Visit Bordeaux's most beautiful museums and monuments

The city has a remarkable historical heritage. Occupied for a time by the English, it was the scene of many rivalries and still bears the scars. During your visit as a couple, with family and even for business, take a moment to admire the magnificent monuments and museums of Bordeaux.

The monuments of Bordeaux

There is so much to see and do in Bordeaux, that it is sometimes difficult to make a choice. We guide you through our selection of must-see museums and monuments in the city. Here is our first list of Bordeaux monuments to discover:

Place de la Bourse and its water mirror: the square was designed by the architect of King Louis XV, Jacques GabrieI, between 1730 and 1755. This royal square, with French architecture, was built in several stages. We first saw the Hôtel des Fermes appear, then the Hôtel de la Bourse and finally the isolated central pavilion. The largest water mirror in the world appeared in 2006 and definitively establishes the image of Bordeaux, throughout the entire planet.
The Grand-Théâtre: it is one of the other emblematic monuments of the city. Located on Place de la Comédie, the theater was inaugurated in 1780. The building with unique architecture is composed of no less than 12 Corinthian columns supporting a balustrade also adorned with 12 statues. Inside, the decor is just as resplendent and you can attend performances of ballets or operas.
The Girondins monument: located on the immense place des Quinconces, this impressive piece is composed of a 43-meter high column topped by a statue. At its foot, the Girondins fountain offers an equally majestic spectacle with its various statues referencing mythological creatures.
The Grosse Cloche: souvenir of the Middle Ages, it was built in the 15th century at the same time as the belfry of the old Town Hall. The bell played a major role, as it was used to warn residents in the event of a fire and indicated the start of the harvest. It still rings today, every 1st Sunday of the month.

The Pey-Berland tower: in the heart of Bordeaux, on the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, the Pey-Berland tower stands proudly. Built in the 15th century, it is composed of 233 steps, which you can climb to admire the breathtaking view of Bordeaux. Right next door, the Saint-André cathedral hosted the royal weddings of great French personalities: Eleanor of Aquitaine and Louis VII or Louis XII and Anne of Austria.
The Cailhau gate: built at the end of the 15th century, the Cailhau gate pays homage to the victory of Charles VIII in Fornoue, Italy. Majestic, the Cailhau gate was classified as a historical monument in 1883 and underwent various renovations over the years. It is even more impressive at night, when the lighting takes effect.
The Palais Rohan: built at the request of the Archbishop of Bordeaux, the Palais Rohan had multiple functions. Archbishop's Hotel, department hotel, royal castle, it became Town Hall in 1835. Architecture enthusiasts flock there to discover one of the most beautiful staircases in France.

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The museums and other curiosities of Bordeaux

Among the multiple monuments that you will come across on your way, some also serve as museums or simply spaces to relax. We have listed for you, the more or less unusual places of the city, to put on your “to do list”.

The Cité du vin: opened in 2016, this modern and rounded museum quickly became an international success. Located in the Bacalan district, the museum takes you to discover the secrets of wine making in the form of interactive activities and wine tastings.
The submarine base: another curiosity of Bordeaux, the base was built by the Germans during the Second World War. It was converted into a cultural space hosting exhibitions and concerts. Do not miss the visit of the Bassin des lumières and its extraordinary atmosphere, thanks to the projections of wall art works.
The Public Garden: take a break in the oldest green space in the city. The English gardens, the walking paths and the tropical greenhouses of the park offer a real breath of fresh air.
The Museum of Fine Arts: discover collections ranging from the 15th to the 20th century, stroll through the alleys, admire forgotten or world-famous works of art. Then get some fresh air in the gardens adjoining the Town Hall.
The Museum of Aquitaine: if you are curious to know the history of Bordeaux and its region, then you are in the right place. From prehistory to the present day, passing through the reign of the kings of England, you will learn everything about the city's past.

After this busy day, easily reach the B&B HOTEL Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean, on foot, or by public transport.

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room with adjoining bathroom;
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Discover all our activity ideas for your stay in Bordeaux, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us by phone.

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