Bordeaux City Pass

Explore Bordeaux in style with the Bordeaux City Pass, a flexible multi-day ticket designed to maximize your time and savings in this vibrant French city. Priced at $59.61 per person, this pass offers 48 to 72 hours of unlimited public transit, free museum entries, and discounts on tours and attractions. Whether you opt for a 2-day or 3-day experience, the pass delivers excellent value with access to more than a dozen venues, including the iconic La Cité du Vin wine center, Bassins des Lumières, and historic landmarks. With most activities accessible via tram or bus, this pass caters well to those eager to explore Bordeaux at a relaxed pace, though some sites may be closed during certain periods, especially from November to March.

One of the tour’s standout features is its inclusiveness: unlimited public transit, free entry to numerous museums, and discounts on river cruises and guided tours. It’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors or those who want to experience a broad spectrum of Bordeaux’s cultural and historic offerings without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets. A notable highlight is that entrance to La Cité du Vin includes a wine tasting before noon, an exclusive perk for wine enthusiasts. However, it’s worth mentioning that food and drinks are not included, and some venues might be temporarily closed for renovations or seasonal reasons.

Key Points

• Flexible multi-day access: 48 or 72 hours, with options for a 24-hour upgrade at extra cost
• Unlimited public transit: Tram and bus rides included for easy city navigation
• Access to La Cité du Vin: Includes a wine tasting before 12 pm as part of the pass
• Includes over a dozen venues: Museums, historic sites, and modern art spaces
• Discounts on tours and cruises: River cruises, guided visits, and castle tours available at reduced rates
• Free cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

Bordeaux City Pass: A Practical Way to See the City

The Bordeaux City Pass serves as a convenient, cost-effective way to cover Bordeaux’s main attractions over two or three days. For $59.61, travelers receive unlimited access to public transportation—trams and buses—making it simple to hop from one site to another without buying separate tickets. The pass is designed for most travelers, with most activities suitable for all ages and a maximum group size of five.

The pass’s primary draw lies in its entry to key venues such as the Bassins des Lumières, an impressive digital art center housed in a former WWII submarine base. Visitors are treated to immersive digital exhibitions where artworks are projected onto large walls reflected in surrounding water, creating a striking visual experience. The Cité du Vin is another highlight, offering an interactive journey through wine history and culture, accompanied by excellent tastings. The free entry to the permanent exhibition, plus the belvedere for wine tasting, is available before noon, adding a unique experience exclusive to pass holders.

The pass also includes maritime exhibits at Musee Mer et Marine, showcasing ship models and nautical artifacts, and regional history at Musee d’Aquitaine. Art lovers appreciate access to the Museum of Fine Arts, with collections spanning from 16th-century paintings to modern works. Contemporary art fans visit the CAPC Musee d’Art Contemporain, with works from the 1960s onward.

Discovering Bordeaux’s Landmarks and Historic Sites

Among the most iconic stops are Tour Pey-Berland and Porte Cailhau. The Pey-Berland Tower, built in the 15th century, offers panoramic views of Bordeaux from its Gothic-style bell tower. It’s a UNESCO-listed site that provides a glimpse into the city’s medieval architecture. Porte Cailhau, a 35-meter tall gate from Bordeaux’s old city walls, offers spectacular views of the Pont de Pierre bridge and the city skyline. Both sites are included in the pass and are easily reachable via public transit.

Additional highlights include the Museum of the Maritime History of Bordeaux, which explores the city’s long-standing connection with the sea, and Francois Boucher’s contemporary art collection at FRAC Nouvelle-Aquitaine MECA, housed in a building designed by architect Bjarke Ingels. Visitors can opt for guided tours, such as the “Underground Saint-Émilion” or Southern France wine tours, often at discounted rates, adding depth to their experience.

While most outdoor sites and small museums are accessible, a few venues, including the Aquitaine Museum and the National Customs Museum, are temporarily closed for renovations, especially from January 2 to February 4, 2023. Travelers should verify site availability before visiting.

Experience the Digital Art at Bassins des Lumières

The Bassins des Lumières is the largest digital art center in the world, housed inside a former WWII submarine base. This site features immersive exhibitions with artworks projected onto vast walls, reflected in surrounding water, creating stunning visual displays. Visitors spend around an hour here, marveling at the scale and technological prowess of the digital projections.

Admission is free as part of the pass, allowing easy access to this striking venue. It’s a must-see for art lovers and those interested in unique sensory experiences. The site’s history as a submarine base adds an industrial charm, contrasting sharply with the contemporary digital displays.

La Cité du Vin: Wine and Culture in One Venue

The Cité du Vin is Bordeaux’s premier wine-focused attraction, offering an interactive exploration of wine’s history, diversity, and cultural significance. The entry ticket, included in the pass before 12 pm, grants access to the permanent exhibitions and the belvedere, where visitors enjoy panoramic views of Bordeaux.

The experience includes tastings, and visiting during the morning allows for complementary free access. Those arriving after noon pay an additional €5 at the site. Because of renovations, the museum was temporarily closed from January 2 to February 4, 2023, so travelers should check availability beforehand. The wine tasting session is a highlight, especially for those interested in Bordeaux’s acclaimed wine culture.

Exploring Bordeaux’s Cultural and Historical Museums

The Musee d’Aquitaine provides a broad look at the region’s history, from prehistoric artifacts to modern cultural displays. It showcases regional archaeology, art, and highlights like the Atlantic slave trade. The Museum of Natural History offers a modern, multimedia approach with interactive exhibits.

The Musee Mer et Marine delves into maritime exploration, featuring ship models, nautical artifacts, and exhibits that explain Bordeaux’s historic trade routes. Both museums are included in the pass, allowing seamless visits.

The Contemporary Art Museum (CAPC) emphasizes modern works from the 1960s onward, displaying pieces from emerging artists, housed in a former warehouse with an industrial atmosphere. Its location in the city center makes it accessible for a quick visit.

Climb Historic Towers and Enjoy Scenic Views

Climbing the Tour Pey-Berland offers stunning city panoramas from its Gothic tower, making it a popular stop for photography and sightseeing. The 30-minute visit provides sweeping views of Bordeaux’s rooftops and landmarks.

Similarly, the Porte Cailhau provides picturesque vistas of the Pont de Pierre and the river. Both sites are included in the pass, making it easy to add these scenic viewpoints to any itinerary.

The guided tours of the Citadel of Blaye or Moon Harbour Distillery can be booked at discounts, adding to the cultural insights of the Bordeaux experience.

Practicalities and Tips for Using the Bordeaux City Pass

The pass requires picking it up at the Bordeaux Tourist Office on 12 Cours du 30 Juillet by exchanging a voucher. It activates upon first use, so planning to use it immediately is recommended for maximum benefit. Most activities are accessible near public transportation, simplifying the logistics of exploring the city.

It’s important to verify venue closures ahead of time, especially from November to March, when some activities might be unavailable due to seasonal closures or renovations. The pass is not valid for food and drinks, so meals and beverages are separate costs.

While the physical card is currently the only option, some reviews suggest a future digital version would improve security and convenience. Currently, the physical card cannot be canceled or replaced if lost.

Bordeaux City Pass: Who Will Benefit Most?

This pass is best suited for first-time visitors eager to explore Bordeaux’s museums, landmarks, and cultural sites without paying individually at each venue. The inclusion of transit and multiple attractions ensures high value, especially with most museums and landmarks included in the price.

Those who appreciate art, history, and wine will find the Cité du Vin, Bassins des Lumières, and art museums particularly rewarding. The pass’s flexibility makes it ideal for travelers with a moderate walking pace and interest in guided tours or river cruises.

However, visitors planning to stay during closed periods (like January or early February) should check venue availability beforehand, as some sites undergo renovations or seasonal closures. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

Bordeaux City Pass: Final Thoughts

The Bordeaux City Pass offers a practical and affordable way to see the city’s top attractions in a time-efficient manner. With unlimited transit, free museum entries, and discounted tours, it appeals to those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of multiple tickets.

While some venues may be closed seasonally, the inclusion of landmarks like Tour Pey-Berland and Porte Cailhau ensures a well-rounded visit. The wine tasting at La Cité du Vin is a particular highlight for wine lovers, and the digital art at Bassins des Lumières adds a modern twist.

The Bordeaux City Pass balances value and convenience, making it a smart choice for first-timers, art enthusiasts, and culture seekers exploring Bordeaux over two or three days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Bordeaux City Pass include transportation?
Yes, the pass grants unlimited access to Bordeaux’s public trams and buses during the validity period, making city travel simple and cost-effective.

Are all museums and attractions open year-round?
Most venues are open, but some, including the Aquitaine Museum and National Customs Museum, are closed for renovations from January 2 to February 4, 2023. Check availability before planning your visit.

Can I upgrade the pass to 24 hours?
Yes, an option for a 24-hour pass is available at an additional cost, allowing flexibility if you prefer shorter durations or specific timing.

How do I pick up the pass?
You must exchange your voucher at the Bordeaux Tourist Office located at 12 Cours du 30 Juillet to receive the physical card, which activates upon first use.

Is the pass suitable for art and wine lovers?
Absolutely. The pass includes access to art museums, the Wine and Trade Museum, and La Cité du Vin, perfect for those interested in Bordeaux’s culture and wine heritage.