Bordeaux FranceCruise Port Guide
Getting Around from the Port
For ships docking at the city center (Port de la Lune), Bordeaux is exceptionally walkable. Most notable attractions are in the pedestrian-friendly city center, just a few minutes' walk from the quays.
To navigate the pedestrianized areas, look for "la navette du center-ville," an electric bus. This is the only public transportation allowed on these streets. There are no fixed stops; simply wave to the driver to board and ask to stop when you wish to alight.
Taxis are available, charging approximately €50 per hour.
Attractions and Activities
Bordeaux offers a rich array of activities both within the city and nearby:
Within Bordeaux (Walkable from City Terminal):
- The Golden Triangle: This beautiful historic neighborhood is bounded by Cours Clemenceau, Cours de l'Intendance, and Les Allees de Tourny. It's best explored on foot to admire its architecture and charm.
- Guided Walking Tours: The Tourist Office offers two-hour walking tours in both French and English, departing at 10:00 and 15:00.
- Historic Landmarks: Explore the 18th-century Porte de Bourgogne arched gate, St André Cathedral (consecrated 1006), the 12th-century Romanesque Sainte-Croix Church, the Hôtel de Ville, and the 18th-century Grand Théâtre.
Wine Country Tours:
- The Tourist Office provides various wine tours, including excursions to the renowned wine chateaux of Medoc and St. Emilion.
Nearby Day Trips:
- Dune du Pyla: An absolute must-see, this giant sand dune is 5 km long and 111 meters high, nestled between a forest and the ocean. You can even cycle the 50 km from Bordeaux through fragrant pine forests in about 1.5 hours to reach it.
- Bassin d'Arcachon: A paradise for oyster and seafood enthusiasts.
- Cap Ferret: Bordeaux's trendy beach destination. This sandy, pine-covered point offers incredible views between the calm waters of the Arcachon Basin and the often-turbulent Atlantic.
Shopping
The Rue Sainte Catherine is a very long pedestrian shopping street, starting conveniently near the Tourist Office and The Grand Theatre.
Dining
Bordeaux's cuisine is well-regarded globally, largely due to its illustrious wines. The food is typically prepared in a straightforward manner. For a lively evening, Bordeaux's terraces are open late, especially at Place de la Victoire, where you can find tapas, music, and a vibrant energy that continues late into the night, particularly on weekends.
Weather
Bordeaux on the Gironde enjoys a temperate oceanic climate with warm summers between 77–86°F (25–30°C) and mild, rainy winters during the spring-to-fall cruise season. Atlantic proximity means rain is possible at any time, so layers and a waterproof jacket are always worth packing. The magnificent UNESCO-listed 18th-century city center, the world's greatest wine estates, and the lively quai de la Douane waterfront make Bordeaux one of France's finest river cruise destinations.
Safety
No specific safety concerns beyond general travel awareness are noted for Bordeaux.