Experience the Essence of Bordeaux on a Private Tour

Bordeaux , France

Experience the Essence of Bordeaux on a Private Tour

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About this experience

Explore Bordeaux in just 2 hours with a private, fully customizable ride through its historic center and scenic riverfront. Enjoy pickup and dropoff with a professional English-speaking driver. Highlights include the elegant Place de la Bourse and its reflecting Miroir d’Eau, the medieval Grosse Cloche, and the majestic Pey Berland Cathedral & Tower. Pass the neoclassical Grand Théâtre and Allées de Tourny, then admire the futuristic Cité du Vin (exterior only). End your tour cruising along the Quais de Bordeaux, with charming riverside views. Ideal for first-time visitors short on time, this tour offers flexibility to pause for photos or quick strolls.

Available options

Experience the Essence of Bordeaux on a Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Fuel and Tolls

Water

WiFi on board

Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide

All taxes and handling charges

Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Place de la Bourse & Miroir d’Eau. This 18th-century masterpiece is the postcard image of Bordeaux, famous for its harmonious architecture and the magical Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool. It's especially stunning when the buildings reflect on the water at sunrise or sunset.

Stop 2

One of the oldest belfries in France, the Grosse Cloche is a dramatic Gothic gate that once served as both a defensive structure and a prison. The twin towers and giant bell are impressive remnants of medieval Bordeaux.

Pey Berland Cathedral & Tower. This Gothic cathedral, officially known as Saint-André, stands tall with its separate bell tower offering panoramic views. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and has hosted royal weddings and papal visits over the centuries.

Grand Théâtre & Allées de Tourny. Bordeaux’s Grand Théâtre is a neoclassical jewel, with Corinthian columns and richly decorated interiors. The surrounding Allées de Tourny provide an elegant shopping and strolling area, lined with chic boutiques and historic cafés.

Stop 5

Cité du Vin (Exterior Visit). An eye-catching architectural wonder resembling a swirling wine glass or grapevine, this futuristic museum celebrates global wine culture. While this ride doesn’t include entry, it’s a perfect photo stop on the city’s modern riverfront.

Stretching along the Garonne River, the quays offer a peaceful drive with views of historic warehouses turned into cultural hubs, wide promenades, and striking bridges. Ideal for a breezy panoramic loop around the old and new city.

What's not included

Meals and beverages

Tips and Gratuities

Miroir d’Eau

Grosse Cloche Tower

Pey Berland Cathedral & Tower

Grand Théâtre & Allées de Tourny

Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For 1–3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.

For 4–8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.

Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.

Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.

Important notes

Please show this to your driver.

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