Bordeaux, France

Explore Bordeaux, France – A Wine Lover’s Paradise!

Bordeaux, located in the southwest of France, is renowned for its exceptional wine production and stunning architecture. Visiting Bordeaux on a cruise offers you a fantastic opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage, delightful cuisine, and picturesque vineyards. Fun fact: Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with much of its historic centre built from beautiful honey-coloured sandstone!

Activities and Attractions in Bordeaux, France

Once your cruise ship docks in Bordeaux, a plethora of activities await to capture your interest. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

Begin your exploration with a visit to the Place de la Bourse, an iconic square with stunning classical architecture and the tranquil Water Mirror in front of it—a perfect spot for photos! From there, take a pleasant stroll along the Garonne River, enjoying the picturesque views, passing through charming parks and gardens.

For wine enthusiasts, you can't miss the La Cité du Vin, a unique wine museum that offers immersive exhibitions on the history of wine around the world. You can also enjoy tastings and learn about the winemaking process from expert sommeliers. To further explore the region's illustrious vineyards, consider taking a guided wine tour to renowned areas like Saint-Émilion or Médoc, where you can sample local wines and enjoy idyllic scenery.

If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, spend your afternoon at the local markets or cafés, sampling fresh pastries, cheeses, and other regional delicacies. The Marché des Capucins is a bustling market that highlights the area’s culinary diversity, where you can chat with local vendors and indulge in delightful treats.

Common Harbours to Visit Before or After Bordeaux, France

Your cruise may also include stops at these stunning nearby harbours. Here’s what each location has to offer:

• Lisbon, Portugal: A vibrant city known for its historic neighbourhoods and stunning tile-covered buildings. Explore the iconic Belém Tower, ride the famous Tram 28, or savour pasteis de nata at famed pastry shops.
• Bilbao, Spain: Famous for the Guggenheim Museum, this Basque city combines modern architecture with traditional charm. Wander the streets of the old town, sample pintxos, and explore the riverside promenade for delightful views.
• Sevilla, Spain: Known for its rich Moorish history and stunning architecture, Sevilla offers must-see sites like the Alcázar and the Giralda tower. Don’t forget to indulge in tapas while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere!
• Honfleur, France: A picturesque historic port with charming half-timbered houses and narrow streets. Visit the famous Vieux Bassin (Old Dock), explore local art galleries, or sample fresh seafood in adorable bistro cafés.
• Saint Malo, France: A fortified city with striking seaside views and a rich maritime history. Explore the ramparts, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy freshly caught seafood in the historic town centre.

Regions to Explore on Your Cruise

Cruising to Bordeaux allows you to discover various enchanting regions. Here’s what to look forward to while sailing:

• Portugal: Known for its stunning coastline, diverse culture, and world-class wines, Portugal offers rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cities, including Lisbon and Porto.
• British Isles: Incorporating England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, the British Isles feature charming landscapes, historical landmarks, and unique cultural experiences from bustling cities to quaint towns.
• United Kingdom: A rich cultural and historical hub, the UK showcases iconic landmarks, medieval castles, and numerous regions to explore, including London, Cornwall, and the Yorkshire Dales.
• Mediterranean: Known for its stunning coastline, diverse cultures, and rich history, the Mediterranean features beautiful islands and charming cities, with shimmering blue waters enticing visitors.
• Western Mediterranean: This region offers a delightful mix of picturesque coastlines and vibrant cultures, including stunning destinations in France, Italy, and Spain, each brimming with rich history and delectable culinary experiences.

Cruise Lines That Visit Bordeaux, France

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess Cruises features 2 ships—Crown Princess and Sky Princess—that visit Bordeaux. Renowned for their signature "Anytime Dining" and exciting entertainment options, these cruises often depart from Sydney or Southampton.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of 2, Ambassador has 1 ship, Ambition, that frequently visits Bordeaux. Known for their friendly service and immersive itineraries, these cruises mainly depart from Portsmouth or Belfast, UK.
• AmaWaterways: With a fleet size of 19, AmaWaterways features AmaDolce on its Bordeaux itineraries. Known for luxurious river cruising experiences, these river cruises mostly depart directly from Bordeaux.
• Oceania Cruises: Operating 8 ships, Oceania offers 4 ships that visit Bordeaux, including Sirena and Vista. Known for farm-to-table dining experiences, these cruises typically depart from Southampton or Lisbon.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara operates 3 ships, including Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward, that frequently call on Bordeaux. Notable for their immersive destination experiences, these cruises often depart from Barcelona or Southampton.

Seasonal Insights for Your Bordeaux Adventure

When planning your visit to Bordeaux, consider these seasonal temperature and weather variations:

• Spring (March, April, May): Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 20°C. This season is perfect for exploring the city and vineyards with milder weather and blooming flowers enhancing the area’s beauty.
• Summer (June, July, August): Expect warm temperatures between 18°C and 30°C, making it a popular time to visit Bordeaux for outdoor activities and wine festivals in full swing.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Autumn temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C. This is the grape harvest season in the region, making it an ideal time to visit vineyards and sample fresh wines.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures can drop to around 3°C to 12°C. While cooler, this is the quiet season for tourists, providing a chance to explore the city more peacefully and enjoy winter holiday festivities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux, France

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

A one-week cruise to Bordeaux typically costs between £1,000 and £2,000, while two-week itineraries can range from £1,800 to £3,500, depending on the cruise line and chosen accommodations.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from £15 to £50 per meal. In Bordeaux, you can expect to pay around £12 to £30 for meals in local bistros, featuring regional specialties like steak frites and local wines.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

You'll find diverse dining options on board, from casual to upscale dining experiences. In Bordeaux, explore local gourmet shops and the Galeries Lafayette for gourmet products to take home as souvenirs.

What are transportation options?

Upon docking in Bordeaux, local trams, buses, and taxis offer convenient transportation options to explore the city and surrounding areas, with many attractions within walking distance of the harbour.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for local markets and smaller establishments.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Bordeaux is generally safe for tourists; however, remain aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

French is the official language, and while many locals speak English, it can be helpful to know a few basic French phrases to enhance your interactions with residents.

If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the stunning sights and rich culture of Bordeaux, France, book your cruise with Cruise1st today for an unforgettable journey filled with wine, history, and culinary delights!