us several excellent suggestions for restaurants and activities, and we were glad to have any inquiries answered.
Overall, this was a great deal and a fantastic experience in Bordeaux.
When should you do a walking tour?
The best time to do a walking tour in Bordeaux depends on your preferences and your desired experience. Here are some considerations for each season:
Spring (March to May)
The parks and gardens are green and vibrant, making it a great time for walking. It’s also less crowded than summer, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is Bordeaux’s busiest tourist season. The weather is warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor fun. However, it can be hot, so drink plenty of water and use sunscreen. The city is lively with events and festivals, making visiting an exciting time.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is another excellent time for walking tours. The weather is more relaxed, and the city is less crowded. The colorful leaves enhance the scenery, and it’s harvest season for wine, so you can enjoy fresh, local wines.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is Bordeaux’s quietest time. It can be cold, but it’s a good time to explore the city without crowds. The holiday decorations create a festive atmosphere, making visiting charming. Just remember to dress warmly.
These are some of the places you’ll visit on this walking tour:
This introduces what to expect; you’ll learn WAY more about each location throughout your trip. This serves as no means a complete list:
Place de la Bourse
The most recognizable square in Bordeaux is Place de la Bourse, which stands out for its architecture, the reflecting pool in front of it, and the fact that it is a “three-sided square” open to the river.
Bordeaux’s Grand Theatre is among the city’s most elegant venues. It also houses the Opera House and Bordeaux’s premier lodging option, the Intercontinental Hotel.
The Grosse Cloche
The Grosse Cloche, or Great Bell, is a historic bell tower and one of Bordeaux’s oldest sites. It represents the city’s rich history and is a must-see on any walking tour. You can admire its impressive architecture and learn about its importance in Bordeaux’s past.
Rue Sainte Catherine
Rue Sainte Catherine is the longest shopping street in Europe, two kilometers long. It is also one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and a shopper’s paradise. It has many shops, boutiques, and cafes. This lively street is perfect for shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, or people-watching.
In the eighteenth century, the Golden Triangle was the location to live and be seen. It was a small enclave inhabited by the bourgeoisie for generations.
Canelé
Bordeaux’s specialty dessert, canelé, has the most interesting history and is a must-try when visiting the city. It has a soft, dense core and a unique, caramelized, chewy rigged outside.
Six Gates
Bordeaux formerly had six gates that served as the city’s entrances. Ramparts or city walls once surrounded Bordeaux, but these were demolished to make room for the town to grow. Over several centuries, the gates were constructed at various points.
Librairie Mollat
France’s oldest bookstore is Librairie Mollat. This enormous bookstore covers nearly a whole street block and sells books in dozens of languages and topics.
Quartier Saint Pierre
Bordeaux’s oldest area, Quartier Saint Pierre, is located directly south of the city’s more recent, affluent Triangle d’Or quarter. You’ll come across one of the quaint squares scattered throughout the Old Quarter every few minutes.
FAQs: a Walking Tour of Bordeaux
Are walking tours in Bordeaux suitable for children?
Many walking tours are family-friendly and enjoyable for children, with guides often tailoring their stories to engage younger audiences.
Do I need to book a walking tour in advance?
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and ensure availability.
Can you walk around Bordeaux?
Walking around Bordeaux is an excellent option for walkers and those who want to explore the city at their own pace. Most tourist attractions are in the historic city center, so it is possible to discover many of the city’s landmarks in a day’s walk.
How many days in Bordeaux is enough?
On average, our clients stay in Bordeaux for 6-7 days. At the very least, you should give yourself one day to explore the city, three days to visit the right and left banks’ vineyards, and at least another day to explore the beautiful Atlantic coast.
What is Bordeaux famous for?
Bordeaux is the world capital of wine. Many châteaux and vineyards stand on the hillsides of the Gironde, and the city is home to the world’s leading wine fair, Vinexpo. Bordeaux is also a center of gastronomy and business tourism for the organization of international congresses.
Why is Bordeaux so expensive?
The high price of Bordeaux wines reflects centuries-old craftsmanship, limited production, investment potential, and the global acclaim associated with this renowned wine region.
Conclusion
A walking tour is an excellent introduction to Bordeaux, where you’ll learn quite a bit about the city’s history and culture. Bordeaux was first established over 2000 years ago by the Roman Empire, which introduced vineyards and wine production to the region.