Contemporary Architecture Tour in the heart of Bordeaux

Bordeaux , France

Contemporary Architecture Tour in the heart of Bordeaux

Active

2h - 2h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come and discover the contemporary buildings that nestle in the heart of Bordeaux! From the historic center to the quays and their exceptional 18th century facade, this visit with an architect will allow you to better understand the evolution of the city and its recent developments.
Our other tours are available at https://bordeaux-architecture-tours.fr/fr/tours-for-general-public-fr/

Available options

Contemporary Architecture Tour in the heart of Bordeaux

What's included

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Detailed itinerary

Our tour begins with the discovery of Richard Rogers' masterpiece, an all glass and wood attempt to open Justice to the city. This stage is the introduction to the discovery of the contemporary face of Bordeaux

The former headquarters of the Régie Municipale du Gaz de Bordeaux (architect Raoul Jourde, 1935) was rehabilitated in 2013 by the King Kong and Philippe Starck agency to become Mama Shelter, a 97-room urban hotel with a lounge bar with panoramic terrace.

Promenade Sainte-Catherine (architects Valode & Pistre, 2015) is an urban courtyard dedicated to commerce and leisure, along the commercial artery of Rue Sainte-Catherine. It rises in place of the former Sud-Ouest printing works.

Discover Square Vinet, installed in 2005 in one of the few hollow spaces in the medieval town, with a plant wall designed by Patrick Blanc.

The Water Mirror is the centerpiece of the redeployment of the quays of the Garonne, an urban walk of more than 4.5 km. We will take advantage of this urban element, imagined by the landscaper Michel Corajoud in 2009 and a real popular success, to talk about the recent developments of the city and a view of the right bank.

La Méca is the bridgehead of the Euratlantique operation, for a reconquest of the banks of the Garonne. Cultural center opened in 2019, it is the result of the collaboration between the architects BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) and Freaks.

What's not included

Snacks

ticket (tram / bus)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR NL

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Let's meet on the esplanade of the Judicial Court, at the foot of the stairs!

Important notes

Please give your ticket to the guide at the start of the visit

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