Art of living
Cultural spots you should not miss
UNESCO classics, arty brownfields, cruises on the Garonne: Bordeaux reveals itself layer by layer. These are our must-sees to combine heritage with contemporary scenes.
UNESCO centre, Chartrons, Bassins à flot
Cité du Vin, Bassins des Lumières, sunset cruise
One major site plus one unexpected discovery per day
Bordeaux essentials
Begin in the UNESCO-listed centre: Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror, the Grand Théâtre, medieval gates and Saint-André cathedral. This 18th-century heart is best explored on foot, with golden facades and intimate squares unfolding one after another.
Continue towards the Chartrons: former wine warehouses now filled with antique dealers, galleries and cafés. In late afternoon, follow the river to La Cité du Vin and finish with a panoramic tasting at the belvedere.
Halles de Bacalan is your ideal pit stop before wandering through the Bassins à flot district, home to contemporary architecture, street art and photo walks bathed in golden light.
Creative stopovers
Bassins des Lumières
The submarine base turned digital art centre: monumental immersive scenography, best experienced early in the morning.
Darwin
Right-bank creative compound: XXL street art, responsible cafés, ethical groceries, skatepark and maker workshops.
Garonne river cruise
At the end of the day the city glows: 18th-century facades, contemporary bridges and golden light admired from the water.
Alternate institutions with fresh discoveries: a major museum in the morning, a creative space or workshop in the afternoon, then a concert or rooftop to prolong the evening.
Practical advice
Seek out courtyards, hidden gardens and artisan workshops for a more intimate reading of the city. Book immersive exhibitions ahead of time and mix tram, walking and cycling to experience each neighbourhood up close.
The CIVB Wine Bar offers a gentle introduction to the region's appellations at friendly prices — ideal before a bistronomic or gastronomic dinner.