What to Do in Bordeaux in 2 Days: The Best Itinerary (+ FREE Map)

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

Before delving into the itinerary’s details, it’s crucial to find the most practical lodging option considering the short length of your stay.

With two days in Bordeaux, it’s better to choose your accommodation in the city center, in the areas of St Pierre, St Paul, Pey Berland or Triangle d’Or. To maximize your experience, here are some excellent recommendations in these districts:

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

💰 Best Budget – Central Hostel Bordeaux Centre: right in the heart of the old town, this hostel provides several types of rooms from dorms to family rooms. Modern and clean with a cool design, this is your pick if you’re a backpacker.

✨ Best Luxury – Hôtel Singulier Bordeaux: This fabulous 4-star hotel in Bordeaux’s historic center boasts a unique rooftop with a view of the cathedral. On top of that, rooms are comfy and elegant, and some even have balconies.

View of Bordeaux from the Pey Berland Tower

Getting Around Bordeaux in 2 Days

One last topic we need to tackle to follow this itinerary is transportation. While you can do it on foot only, you have other options available to get around Bordeaux in two days:

Using the Bordeaux City Pass

Affordable and user-friendly, the Bordeaux City Pass is your ticket to explore Bordeaux with absolute ease. First, this pass offers unlimited access to the city’s public transport system, i.e. all streetcars, buses, and river shuttles. But that’s not all!

It also grants you free admission to around 20 of Bordeaux’s most popular tourist attractions. It even serves as a skip-the-line ticket, which is a blessing during the high season.

Prices vary depending on the pass validity duration and age as a City Pass Junior is available for kids from 6 to 17 years old: 

• 1 day: 34€/person (or 19€ for the City Pass Junior)
• 2 days: 44€/person (or 26€ for the City Pass Junior)
• 3 days: 50€/person (or 31€ for the City Pass Junior)

Save time by getting your Bordeaux City Pass online here.

Transport Alternatives

Bordeaux transportation network is called TBM and includes 4 lines of streetcars, loads of buses as well as river shuttles. It’s really economical and also efficient as they run often from 5 am to midnight (even 1 am on the weekend).

Here are the ticket options available in 2023:

• Single ticket (available 1 hour): 1,80€
• 10 trips: 14,50€
• 24-hour ticket: €5
• 48-hour ticket: €9

To buy any of these tickets, I recommend doing it online by downloading the TBM app on your smartphone. After purchasing your ticket on your phone, you’ll only need to activate the Bluetooth when getting on the bus to scan your QR code. Otherwise, you can buy it on the vending machines available in the streetcar stations.

Saint-Louis Church in the Chartrons district

2 Days in Bordeaux Itinerary Overview & Map

Here’s my recommended itinerary for 48 hours in Bordeaux, which covers the city’s major attractions. It’s doable entirely on foot, at a steady yet reasonable pace. However, feel free to take public transportation when needed, and remove or add steps as you wish.

DAY 1 – Bordeaux Historic Center:

• 10 am – Enter Bordeaux through Porte Cailhau
• 10.20 am – Check out La Grosse Cloche
• 10.30 am – Shop on Sainte Catherine & Lunch
• 1.30 pm – Step into Bordeaux Cathedral
• 2 pm – Climb Pey Berland Tower
• 3 pm – Wander around the Old Town
• 5.30 pm – Take shots of the Miroir d’eau
• 6 pm – Taste Bordeaux wine

DAY 2 – Northern Bordeaux:

• 10.30 am – Start your day on the Place de la Comédie
• 10.45 am – Discover the Monument aux Girondins
• 11 am – Stroll along la Garonne & Lunch
• 1 pm – Visit La Cité du Vin
• 3.30 pm – Explore Chartrons Neighborhood
• 5 pm – Relax in the Jardin Public
• 6.30 pm – Enjoy a typical Bordeaux evening at a Guinguette

To get your Bordeaux 2 day itinerary map for free, 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 scrolling to discover the best things to do in Bordeaux in 2 days in detail + expert tips👇

Day 1 in Bordeaux Itinerary

On this first day, we’ll be focusing on Bordeaux’s old town and its most iconic sights and monuments. I recommend being at the first step of this route by 10 am to be comfortable with the time.

1. Enter Bordeaux through Porte Cailhau

Bordeaux boasts a number of monumental gates scattered at the ends of the old town, vestiges of its fortified period. In my opinion, the most beautiful of them all is undoubtedly the Porte Cailhau.

Standing 35 meters high, Porte Cailhau was erected at the end of the 15th century (between 1493 and 1496). It stands at the far end of the Place du Palais and once faced a palace.

Today, it’s possible to visit the Porte Cailhau, where you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the Garonne River and its quays. Entrance to the 1st floor is free, so don’t hesitate to take a look!

2. Check out La Grosse Cloche

The Grosse Cloche is another remarkable gateway, and not the least because it’s the oldest one in Bordeaux still standing.

Built in the 15th century, it’s a vestige from the medieval city walls and once served as the belfry for the former city hall. What’s truly impressive is its colossal bell of 2 meters in height and weighing a staggering 7,800 kg. This huge bell tolls on special occasions and at noon on the first Sunday of each month only.

Situated at the end of Rue St James, this 40-meter gateway is now an iconic landmark of Bordeaux and a must-see.

3. Shop on Sainte Catherine & Lunch

Rue Sainte-Catherine is arguably Bordeaux’s most famous street. Actually, it’s the longest shopping street in Europe! Stretching for about 1,200 meters, the street divides the city in 2, from Place de la Comédie to Place de la Victoire.

Sainte-Catherine is entirely pedestrianized, which is pretty convenient. It’s a pleasant place to stroll, whether you’re window shopping, looking for souvenirs, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere.

There are also a plethora of cafés and restaurants, so I recommend stopping here for your lunch break. You’ll have plenty of choices, whether you want to grab a quick meal on the go or sit at a table. Here are a few options: Gourmands, Pizza Capri, and Café des Arts.

4. Step into Bordeaux Cathedral

Bordeaux Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Saint-André (Cathedral of St Andrew), is the city’s most important religious building. It’s one of the monuments associated with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Although the original church dates back to the 3rd century, it was destroyed by various invasions and fires before being rebuilt from the 11th century onwards over a period of almost 400 years!

Gothic in style, the cathedral is worth a look for its 2 large spires reaching 81 meters in height. Its interior is also worth exploring for its organs, beautiful stained-glass windows, and splendid rose window.

5. Climb Pey Berland Tower

Right next to Bordeaux Cathedral is the Pey Berland Tower, which is actually the church’s bell tower.

The original bell tower was deemed too unstable to support the bells. This 66-meter-high campanile was therefore built between 1440 and 1500 separately from the cathedral. This separation ensured that the tower wouldn’t be affected by the vibrations of the entire cathedral.

Climb the tower’s 233 steps to reach its summit and treat yourself to a breathtaking panoramic view of the cathedral and the rest of the city. If you visit Bordeaux in 2 days or even less, you don’t want to miss it!

6. Wander around the Old Town

After these historic visits, take a stroll through the narrow cobbled streets of Old Bordeaux. Take your time wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

In this maze, you’ll discover some lovely historic facades, as well as several large squares such as Place Saint Pierre with its church, Place Camille Jullian, and Place Saint-Projet. You’ll find lots of cute stores, cafés, and terraces everywhere, all in a very romantic atmosphere.

It’s in this area that locals love to go out, whether during the day or in the evening. Take a break in one of the small cafés, where you can have a sweet snack and sample the famous Canelés, one of my favorite delights. The pastry shop Cassonade has some of the best!

7. Take shots of the Miroir d’eau

The Miroir d’Eau (or Water Mirror) is probably Bordeaux’s most famous attraction. Located across from the beautiful Place de la Bourse and its palace on the Garonne River quays, it’s a meeting place for locals and one of the city’s most Instagrammable spots!

Built in 2006, it’s a 3,450-meter square granite esplanade filled with a thin 2-centimeter trickle of water, alternating between mist and receding water. Its ingenious design reflects the Place de la Bourse and the quays, creating an overall vision as beautiful as it is harmonious.

Young and old alike come to dip their feet in to cool off or have fun, while the reflective surface highlights the beauty of the Place de la Bourse, emphasizing the perfect symmetry of the building tenfold. Hang around until sunset for even more beautiful photos, and a special moment.

8. Enjoy wine tasting

It’s simply unthinkable to visit Bordeaux without tasting some wine! It’s an absolute must and it’s perfect timing because it’s Apero time” as we like to say it in French.

In the wine capital, you’ll find loads of wine bars offering a taste of the region’s exceptional wines, many of which rank among the finest in the world.

Wine is an art in Bordeaux, and most of the city’s wine bars are run by real sommeliers who are eager to share their expertise with you. And contrary to what you might think, it’s not particularly expensive! I recommend Le Bar à Vin, where Bordeaux red wines start at just 2€ a glass!

Day 2 in Bordeaux Itinerary

On the second and final day of this Bordeaux 2 days tour, we’re going to step outside historic Bordeaux to discover another side of the city. I suggest being at the first stop of this itinerary by 10.30 am at the latest. This leaves you room for brunch at Contrast Café for example.

1. Start your day on the Place de la Comédie

I recommend starting this day at one of the largest places and most beautiful in town, la Place de la Comédie.

This square in the Triangle d’Or district is home to the National Opera of Bordeaux (Grand Théâtre), a huge, impressive neo-classical colonnaded building. Built between 1773 and 1780, it underwent major renovation in the 1990s, restoring its authenticity.

It’s also on this square that you can spot the fun Sanna Sculpture, a face that changes shape depending on the angle of view.

2. Discover the Monument aux Girondins

After discovering Place de la Comédie, head to Place des Quinconces nearby, which is another famous square in Bordeaux. In fact, it’s the largest square in France!

Place des Quinconces features an iconic landmark, the Monument aux Girondins. It’s a huge 54-metre column topped by a Statue of Liberty. It is surrounded by 2 pools adorned with sculptures of sea horses and bronze riders. Inaugurated in 1902, this monument is historically significant as it was built in honor of the Girondin deputies killed on this very square during the Terror (1793-1794).

At the far end of the Place des Quinconces, you can see the Bordeaux Ferris wheel. Another chance to take in the views of Bordeaux!

3. Stroll along the Garonne River & Lunch

Now, let’s venture beyond Bordeaux’s city center for a stroll along the Quais de la Garonne towards the north of the city.

View of the Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas from Bord’Eau Village

The riverbanks are entirely equipped with a pedestrian walkway and a long cycling path much appreciated by cyclists and joggers alike.

Along the way, you’ll come across Bord’eau Village (also known as Quai des Marques). It’s a kind of waterfront open-air shopping mall offering a bounty of shops, restaurants, and bars. I recommend having lunch here, as you’ll have plenty of choices (and you’ll also need to prepare for the next activity). You’ll love enjoying lunch overlooking the river, especially in fine weather.

4. Visit La Cité du Vin

At the end of this long walk and after having a bite, you’ll stumble upon a museum with a distinctive futuristic design: La Cité du Vin.

Opened in 2016, the Cité du Vin showcases the art of viticulture and invites you on a captivating journey through time and space, tracing the rich and fascinating history of wine and its place in the world’s cultures. You could easily spend half a day here!

At the top of the building, you can enjoy a wine tasting with a fantastic view of the city. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply curious, La Cité du Vin is a must-do!

5. Explore Chartrons Neighborhood

The Chartrons district is known as one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. Often compared to the Marais in Paris, the area is full of surprises, from hidden monuments to small museums and outdoor cafés.

Take a stroll through the neighborhood at your own pace. Check out some of the Chartrons’ interesting sights like the Bourse Maritime, the CAPC (Contemporary Art Museum), Notre-Dame Street, the Saint-Louis Church, and the Halles des Chartrons.

You’ll love wandering around this area and soaking up the village-like atmosphere that reigns here!

Tip: For a unique experience, you can tour Les Chartrons on a bicycle with a guide.     

6. Relax in the Jardin Public

It’s time to unwind a little after a long day filled with exploration, and what could be more ideal than a calm green oasis?

Right behind the Chartrons neighborhood, a few minutes walk away, lays the Jardin Public. Created in 1746, this 11-hectare green space in the heart of Bordeaux is a pleasant bucolic interlude amidst 18th-century bourgeois buildings.

Inside, you’ll discover a botanical garden, the Capitole Palace, pretty statues, and a small island that you can tour by boat in an atmosphere worthy of a Monet painting. There’s also a restaurant, a carousel, and a children’s playground. Stroll through this haven of peace, sit on a bench, or simply lie down on the fresh grass for a pure moment of relaxation.

7. Enjoy a typical Bordeaux evening at a Guinguette

A Guinguette is a cheerful, friendly outdoor venue where you can enjoy fine summer nights in a setting that is perfect for relaxation, dancing, and leisure, often located near the seaside or a river.

While this delightful French tradition can be found throughout the country, it’s become quite the trend right here in Bordeaux. In recent years, numerous Guinguettes have popped up, and they’ve quickly become local favorites. The most recommended ones are Chez Alriq, Les Chantiers de la Garonne, and Le Sababa (next to Jardin Public).

One small note, though – these guinguettes are typically open only during the spring and summer seasons. So, if you happen to be in Bordeaux during the winter, consider checking out one of the city’s rooftop bars for a different but equally enjoyable experience.

Tip: Make sure to check the opening hours first as lots of Guinguettes close from one year to the next.

End of this 2 days in Bordeaux itinerary!

But keep reading to get more tips and suggestions in case you have more time there. 👇

3 Days or More in Bordeaux

If you have the chance to spend more than 3 days in Bordeaux or even more, then you should definitely add these attractions to your travel plan:

• Pont de Pierre: With its 17 arches and almost 500 meters in length, the Pont de Pierre is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks, as it is the first bridge in Bordeaux to cross the Garonne. A highlight not to be missed!
• Marché des Capucins: This is the largest market in Bordeaux and it’s the best place to taste local specialties and find souvenirs.
• Palais Rohan: This palace hosts Bordeaux City Hall and is a remarkable monument to visit, especially for its incredible staircase, one of the most exceptional in France.
• Garonne River Cruise with Glass of Wine: Taking a boat tour on the Garonne is the best way to enjoy the river and have a global overview of the town. Definitely a must!
• Wine Tasting Trip to Saint-Emilion: Saint-Emilion is a cute medieval village located within the famous wine region, less than an hour’s drive from Bordeaux.
• Day trip to Arcachon & Dune du Pilat: Less than an hour from Bordeaux, discover one of the world’s biggest sand dunes as well as a fun seaside resort town for an unforgettable beach day.

Jardin Public

FAQ About Visiting Bordeaux

Is Bordeaux worth visiting?

A big yes, Bordeaux is really worth it! Bordeaux is a city that really has it all and can be visited for a whole host of reasons: a lovely historic center full of incredible landmarks, a vibrant nightlife thanks to the many restaurants and bars everywhere, but also quieter areas like the quays of the Garonne to unwind. And if you’re craving fresh air, Bordeaux is less than 1 hour from the amazing Arcachon Bay on the Atlantic coast.

Are 2 days enough in Bordeaux?

2 days are enough to get a taste of Bordeaux and discover the main attractions. But if you can, I highly recommend spending 3 days in Bordeaux to really get to grips with the city, or to dedicate one day to a day trip. There are indeed lots of great day trip destinations from Bordeaux such as Arcachon, Dune du Pilat, or St Emilion which are exceptional places to visit in the region.

When is the best time to visit Bordeaux?

The best time to visit Bordeaux is during spring and fall, from April to June, and September to October. During these months, you’ll avoid the tourist crowds while enjoying pleasant temperatures to wander the city, and lower prices.

I recommend avoiding the peak season, i.e. the months of July and August. Like almost everywhere in South Europe, the crowds are huge and prices take off. Moreover, summer in Bordeaux has become hotter and hotter, and getting around can be unbearable.

The low season is during the winter season, from November to March. The weather is often wet and rainy, which means fewer tourists and lower prices. However, winter in Bordeaux has a particular charm, especially during the Christmas period.

How to get to Bordeaux?

There are several ways to get to Bordeaux: by car, by train or even by plane.

• By car: As one of France’s major cities, Bordeaux is very well connected to the road network. However, I don’t recommend getting around Bordeaux by car as the traffic is heavy and parking options are limited and expensive. So if you’re coming by car, the best is to park your car in your hotel’s parking lot or in one of the parking lots at the city entrance.
• By train: Train is the best option if you’re coming to Bordeaux from Paris (or from almost anywhere in France) as it only takes 2 hours by TGV (high-speed train). You’ll arrive at Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station located north of the city (about 10 min streetcar ride to the old town). Prices can vary from €20 to €150, so make sure to book your seat as soon as possible.
• By flight: the closest airport is Bordeaux-Merignac Airport, about 13 kilometers west of the city center. There is a 30-minute direct bus connecting the airport to Bordeaux train station. Or you can take the train line A to reach the city center in 40 minutes.

Where to eat in Bordeaux?

You’re in for a real treat in Bordeaux, as the city is bursting with delicious places to eat. Here are just a few of them:

• For brunch or coffee break: Contrast Café, Miah Café, She&Him (prefer booking in advance for brunch)
• For dinner: Berthus, La Tanière, La Taupinière
• For wine tasting: Le Bar à Vin, Vins Urbains, Au Bon Jaja

If you’re craving for Canelés, the best are from Baillardran. It’s a chain so you’ll find a few stores in town. They have a huge one on Sainte Catherine Street where you can even sit for a coffee break.

Read More About Traveling Bordeaux

I’ve crafted several other guides about Bordeaux to help you best prepare for your trip:

➡️ Here are a few pieces to learn more about Bordeaux:

• Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
• Best Time to Visit Bordeaux
• Safety in Bordeaux
• How Many Days to Visit in Bordeaux
• Best Areas to Stay in Bordeaux
• Fun Facts about Bordeaux

➡️ Spending more or less than 2 days in Bordeaux? Here are other itineraries tailored to the length of your stay:

• 24 Hours in Bordeaux
• 3 Days in Bordeaux

➡️ And here are other posts to better discover Bordeaux and beyond:

• Visit Bordeaux in Winter
• Best Day Trips from Bordeaux
• Day Trip to Arcachon from Bordeaux
• Best Beaches in Arcachon
• Discover the Dune du Pilat
• Camping near the Dune du Pilat

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

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