The Perfect 3 Days in Bordeaux Itinerary [+ FREE Map]

Is 3 Days Enough in Bordeaux?

I believe having 3 days in Bordeaux is the ideal length of time to discover the city for the first time. It allows you to enjoy a full 2 days right in the heart of the city, exploring all the fantastic monuments and attractions. Bordeaux is a reasonably sized city, and with the efficient public transport, this time frame is more than sufficient. Then, on the third day, you can venture out of the city to discover the wonders of the surrounding region.

That’s how I’ve handcrafted my 3-day itinerary in Bordeaux you can find right below!

Tip: If you’re still not sure about how many days you should spend in Bordeaux, check this dedicated post to get help.

3 Days in Bordeaux Itinerary Overview & Map

Here’s my recommended itinerary for 3 days in Bordeaux, which is doable at a steady yet reasonable pace. However, feel free to remove or add steps as you wish.

Day 1: Bordeaux Old Town

• 10 am – Porte Cailhau
• 10.20 am – La Grosse Cloche
• 10.45 am – Sainte Catherine & Lunch
• 1.45 pm – Bordeaux Cathedral & Pey Berland Tower
• 3 pm – Stroll the old town
• 5.30 pm – Shoot the Miroir d’Eau
• Evening – Wine tasting & Diner

Day 2: Northern Bordeaux

• 9 am – Breakfast in Les Chartrons
• 11 am – Explore La Cité du Vin
• 1.30 pm – Stroll & lunch along the Garonne River
• 4 pm – Have a break at Jardin Public
• 5.30 pm – Pont de Pierre
• Evening – Have fun at Darwin Eco-System

Day 3: Beyond Bordeaux

• Day trip to Dune du Pilat & Arcachon OR Saint Emilion

To get your three days in Bordeaux map, simply click on the image below to open it in Google Maps. Then click on the “star” icon to save it to your own maps.

 
Now, keep reading to discover the best things to do in 3 days in Bordeaux in detail + helpful tips👇

Want a shorter itinerary or simply take a look at alternatives? Check out my other customized itineraries to spend 1 day in Bordeaux or 2 days in Bordeaux.

Day 1: Bordeaux Old Town

Let’s kick off our adventure by diving into Bordeaux’s charming old town and discovering its most famous attractions. To make the most of your day, I’d suggest being at the first step of this route by 10 am – that way, you’ll have plenty of time to savor each moment.

So, take your breakfast at your hotel or at Contrast Café, a nice place for breakfast and brunch only an 8-minute walk from Porte Cailhau, the first stop of the day 1 itinerary.
 

1. Porte Cailhau

Bordeaux is adorned with monumental historic gates that mark the boundaries of its old town, a reminder of its fortified past. Among them, my personal favorite has to be the Porte Cailhau.
 

 
Majestically rising 35 meters into the sky, Porte Cailhau was built in the 15th century and proudly stands at the far end of the Place du Palais, once facing a grand palace.

Today, it’s possible to explore Porte Cailhau, treating yourself to a splendid view of the Garonne River and its banks. Bonus: entrance to the first floor is free, so don’t miss the chance to take a peek!

2. La Grosse Cloche

Just a short stroll away from Porte Cailhau, you’ll find the Grosse Cloche, another remarkable gateway with deep historical roots.
 

 
The Grosse Cloche is Bordeaux’s oldest standing gate, harking back to the 15th century when it was a vital part of the medieval city walls and even served as the bell tower for the former city hall. Its striking 2-meter-tall bell, weighing an impressive 7,800 kg, is a true marvel. It only chimes during special events and at noon on the first Sunday of each month.

Located on Rue St James, this 40-meter gateway has earned its place as an iconic Bordeaux landmark, and a must during your visit.
 

3. Sainte Catherine & Lunch

Walk only 4 minutes from La Grosse Cloche to find yourself on what is Bordeaux’s most famous street: Rue Sainte Catherine. In fact, it’s also the longest shopping street in all of Europe!
 

 
The beauty of Sainte-Catherine is that it’s completely car-free, which makes it incredibly convenient. It’s a delightful spot for a leisurely walk, whether you’re just window shopping, hunting for souvenirs, or simply basking in the vibrant atmosphere.

And if you happen to work up an appetite during your shopping spree, this street has you covered. There are lots of cafés and restaurants, so it’s a perfect spot for your lunch break. The choices are aplenty, whether you’re in the mood for a quick grab-and-go meal or prefer to sit down and savor your lunch.
 

4. Bordeaux Cathedral & Pey Berland Tower

A few streets away, discover what is certainly Bordeaux’s most important monument, the Cathédrale Saint-André, and its bell tower, the Pey Berland Tower. Both of them are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and you’ll quickly understand why.
 

Rebuilt in the 11th century over a span of 400 years, Bordeaux Cathedral’s Gothic style impresses with its gigantic size, both inside and out, and its 2 spines reaching 81 meters in height.
 

Right next door, the Tour Bey Berland houses the bell that could not be placed inside the cathedral due to structural reasons. Rising to a height of 66 meters, it offers a unique view of the cathedral and a breathtaking panorama of the city. Yes, you’ll need to climb 233 steps to reach the top, but I promise you, it’s absolutely worth it!

5. Stroll the old town

After coming down from the Pey Berland Tower, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint, cobblestone streets of the old town. Take it easy, leisurely meander, and let the atmosphere seep into your soul.
 

While walking this charming maze, you’ll stumble upon large lively squares like Place Camille Jullian and Place Saint-Projet, as well as historic facades and churches like Saint-Pierre Church. You’ll also come across countless charming shops, cozy cafes, and inviting terraces. Be sure to pop into any bakery or coffee shop you fancy to try a Canelé, Bordeaux’s most iconic treat.

To round off your visit, I suggest getting out a little bit of the old town to check out other treasures. Make your way through Place de la Comédie, where you can admire the Opéra National, and then stroll over to the huge Place des Quinconces to marvel at the Monument aux Girondins.
 

6. Shoot the Miroir d’Eau

Among all Bordeaux’s attractions, the Miroir d’Eau, also known as the Water Mirror, is certainly the most famous of them. The large structure lying along the Garonne River across from the Place de la Bourse is a popular meeting place for locals and a beloved photo spot for tourists and Instagrammers.
 

 
It’s a large granite area with a shallow pool that alternates between mist and calm water, reflecting the beauty of the Palais de la Bourse.

People of all ages enjoy dipping their feet in the water in the summer, and the reflection makes the building’s symmetry stand out. The best moment of the day to shoot it is at sunset when the light is softer and the sun colors the sky with orange tones.
 

7. Wine tasting & Diner

No visit to Bordeaux would be complete without sampling the region’s exquisite wines!

In this wine lover’s haven, you’ll come across a plethora of wine bars, often run by passionate sommeliers. Kick off your evening with a tasting at one of these spots before heading for dinner. A standout choice is Le Bar à Vin, where you can sip on Bordeaux red wines starting at only 2€ a glass!
 

 
When it comes to eating out, Bordeaux is also known for its many good restaurants, with some even earning coveted Michelin stars. For those with a more generous budget, I’d highly recommend experiencing Le Quatrième Mur, helmed by the iconic French chef Philippe Etchebest – just be sure to make a reservation well in advance to secure a table. If you’re on a budget, you can still eat very well at places like Berthus for example.
 

Don’t know when you should visit Bordeaux? Here’s a full guide to help you choose the right time to travel to Bordeaux.

Day 2: Northern Bordeaux

On day 2 of this Bordeaux itinerary, we’re leaving the historic center to explore a different side of this beautiful city. To make the most of this day, I recommend being at the first stop of this route by 9 am for a delightful breakfast.
 

1. Breakfast in Les Chartrons

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast in the trendy Chartrons district, located to the north of the city.
 

Saint-Louis des Chartrons church

After breakfast at Au Couvent or Le Confidentiel, take a leisurely walk through this charming neighborhood to uncover its well-kept secrets. This village-like district, often likened to the Marais in Paris, is brimming with hidden gems, from monuments and museums to cozy cafés and concept stores.

While you’re exploring, you’ll certainly come across the Contemporary Art Museum, Les Halles des Chartrons, and the picturesque Saint-Louis Church.
 

2. Explore La Cité du Vin

From the Chartrons neighborhood, walk about 25 minutes or take the bus, the tram, or even the river shuttle to get to La Cité du Vin in less than 10 minutes.
 

 
Easily recognizable by its futuristic design, La Cité du Vin has been captivating visitors since 2016, narrating the rich history and art of wine both locally and globally through an array of exhibitions you could spend half a day exploring.

And if that’s not enticing enough, you can indulge in a delightful wine-tasting experience at the top of the building while taking in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Whether you’re a dedicated wine aficionado or just curious, a visit to La Cité du Vin is an absolute must!

3. Stroll & Lunch along the Garonne River

Once the visit to the Cité du Vin is over, it’s lunchtime! And what could be better than enjoying lunch while gazing out over the Garonne River?
 

 
Just a few minutes walk from the Cité du Vin, you’ll find yourself on a long pedestrian promenade along the river banks packed with stores, restaurants, and coffee shops. You’ll have plenty of choices, from McDonald’s to nice French bistros, so feel free to step into the restaurant that piques your interest.

As you walk along the promenade, don’t forget to occasionally glance back to admire the outstanding Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas – a true masterpiece of French engineering that graces the Bordeaux skyline.
 

4. Have a break at Jardin Public

Now, let’s discover a peaceful spot to digest lunch and relax for a bit: the Jardin Public. Located on the outskirts of the old town, the Jardin Public is the best place for a well-earned break in a bucolic setting.
 

 
Created in the 18th century, this large green haven offers lots of spaces to sit or lie down, a playground for kids, as well as a cute café that’s just right for a quick snack.

As you stroll along, you’ll discover a charming botanical garden, the beautiful Capitol Palace, graceful statues, and a picturesque little island that you can tour by boat, like a scene straight out of a Monet painting.
 

5. Pont de Pierre

Head south of the old town to discover the Pont de Pierre, another iconic landmark of Bordeaux.
 

 
Built at the request of Napoleon 1st, the Pont de Pierre was the first bridge to be built over the Garonne. Dating from the 19th century, it links the Cours de Victor Hugo on the left bank to the Bastide district on the right bank.

The bridge features 17 arches, as many as the number of letters in the Emperor’s name, “Napoléon Bonaparte”. Also, a white medallion has been placed between each pillar in his honor. A beautiful piece of history to discover when in Bordeaux.
 

6. Have fun at Darwin Ecosystem

Cross the Pont de Pierre to arrive on the other side of the Garonne, in the La Bastide district. This is where the Darwin Ecosystem is located and where I invite you to spend the evening.
 

 
The Darwin Ecosystem is a unique place in Bordeaux. It’s a restored former military barracks that has been converted into a party place with bars, restaurants, street art exhibitions, small stores, and even a skatepark. In summer, live music concerts are even held here.

The atmosphere is friendly and full of energy. You can come with friends or even bring your family, including the kids, for a drink or a bite. It’s a fantastic spot for a great evening out!
 

Day 3: Beyond Bordeaux

For the third and final day of this itinerary, let’s go on an exciting day trip around Bordeaux!

The Bordeaux region is incredibly packed with medieval towns, vineyards, beaches, and other attractions all worthy of a visit. However, the undisputed must-see destinations are the Saint Emilion vineyards and the incredible natural wonder that is the Dune du Pilat.

You can’t do both in one day – you have to choose. To help you make up your mind, I’d like to suggest Saint-Emilion if you’re in Bordeaux during the winter or autumn, or Dune du Pilat and Arcachon for the warmer months.
 

Option 1 – Dune du Pilat & Arcachon

The Dune du Pilat is hands down one of the most amazing places I’ve had the pleasure of visiting in France, and beyond. It’s a huge sand dune in the Arcachon basin, the highest in Europe, offering breathtaking views over the Landes and the bay.
 

 
Getting there from Bordeaux is quick and easy, taking around 1 hour 20. Simply hop on the train at Gare Saint-Jean and get off at Gare d’Arcachon. From there, catch the Baïa Bus Line 1 towards Plage de la Salie and hop off at the Dune du Pilat stop.

After spending the morning at the dune, my suggestion is to head back to Arcachon for lunch and a beach afternoon. Arcachon is a wonderful seaside resort where you’ll have plenty of choice for lunch during the peak season and where you can enjoy its wonderful beaches (and more beach activities!).

Here’s a complete travel guide to discover the Dune & Arcachon from Bordeaux

Option 2 – Saint-Emilion

Apart from being a prime destination for wine lovers, Saint-Emilion is also a magnificent, picturesque medieval village, entirely listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
 

Saint-Emilion medieval town

Start your day by exploring the village and uncovering its hidden gems as you meander along its steep narrow streets. And when it’s time for lunch, treat your taste buds to the region’s culinary delights, like foie gras or confit de canard. And finally, discover the Châteaux Grand Cru that have made Saint-Emilion famous, such as Coutet, Pressac, and Saint-George. This is your chance to enjoy a real wine-tasting experience.

To get to Saint-Emilion, take bus 304 from the Quinconces Orléans stop on Place Quinconces, which will take you there in 1 hour. You can also take the Bordeaux-Sarlat train from Gare Saint-Jean. Another option is to join a guided tour, which is a very popular choice among visitors.

Here’s the best guided tour you can book for your visit to Saint-Emilion: Saint Emilion Food & Wine Tour

Where to Stay For a Weekend in Bordeaux

With only 3 days to explore, your smartest move is to pick accommodation right in the heart of the city. For the best experience, aim for one of Bordeaux’s top neighborhoods like Saint Pierre, Pey Berland, or the Triangle d’Or.

Here are my hotel recommendations in these areas:

✅ Best Hotel – Hotel Konti Bordeaux by HappyCulture: The decoration in this hotel will amaze you. Located in the Triangle d’Or area, everything here is beautiful and comfy with all the amenities you need for a fair price.

💰 Best Budget – Central Hostel Bordeaux Centre: right in the old town, this hostel offers different kinds of rooms from dorms to family rooms. Modern and spotlessly clean with a cool design, this is your pick if you’re traveling on a budget.

✨ Best Luxury – Hôtel Singulier Bordeaux: This stunning 4-star hotel in Bordeaux old town boasts a unique rooftop with a view of the cathedral. Besides, rooms are comfy and elegant, and some units even come with balconies.

Check out the best districts to stay in Bordeaux in this guide.

City view from the Pey Berland Tower

How to Get Around Bordeaux

Bordeaux is both a cycling and walkable city, with an efficient public transport network. So, forget about your car, and embrace soft mobility!

🚎 Public transportation: In Bordeaux, there’s a well-developed network of buses, streetcars, and river shuttles called TBM covering the whole city, operating from 5 or 6 am until around 1 am. To use them, you have several options available for purchase on the TBM app or on the vending machines available at any tram stations:

• Single ticket: 1,8€ one way, available for 1 hour
• 24-hour ticket: 5€ providing unlimited access for a whole day
• 48-hour ticket: 9€ providing unlimited access for 2 days

Depending on the number of attractions you plan to visit, another option may be more budget-friendly: the Bordeaux City Pass. In addition to providing unlimited access to the city’s public transportation system, this pass grants you free access to +15 popular attractions and monuments!

The Bordeaux City Pass price varies according to the validity period and age:

• 24-hour pass: 34€/person or 19€ for 6-17 year-old kids
• 48-hour pass: 44€/person or 26€ for 6-17-year-old kids
• 72-hour pass: 50€/person or 31€ for 6-17-year-old kids

You can book your Bordeaux City Pass here.

Tip: Just so you know, entry to La Cité du Vin for example can range from 22€ to 45€. However, if you have a Bordeaux City Pass, you can enjoy free entry before noon, or pay only a small fee of 5€. So make sure to crunch the numbers first to see which option fits your budget best.

🛴 Bike & scooters: You’ll find self-service bikes and electric scooters available for rent throughout the city. While the city has its own bike service called V3, I suggest going with Bird, Dott, and Tier, all of which operate in Bordeaux. They’re easier to use, with pay-as-you-go systems, and you won’t have to worry about putting down a deposit or subscribing.

🚗 Car: I wouldn’t recommend driving in Bordeaux, as you’ll likely find yourself stuck in traffic or struggling to park somewhere, which can be quite a challenge! So if you’re driving into town, it’s wiser to park at one of the lots near the city entrance or at your hotel. You’ll find them easily on Google Maps.
 

 
I hope you enjoy your Bordeaux trip; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

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