Bordeaux Tourist Guide

The city of Bordeaux, centre of the venerable and world-renowned region that produces the world’s finest wines, is a spot with its own allure.  Bordeaux’s origins date back to the bustling and prosperous trading centre set up by the Romans about 900 years ago.  The Bordeaux of today is one of the most lovely and historically interesting cities in all of France; it is also a near-paradise for shoppers and fans of architectural delights.

On foot, you will probably want to begin your exploration in the Golden Triangle, an area defined by three streets:  cours de l’Intendance, cours Georges Clemenceau and allees de Tourny.  This is the “old town” or Vieux Bordeaux, and is compact enough that you can walk to and from most of its many notable attractions.

If shopping is your thing, the rue Sainte Catherine can satisfy all your expectations.  It is the longest “pedestrianised” street in Europe, and offers hundreds of small shops and boutiques owned by local merchants as well as many of the most famous names in the fashion world, such as Hermes and Cartier.

Whatever your preference or inclination, there are many fascinating sites you should not miss.  Le Grand Theatre, built in the late 1770’s, is one of the last surviving 18^th century theatres in the world, rivalled only by those in Milan, Naples and Stockholm.  Le Grand boasts twelve vast Corinthian columns topped by statues of goddesses and the Muses.  You can take in an opera in the beautifully decorated and restored interior, or just take a guided tour.

Bordeaux has been described as “a magnet for money, power and ecclesiastical zeal” and the magnificent churches are a reminder of this.  Cathedrale St.-Andre, on the southern edge of the old town, dates back to the 1400’s and is the largest and most flamboyant.

The Basilique St-Michel is probably the most charming of all, with its adjoining Fleche St-Michel, the second-tallest stone tower in the country.  In July and August, the carillon concert from the bells in the ancient belfry can be heard throughout the surrounding area.

You can also take a boat tour on the Garonne and view the pont de Pierre, one of the most beautiful bridges in France.  The bridge was built in 1813 by the order of Napoleon I, with 17 arches to commemorate his victories in battle.  The view from the river will also give you the best perspective for understanding why this city has a legendary reputation of aristocratic wealth and power.