Bordeaux, france
Attractions Guide

Bordeaux is a large city known for the wine produced around the surrounding region. Within the historic city center you'll find many posh 18th century buildings lining the streets.

The immense 11th century Bordeaux Cathedral towers high above the city and showcases stunning and complex gothic Romanesque architecture. Adjacent to the cathedral is the massive Pey Berland Tower, an ornate 15th century bell tower which you can climb for incredible panoramic views overlooking the city.

Nearby you might like to visit the Musee d'Aquitaine, a museum containing a vast collection of artifacts from Bordeaux and the surrounding region, covering various time periods of history.

To the north of the Bordeaux Cathedral is the towering Girondins Monument, an elegant column and fountain which sits on a vast square. Northwest from the Girondins Monument are the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater, the Palais Gallien, which sits mostly in ruins, but is still quite impressive.

Just south of the Girondins Monument is one of Bordeaux's finest squares, the grand riverfront Place de la Bourse, which is surrounded by a stately palace.

Further south along the river is the city's most iconic sight, the picturesque castle-like Porte Cailhau, which served as the medieval entrance to the city.

Continuing south along the Garonne River are two more impressive churches, including the elaborate gothic Basilica of St. Michael. This church also features a giant clock tower, the Fleche Saint-Michel, which can be climbed for amazing views over the city during the warmer months of the year (April through October).

Further south near the river is the elaborate 11th century Church of the Holy Cross, an exceptional Romanesque church. Also noteworthy, located a bit further south from Porte Cailhau along the river is another impressive entrance to the city, the 18th century stone arch Porte de Bourgogne.

Outside of the city's historic center to the north along the Garonne River is one of the city's top attractions, The City of Wine. This wine museum is housed in a striking contemporary structure that hosts many exhibits on wine and great views from the top, along with a vast selection of wine to taste.

Much further east from Bordeaux in the town of Saint-Emilion is the beautiful Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion, which features yet another tall bell tower you can climb. From the top you can enjoy excellent views over this charming rustic town. Interestingly, the church was carved out of limestone during the 12th century, and also hosts spooky underground catacombs. In order to see the inside if the church you'll need to book a tour.

The church and the town together form a UNESCO world heritage site. Be sure to visit some of the many great wineries within the town.