Bordeaux Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bordeaux
Bordeaux’s story begins long before vineyards and grand squares – its earliest name, Burdigala, suggests a Celtic origin tied to rich soil and waterways. Over time, its location on the meandering Garonne shaped both its identity and destiny. As the river curves through the city, it forms a crescent: hence Bordeaux’s poetic nickname, Port of the Moon, a name used since the Middle Ages to evoke its curved harbor.
Roman power claimed Burdigala in 56 BC, transforming it into a provincial hub of trade, agriculture and administration in Aquitania, the modern Aquitaine region of France. Centuries later, through marriage and alliance, Bordeaux entered an improbable chapter: in 1152 Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II Plantagenet (whose descendants included Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland), tying the Duchy of Aquitaine – and thus Bordeaux – to the English crown. That placed this corner of southwestern France under English sovereignty for nearly three hundred years.
By 1453, after the decisive Battle of Castillon, Bordeaux was reclaimed by the French monarchy, closing the English chapter. In the following centuries, the city’s fortunes soared anew. Its golden age arrived in the eighteenth century, when wealth from colonial trade, global commerce, and exuberant wine exports funded sweeping urban transformation. Elegant façades, broad boulevards, and harmonious public spaces solidified Bordeaux’s status as an architectural jewel.
Bordeaux also briefly held national importance during turbulent modern times. In 1870, when Paris was besieged during the Franco-Prussian War, the French government temporarily relocated here. Again, in June 1940, Bordeaux served as the seat of government for ten dramatic days before officials fled Nazi occupation. These moments underscored the city’s recurring role as a refuge in national crises.
In 2007, UNESCO formally recognized Bordeaux as an “inhabited historic city” valued for its continuity and coherence of classical to neoclassical architecture over centuries.
Today, walking through Bordeaux is like peeling back layers of time: you’ll pass through the symmetrical grandeur of Stock Exchange Square, gaze at your reflection in the shimmering Water Mirror, cross the graceful arches of Stone Bridge, and glimpse medieval portals like Palace Gate and Big Bell. You’ll ascend Pey-Berland Tower for sweeping city vistas, enter the gothic majesty of Cathedral of St. Andrew, and breathe in stories at the Monument to the Girondins in Quinconces Square.
This walking tour will guide you through Bordeaux’s dramatic past, from Celtic beginnings to Roman power, English rule to French revival – and into its present, where each street, plaza, and monument reveals a chapter in its enduring history.
Roman power claimed Burdigala in 56 BC, transforming it into a provincial hub of trade, agriculture and administration in Aquitania, the modern Aquitaine region of France. Centuries later, through marriage and alliance, Bordeaux entered an improbable chapter: in 1152 Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II Plantagenet (whose descendants included Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland), tying the Duchy of Aquitaine – and thus Bordeaux – to the English crown. That placed this corner of southwestern France under English sovereignty for nearly three hundred years.
By 1453, after the decisive Battle of Castillon, Bordeaux was reclaimed by the French monarchy, closing the English chapter. In the following centuries, the city’s fortunes soared anew. Its golden age arrived in the eighteenth century, when wealth from colonial trade, global commerce, and exuberant wine exports funded sweeping urban transformation. Elegant façades, broad boulevards, and harmonious public spaces solidified Bordeaux’s status as an architectural jewel.
Bordeaux also briefly held national importance during turbulent modern times. In 1870, when Paris was besieged during the Franco-Prussian War, the French government temporarily relocated here. Again, in June 1940, Bordeaux served as the seat of government for ten dramatic days before officials fled Nazi occupation. These moments underscored the city’s recurring role as a refuge in national crises.
In 2007, UNESCO formally recognized Bordeaux as an “inhabited historic city” valued for its continuity and coherence of classical to neoclassical architecture over centuries.
Today, walking through Bordeaux is like peeling back layers of time: you’ll pass through the symmetrical grandeur of Stock Exchange Square, gaze at your reflection in the shimmering Water Mirror, cross the graceful arches of Stone Bridge, and glimpse medieval portals like Palace Gate and Big Bell. You’ll ascend Pey-Berland Tower for sweeping city vistas, enter the gothic majesty of Cathedral of St. Andrew, and breathe in stories at the Monument to the Girondins in Quinconces Square.
This walking tour will guide you through Bordeaux’s dramatic past, from Celtic beginnings to Roman power, English rule to French revival – and into its present, where each street, plaza, and monument reveals a chapter in its enduring history.
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Bordeaux Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Bordeaux Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: France » Bordeaux (See other walking tours in Bordeaux)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: alexander
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: France » Bordeaux (See other walking tours in Bordeaux)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: alexander
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Place de la Bourse (Stock Exchange Square)
- Miroir d'Eau (Water Mirror)
- Pont de Pierre (Stone Bridge)
- Porte Cailhau (Cailhau Gate)
- Grosse Cloche (Big Bell)
- Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower)
- Cathedrale Saint-Andre (Cathedral of St. Andrew)
- Allees de Tourny (Tourny Alleys)
- Monument to the Girondins
1) Place de la Bourse (Stock Exchange Square) (must see)
Stock Exchange Square is one of those squares that seems to have been designed to impress you the second you arrive – and it mostly succeeds. Perched on the edge of the Garonne River, it forms a perfect frame: symmetrical façades, elegant façades, arcades, and a harmony of classical French design from the 18th century. It was conceived by Jacques Gabriel (who designed Versailles Palace in Paris) and later carried forward by his son Ange-Jacques Gabriel; construction spanned from the early 1730s until mid-century.
Originally called Royal Square, it has worn several names over time: Liberty Square during the Revolution, Imperial Square under Napoleon, and finally Stock Exchange Square. Each name reflects a changing political atmosphere, but the architecture kept its poise.
At its heart sits the Fountain of the Three Graces, installed in 1869. This striking monument replaces earlier symbols: first an equestrian statue of King Louis XV, later another statue during Napoleon’s reign, all swept away by revolution and reform. The Three Graces represent beauty, joy, and abundance. The fountain blends marble and bronze in a graceful celebration of myth and art.
Do you know? In front of this ensemble lies the Water Mirror – by the river. It’s a shallow reflecting pool (just a few centimeters of water over granite) that mirrors the stately buildings, making for magical photos at dusk or dawn. It was added in the early 2000s as part of a riverside renovation, and it has become one of Bordeaux’s most beloved visual signatures.
Flanking the square are the Stock Exchange Palace (now home to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) on one side, and the National Museum of Customs, on the other. The entire ensemble is part of Bordeaux’s UNESCO heritage, an example of how 18th-century urbanism can still feel alive, not fossilized.
A visit here gives you more than pretty façades and photo ops: it’s an opportunity to step into the layers of Bordeaux’s past – monarchy, revolution, commerce – all reflected in stone, water, and myth.
Originally called Royal Square, it has worn several names over time: Liberty Square during the Revolution, Imperial Square under Napoleon, and finally Stock Exchange Square. Each name reflects a changing political atmosphere, but the architecture kept its poise.
At its heart sits the Fountain of the Three Graces, installed in 1869. This striking monument replaces earlier symbols: first an equestrian statue of King Louis XV, later another statue during Napoleon’s reign, all swept away by revolution and reform. The Three Graces represent beauty, joy, and abundance. The fountain blends marble and bronze in a graceful celebration of myth and art.
Do you know? In front of this ensemble lies the Water Mirror – by the river. It’s a shallow reflecting pool (just a few centimeters of water over granite) that mirrors the stately buildings, making for magical photos at dusk or dawn. It was added in the early 2000s as part of a riverside renovation, and it has become one of Bordeaux’s most beloved visual signatures.
Flanking the square are the Stock Exchange Palace (now home to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) on one side, and the National Museum of Customs, on the other. The entire ensemble is part of Bordeaux’s UNESCO heritage, an example of how 18th-century urbanism can still feel alive, not fossilized.
A visit here gives you more than pretty façades and photo ops: it’s an opportunity to step into the layers of Bordeaux’s past – monarchy, revolution, commerce – all reflected in stone, water, and myth.
2) Miroir d'Eau (Water Mirror) (must see)
Just across from the majestic Stock Exchange Palace lies one of Bordeaux’s most playful and poetic features: the Water Mirror. Far from being a static monument, it’s a living canvas of water, light and reflection that invites you to step in (quite literally).
Created in 2006 during the quayside revitalization project, this reflecting pool covers about 3,450 square meters and is made of smooth granite slabs over which a thin 2 cm layer of water flows. The design was conceived by landscape artist Michel Corajoud, with engineering and architectural input from Jean-Max Llorca and Pierre Gangnet.
Beneath the apparent simplicity lies a technical marvel: an underground reservoir of 800 cubic meters and a network of pumps and channels that constantly cycle water and power mist effects through nearly 900 injectors.
Throughout the day, the Water Mirror cycles in phases: it fills, displays a perfect mirror surface reflecting the classical façades and sky, then drains briefly, followed by a soft mist rising from the slabs. The mist can reach up to 2 meters high, creating an ephemeral veil over the square.
Locals and visitors alike flock here: children dash through the shallow water, couples stroll hand in hand, and photographers line up to frame the mirror image of the city.
Because the Water Mirror operates only from spring through fall (typically April to October), in winter months the slabs lie dry but still carry an austere beauty.
Plan a slightly longer stop here – both for visual delight and the fun of interaction. The shifting reflection, the sudden burst of mist, and the laughter of children – it’s a moment in Bordeaux that feels alive, even when the water is still.
Created in 2006 during the quayside revitalization project, this reflecting pool covers about 3,450 square meters and is made of smooth granite slabs over which a thin 2 cm layer of water flows. The design was conceived by landscape artist Michel Corajoud, with engineering and architectural input from Jean-Max Llorca and Pierre Gangnet.
Beneath the apparent simplicity lies a technical marvel: an underground reservoir of 800 cubic meters and a network of pumps and channels that constantly cycle water and power mist effects through nearly 900 injectors.
Throughout the day, the Water Mirror cycles in phases: it fills, displays a perfect mirror surface reflecting the classical façades and sky, then drains briefly, followed by a soft mist rising from the slabs. The mist can reach up to 2 meters high, creating an ephemeral veil over the square.
Locals and visitors alike flock here: children dash through the shallow water, couples stroll hand in hand, and photographers line up to frame the mirror image of the city.
Because the Water Mirror operates only from spring through fall (typically April to October), in winter months the slabs lie dry but still carry an austere beauty.
Plan a slightly longer stop here – both for visual delight and the fun of interaction. The shifting reflection, the sudden burst of mist, and the laughter of children – it’s a moment in Bordeaux that feels alive, even when the water is still.
3) Pont de Pierre (Stone Bridge)
The Stone Bridge is a historic bridge spanning the Garonne River in Bordeaux. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1810, its construction began in 1812 and was completed in 1822. This bridge was the first to connect the left and right banks of the river, facilitating movement across the city. It features 17 arches, which some believe correspond to the number of letters in Napoleon Bonaparte's name. However, this is a myth; the original design included 19 arches, but two were removed due to budget constraints.
The bridge was constructed using stone and brick, and its design was influenced by the architectural styles of the time. It served as a vital link for nearly 150 years until the completion of the Saint Jean Bridge in 1965. Today, the Pont de Pierre remains a significant historical landmark in Bordeaux, offering picturesque views of the river and the city.
While it may not be as grand as some of Bordeaux's other attractions, the Stone Bridge offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and development. It's a pleasant spot for a leisurely walk, providing a unique perspective of Bordeaux's architecture and the Garonne River.
The bridge was constructed using stone and brick, and its design was influenced by the architectural styles of the time. It served as a vital link for nearly 150 years until the completion of the Saint Jean Bridge in 1965. Today, the Pont de Pierre remains a significant historical landmark in Bordeaux, offering picturesque views of the river and the city.
While it may not be as grand as some of Bordeaux's other attractions, the Stone Bridge offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and development. It's a pleasant spot for a leisurely walk, providing a unique perspective of Bordeaux's architecture and the Garonne River.
4) Porte Cailhau (Cailhau Gate)
The Cailhau Gate is a medieval city gate that stands proudly at the edge of Bordeaux's historic center. Constructed between 1493 and 1496, this monumental gateway was built to commemorate King Charles VIII’s victory at the Battle of Fornovo. Its design blends Gothic and Renaissance elements, featuring pointed turrets, intricate carvings, and a prominent niche housing a statue of the king. Interestingly, the name “Cailhau” is believed to derive from the Gascon word for “pebbles,” possibly referring to the ballast stones used in ships that once docked nearby.
Serving as a main entrance to the city, the Cailhau Gate was strategically positioned to protect Bordeaux from potential threats. Its imposing structure includes defensive features such as machicolations and arrow slits, reflecting the city's need for fortification during the late 15th century. The gate also provided access to the Ombrière Palace, the residence of the Dukes of Guyenne.
Today, the Cailhau Gate stands as a symbol of Bordeaux's rich history. Visitors can admire its architectural beauty from the Palace Square, where it continues to be a focal point of the city's heritage.
Serving as a main entrance to the city, the Cailhau Gate was strategically positioned to protect Bordeaux from potential threats. Its imposing structure includes defensive features such as machicolations and arrow slits, reflecting the city's need for fortification during the late 15th century. The gate also provided access to the Ombrière Palace, the residence of the Dukes of Guyenne.
Today, the Cailhau Gate stands as a symbol of Bordeaux's rich history. Visitors can admire its architectural beauty from the Palace Square, where it continues to be a focal point of the city's heritage.
5) Grosse Cloche (Big Bell) (must see)
The Big Bell stands proudly in the heart of Bordeaux as a symbol of the city’s rich medieval heritage. This iconic belfry—one of the oldest in France—was originally part of the Saint-Éloi gate, a key entrance to the city during the 13th century. Over time, it evolved into both a belfry and a town hall, serving as a civic and defensive monument.
The structure is a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, featuring two octagonal towers connected by a central archway. Above the arch, the city's coat of arms is prominently displayed, symbolizing Bordeaux's enduring legacy. The bell itself, cast in 1775 and weighing 7,800 kilograms, is a striking feature. It rings six times a year, including on major public holidays and the first Sunday of each month at noon.
Visitors to the Big Bell can explore its rich history through guided tours, which offer insights into its architectural significance and the role it played in Bordeaux's past. Climbing the narrow, winding staircase rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city, providing a unique perspective of Bordeaux's landscape.
For those interested in the city's history, architecture, and culture, La Grosse Cloche is a must-see landmark that encapsulates the spirit of Bordeaux. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the city's resilience and its ability to preserve its heritage while embracing the future.
The surrounding streets add to the charm, lined with cafés, boutique shops, and picturesque corners perfect for photography. A morning visit captures the soft light on the stone façade, while afternoons allow for people-watching and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Bordeaux’s historic heart.
The structure is a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, featuring two octagonal towers connected by a central archway. Above the arch, the city's coat of arms is prominently displayed, symbolizing Bordeaux's enduring legacy. The bell itself, cast in 1775 and weighing 7,800 kilograms, is a striking feature. It rings six times a year, including on major public holidays and the first Sunday of each month at noon.
Visitors to the Big Bell can explore its rich history through guided tours, which offer insights into its architectural significance and the role it played in Bordeaux's past. Climbing the narrow, winding staircase rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city, providing a unique perspective of Bordeaux's landscape.
For those interested in the city's history, architecture, and culture, La Grosse Cloche is a must-see landmark that encapsulates the spirit of Bordeaux. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the city's resilience and its ability to preserve its heritage while embracing the future.
The surrounding streets add to the charm, lined with cafés, boutique shops, and picturesque corners perfect for photography. A morning visit captures the soft light on the stone façade, while afternoons allow for people-watching and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Bordeaux’s historic heart.
6) Tour Pey Berland (Pey Berland Tower)
Perched gracefully beside the Saint-André Cathedral, the Pey-Berland Tower stands as a testament to 15th-century ambition and architectural ingenuity. Commissioned by Archbishop Pey Berland between 1440 and 1500, this Gothic bell tower was constructed independently of the cathedral to safeguard its delicate structure from the vibrations of the bells. Rising to a height of 66 meters, the tower was designed to house the cathedral's bells, which were too heavy for the existing structure.
The tower's history is as layered as its stonework. After its completion, it served various purposes, including housing and even a lead factory during the French Revolution. It wasn't until 1851 that the tower was restored to its original purpose, housing bells once again.
Climbing the 233 steps to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of Bordeaux. From this vantage point, one can appreciate the city's layout, the meandering Garonne River, and the architectural harmony of its historic buildings. The tower's golden statue of the Virgin and Child, installed in 1863, watches over the city, symbolizing both faith and resilience.
For those seeking a blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views, the Pey-Berland Tower offers a unique experience in Bordeaux. It’s a climb worth every step.
The tower's history is as layered as its stonework. After its completion, it served various purposes, including housing and even a lead factory during the French Revolution. It wasn't until 1851 that the tower was restored to its original purpose, housing bells once again.
Climbing the 233 steps to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of Bordeaux. From this vantage point, one can appreciate the city's layout, the meandering Garonne River, and the architectural harmony of its historic buildings. The tower's golden statue of the Virgin and Child, installed in 1863, watches over the city, symbolizing both faith and resilience.
For those seeking a blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking views, the Pey-Berland Tower offers a unique experience in Bordeaux. It’s a climb worth every step.
7) Cathedrale Saint-Andre (Cathedral of St. Andrew) (must see)
The Cathedral of Saint Andrew is a symbol of Bordeaux's rich history and architectural grandeur. Situated on Pey-Berland Square, this Gothic masterpiece has been a central figure in the city's spiritual and cultural life for centuries.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1096 under the auspices of Pope Urban II, with the majority of the structure completed during the 14th and 15th centuries. Notably, the cathedral's Royal Gate, dating to the early 13th century, exemplifies the intricate design characteristic of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral's two towers, soaring to 81 meters, dominate the Bordeaux skyline, offering panoramic views of the city and the Garonne River.
Throughout its history, the cathedral has witnessed significant events, including the 1137 marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to King Louis VII of France. This union, though short-lived, had profound implications for European history. Additionally, in 1615, the cathedral hosted the wedding of Anne of Austria and Louis XIII, further cementing its status as a site of royal significance.
The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a nave measuring 124 meters in length and 29 meters in height. Visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows, which, despite suffering damage during the French Revolution, still retain their historical charm. The grand organ, a masterpiece of French craftsmanship, adds to the cathedral's acoustic allure.
Adjacent to the cathedral stands the Pey-Berland Tower, a separate bell tower constructed between 1440 and 1500. This tower, named after Archbishop Pey Berland, offers visitors the opportunity to ascend its 233 steps for a breathtaking view of Bordeaux.
If you're drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual ambiance, you’ll love the place. The Cathedral of Saint Andrew offers a profound experience that encapsulates the essence of Bordeaux.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1096 under the auspices of Pope Urban II, with the majority of the structure completed during the 14th and 15th centuries. Notably, the cathedral's Royal Gate, dating to the early 13th century, exemplifies the intricate design characteristic of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral's two towers, soaring to 81 meters, dominate the Bordeaux skyline, offering panoramic views of the city and the Garonne River.
Throughout its history, the cathedral has witnessed significant events, including the 1137 marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to King Louis VII of France. This union, though short-lived, had profound implications for European history. Additionally, in 1615, the cathedral hosted the wedding of Anne of Austria and Louis XIII, further cementing its status as a site of royal significance.
The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a nave measuring 124 meters in length and 29 meters in height. Visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows, which, despite suffering damage during the French Revolution, still retain their historical charm. The grand organ, a masterpiece of French craftsmanship, adds to the cathedral's acoustic allure.
Adjacent to the cathedral stands the Pey-Berland Tower, a separate bell tower constructed between 1440 and 1500. This tower, named after Archbishop Pey Berland, offers visitors the opportunity to ascend its 233 steps for a breathtaking view of Bordeaux.
If you're drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual ambiance, you’ll love the place. The Cathedral of Saint Andrew offers a profound experience that encapsulates the essence of Bordeaux.
8) Allees de Tourny (Tourny Alleys)
Tourny Alleys is one of Bordeaux's most elegant promenades, where history and high fashion stroll hand in hand. Designed in 1747 by the visionary city administrator Marquis de Tourny, this tree-lined avenue was part of his grand plan to transform Bordeaux into a city of beauty and order. Today, it stands as a testament to his legacy, connecting Comedy Square with Tourny Square and forming part of the city's renowned “Golden Triangle”.
As you wander along, you'll be surrounded by late 18th-century façades housing chic boutiques, gourmet shops, and stylish cafés. It's the perfect spot for people-watching, indulging in some retail therapy, or enjoying a leisurely coffee at one of the many outdoor terraces.
Did you know? The avenue was once home to two grand fountains, known as the Fontaines of Tourny. Installed in 1857, these fountains were later dismantled in the 1960s and now grace public spaces in Québec and Soulac-sur-Mer.
If you like shopping, dining, or simply to enjoy the ambiance, head over to Tourny Alleys. It offers a slice of Bordeaux's refined charm. It's a place where history and modernity meet, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking the essence of the city.
As you wander along, you'll be surrounded by late 18th-century façades housing chic boutiques, gourmet shops, and stylish cafés. It's the perfect spot for people-watching, indulging in some retail therapy, or enjoying a leisurely coffee at one of the many outdoor terraces.
Did you know? The avenue was once home to two grand fountains, known as the Fontaines of Tourny. Installed in 1857, these fountains were later dismantled in the 1960s and now grace public spaces in Québec and Soulac-sur-Mer.
If you like shopping, dining, or simply to enjoy the ambiance, head over to Tourny Alleys. It offers a slice of Bordeaux's refined charm. It's a place where history and modernity meet, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking the essence of the city.
9) Monument to the Girondins (must see)
The Monument to the Girondins stands proudly in Bordeaux's Quinconces Square, a tribute to the Girondin deputies who met their untimely end during the French Revolution's Reign of Terror. Constructed between 1894 and 1902, this monument is a harmonious blend of art and history, featuring a 54-meter-high column crowned by a statue of Liberty breaking free from her chains. At its base, an elaborate fountain showcases allegorical figures representing various virtues and elements of French society.
The central column is flanked by two basins adorned with dynamic bronze sculptures, including sea horses and cherubs, symbolizing the tumultuous period of the Revolution. The statue of Liberty atop the column signifies the triumph of freedom over oppression.
During World War II, the monument suffered damage, with its statues removed by the occupying forces. However, these were later recovered and restored, returning to their rightful place in 1983. Today, the Monument to the Girondins stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for liberty and the enduring spirit of the Girondins.
Did you know? The bronze horses at the base of the Monument are so lifelike that locals joke they might gallop off at any moment. Each sculpture took years to perfect, with artists meticulously capturing muscles, movement, and the wild energy of the horses, creating a sense of motion frozen in time.
The central column is flanked by two basins adorned with dynamic bronze sculptures, including sea horses and cherubs, symbolizing the tumultuous period of the Revolution. The statue of Liberty atop the column signifies the triumph of freedom over oppression.
During World War II, the monument suffered damage, with its statues removed by the occupying forces. However, these were later recovered and restored, returning to their rightful place in 1983. Today, the Monument to the Girondins stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for liberty and the enduring spirit of the Girondins.
Did you know? The bronze horses at the base of the Monument are so lifelike that locals joke they might gallop off at any moment. Each sculpture took years to perfect, with artists meticulously capturing muscles, movement, and the wild energy of the horses, creating a sense of motion frozen in time.
Walking Tours in Bordeaux, France
Create Your Own Walk in Bordeaux
Creating your own self-guided walk in Bordeaux is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Churches Walking Tour
Once dubbed “The Sleeping Beauty” (La Belle au Bois Dormant), Bordeaux owes its nickname, in large part, to its impossibly beautiful religious architecture. Indeed, given the abundance of historical churches, cathedrals, and basilicas in this city, it's no wonder that a good half of Bordeaux is a UNESCO-listed Heritage Site. Let's delve into the significance of some of them.
The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
Architectural Jewels Walking Tour
Napoleon Bonaparte referred to Bordeaux as "The Sleeping Beauty" upon seeing its classical architecture when visiting the city. In his turn, Honore de Balzac, the renowned French novelist, impressed by Bordeaux's timeless charm and elegance described it as "an extraordinary town".
Indeed, Bordeaux is one of Europe's most original architectural centers. More... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Indeed, Bordeaux is one of Europe's most original architectural centers. More... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Bordeaux Food Tour
Widely acclaimed for its prestigious wines, Bordeaux is also a prominent gastronomic destination in France. The local cuisine reflects the advantages of being a port city on the Atlantic coastline (with its fish and shellfish galore) and a carnivore country.
Perhaps the best place to start your culinary adventure here is the bustling Capuchins Market (Marché des Capucins), where you can savor... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Perhaps the best place to start your culinary adventure here is the bustling Capuchins Market (Marché des Capucins), where you can savor... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
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