Bordeaux, a city renowned for its elegant architecture and rich history, offers a delightful experience for those eager to explore its charm. The Free Walking Tour of Bordeaux is an excellent way to immerse yourself in this vibrant French city. From stunning historical landmarks to fascinating stories, this tour takes you on a captivating journey through Bordeaux’s past and present. Situated in one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions, the city seamlessly blends culture, tradition, and modern life.
The tour begins at the Monument aux Girondins, located in Place des Quinconces, one of Europe’s largest squares. As you stand in awe of the grandeur of this monument, your guide will share the rich history behind it. From here, you’ll head to Place de la Comédie, home to the impressive National Opera, where you’ll have the opportunity to admire its magnificent façade.
Next, you’ll stroll past the Church of Notre Dame, a beautiful historical site, and hear about the famous Spanish painter Goya, who spent his final years in Bordeaux. This is just one of the many fascinating stories that will bring the city’s history to life.
As the tour continues, you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the Bordeaux Cathedral and the Pey Berland Tower, both of which offer a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. Even if you’re not typically a history buff, these sites will captivate you with their unique stories and architectural beauty.
The tour also takes you through Rue Sainte-Catherine, a lively shopping street that showcases the city’s modern energy, and Rue du Loup, where you’ll find charming medieval houses that reflect Bordeaux’s old-world charm. Each street and building adds a layer to the city’s fascinating evolution, making this walking tour an immersive experience.
Before concluding, we’ll take a peaceful walk along the Garonne River, offering beautiful views of the Pont de Pierre and the Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, which beautifully mirrors the historic buildings surrounding it. These stunning sights will leave you with a lasting impression of Bordeaux’s graceful atmosphere.
The tour ends at Place de la Bourse, one of the most iconic squares in Bordeaux. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to ask your guide for recommendations on the best places to indulge in Bordeaux’s famous French cuisine, making sure you can continue to savor the essence of the city long after the tour ends.
Discover Bordeaux on a Free City Tour!
This walking route highlights Bordeaux’s grand squares, medieval gates and lively shopping streets. It is the perfect way to enjoy the top things to do in Bordeaux while uncovering the stories that shaped this elegant French city.
Monument aux Girondins
Standing tall on Place des Quinconces, this dramatic column honours the Girondins, a political group from the French Revolution. The surrounding fountains with bronze horses add extra charm to the monument.
Saint-André Cathedral
This Gothic cathedral has hosted royal weddings and remains one of Bordeaux’s most impressive religious buildings. Its soaring nave and intricate stained glass make it a must-see stop.
Pey Berland Tower
Next to the cathedral, this freestanding bell tower offers panoramic views of the city after a climb of more than 200 steps. The tower is a symbol of Bordeaux’s medieval strength and civic pride.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
At more than a kilometre long, Rue Sainte-Catherine is Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street. It is lined with boutiques, cafés and street performers that keep it buzzing with energy.
Porte Cailhau
This fairy-tale gate once formed part of the city’s medieval walls. Its pointed turrets and stone carvings make it one of Bordeaux’s most photographed landmarks.
St. Peter’s Church
Located in the heart of the old quarter, this Gothic church is surrounded by bustling bars and restaurants. Its quiet interior contrasts with the lively atmosphere outside.
Place de la Bourse
This elegant 18th-century square is a masterpiece of classical French architecture. It is especially striking when illuminated at night and reflected in the Miroir d’Eau across the street.
Miroir d’Eau
The world’s largest reflecting pool sits directly opposite Place de la Bourse. On hot days, children splash in its mist and shallow waters while photographers capture the mirrored views.
Passage Sarget
This covered arcade features ironwork and glass roofing from the 19th century. It offers a charming shortcut filled with cafés and boutiques, ideal for a quick pause during your walk.
Place des Quinconces
One of the largest squares in Europe, Place des Quinconces is used for fairs, concerts and public events. Its wide open space makes it a popular gathering point in the city.
The free walking tour Bordeaux brings all of these highlights together, offering a blend of history, culture and everyday life that showcases the top things to do in Bordeaux.
Tips to Enjoy the Free Walking Tour of Bordeaux
Make your Free Tour of Bordeaux smooth, comfortable, and full of great photos with these quick pointers.
🕘 Arrive 10 minutes early: Meet in the city center, check your voucher for the exact spot, and grab first shots of the architecture before crowds build.
👟 Wear comfy, non-slip shoes: It is a 2 hour walk on pavements and cobbles. Wet stone near the Miroir d’Eau can be slick.
🌦️ Layer for Atlantic weather: Bordeaux can shift from sun to breeze to drizzle. Pack a light jacket, compact umbrella, and sunscreen.
🏛️ Respect cathedral etiquette: At Saint-André and Pey Berland, keep voices low, hats off, and avoid flash photography.
🌊 Be fountain smart at the Miroir d’Eau: Watch for puddles and mist cycles, protect cameras and phones, and wait for the still water moment for perfect reflections.
🚦 Share the streets wisely: Use marked crossings, watch tram tracks and bike lanes, and stay tight to the group on Rue Sainte-Catherine.
📱 Book ahead and bring your phone voucher: Reservations close at start time, the tour focuses on exteriors, and the order of stops may change.
👥 Groups of 7+ book a private tour: Free tours cap at six to keep things interactive. Larger parties should arrange a private Bordeaux tour for custom timing and pace.
With these basics set, enjoy Bordeaux’s Gothic spires, grand squares, and riverfront views, then toast the day with a canelé or a glass from the region.
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FAQs About Our Bordeaux Tour 🔎
What will I see during the Free Tour of Bordeaux?
The Free Tour of Bordeaux takes you on an immersive journey through the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and celebrated wine culture. Key highlights of the tour include the impressive Porte Cailhau, a medieval gate offering a glimpse of Bordeaux’s past, the elegant Grand Théâtre, an 18th-century architectural marvel, and the iconic Place de la Bourse, a symbol of Bordeaux’s prosperity. As you stroll through the city’s charming streets, you’ll discover hidden gems and learn about Bordeaux’s world-famous wine heritage. This free walking tour offers an unforgettable experience, delving into the unique blend of history, beauty, and culture that makes Bordeaux such a remarkable destination.
How much should I tip my guide?
For free tours, the general principle of tipping is based on your satisfaction with the tour and your budget. A common practice could be in the range of €5 to €15 per person, depending on the quality of the tour, the guide’s performance, and your budget. Of course, if you feel that the guide went above and beyond, you could tip more as a token of appreciation.
Remember that these amounts are just suggestions, and you should adjust your tip according to your level of satisfaction with the tour. It’s always a good idea to carry some small bills to make tipping easier.
How do I find the guide?
Head to Place des Quinconces and arrive a few minutes before the scheduled start time. Keep an eye out for a group gathering, as there could be fellow tour participants. By arriving early and being attentive to signs and group dynamics, you’ll easily find your guide and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Bordeaux.
What is the meeting point for the Free Tour of Bordeaux?
The meeting point is in Place des Quinconces.
How long does the Free Tour of Bordeaux last?
The Free Tour of Bordeaux lasts around 2 hours.
Where does the tour end?
The Free Tour of Bordeaux finishes at Place de la Bourse.
