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Cultural Activities in Bordeaux
Discover the top Bordeaux cultural activities
Whatever you choose to do on your holiday you are sure to find a huge range of cultural activities across the Bordeaux area. From museums to archaeological sites, live music or wine tastings, there is something for everyone in Bordeaux. Check out the selection of things to do & see below for some holiday inspiration!
Archaeological Sites & Roman Ruins
The region of Bordeaux has a very long history, with settlements as old as the 4th century BC and a prosperous medieval life. Here you can visit beautiful castles, bridges and ruins that tell the area's fascinating journey through time.
Castles & Ruins
Most of the Gironde's economy has been based on wine production since the Middle Ages, when it was home to important aristocrats like queen Eleanor of Aquitaine. Many of the area's vineyards are located around wonderful castles, while Bordeaux and its surrounding towns are home to some of the most beautiful palaces, most of which can be visited.
Caves & Rocks
Under the town of Rauzan you can find the limestone caves of the Grotte Celestine, open to the public.
Cinema
Catch the latest films and releases in Bordeaux on your holiday. Look out for VOST for English speaking films.
Cookery Schools & Courses
Bordeaux, like the whole of France, is a paradise for foodies. Local delicacies include beef, lamb, mushrooms, the world-famous foie gras, grapes with which they make the region's celebrated wine or fresh oysters, while there are delicious regional recipes like the Entrecote Bordelaise, Eclade or desserts such as the Gateau des Rois or Caneles. Many culinary schools and restaurants around Bordeaux offer cookery classes where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes or discover the newest trends in French cuisine.
Fiestas, Fairs & Fetes
There are many village festivals around Bordeaux where you can mingle with the locals, dance to traditional music and taste local specialities while learning more about the region's history and customs.
Houses & gardens
The Gironde's grand palaces and chateaux are undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in the area. Many of those are surrounded by beautiful vineyards and in them you can taste local wines. The countryside also offers stunning villas that are open to the public.
Live Music
Bordeaux is one of France's largest cities, so it comes as no surprise that it boasts one of the liveliest music scenes in the country. From festivals, to small pubs hosting live rock bands or nightclubs with some of the best DJs, Bordeaux has something to suit all tastes.
Markets
Bordeaux and the surrounding area have a whole host of markets where you can hunt a bargain, check out the local crafts and antiques, or buy regional produce.
Museums & Galleries
Bordeaux and the larger Gironde region have a wide range of museums and galleries to keep visitors entertained. From important art collections to exhibitions dedicated to the area's history, traditions and typical products like wine or oysters, there is something for everyone.
Religious Buildings
The Gironde area boasts many wonderful religious buildings, with important medieval and modern churches and monasteries. Some of them have even been listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Theatres
There is a bustling cultural life in Bordeaux thanks to its important venues where you can watch a theatre play, usually in French, as well as dancing shows and operas.
Wine tasting & vineyard tours in Bordeaux
Take a tour around one of the beautiful vineyards in Bordeaux. Taste the carefully made wines, learn more about them, the grapes and the wine making process whilst enjoying the wonderful vineyard scenery.
