The city of Bordeaux in France is a symbol of French winemaking. Bordeaux: the wine capital of France

At the point where the Garrona River makes a graceful turn is the City of the Moon. This is what the French call Bordeaux, whose sights captivate tourists with their scope and aesthetics.

Location: in the southwest of France, in historical area Aquitaine, modern department of the Gironde.

Population: 285 thousand people, together with the suburbs 750 thousand people

Climate: close to the Mediterranean with warm and rainy winters and moderately hot sunny summers.

History: the origin of the city is associated with the Celtic tribes who lived here in the 1st century. BC. Julius Caesar conquered the city and made it the capital of Aquitaine.

The sights of Bordeaux are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

It is very difficult to see the city in one day. I would like to try gourmet cuisine, and go shopping, and see all the most interesting places. 2-3 days is the minimum required to see the city.

Port of the Moon (Port De La Lune)

From here began the city during the Roman Empire. On the left bank of the Garonne, which resembles a crescent moon with its bend, a harbor was built where ships from all over the world arrived.

The main historical sights are concentrated here. And on the beautiful embankment, there are areas for skateboarding and rollerblading, drinking machines, and toilets.

Exchange Square (Place De La Bourse)

Located on the Garrona embankment, built in the Baroque style in the 18th century. There is a building of the Customs Museum (Le Musee des Douanes. Entrance - 3 €) and the Exchange Palace. The most interesting things in the museum are devices for smuggling and counterfeit money.

Sainte Catherine Street

From the Exchange Square, tourists advise, you need to turn onto Sainte-Catherine Street - the largest pedestrian street in Europe. This is a shopping paradise. After all, Sainte-Catherine has about 200 boutiques.

Address: rue Sainte Catherine, Bordeaux.

Grand Theater of Bordeaux (Le Grand thtre de Bordeaux)

Located right there in the Port of the Moon. Building National Opera Bordeaux in the style of ancient Roman temples, decorated with slender rows of columns and antique sculptures, harmoniously fits into the architectural ensemble of the city.

Address: Place de la Comdie, 33000, Bordeaux.

Cathedral of Saint-André

The main temple of Bordeaux is the Cathedral of Saint-Andre, dedicated to St. Andrew the First-Called. It is located in the center of Port Luna. The temple has existed since the 11th century and with its beauty and standard harmony of Gothic forms attracts the attention of tourists and parishioners.

Address: Place Pey Berland, 33000.

Triumphal Arch of Cayo (PorteCailhau)

The arch completes the architectural ensemble of Port Luna. It was erected in the 15th century in honor of the victory over the Italians near Fornovo. Because of the lancet towers crowning the building, the arch is more like a gate. There is a museum inside.

• Address: Place du Palais.
• Opening hours: daily from 10:00 to 18:00.
• Entrance - free to the 1st floor, 3.50 € - visit to the entire arch complex, including the museum and gallery.

Gross-Kloch Tower (tour Gross-Kloch)

Among the medieval buildings of Bordeaux, the Grosse Cloche tower stands out, whose silhouette flaunts on the coat of arms of the city. 500 years ago it was part of the defensive fortifications.

WITH north side its facade is decorated with fabulous gargoyles, and with opposite side- astronomical clock. The tower is crowned with a bell.

Armanda Louise (La plus grande clochede Bordea ux Amanda-Louise)

The largest bell in Bordeaux is called Armande-Louise. It weighs 8 tons and rings only 6 times a year at 11.00 on the most important national holidays. The bell tower used to house a prison, now there is a museum.

• Address: Grosse Cloche, rue Saint-James / cours Victor Hugo, 1.
• Opening hours: from 13:00 to 18:00 in the summer.
• Entrance - 5€.

Basilica Saint-Michel

The most luxurious temple of Bordeaux. The townspeople call it "Arrow" for a hundred-meter bell tower high up in the sky. The basilica was built in the 16th century and is still pleasing to the eye.

• Address: Place Meynard / Place Canteloup.
• Opening hours: daily from 14:00 to 17:30, Monday and Saturday from 10:00 to 12:00.
• Admission is free, donations are welcome.

Quinconces Square (La Place Des Quinconces)

The main square of the city, where fairs, concerts and carnivals are held. In the center, next to the fountain, there is a monument to the Girondins - the inspirers of the Great French Revolution, as a reminder of the feat of the heroes who died for a just cause.

Address: Quinconces, Bordeaux.

Water Mirror (Miroird`Eau)

The Water Mirror is a unique square that appeared only 10 years ago. A thin layer of water covers the area, creating the effect of an even mirror in which palaces and buildings are reflected.

This place is loved by children who enthusiastically jump on the mirror surface. And adults at this time are happy to take a photo against the background of this miracle. It looks especially interesting in the evenings when the backlight is turned on.

City of Wine (La Cit du Vin)

Unusual in design building of 2016, inside - columns in the form of glass bottles, museum exposition, cultural and leisure center, Observation deck at a height of 55 meters, which overlooks the city. There are shops here, and they also give a map of wine journeys around the region.

• Address: Esplanade de Pontac, 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux, France.
• Opening hours: 10:00 – 19:00

Museum of Aquitaine (Muse D'Aquitaine)

The most informative museum in Bordeaux can be called the Museum of Aquitaine. It contains more than 70 thousand unique artifacts, some of them 25,000 years old.

The museum was founded in the 18th century, when ancient Roman sculptures were found during the construction of objects. After a recent renovation, it was filled with interactive exhibits. Interesting for both children and adults.

• Address: 20 Cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
• Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 11.00-18.00 / Mon: day off.
• Admission - 4€ for the permanent exhibition or 6.50€ including temporary exhibitions.

Museum of Fine Arts (Muse de sbeaux-arts)

What is the city of France without the Museum of Fine Arts? It is considered the oldest in France. It contains a unique collection of French, Italian, Flemish paintings of the 15th-20th centuries. The museum is located in the building of the former City Hall, surrounded by a magnificent park.

• Address: 20 Cours d'Albret, 33000 Bordeaux.
• Entrance - 4€ for the main exhibition or 6.50€ for the main exhibition and temporary exhibitions.
• Admission is free for persons under 18 and holders of the Bordeaux City Pass.

Museum of Modern Art (Muse d'art contemporain)

He collected more than 1000 works on his territory: modern installations, which are curious to look at for an inexperienced viewer.

• Address: rue Ferrere, 7.
• Opening hours: from 11:00 to 18:00, on Wednesdays in the summer until 20:00. Day off - Monday.
• Entrance - 5€ for the permanent exhibition or 7€ including temporary exhibitions.
• Admission is free for persons under 18 and Bordeaux City Pass holders.
• Also, admission is free every first Sunday of the month, except July and August.

Submarine base (Base Sous-Marine de Bordeaux)

Another interesting place that attracts tourists, which was built in Bordeaux at the direction of Hitler. This concrete monster commands respect, and next to it is a monument to the prisoners of war who built the facility. Now various exhibitions and events are held here.

Address: Boulevard Alfred-Daney, 33300, Bordeaux

Neighborhood

Around Bordeaux there are places that are worth the attention of tourists. The most interesting ones are below.

Kaznev Castle (Сhateau de Сazeneuve)

In the province of Gironde, which includes Bordeaux, there are many medieval castles. For example, Queen Margo once lived in the Kaznev Castle.

The fully furnished rooms of the queen have been restored here, and the wine cellar has been preserved. During the tour, tourists are also shown troglodyte caves and a beech grove.

Saint-Emilion

The Bordeaux region is also interesting for its surroundings, historically associated with winemaking.
35 km northwest of Bordeaux is located small town Saint Emilion. The road to it runs along the wonderful vineyards included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

As tourists describe in reviews, “this is a very unusual town. Stone-paved streets date back to the Middle Ages, and pedestrian streets are paved with polished porcelain stoneware, as if walking on parquet. Here, even modern houses are stylized as the Middle Ages. It feels like you're in the old days."

Saint-Emilion is famous for its excellent wines that you can taste and buy in shops.

Dune du Pilat

Dune du Pyla is located 58 kilometers from Bordeaux, before reaching Arakshon (Arcachon). They say it's the highest sand dune in Europe.

Climb this sandy mountain by stairs. At the top you can take pictures of the surroundings: the forest and the Arakshon Bay. Going down to the beach, tourists swim and relax, if the season and the ocean allow.

Andernos-les-Bains

Anderno-les-Bains, located 40 km from Bordeaux, is considered the most oyster city in France. There are whole oyster parks there. Restaurants and cafes abound, where a variety of seafood is deliciously cooked: shellfish, lobsters, crabs.

Tourists who have been there claim that “the largest plate of assorted will cost 30€. But to eat it, spend at least an hour and a half.

Dozens of oysters are also sold to take away for 5–9 €. If you wish, they can be opened for you, poured with lemon juice.

Vacation with children

Bordeaux Park (Parc Bordelais)

For families with children in Bordeaux are equipped modern parks, for example, Bordeaux Park, where in addition to playgrounds in summer time works puppet show open air.

Squirrels jump in abundance through the trees of the park, they are used to being hand-fed, and in the depths there is a pond with fish and ducks.

• Address: Rue du Bocage, Bordeaux.
• The entrance is free.

Zoo de Pessac

There is also a small zoo in the City of the Moon. Lions, zebras, giraffes, meerkats, favorites of children, live here. There is an aviary with parrots, lakes where flamingos and turtles live.

• Address: 3 Chemin du Transvaal, 33600 Pessac.
• Open daily from 9.30 to 18.00.
• Cost: adults €14, children €11.5.

Among the most unusual places for children and adults is the Wave Surf Caf. This is a park for surfers and other water sports. It will be of interest to teenagers.

• Address: 174 cours du Mdoc Bordeaux.
• Opening hours from 10.00 to 23.00.
• The cost is 25€ for 55 minutes.

For the little ones, the Royal kids Bordeaux center, where slides and trampolines, playgrounds and dry pools, labyrinths and attractions are a real delight.

• Address: rue Henri de Chatelier, 6.
• Tue and Fri. 9:30 – 12:00, Wed., Sat. and Sun. 10:00 - 19:00.
• The cost of an hour for a child is 10€.

Useful maps and videos

look interactive map sights of Bordeaux in Russian:

look video about Bordeaux:

On the territory of the picturesque city of Bordeaux there are a dozen attractions. One of them is the Church of St. Peter. The temple was built in the 19th century, on the site where the old church stood in the 17th century.

The architecture of the temple is made in the Gothic style, which includes three arches with wonderful sculptures in the central portal. Among them are winged angels, prophets and garlands of leaves.

The interior of the church is very rich and consists of beautiful stained glass windows of the 19th century, statues of the 17th century and many ancient icons. The central window is decorated with the Mother of God and the Assumption. Big interest evokes the choir and its unusual complex with ribbed vaults.

Among other things, three chapels deserve special attention: the left one is decorated with a gilded wooden statue of St. Paul, the right one has placed a bust of God the Father and a statue of St. Peter. And the chapel of the font gives you the opportunity to admire a painting by Pierre de Nantac.

Bordeaux airport

The terminal is located in close proximity to the motorway, which makes transport connection with the city and the whole province of Aquitaine fast and convenient. The airport building is divided into 2 halls: hall A and hall B. Airport halls are equipped with additional desks for people handicapped.

There is a developed transport infrastructure and communication between the city and the airport is provided by almost all types of transport: bus, taxi, car rental and even motorcycles. The airport management also provides the opportunity to rent special vehicles for people with disabilities. A dedicated bus route will take you directly to Bordeaux train station. The bus leaves every 45 minutes and costs 8 euros. Travel time is approximately 30-40 minutes.

The airport has 6 cafes, 12 shops, a bank, 2 currency exchange offices, a post office and free wireless Internet access. There are several hotels within a radius of 1.5 km from the airport building.

What sights of Bordeaux did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

Cathedral of Saint Andrew

The most fascinating cathedral in Bordeaux is Cathedral Andrew the First-Called. The temple was built over five centuries, which greatly affected its architecture.

The cathedral is a one-nave church in the Gothic style, with two symmetrically located towers. The height of the towers reaches about 81 meters. A distinctive feature of the cathedral is the placement of its entrance: unlike Christian churches, the entrance of which is located in the west, it is located on the north side.

The northern facade is decorated with the Royal Portal, which depicts the Last Judgment, and in the eastern part of the temple there is a choir. The bypass gallery opens five chapels, which are decorated with reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible.

Inside the temple has special place painting of the XIV-XVII centuries, sculpture of the beginning of the XIV-XVI centuries. The modern organ deserves special attention. Since 1998, the Cathedral of St. Andrew the First-Called has added to the list world heritage UNESCO as a shrine of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.

At the moment, after many reconstructions and repairs, the cathedral, as before, gathers a huge number of both pilgrims and ordinary tourists.

Japanese garden Compance Caffarelli is located in the city park Compance Caffarelli of Toulouse. Japan in miniature on French soil: all the features characteristic of the gardens of the Land of the Rising Sun are presented here with detailed study.

Several types of sakura, bamboo, small ponds, in particular, in the park the lake symbolizes the sea, gazebos, a stone waterfall, the originality of trimmed tree crowns, and of course, the dragon, in the park it is made of iron and reaches a height of about three meters - all this splendor takes more than 3000 meters, and is a kind of oasis of a business city.

Small wooden bridges are also remarkable, which are located throughout the garden, passing through which you find yourself in a certain island of the garden - an elevated hill, or on a platform for admiring the moon.

In addition to the garden, the park as a whole is an excellent area for family recreation and picnics, and wedding photo shoots are often held here.

Wine therapy center "Sources of Kodali"

The Codali Springs Wine Therapy Center is located near Bordeaux (15 minutes drive), among the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte. Bordeaux is the oldest city in France, located on the banks of the Garonne River. The Wine Therapy Center was opened in 1999 and since then has not lost its good reputation. In addition, this is not only a wellness center - it is a real health and relaxation center with great choice unique programs.

Center "Springs of Kodali" offers a complex of unique health and beauty programs based on wine therapy, for example: grape therapy, balneotherapy (jet shower with mineral water, underwater massage in a pool with mineral water, baths with vine pomace, Barrick bath - a bath with pomace from freshly crushed grapes and vegetable oils, massage with grape seed oil, lymphatic drainage, reflexology, anti-cellulite massage).Cosmetic treatments. IN free time You can order excursion programs: a tour of Bordeaux, a visit to famous wineries, a visit to the Bordeaux Planet Museum, a trip to the Atlantic coast in the resort town of Arcachon.

Cayo Gate

Cayo Gate, better known as the Palace Gate, is a national monument. They are located on the street of the same name, on the east side of the Cathedral of St. Andrew the First-Called. The construction of the gate was conceived to protect the palace, and they also acted as a triumphal arch, in honor of the victory of King Charles VIII during the Italian wars.

Today, the gates are the decoration of the city, which tourists willingly come to see. The architecture of the Palace Gate is very interesting and original. This architecture is of the Gothic style with an admixture of elements of the Renaissance.

The facade of the gate is crowned with medallions, hinged loopholes and dormer windows. The pointed turrets, which, together with the spire, reach a height of 35 meters, make a special impression. Due to damage to the facade, its bas-reliefs were restored in 1822 and transferred to the Museum of Aquitaine for preservation.

Oyster Museum

The Oyster Museum is located in a small Mediterranean fishing village Bouzigues, in France. It gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the working principle of the so-called "farmers of the sea" - fishermen. Visitors can watch them work and fish, learn how to open oysters and, of course, taste them.

In 1981, the idea of ​​preserving the traditional shellfish tools was adopted by the locals. An exhibition of these instruments was presented on a temporary basis in the farmhouse of the village of Bouzigues. The exhibition was successful and the collection eventually expanded and became a permanent exhibition. Thus, already in 1991, the Oyster Museum opened its doors on a regular basis to visitors who can observe the work and fishing of local fishermen for various shellfish and fish.

The museum is divided into three parts that can be visited. These are the "Clam Room", the "Fisherman's Shop" and the "Aquarium". Also to the attention of visitors is a master class on opening oysters and tasting.

The most popular attractions in Bordeaux with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places Bordeaux on our site.

Individual and group

Bordeaux is the center of the Gironde department French region Aquitaine. The city is located on the banks of the Garonne river. Bordeaux and the surrounding area is considered the wine capital of France. In Russian, the shade of red color "Bordeaux" got its name precisely from the wine made in this region.

Bordeaux and wine

The culture of winemaking in the Aquitaine region has about two thousand years. The city of Bordeaux is surrounded by 120,000 hectares of vineyards. The area is home to thousands of château family vineyards, dozens of trading houses and wine cellars.

Chateaus that are passed down from generation to generation are highly valued and considered a true state of the art. Therefore, the heirs, even not inclined to winemaking, never sell the vineyards, but rent them out.

The most famous wine regions around Bordeaux are Medoc, Graves, Saint-Emilion, Sauternes, Blayais, Fronsac. They produce 57 brands of red, rosé and white wines. The first and second accounts for 85% of the total volume of 700 million bottles. The names of wines are often given by grape varieties that make up most of the raw materials for production. The most prestigious brands of dry red wines:

• Chateau Petrus;
• Chateau Lafite Rothschild;
• Chateau Mouton Rothschild;
• Chateau Cheval Blanc;
• Chateau Haut-Brion.

Among white wines, the most famous is the sweet Chateau d "Yquem.

At the Maison du Vin (“House of Wine”, near the Grand Theatre) located in the center of Bordeaux, you can take the Routes des vins (map of the Roads of Wine) with detailed information on visiting the vineyards with tasting. To make it as pleasant as possible, you need to follow some simple tips:

• not be hungry;
• do not drink immediately, but twist the wine in a glass, gradually perceiving the aroma;
• drink in small sips, holding the wine in your mouth and savoring it;
• women should not come to the tasting scented.

What you need to know about the city

The population of Bordeaux is about 290 thousand people. The bend of the Garonne river separating the city has the shape of a crescent (it is depicted on the city coat of arms). In this regard, it is customary to call it Port de la Lune. Situated on the left bank historical Center city ​​called Port of the Moon 10 years ago was added to the UNESCO heritage list. By number historical monuments Bordeaux in France is second only to the capital. Sometimes the city is even called "little Paris". thrice ( last time- in 1940) the French government temporarily moved to Bordeaux.

The climate of Bordeaux is intermediate between Mediterranean and temperate maritime. It is characterized by mild rainy winters and sunny and rather hot summers. The amount of precipitation is quite significant and evenly distributed over the months. Summer rains are often accompanied by thunderstorms.

Bordeaux has the largest square in Europe, the largest water mirror and the longest pedestrian street in France. The city is visited by 2.5 million tourists annually. At the same time, Bordeaux is an important port and major center aviation, defense and shipbuilding. Atlantic cruise ships make a mandatory stop here.

There are also traditional tourist attractions in the city in the form of discos and nightclubs. Name, addresses and specifics of some of them:

• Comptoir du Jazz - 57 quai de Paludate, admission is free, but you must order at least one drink;
• L'Alligator - 3 place du General-Sarrail, blues, on Wednesdays;
• Rock School Barbey - 18 courses Barbey;
• La Plage (decorated as a beach) - 5 rue Cabannac, house and techno.

Transport

From Moscow to Bordeaux with a transfer in Paris, you can fly by plane AirFrance airlines. The closest small airport to the city is Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport. From it to the main railway station of Bordeaux - Gare Saint Jean, you can get on the Jet'Bus express bus or regular number 1. The ticket price varies significantly, amounting to 7.2 and 1.5 EUR, respectively. The express bus runs hourly and will take you to the city in 30-40 minutes. A regular bus leaves every 20-30 minutes and travels for about an hour.

Another option is to first fly to Paris by plane, and drive 500 km to Bordeaux by high-speed trains TGF networks. Travel time is 3 hours, and the ticket price is about 70 EUR. From the station to the center of Bordeaux, you can take tram line C or bus number 1. Get off at the Quinconces tram stop next to the iconic urban building - Grand Theater . Final bus stop - Palais de Justice near the Palace of Justice and the Cathedral, or Victoire near the Arc de Triomphe.

Intracity transport is represented by buses and three tram lines. They operate from 5 am to midnight (Friday and Saturday until 1 am). There are 65 day bus routes and one night - S11. It is aimed at fans of discos, connecting their place of concentration - quai de la Paludate, with Victoria Square. A single ticket for both modes of transport costs 1.5 EUR. It must be bought from the driver for cash coins and stamped. After that, the passenger has the right to 4 transfers within an hour.

Where is the best place to stay

Accommodation prices in Bordeaux are quite moderate. Some budget hotels:

• Citotel le Chantry;
• Hôtel Notre Dame;
• Acanthe Hotel.

I chose the Hotel Notre Dame in a quiet area at 36 rue Notre-Dame (close to Esplanade des Quinconces). A single room booked at the end of April cost 64 EUR per night.

Wealthier travelers who are willing to pay from 100 EUR can stay in hotels:

• Mercure Bordeaux Le Lac;
• Campanile Bordeaux Nord;
• La Maison Du Lierre;
• Best Western Royal Saint Jean.

Addresses of restaurants and cafes where you can eat delicious food

The cuisine of the city is not distinguished by special gastronomic delights. The main feature is a wide selection of good wines. Seafood is common - lobster and oysters, truffles, artichokes and macaroons.

To popular places Catering with democratic prices, in particular, include:

• Café Dijeaux at 14 place Gambetta;
• Cassolette Café - 20 place de la Victoire;
• L'Entrecote - 4, cours du 30 Juillet;
• Le Bistrot des Quinconces- 4 place des Quinconces;
• restaurant Chez Dupont-45 rue de Notre-Dame;
• Cafe des Arts - 138 courses Victor-Hugo;
• salsa bar Calle Ocho - 24 rue des Piliers-de-Tutelle.

Lunch and dinner in them will cost 20-25 EUR. Of course, it includes wine.

In the middle price segment, the restaurant La Cave Utile en Ville operates at 7, Place du Maucaillou. It belongs to a wine company and is different huge selection wines You can taste them for free, which I did one of the days. Expensive restaurants with Michelin stars are Le Chapon Fin (5, Rue Montesquieu) and Le Gabriel (10, Place de la Bourse).

What to see in the city for yourself

The old town is located between the Place de la Comédie, the Saint-Pierre Cathedral and the cours Victor-Hugo. It consists of restored last years buildings of the XVII-XVIII centuries. Many of them are decorated with twisted balconies and galleries.

The architectural dominant of the Old Town is the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, built at the end of the 18th century. on the site of a Roman temple. The monumental neoclassical building with a height of 88 m is very beautiful. The facade of the building is notable for a large portico with columns crowned with figures of the goddesses Minerva, Juno and Venus and 9 muses.

The theater houses the city's opera and ballet. At the peak of the season - in July and August, on all days except Sunday, you can get inside the theater with a tour that costs 5.5 EUR. Address: Place de la Comedie. The building can be reached by tram line B, getting off at the stop Grand Theatre.

Alley Cours de l'Intendance with located on it expensive shops connects la Comedie and place Gambetta squares. Place Gambetta is home to the impressive Saint-André Cathedral. Although it was built from the 11th to the 16th centuries, its Gothic façade retained its stylistic uniformity. The entrance to the cathedral is from the northern facade, which is decorated with a rose window with floral ornaments. Two towers directed to the sky reach a height of 81 m.

The cathedral can be visited every day, except Sunday, at 7:30-11:30 and 14-18:30.

A peculiar attraction of the city is the pedestrian street Rue Sainte-Catherine. Hundreds of shops and boutiques are concentrated on it. The length of 1250 m gives the street the right to claim the title of the longest pedestrian street in the country.

Museums

There are several interesting museums in the streets adjacent to the cathedral. In the small Musee des Beaux-Arts you can see paintings by Titian, Veronese, Rubens, Matisse. The decoration of the collection is Delacroix's painting "Greece on the ruins of Missolonghi". The museum can be visited every day except Thursday from 11:00 to 18:00. Visiting the permanent exhibition is free. The Musee des Arts Decoratifs, with a similar regime and conditions, presents faience, porcelain and glass products, antique furniture, and sculptures. And the Center National Jean-Moulin is dedicated to the hero of the French Resistance, Jean Moulin.

While in Bordeaux, it's inexcusable not to visit recently open museum history and culture of wine - La Cité du Vin. It is located on the banks of the Garonne River in a futuristic building in the form of a decanter (wine decanter). In the "city of wine" there is a tasting room, a restaurant, a tapas bar and a wine boutique selling wines from 80 countries of the world. The museum is open daily from 9:30 to 19:30. Entrance ticket including tasting costs 20 EUR.

"City of Wine" is open from 10:00 to 18:00, except Monday. Address: 41 Rue Borie, travel by bus 7 or 32 to the La Cité du Vin stop.

city ​​squares

To the north of the Grand Theatre, the cours du 30-Juillet leads to the largest square in Europe - the esplanade des Quinconces with a free area of ​​12 hectares. It is dominated by two large columns topped with allegorical statues of Trade and Navigation. At the other end of the esplanade is the Monument aux Girondins. A curious story of the Second World War is connected with the monument to the Girondins (deputies - victims of revolutionary terror). The German occupation troops were going to destroy the monument. Local resistance fighters were ahead of them, dismantling and hiding fragments of the monument at night.

Another iconic area of ​​Bordeaux located nearby is Place de la Bourse. Its architectural ensemble consists of the Exchange Palace, the Customs Museum and the Fountain of the Three Graces in the center. Burs Square has two other unofficial names - Royal (for the majestic view) and Exchange.

In the 21st century a fantastic attraction appeared near the square - Miroir d "eau ("Water Mirror"). French hydraulic engineers and urban architects, inspired by the domes of the Taj Mahal reflected in the water pond, decided to do something similar in Bordeaux.

To do this, the section of the Garonne embankment up to the Stock Exchange building (dimensions 130 * 42 m) was covered with dark granite tiles with 900 built-in nozzles. They release steam, forming a fog 2 m high. Then water begins to flow from the nozzles, turning the site into a mirror water surface 2 cm high. Gradually settling fog opens up a magical picture for the audience - the buildings of Burs Square are duplicated in the water mirror. The described cycle is repeated every 25 minutes. The “Water Mirror” looks especially spectacular when the Exchange Palace and the Customs Museum are illuminated in the evening.

The performance can be watched during the warm season from 10:00 to 22:00. Admiring the opened view, I thanked fate. Indeed, when planning a visit to the city, I did not know anything about the water mirror, and I could well have been in the city earlier. The best of Bordeaux could have passed me by.

Festivals and holidays of Bordeaux

In even years, the Bordeaux Fete le Vin wine festival takes place in Bordeaux. The holiday is held for 4 days at the end of June with the obligatory capture of the last weekend of the month. It begins with a costumed procession of winemakers to the city square. There the mayor solemnly opens the holiday. During its 4 days, free tastings of various brands of wine, exhibitions, master classes, wine barrel rides, theatrical performances, and concerts take place.

On the banks of the Garonne, trade pavilions of local wine producers open - Medoc, Cotes de Bordeaux, Graves, Saint-Emilion, Fronsac and others. In the same area, a huge table is being built, at which they sit locals with your products. Naturally, tourists can also join them. The last day of the festival ends with a grandiose fireworks display.

In odd years in Bordeaux, also at the end of June, Vinexpo is held - the international salon of wines and spirits.

Another traditional holiday is dedicated to the city river Garonne. It is organized in odd years at the end of May. Like the wine festival, the festival lasts 4 days. Its main event is the water parade and competitions fishing boats, sailing yachts and boats.

Other traditional events include:

• January Antique Salon;
• February horse races with obstacles;
• March book day
• April Short Film Festival;
• June festival of fairy tales.

The city also hosts music festivals - classical and organ music, jazz and rock.

Conclusion

The example of Bordeaux once again proves how many interesting things pass by travelers who focus only on the main tourist centers. Wine, the Bolshoi Theatre, the Cathedral and, of course, the Water Mirror make your stay in the city unforgettable. Since Miroir d "eau does not work in cold weather, the recommended time to visit the city is from the second half of spring to early autumn.

The center of the Gironde department - the ancient city of Bordeaux (Bordeaux) lies in downstream the Garonne River, just 70 km above the mouth and 32 km from the ocean.

The date of the founding of the city is lost in the centuries, but it is known for sure that by the 3rd century AD. e. Burdigala, as the city was then called, was the capital of the province of Aquitaine Secunda and a major trading center. Now it is the fifth largest city in France, the recognized capital of winemaking, major port and one of the most beautiful cities country in which French and British traditions are vividly mixed.

Attractions

Old city lying between Comedy Square, imposing mansions along the banks of the river and Saint Pierre Cathedral, almost entirely built up with rather characteristic buildings of the 17th-18th centuries, especially noticeable between the squares of Parliament, Saint-Pierre and the Grand Theatre. Most of narrow streets and old mansions has been carefully restored in recent years.

Community Center - Grand Theater, built on the site of an ancient Roman temple by the architect Victor Louis in 1780. Its facade is decorated with a huge portico with columns crowned with 12 muses and graces, and the interior decoration is no less magnificent ( organized excursions in the complex are held from July to August, from Monday to Saturday at 11.00, the cost is 5.5 euros). The most beautiful streets of the city fan out from the theater - the main shopping "platform" Ste-Catherine, the luxurious avenue l "Intendance, the shady alley Tourny.

Esplanade nearby. Quinconces with an area of ​​almost 12 hectares (the largest big square of its kind in Europe) and the large Bourse square adjacent to the embankment with a fountain Three Graces. At the end of the pier rise two tall columns, crowned with allegorical statues of Trade and Navigation (1829), and at the opposite end of the esplanade - monument to the Girondins- a magnificent ensemble of statues and fountains erected in honor of the local deputies of the Revolutionary Assembly (1789), later accused by Robespierre of a counter-revolutionary conspiracy.

Nearby rises the imposing building of the old customs house (1733), which now houses Customs Museum(open from Thursday to Sunday from 10.00 to 18.00, entrance - 3 euros) with an extensive collection of the history of the port of Bordeaux and navigation. A little further south along the banks of the Garonne you can find kylo bridge(Porte Cailhau, XV century) and an imposing bridge pierre, or the Stone Bridge (although in fact it is made of brick), built during the Spanish campaigns of Napoleon (the 17 arches of the bridge symbolize the 17 victories of the emperor). Particularly bewitching views from the bridges open at night, when the floodlights are turned on.

Cours de l "Intendance Avenue with its many chic shops leads to the Gambet Square, completely surrounded by restaurants and cafes, with its arch Dijo(city gates of the 18th century). South rises Cathedral of Saint-André(XII-XVI centuries, open from Monday to Saturday from 7.30 to 11.30 and from 14.00 to 18.30), a distinctive feature of which are the twin spiers along the north transept and adjacent, but separated from the temple itself bell tower petit bernard(XV century).

The best museums of the city are concentrated just within a radius of two or three blocks from the cathedral. Directly behind the classical town hall is the complex of the old archbishop's palace, which now houses Museum fine arts (open daily, except Thursday, from 11.00 to 18.00; admission to permanent exhibitions is free; temporary exhibitions - 5 euros) with a collection of the best works of European masters. No less attractive Museum of Decorative Arts(open daily, except Thursday, from 11.00 to 18.00; admission to permanent exhibitions is free; temporary exhibitions - 5 euros) in a beautiful mansion of the XVIII century. Continuing clockwise around the cathedral, you can exit to National Center Jean Moulin(open from Thursday to Sunday; admission is free), dedicated to the history of the occupation of the city and the local Resistance. And even further, on Cours Pasteur, is located Museum of Aquitaine(open from Thursday to Sunday from 11.00 to 18.00; admission to permanent exhibitions is free; temporary exhibitions - 5 euros), considered one of best museums cities. It has an extensive collection of regional ethnography, history, agriculture and winemaking. And closes the "ring of museums" somewhat ponderous Gothic Gros-Clochet tower(XV century), originally part of the medieval town hall.

Northwest of Gambet Square begins beautiful park Jardin-Public(open daily, from April to October - from 7.00 to 20.00-21.00; from November to March - from 7.00 to 18.00; admission is free), in which there are Botanical Garden and small Natural History Museum. Behind the green belt stretches a quiet, almost provincial quarter of two-story stone buildings and narrow streets around the rue du Dr-Albert-Barraud. The decoration of this area is the so-called "Gallen Palace", actually representing the arena of the third century - this is all that remains of the Roman capital of Aquitaine. Nearby, on Place Delerme, there is an unusual round market hall, and to the east, closer to the river, - Modern Art Museum(open from Thursday to Sunday from 11.00 to 18.00, on Fridays - from 11.00 to 20.00; entrance - 5 euros), which occupies a converted customs warehouse of the XIX century.

Bordeaux (France) - the most detailed information about the city with a photo. The main attractions of Bordeaux with descriptions, guides and maps.

City of Bordeaux (France)

Bordeaux is a city in southwestern France, the capital of the historical region of Aquitaine and the Gironde department. It is famous for its wines, which are considered among the best in the world, as well as the largest student population in the country. Bordeaux is an elegant southern French city with a charming provincial charm. Known for the richest cultural and historical heritage, due to which it is included in the list of UNESCO sites. This ancient trading city is called the "Port of the Moon" because of its location on the crescent-shaped river Garonne.

Geography and climate

Bordeaux is located in the north of Aquitaine in the Garronne bend, 500 km southwest of Paris. The river divides the city into two parts: on the left bank is the historical center and the port, on the right - modern areas. The climate of Bordeaux is transitional from temperate maritime to Mediterranean subtropical. Summers are comparatively hot and sunny, while winters are rather mild, although cool due to the predominance of westerly winds.

Practical Information

1. The population is more than 240 thousand people.
2. Area - 68 km 2.
3. The language is French.
4. Currency - euro.
5. Visa - Schengen.
6. Time - UTC +1, summer +2.
7. The airport is located to the west of the city center and has flights to London, Madrid and Amsterdam. Between the airport and the city run express buses with stops on demand.
8. Bordeaux has a railway connection with Paris, Toulouse, Marseille, Nice, Montpellier.
9. Bordeaux is one of the largest wine regions in the world. The most famous wines are: Château Haut Brion, Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux, Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Ausone, Château Cheval Blanc, Château Grand Renouil, Château du Pavillon, Château Petrus.
10. The main shopping area is around St. Catherine Street, which is the longest pedestrian area in Europe
11. Rue Saint-Remy has a large concentration of different restaurants and cafes.

Story

Bordeaux was founded over two thousand years ago. The origins of the city date back to the Celtic settlement of Burdigale. In the 1st century BC. it was conquered by the Romans, led by Julius Caesar, and became the center of Gaul of Aquitaine.

In the Middle Ages, Bordeaux was a fairly prosperous city. After the English kings from the Angevin dynasty became the dukes of the region, new beautiful buildings were built here, the cathedral was expanded and winemaking developed. The city also had significant liberties, which were discontinued after the end of the Hundred Years War, when Bordeaux became part of the Kingdom of France.

After a period of decline, Bordeaux began to grow rich in trade with America. In 1746, the Marquis de Tourny wanted to make the city one of the most beautiful in France. After that, the center of Bordeaux was significantly rebuilt in the style of classicism. In modern times, the city continued to grow rich in trade. Through Bordeaux there was a trade flow from the French metropolises. During World War II, the city was bombed several times.

Attractions

Cathedral of St. Andrew is the most beautiful religious monument of Bordeaux, located in the heart of the city. The building was built by local archbishops between the 12th and 14th centuries, predominantly in the Gothic style. In 1789, during the French Revolution, the cathedral lost almost all of its decorations and religious treasures, and the building itself was used to store fodder. In the 19th century, the church was significantly damaged by fire. In the future, the building was carefully restored, although it lost its antique furniture.

Notre Dame is a baroque Catholic church completed in 1707.

Le Grand (grand) theater is a masterpiece of classicism, completed in 1780. The theater building is one of the most emblematic in Bordeaux and was built on the site of an ancient Roman forum. The architect is Victor Louis, who also designed the Palais Royal and Théâtre Français in Paris. One of the interesting features of the Le Grand Theater is the 12 colossal Corinthian columns and statues of the nine muses and goddesses.

Place de la Bourse (Exchanges) is one of the symbols of Bordeaux. This place played an important role in the development of the city and trade. The square has beautiful classical architecture from the 18th century. In the center is the Fountain of the Three Graces, which is surrounded by the old Stock Exchange and the Customs Museum.

Saint-Seurin is an exquisite Romanesque basilica that is a stop on the medieval religious route of St. Jacob in Santiago de Compostela and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The origins of the church date back to the 11th century. It has a beautiful choir and richly decorated chapels. The oldest part of the basilica is the 11th century crypt, which houses ancient relics and sarcophagi from the 6th and 7th centuries.

Saint-Michel is a grandiose early Gothic basilica dedicated to the Archangel Michael. It took 200 years to build, starting in the 14th century. The Basilica Saint-Michel is also a stop on the route of St. Jacob and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church has rich Gothic decorations and a free-standing bell tower that opens onto beautiful view to Bordeaux. The square in front of the basilica hosts a weekly farmers' and flea markets, and the neighborhoods in the surrounding area are the most colorful and atmospheric in the whole city.

Esplanade des Quinconces is one of the largest squares in Europe. Located in the heart of Bordeaux near Le Grand Theatre. On the square there is a monumental fountain from the early 19th century, destroyed during World War II. To the south is Rue Sainte-Catherine, the city's busiest shopping area. It is also the oldest existing street in Bordeaux.

Palais Gallien is the only surviving monument from the period of the Roman Empire in Bordeaux. This amphitheater could hold 15,000 spectators and was built in the 2nd century AD. for gladiator fights.

The Pont de Pierre is a stone bridge from the first half of the 19th century, which is one of the iconic sights of Bordeaux. It crosses the Garrona and has 17 graceful arches supported by piled foundations.

Grosse Cloche (Big Bell) is one of the oldest belfries in France, located in the heart of the city. The gate was built in the Middle Ages. The bell was added to them in 1775. It weighs almost 8 tons.

Porte Cailhau - beautiful medieval gate from the end of the 15th century, built French king Charles VIII. They are 35 meters high and were built into the city walls.

Victory Square is one of central squares Bordeaux, famous for its arch and marble column dedicated to winemaking.

Saint-Pierre Church is an old French Gothic church built between the 14th and 15th centuries on the site of an older medieval church from the 12th century. Church of St. Petra is one of the oldest in Bordeaux. A Christian parish has existed here since the 6th century.

Castles around Bordeaux

Château de Villandraut is an authentic 14th century fortified medieval castle built for Pope Clement V.

Château Royal de Cazeneuve is a beautiful medieval castle, the residence of the kings of Navarre. Located 60 km south of Bordeaux.

Château de Vayres is a castle that combines medieval, renaissance and 17th century classical architecture. It is a historical monument.

Château de Malle is the magnificent residence of Jacques de Malle, built in the 17th century. The castle is surrounded by beautiful Italian-style gardens.