Bordeaux is the undisputed wine capital of the world. Sitting in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, the fertile soils are home to thousands – 6,000+ to be more exact – of wine estates. Every year, the city pulls in millions of visitors eager to drink all it has to offer.
If you’re on your way to Bordeaux, there are some sights and experiences you must do. These activities and spots include wine tastings, gastronomy, landmarks, and museums, and here are our picks for 5 must-dos in Bordeaux:
- See the La Cité du Vin Museum
As the wine capital of the world, it’s no surprise that exploring all things vino is the memo. The city has a dedicated museum, La Cité du Vin, at which you can delve into everything wine. The museum also offers wine tastings. So, you can check this Bordeaux must-do off your list at the same time as exploring the museum.
Another must-see at the museum is The Gallery of Civilisations exhibit. It features wine-related artifacts from as far back as ancient Egypt, Rome, and Georgia. Yes, Georgia. It turns out that Georgia is actually the Cradle of Wine.
- Visit Miroir d’eau
It may be surprising to find out that one of Bordeaux’s greatest landmarks has little to do with wine. Well, unless you count the fact that both feature liquids! As the name implies, the Miroir d’eau (Water Mirror) is a reflective pool located on the quay of the Garonne. The pool perfectly reflects the facade of the nearby Place de la Bourse and other buildings, creating a “mirror” effect.
It’s a great place to snap photos for social media. Just make sure you’ve got an eSIM for France installed so you can stay connected and post as you go, keeping your family and friends up to date in real time.
- Do a Wine Tasting
If you’re going to the wine capital of the world, you have to try the local speciality. Being home to thousands of wine estates, your choices of wine tastings are almost infinite. Nearly every estate offers tours and tastings, some of which are paired with food for a gastronomic experience. From budget to bougie, there are tons of options to fit your budget, too.
However, if you want to book the best tasting, be sure to do your research in advance. Look up wine tastings and read reviews from real customers on sites like Tripadvisor. Then book to ensure your place. Some tastings are booked out far in advance, after all.
- Book a Food Tour
Food goes hand in hand with wine, with an entire profession and science allotted to the art of pairing both. Hence, you may not be surprised to find out that Bordeaux is somewhat of a gastronomical hub, too. I mean, we’re talking about France here, the birthplace of gastronomy. And Bordeaux does not shun food any more than the next city.
Local specialities include cheeses and delicacies like caviar, foie gras, and truffles. Foie gras, cheeses, and caviar, renowned the world over, are produced near Bordeaux. Plus, the city sits just west of the Dordogne (Périgord) region, home to the legendary black truffle. So, there is a surplus of specialties for you to try out.
- Head to Darwin Ecosystem
Darwin Ecosystem is a modern development featuring some hip, artistic spaces, including a skatepark and farm. The building used to be a barracks, but now plays home to street art and eco-friendly spaces after its rehabilitation.
Some would describe it as an alternative village, as there is a large focus on eco-friendliness, such as organic food and zero-waste practices. Regardless, it’s a fascinating place to visit and taste some good food and wine.
Don’t Miss Out on Other Wonders of Bordeaux
There’s so much to see and do in Bordeaux, really. This list is just a handful of recommendations that barely scratch the surface of what the city has to offer.