10 Things To Do In Old Town Bordeaux

The city of Bordeaux is located on a bend of the river Garonne, in the southwestern corner of France. The neighbourhood between Cours de l’Intendance and Rue Peyronnet is the heart of Vieux Bordeaux (Old Bordeaux), and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, famed as a city rich in art and history. Whether you’re a history fanatic or not, we’ve summarized the top ten things to do in Old Town.

1. Saint Michel Flea Market

Market

If you’re in town on a Sunday, stroll over to the Basilica of Saint Michel, an extravagant church designed in a Gothic style. On the steps of the church is the weekend market, particularly vibrant on Sundays. Visitors can expect an eclectic array of items up for sale, such as antiques, paintings, and general bric-a-brac, all for moderate prices. While it may not be so practical to traipse a mounted stuffed animal around for the remainder of your travels, rigorous searches can get you some unique gems, and it’s a great place to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Sainte-Croix Church

Tucked away in the corner of Bordeaux’s Old Town is L’Eglise Sainte Croix, a stunning church, annexed to a Benedictine abbey. Take time to marvel over the unconventional style of the exterior and intricate engravings of figures. These details disclose its ancient Roman Catholic heritage, making this religious site impressive in its stamina against forces of the French reformation. The inside also makes a dramatic impression, with imposing columns and arches. Make sure to note the 18th-century organ. This spot is a calm haven for those seeking a moment to quietly collect their thoughts after a day of sightseeing.

Address & telephone number: Place Pierre Renaudel, +33 5 56 94 30 50

Place de la Bourse

Place de la Bourse is undoubtedly one of the most photographed spots in Bordeaux, but it has certainly earned this accolade given its stunning architecture and location on the banks of the Garonne river. The square was designed by Louis XV’s chief architect Jacque Jules Gabriel, and its neoclassic style injects the surroundings with an air of opulence and grandeur. The Miroir d’Eau or water mirror transforms the scene on summer nights, when the enchanting architecture is bathed in silver light and reflected in the shallow pool, creating the perfect symmetry of the regal buildings.

Golden Triangle

In the heart of Bordeaux’s Old Town are the crossroads of three major boulevards (Cours Clemenceau, Cours de l’Intendance, Allées de Tourny). This space reflects the decadence of Bordelais architecture after the city’s 18th-century transformation from a medieval city. It was here the wealthy chose to live, including renowned Spanish artist Francisco Goya, who abandoned life in Spain, opting to reside in this luxurious quarter of Bordeaux. Today it is a site of hustle and bustle, favored for its high-end shopping boutiques, rustic French cafés, and bistros. Enjoy a relaxed amble around this spot and absorb the sumptuous atmosphere of life in the metropolis.

Sample Some Local Wine

If it’s one thing the French are experts on, aside from their gastronomy and art, it’s their know-how for producing some of the world’s finest wine. Bordeaux benefits from the city’s geographical setting, surrounded by countryside and vineyards, and boasts some of the most high-end labels in the country, and therefore by proxy, maybe the world. Take advantage of the Old Town’s plethora of wine bars, and while away the hours in a typically French manner. Le Wine Bar is a charming spot in the heart of downtown Bordeaux with a wine list boasting some great local wines.

Address & telephone number: 19 Rue des Bahutiers, +33 6 76 00 50 54