Perfect Weekend in Bordeaux: An Awesome 2-Day Itinerary
Welcome to Bordeaux, France! Located in the southwestern part of the country, this beautiful city is known for its world-renowned wine region, stunning architecture, and rich history. With a vibrant food and drink scene, endless cultural attractions, and a laid-back atmosphere, Bordeaux is the perfect destination for travelers looking to relax and explore. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a history buff, or just looking to soak up the local culture, you’ll love it!
Bordeaux was supposed to be a quick layover for me on the way to Marrakech. With the crazy summer prices to Morocco from the US, I actually found a very cheap connection through this city. I simply expected it to be an average two-day layover but Bordeaux seriously surprised me with everything it had to offer. The architecture, tranquility of the city, and delicious wine of course made this a perfect 2-day stay for me.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at all the amazing things Bordeaux has to offer and give you some tips for making the most of your 2 days in Bordeaux itinerary. First I’ll go over the places you will see on the itinerary and at the bottom of the post, you can download the 2-day plan ready for your trip! No need to worry about planning the trip yourself, so grab your passport and get ready to discover the charm and beauty of Bordeaux!
Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂
First, let’s get to the logistics of 2 days in Bordeaux
If you’ve been to Paris, you’ll find that Bordeaux is its a quieter, more sophisticated, and much smaller cousin. There are far fewer tourists around and even fewer locals that speak English. Your experience will be a little more French compared to the big city which believe it or not, is only a 2.5-hour fast train ride away. Bordeaux is NOT cheap. If you’re a budget traveler, prepare to spend a little more than you expected.
Are two days in Bordeaux enough?
While two days doesn’t seem like a long time, you can pretty much see everything the city itself has to offer within that time frame. However, if you want to explore the stunning wine Chateaus outside the city, you might need a little more time. If you just want to take a small detour as I did, I recommend 1 day in the city and 1 day in the wine country.
If you’re already in France, take advantage of the high-speed trains that connect the city to all its neighbors. For example, you can get to Bordeaux from Paris in as little as 2 hours and it will cost you on average anywhere from $30 to $50 and up depending on the season and day of travel.
You can easily fly into Bordeaux too and the taxi or Uber from the airport to the city center costs about 30 euros one way. You have the more cost-effective option using public transportation: a 30 min bus ride, either on a quick shuttle for 8 euros or the local bus 1+ for only 1.70 euros.
Within the city, you can get to most places on foot but the city tram and buses connect everything in a convenient way. I’d recommend getting an extended pass to save money if you’re planning to take a lot of public transport.
The French Stereotype
It is a common stereotype that French people are rude to Americans. However, this stereotype is not entirely accurate and is often perpetuated by people who have had negative experiences or misunderstandings while visiting France.
It is also important to consider the cultural differences that may contribute to this stereotype. For example, French people may have different social norms and expectations when it comes to communication and personal space. In France, it is not uncommon for people to be direct and to the point in their communication style, which may be perceived as rude by some Americans who are used to a more indirect or polite approach. Additionally, personal space is often valued more in France than in the United States, so it is not uncommon for people to stand further apart and avoid physical contact while interacting.
Attempt to at least learn the basics in french such as hello, thank you, please, goodbye and you’ll be good to go. I personally experienced a couple more rude individuals in Bordeaux compared to Paris but nothing substantial to have altered my trip.
Safety in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is generally a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate compared to other major cities in Europe. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are a few tips for staying safe in Bordeaux:
- Keep an eye on your belongings: Like any city, Bordeaux has pickpockets and petty crime, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist attractions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and consider using a money belt or other secure method to store your valuables.
- Use caution when walking at night: While Bordeaux is generally safe at night, it’s always a good idea to be cautious when walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark. Stick to well-lit and well-populated areas, and if you’re unsure about a particular neighborhood, consider taking a taxi or public transportation instead of walking.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: As with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and be alert to potential dangers. This includes paying attention to your surroundings when walking, driving, or using public transportation, and avoiding potentially dangerous situations.
- Use common sense: As with any trip, using common sense can go a long way in keeping you safe. Trust your instincts and if something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local emergency services and know how to contact them in case of an emergency.
Overall, Bordeaux is a safe and welcoming city, and by following these simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Food in Bordeaux
Mussels, oysters, meats, cheeses, and bread dominated my diet in Bordeaux. Everything I ate was rich, tasty, and full of carbs. I really don’t understand how all the French stay so thin with that kind of delicacy.
Food and drinks can be pricey so if you’re on a budget, opt in for markets instead. You’ll get top-notch quality and a meal among locals. Wine is generally cheap so swap that sugary cocktail for a once-in-a-lifetime tasting in every restaurant. Don’t forget to bring a good bottle of wine to the hotel for about 4 euros.
Hotels/Hostels
In Bordeaux, you can feel rich and boujee at a fancy hotel or a country chateau where prices can run high, around $200+ a night. A hotel, a little further away will range around $100 but you won’t be in the center of the action. Some sweet finds are the following:
- Hôtel La Maison Bord’eaux: A stunning modern hotel with a great location and great views.
- Hôtel de Tourny: Very aesthetically clean design, also a good location.
- Moxy Bordeaux: Moxy is a chain of hotels that scream cool style, awesome vibe, and endless insta opportunities. This location is hard to beat and the design is simply amazing!
- LOLA: A boutique find that is a true French beauty, simple yet elegant!
There are only a couple of hostels in the whole city, as most backpackers don’t reach this city and don’t expect to find a good one either. They’re also pricey and they don’t offer much in terms of atmosphere or activities. If you’re a backpacker, I’d recommend getting an Airbnb as the hostels won’t offer anything special.
Places to See During Your 2 Days in Bordeaux
Place de la Bourse
This iconic square, located in the heart of Bordeaux’s historic center, is home to the Miroir d’Eau, a popular fountain that reflects the surrounding buildings. The square is also home to the Palais de la Bourse, a stunning neoclassical building that houses the city’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
This is an architectural beauty and a sight that cannot be missed when you visit Bordeaux. The building is beautifully reflected in the pool outside and during the summer months, all the kids (including myself) splash in the water. It’s the perfect place to admire this city and do some much-needed people watching. Walk a little up the street to find some nice cafes to have a glass of wine.
I would strongly recommend coming here during the day as well as at sunset to enjoy both perspectives.
Quais de Bordeaux
The Quais de Bordeaux, or Bordeaux waterfront, is a destination located along the Garonne river in the heart of the city. Although the Garonne didn’t have the best hue at the time of my visit, the walk was still very enjoyable. This promenade is home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the iconic Pont de Pierre bridge and the Place de la Bourse.
One of the main attractions of the Quais de Bordeaux is the beautiful waterfront promenade, which stretches for several kilometers along the river. This spot is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of the river and the city. It is also a popular spot for picnics, with plenty of benches and grassy areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal or a snack.
Another popular attraction on the Quais de Bordeaux is the Pont de Pierre, or Stone Bridge, which spans the river and connects the left and right banks of the city. The bridge, which was built in the 19th century, is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture and is a popular spot for travelers to take photos.
The Quais de Bordeaux is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to explore and soak up the local culture. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the city, this spot is not to be missed. It gets very lively on the weekend too.
Esplanade des Quinconces
The Esplanade des Quinconces is a large public square located in the center of Bordeaux. It is the largest square in France and one of the largest in Europe, covering an area of over 25 acres. It is home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the Monument aux Girondins, a large monument dedicated to the Girondins, a group of politicians who played a key role in the French Revolution. The square is also home to a number of fountains, including the Fontaine des Trois Grâces, a beautiful fountain featuring three figures representing the Graces, goddesses of charm, beauty, and joy.
It is a popular destination for events and festivals, including concerts, markets, and sporting events. Additionally, this gem is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities, with plenty of green space and benches where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the peak months, you will find a Ferris wheel in the square too.
Bordeaux Cathedral
This beautiful cathedral, located in the center of Bordeaux, dates back to the 12th century and is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. The cathedral is home to a number of important artworks and relics, including a 15th-century stained glass window and a 13th-century wooden statue of the Virgin Mary.
Don’t forget to walk around the whole building to admire how beautiful this structure is from the outside. The inside is fairly simple but still worth taking a small pause for whether you want to attend a mass or a small prayer. There is a small entrance fee of 2 euros which goes to maintaining the church.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Rue Sainte-Catherine is the main shopping street in Bordeaux, France. Located in the heart of the city, it is a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. With over 1.2 kilometers of storefronts, Rue Sainte-Catherine is the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe.
It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and other goods. The street is home to a wide variety of stores, ranging from large chain stores to independent boutiques. There are also a number of department stores and shopping centers located along the street, including the Galeries Lafayette and the Centre Commercial Grand Hôtel.
In addition to shopping, the street has a ton of food and drink options but I’d say that the choices are pretty touristy. There are also a number of street vendors selling snacks and drinks, making it a great place to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink while exploring the city. It’s a pedestrian zone street only so it can get crowded. Stay alert here for petty theft there.
Walk all the way down to Place de la Victoire to then make your way over to the market.
Marché des Capucins
Located in the heart of Bordeaux, this awesome market is a great place to find fresh produce, local specialties, and souvenirs. The market is open every day except Monday and is a great place to mingle with locals and get a taste of Bordeaux’s vibrant food culture.
I’ve had the best mussels and fries or moules-frites of my life there, along with a cold beer in a little market stall. Note, this is a small local market for everyday finds. It’s nothing extraordinary but if you’s like to eat somewhere more authentic, this is a fantastic spot for breakfast or lunch.
Bordeaux Wine
Bordeaux wine is world-renowned for its quality and diversity, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. The wine region is home to over 9,000 wine producers, who together produce over 700 million bottles of wine each year. The region is known for its red wines, made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes, as well as its white wines, made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle grapes.
Bordeaux wine is known for its rich, complex flavors and long aging potential, making it a favorite among wine lovers and collectors around the world. In this introduction, we’ll take a closer look at the history and characteristics of Bordeaux wine, as well as the different regions and winemaking traditions that make it so special. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, Bordeaux wine is a must-try for any wine lover.
In-Town Wine Experience
If your 2 day in Bordeaux isn’t long enough for a day excursion to a chateau, the city offers a couple of options for some authentic wine tastings. There isn’t a shortage of wine in any restaurant or a store, but if you want to learn more about the process of making it, visit one of these sites.
La Cite du Vin is a wine museum where through an audio tour you can learn more about French wines. Commercial places like that aren’t usually my top choice, so I opted out for Maison du Vin, a smaller spot with wines ranging from 2 to 4 euros and a small snack selection. The staff there is super knowledgeable and I got a mini “tour” with each glass purchased.
Chateau Day Trip
So you came to Bordeaux to experience the wine in a real Chateau right? How do you choose the right one? Well, this is where your budget comes into play. There are a bunch of day trips offered to the different regions surrounding the city. Note, you can find half a day trip for $60 but you’ll end up in a minibus with a group of 50 other tourists. My recommendation is to splurge a little more and choose a tour with a much smaller group to the less popular wineries to get the full experience.
A DIY trip is also possible but keep in mind that your goal is to taste as much wine as you can, so drinking and driving are certainly not recommended. If you find an amazing friend that will be your designated driver, keep in mind that most places require that you make a reservation prior to the visit. Showing up without one, might not get you the tasting you were looking forward to.
Unique Experiences
Free Walking Tours are ALWAYS an awesome way to see the city. Food Tours are probably one of my favorite ways to explore too as you get to eat your way through and listen to some history. I always like to picnic in places like Jardin Public so make your way over for a bite, wine, and people-watching. Lastly, if you’re an art lover, don’t forget to check out the Museum of Fine Arts or Musée d’Aquitaine.
FREE Downloadable Itinerary For Your Stay
2 Days in Bordeaux
Two days is a good introduction to the city and you’ll also be able to spend a day sipping wine in a beautiful Chateau. You’ll visit all the awesome places listed above and be able to experience Bordeaux’s pride and joy: its wine.
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