10 ways to enjoy the Bordeaux quays

The quays of Bordeaux can be discovered from the Pont de Pierre to the Bacalan quarter, alongside renovated 18th century facades. It has become a popular area thanks to the tram, the cycle paths and abundance of activities.

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• A Sunday jog
• Shopping at Quai des Marques
• A family cycle outing by the quay
• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Miroir d’Eau
• Skatepark fun
• Discover CapSciences
• Visit the Cité du Vin
• Darwin, on the Right Bank
• A cruise on the Garonne

If you’re a running fan, get yourself down to the quay, for a 6.7 km route. Depart from Place des Quinconces and run to Pont Chaban Delmas, then follow the quays to the Botanic Gardens.

At Pont de Pierre, turn right and follow the quays to the famous Miroir d’Eau. It’s a run in a majestic setting!

To find all the major brands at low prices, head to Quai des Marques, where 33 shops are open on weekdays and weekends.

Between purchases, stop at the terrace and relax on a sun lounger, enjoy an ice cream or share brunch. There’s even a merry-go-round for the children. Good to know: a tram stop is located right next to Quai des Marques!

Of course, the quays are perfect for bikes!

Route suggestion: join the quay and make your way along the Garonne until you reach Pont Chaban-Delmas, a spectacular lift bridge!

While strolling along the quays, you can marvel at the beautiful renovated 18th century facades, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007.

This is an absolute must-see during your visit to Bordeaux.

Facing the Place de la Bourse, the Miroir d’Eau is a spectacular feature, a large slate formed of granite slabs and covered with 2 cm of water, for a mirror effect.

You need to visit during good weather (the Miroir d’Eau is not in use from November to April) or in the evening, when the front of the Place de la Bourse is illuminated. Today, it is the most photographed place in the city!

>> Unmissable Bordeaux attractions

Bordeaux has constructed Quai des Chartrons, one of the biggest skateparks in France. Skateboarding, rollerblading and BMX fanatics can all be found there.

Thrill seekers will go for a ride over mini ramps and bowls, while a “stunt” area is available for rollerbladers and BMX enthusiasts.  The “urban” zone features modules inspired by the city, and a special area welcomes children under 10 years of age.

Located at the foot of Pont Chaban-Delmas, CapSciences welcomes science fans, with a large annual exhibition and fun activities for children throughout the year.

Grab a snack at the Café des Sciences and admire the view over the Port de la Lune (Port of the Moon).

Not to be missed on your visit to Bordeaux: the new architectural marvel of the city. 

The Cité du vin is a magnificent building and once inside, you will learn all there is to know about wine with the help of  tasting sessions.

>> Unforgettable experiences at the Cité du vin

This reclaimed and recycled atypical location can be found in a former fire station, on the Right Bank.

Urban farm, indoor skatepark, spaces for graffiti artists, an organic grocery store, Le Magasin Général restaurant, co-working spaces, bike polo field and more are found here. Come and enjoy a drink at sunset, outside with your feet in the sand, admiring the view of Bordeaux.

How about admiring the views from a boat? It’s a nice way to catch a glimpse of all the sights the banks of the Garonne have to offer!

You’ll pass in front of the facades of the quays of Bordeaux, then under Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas before heading north. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, you’ll discover the vineyards of Blayais and Médoc.

>> Take me to the Bordeaux Wine Route