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Discover the Revival of a Lesser-Known Bordeaux Neighbourhood

Cité du vin de Bordeaux
Cité du vin de Bordeaux | © Patrice CALATAYU / Flickr

For a long time overlooked by tourists and locals alike, the Bordeaux Bacalan-Bassins à Flot neighborhood of Bordeaux is becoming more and more popular nowadays. The extensive construction work that is happening in the area, and the opening of more and more cool places, are both good signs that the area is undergoing a revival. Read on to discover the district that may just be set to become the new city center in the near future.

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One of the first things you will notice when you walk around Bacalan-Bassins à Flot is the art on the walls of some of the buildings. From Alice in Wonderland-themed art, to giant birds and colorful pieces of graffiti, this unique ensemble immediately gives you the sense that this area has a unique vibe compared to the other neighborhoods of the city, which are known for their polished, classical beauty. If you would like to be immersed in this arty atmosphere a bit longer, take the tram to the Achard stop, walk back a bit and enter Les Vivres de l’Art, a hybrid arts venue. During the day, you can come and sit outdoors and be surrounded by different types of artwork; in the evening, join one of the cultural events that are regularly organized here.

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It will also be impossible to miss the gigantic Cité du Vin, which reigns over the whole area. Since its opening few years ago, this splendid building, known by many as “the world’s wine museum,” has become a favorite with tourists. Even if you don’t sign up for a tour, you should definitely visit the restaurant on the seventh floor for a coffee, and visit the terrace to enjoy the stunning views over the city.

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After this short escapade in wine paradise, cross the street and take a look around the Halles de Bacalan, a gourmet market hall that opened very recently. This is a great opportunity to support local producers and discover the best of the region’s produce. The Base Sous-Marine de Bordeaux (submarine base) is another place you should certainly stop by, but it is currently closed for renovation until March 2018 – a good reason to come to Bordeaux again! The concrete building was established during World War II by the Italian army to fight the allies in the region and is now a museum curating cool exhibitions throughout the year.

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Make sure to visit Cap Sciences, a museum promoting not only sciences, but also technology and cross-disciplinary initiatives. The exhibitions and conferences are always topnotch and the entry fees are very affordable. Its ideal location right in front the Garonne River and just a few steps away from the gorgeous Chaban Delmas bridge make it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bordeaux. If you have any energy left, walk along the beautiful Quais des Marques and do some shopping. You could also come back another day and go for a run, starting at the feet of the Chaban Delmas bridge and running down the docks, which is another great way to get to know this wonderful town. Enjoy!

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Les Vivres de l’Art, 4, Rue Achard, Bordeaux,France

Cité du Vin, 134 Quai de Bacalan, Bordeaux, France, +33 556162020

Base Sous-Marine, Boulevard Alfred Daney, Bordeaux, France, +33 556111150

Cap Sciences, Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, Bordeaux, France, +33 556010707

Quai des Marques,Hangars 15 à 19, Quai des Chartrons, Bordeaux, France, +33 557873008

About the author

Jennifer is a speechwriter and a public speaking coach based in Bordeaux, France. She is also a former professional tennis player. She is the founder of The Speech House which helps people (in English and French) to overcome their fear of public speaking and become better communicators. You can follow her on Instagram @jennifer_migan and on her storytelling platform Unique Stories @uniquestories.co.

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