Classic Bordeaux: France’s Most Elegant City Audio Guide

Bordeaux , France

Classic Bordeaux: France’s Most Elegant City Audio Guide

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Follow Bordeaux’s journey from a sleeping beauty to an architectural masterpiece on this self-guided audio tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Bordeaux.

Once dubbed ‘the Sleeping Beauty,’ Bordeaux has transformed remarkably into a vibrant, modern metropolis while preserving its classical charm. Best known for its wine and grand architecture, it’s an elegant city that’s rich in history.

On this walking tour, you’ll journey through the different epochs that shaped Bordeaux into the stunning city it is today.

Equipped with insights into Bordeaux's medieval origins, renaissance, and modern vibrancy, you’ll be ready to explore its charming alleys further, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its cultural treasures at your own pace.

Available options

Classic Bordeaux: France’s Most Elegant City Audio Guide

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Begin your tour at the Miroir d'eau, a stunning reflective pool that creates mirror-like images of the surrounding architecture. Learn about its significance as a modern symbol of Bordeaux’s blend of tradition and innovation.

Stop 2 Pass by

Move on to Place de la Bourse, a grand square that epitomizes Bordeaux’s prosperity and elegance. Discover its history as a symbol of the city’s economic power and architectural beauty.

Visit the Musée National des Douanes, housed in the iconic Place de la Bourse. Learn about the history of customs and trade in Bordeaux, which has been a major port city for centuries.

Stroll through Place du Parlement, a picturesque square known for its vibrant café culture. Hear about its historical significance and how it reflects the charm of Bordeaux’s urban life.

Explore Église Saint-Rémi, a beautiful church with rich historical roots. Discover its architectural features and the role it has played in Bordeaux’s religious and cultural history.

Walk through Galerie Bordelaise, an elegant shopping arcade that showcases Bordeaux’s neoclassical architecture. Learn about its history and the luxury boutiques that line its corridors.

Arrive at Place de la Comédie, a lively square home to the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. Discover the theater’s history and its significance as a cultural landmark in the city.

Visit the National Opera of Bordeaux, housed in the Grand Théâtre. Hear about its role in Bordeaux’s cultural scene and the famous performances that have taken place here.

Discover L'Intendant Grands Vins de Bordeaux, known as Bordeaux’s “wine library.” Learn about the impact of the wine industry on the city’s culture and economy, and explore its extensive collection of wines.

Explore the Church of Our Lady of Bordeaux, a beautiful church that showcases Gothic architecture. Learn about its historical significance and religious importance in Bordeaux.

Visit Cour Mably and the Salle Capitulaire, historical sites that reflect Bordeaux’s monastic heritage. Discover the history and architecture of these ancient buildings.

Stroll through La Galerie des Grands Hommes, a modern shopping center that blends contemporary design with classical elements. Learn about its role in Bordeaux’s commercial landscape.

Discover CINÉMA CGR Bordeaux Le Français, a historic cinema that has been a part of Bordeaux’s cultural life for decades. Hear about its history and the types of films it showcases.

Stop by The Alchemist Coffee Shop, a popular spot known for its artisan coffee. Enjoy a break and learn about the café culture in Bordeaux.

End your tour at Porte Dijeaux, an ancient city gate that once marked the entrance to Bordeaux. Learn about its historical significance and the transformation of Bordeaux through the centuries.

What's not included

Smartphones and headphones (please bring your own)

Entry into museums and attractions mentioned along the way

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour starts next to the Miroir d'eau, Bordeaux's reflecting pool, located on the riverfront of Bordeaux. Be sure to be standing just next to the railing barrier of the riverfront

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a port city on the Garonne River in southwestern France, renowned for its wine production and 18th-century architecture. The city's elegant boulevards, grand squares, and historic buildings, along with its vibrant cultural scene and proximity to famous vineyards, make it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Place de la Bourse

A stunning 18th-century square surrounded by elegant buildings, including the famous Miroir d'Eau (Water Mirror).

Historical/Architectural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

La Cité du Vin

An interactive wine museum that explores the history, culture, and production of wine in Bordeaux and beyond.

Museum 2 to 3 hours €21 to €29

Saint-André Cathedral

A beautiful Gothic cathedral that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to Bordeaux's rich history.

Religious/Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Pessac Vineyards

A collection of prestigious vineyards and wineries in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, known for producing some of the world's finest wines.

Nature/Wine Half-day to full-day tour Varies by winery, typically €10 to €50 for tastings and tours

Must-Try Local Dishes

Entrecôte à la Bordelaise

A classic Bordelaise dish featuring ribeye steak cooked in a red wine sauce with shallots, bone marrow, and butter. It is typically served with pommes de terre à la sarladaise (potatoes cooked with duck fat, garlic, and parsley).

Main Course Contains beef, butter, and dairy

Canard à la Rouennaise

A traditional duck dish from the Rouen region, featuring duck breasts cooked in a red wine sauce with apples, onions, and prunes. The dish is often served with potatoes or other root vegetables.

Main Course Contains duck and may contain alcohol

Bourride à la Bordelaise

A traditional fish stew from Bordeaux, made with white fish, potatoes, and a creamy sauce flavored with aioli (garlic mayonnaise). The dish is typically served with crusty bread for dipping.

Main Course Contains fish, dairy, and garlic

Popular Activities

Hiking and exploring the nearby vineyards and countryside Surfing, sailing, and other water sports in Arcachon Sandboarding and other adventure sports at the Dune du Pilat Wine tasting and enjoying the local cuisine Relaxing at the beach in Arcachon Strolling through the beautiful streets and parks of Bordeaux Exploring the city's museums, galleries, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Bordeaux, with warm weather and numerous festivals and events. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, wine tours, and the city's vibrant nightlife.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Bordeaux is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas, so it is important to keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and avoid unlicensed taxis

Getting there

By air

Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Bordeaux Saint-Jean

By bus

Bordeaux City Center Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system in Bordeaux is efficient, modern, and easy to use. It consists of four lines (A, B, C, and D) that connect major attractions, neighborhoods, and transportation hubs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Saint-Pierre Bastide Chartrons

Day trips

Saint-Émilion

35 km from Bordeaux • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming medieval village and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and world-famous vineyards.

Arcachon

55 km from Bordeaux • Full-day trip

A beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and outdoor activities, such as surfing, sailing, and hiking.

Dune du Pilat

65 km from Bordeaux • Half-day to full-day trip

The tallest sand dune in Europe, offering stunning views, outdoor activities, and a unique natural experience.

Festivals

Bordeaux Wine Festival • Late June Bordeaux Fête le Vin • Late August Bordeaux Jazz Festival • Early July

Pro tips

Visit the Miroir d'Eau (Water Mirror) at the Place de la Bourse for a unique and refreshing experience, especially on hot days
Explore the city's many markets, such as the Marché des Capucins and the Marché des Chartrons, for a taste of local culture and cuisine
Take a wine tour or visit a local vineyard to learn about the region's famous wines and enjoy a tasting
Stroll through the beautiful streets and parks of Bordeaux, such as the Jardin Public and the Parc Bordelais, for a relaxing and scenic experience
Attend a local festival or event, such as the Bordeaux Wine Festival or the Bordeaux Jazz Festival, for a unique and memorable experience