Bordeaux: Free Walking City Tour (English)

Bordeaux, a city renowned for its captivating architecture and rich history, offers visitors the chance to explore its wonders through a free walking tour. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this 2-hour excursion takes you on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the grand Bordeaux Cathedral to the mesmerizing Miroir d’eau. Whether you’re seeking to learn about the city’s cultural heritage or simply admire its stunning vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. With a flexible payment model and personalized attention, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview

2 Itinerary Highlights

3 Key Sights and Stops

4 Tower Pey-Berland View

5 Rue Saint Catherine

6 Saint Pierre Church

7 Monument Aux Girondins

8 Booking and Availability

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

This 2-hour walking tour of Bordeaux is led by local experts and showcases the city’s captivating architecture, including the Bordeaux Cathedral and Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux.
The tour follows an immersive itinerary that highlights key sights such as the Miroir d’eau, Place de la Bourse, and the historic Saint-Pierre district.
Visitors can climb the 229 steps to the top of the 50-meter-tall Tour Pey-Berland for panoramic views of Bordeaux’s historic center and the Garonne River.
The tour explores the lively Rue Saint Catherine, Bordeaux’s main commercial street, featuring 18th-century buildings and a diverse range of local and international shops and cafes.
The tour is on a tips-based payment model, allowing visitors to book in advance and pay on the day, providing flexibility and convenience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This free 2-hour walking tour of Bordeaux is led by local experts and allows visitors to discover the city’s charming landmarks and iconic sights. Offering a tips-based model, guests can pay what they want based on their satisfaction.

Along the way, the guide will showcase Bordeaux’s captivating architecture, including the Bordeaux Cathedral, Tower Pey-Berland, and the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux.

Other highlights include the famous Miroir d’eau, the stunning Place de la Bourse, and the charming Saint-Pierre neighborhood.

Whether it’s climbing to the top of the Tower Pey-Berland or wandering down the bustling Rue Saint Catherine, this tour provides an immersive and personalized exploration of Bordeaux’s rich history and vibrant culture.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the iconic Statue of Jacques Chaban Delmas, where guests can marvel at the monument’s commanding presence.

From there, the guide leads visitors on an immersive journey through Bordeaux’s historic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Bordeaux Cathedral, the towering and architecturally significant Tower Pey-Berland, and the opulent Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux.

Next, the group explores the Miroir d’eau, a stunning reflecting pool that mirrors the city’s beautiful architecture.

Guests then wander through the charming Place de la Bourse and the lively Saint-Pierre district, before discovering the impressive Place Saint-Projet, the ornate Porte Cailhau, and the striking Monument aux Girondins, a tribute to the Girondist political movement.

Key Sights and Stops

As the tour winds through Bordeaux’s historic heart, visitors can’t miss the towering presence of the Bordeaux Cathedral, a magnificent 11th-century Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city skyline.

Nearby, the Tour Pey-Berland, a striking bell tower, offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Another highlight is the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, a neoclassical gem that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour also takes visitors to the iconic Miroir d’eau, a vast reflective pool that perfectly mirrors the stunning 18th-century Place de la Bourse.

Tower Pey-Berland View

Visitors can climb the 229 steps to the top of the 50-meter-tall Tower Pey-Berland, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Bordeaux’s historic center and the Garonne River beyond. From the observation deck, guests can admire the city’s striking architecture, including the impressive Cathédrale Saint-André and the iconic Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. The view also extends to the Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, and the elegant Place de la Bourse. As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Tower Pey-Berland provides an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate Bordeaux’s unique blend of history and modernity.

View From Tower Pey-Berland
Cathédrale Saint-André	Grand Théâtre
Miroir d’Eau	Place de la Bourse
Garonne River	Historic Center

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Rue Saint Catherine

Bustling with energy, Rue Saint Catherine beckons visitors to stroll along its charming, pedestrian-friendly promenade lined with an array of shops, cafes, and historic architecture.

As the main commercial street in Bordeaux, it’s a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from local boutiques to international brands.

Wander past grand 18th-century buildings and stop to admire the intricate facades, or duck into one of the lively cafes for a cup of rich, aromatic coffee.

The street’s lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a highlight of the walking tour, giving visitors a taste of Bordeaux’s vibrant city center.

Whether you’re looking to shop, people-watch, or simply soak up the local culture, Rue Saint Catherine isn’t to be missed.

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Saint Pierre Church

The 12th-century Saint Pierre Church stands as a captivating architectural marvel, its soaring Gothic spires and intricate stone carvings inviting visitors to enjoy the building’s rich history.

As part of the Bordeaux walking tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore this historic place of worship, learning about its significance in the city’s religious and cultural landscape.

The church’s grand interior features stunning stained glass windows, ornate altars, and intricate sculptures, providing a glimpse into the artistic achievements of the medieval era.

With its impressive scale and well-preserved details, Saint Pierre Church offers a poignant connection to Bordeaux’s past, captivating all who step through its centuries-old doors.

Monument Aux Girondins

Towering majestically at the heart of the city, the Monument aux Girondins commemorates the political movement that played a pivotal role in the French Revolution.

This striking monument, designed by sculptor Étienne Clémentel, features allegorical figures and dramatic marble reliefs that depict key events and figures from the Girondist movement.

As you explore the monument, you’ll learn about the Girondins’ democratic ideals and their ultimately tragic fate during the Reign of Terror.

Standing in the shadow of this impressive landmark, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Bordeaux’s rich history and the enduring legacy of the political struggles that unfolded within its streets.

Booking and Availability

Visitors can book the free walking tour now and pay later to secure their spot, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance free of charge.

The tour’s availability can be checked online to see the starting times.

Bookings are made in advance to reserve a place on the tour.

Payment isn’t required until the day of the tour, allowing for flexibility.

Free cancellation up to a day before the tour date provides convenience.

Online availability checking ensures guests can find a suitable start time.

The booking process is simple and straightforward for a seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum group size. It’s a free, tips-based walking tour open to individual travelers or groups of any size. Participants can join the tour without needing to meet a minimum number requirement.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are generally not permitted on walking tours for safety and comfort of all participants. The tour operator may make exceptions for service animals, but visitors should check with the tour company prior to booking to confirm their pet policy.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, the tour is tips-based, so participants can pay what they feel the tour was worth based on their satisfaction.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers private tours that can be tailored to the group’s interests and schedule. Advance booking is required for private tours.

Is Photography Permitted During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during the tour. Participants are welcome to take photos of the sights and landmarks along the route. However, guests should be mindful and avoid disrupting the guide or other tour members.