What to do in Bordeaux and the surrounding area
Discover Bordeaux from Camping Le Paradis in Carcans, near Lacanau. Around 50 km from the campsite, the city offers a wealth of activities. Historic heritage, lively quays and food markets make it an appealing destination for everyone. Walk through its streets, admire monuments, taste local wines or stroll beside the Garonne. Wondering what to do in Bordeaux? Follow our guide.
Iconic Bordeaux: timeless highlights
Start with Place de la Bourse, an 18th-century landmark in Bordeaux’s UNESCO-listed historic centre. Its symmetrical façades reflect in the Miroir d’Eau, where water and mist create a changing spectacle. Stroll along the quays at dawn or admire golden reflections at sunset; children enjoy the water jets.
Continue to the Cité du Vin, a modern venue devoted to wine cultures from Bordeaux and around the world. Its curved building houses sensory experiences, guided tastings and panoramic views from the belvedere. Elsewhere along the river, admire the Pont de Pierre, Bordeaux’s first bridge, commissioned under Napoleon, with its 17 arches and views of the Garonne and old town.
Before returning to our 4-star campsite near Bordeaux, discover Saint-Michel Basilica and its Gothic spire, then explore the lively surrounding district and markets. For a day trip from Bordeaux, head to Saint-Émilion, around 45 km away, and its UNESCO-listed wine-growing landscape.
Off the beaten track: discover another side of Bordeaux
Visit Darwin Écosystème, a former military site on the right bank. Bicycle repair workshops, street art and organic food reflect a different side of Bordeaux. Nearby, the Chaban-Delmas lifting bridge offers impressive views towards the Bassins à Flot.
Explore Les Chartrons, once home to wine merchants and now a favourite area for art lovers. Look for street art and visit the Musée Mer Marine to discover the city’s maritime connections and the surrounding dockland landscape.
For a different activity, try an escape game around the Saint-André district, or plan an excursion towards Arcachon and the Dune du Pilat before returning to our affordable campsite near Bordeaux.
Discover Bordeaux’s food and wine
Begin at the Marché des Capucins, where cheesemongers, fishmongers and greengrocers share the covered market. Try regional dishes such as lamprey à la bordelaise, grilled beef and fresh canelés, and enjoy the lively atmosphere around shared tables.
A canelé-making workshop in the Saint-Pierre district offers an introduction to this golden local pastry, flavoured with vanilla and rum and traditionally baked in copper moulds.
At the Musée du Vin et du Négoce, housed in an 18th-century building, discover how wine trading shaped Bordeaux. Historic barrels and trading documents tell the story, with tastings offering another introduction to wines such as Saint-Émilion and Margaux.
Complete your outing with a visit to Château Pape Clément in Pessac, a historic wine estate with beautiful gardens. A guided tasting in the cellars introduces its wines and centuries of expertise.
Discover the Garonne and nearby waters
Take a commentated river cruise from the quays and watch Bordeaux’s 18th-century façades pass by. A sunset cruise is a memorable way to see the Pont de Pierre and Saint-Michel Basilica in the evening light.
The Garonne riverbanks offer space for walking, relaxing and enjoying seasonal events. Check the current programme for summer activities, concerts and temporary installations.
For a beach outing, head to Bombannes beach, around 18 minutes from our campsite with a pool near Bordeaux. Pine trees border the freshwater lake and sandy shore, with swimming areas, kayak hire and cycle paths. Check supervision periods locally.
For an active outing, ask local water-sports providers about supervised kayak or paddleboard activities and permitted routes. Explore the city’s maritime heritage around the Bassins à Flot and Chaban-Delmas Bridge.
Ready to visit Bordeaux? Book a mobile home near Bordeaux at our campsite.
