Base sous-marine: From U-boats to Digital Art
Explore a transformed WWII submarine base in Bordeaux, now a unique cultural space hosting immersive art exhibitions and events, blending history with contemporary creativity.
The Base sous-marine in Bordeaux is a striking reminder of World War II, transformed into a unique cultural space. Built by the Germans between 1941 and 1943 to house U-boats, this massive concrete bunker now hosts contemporary art exhibitions and musical events. Its imposing architecture and the contrast between its dark history and modern artistic endeavors make it a compelling destination. Explore the vast underground chambers, experience immersive installations, and reflect on the site's historical significance. The Bassins des Lumières, a digital art center within the base, offers spectacular visual and audio experiences with large-scale projections onto the walls and water, creating an unforgettable multisensory journey. A visit here provides a powerful blend of history, art, and culture.
A brief summary to Base sous-marine
- 284 Bd Alfred Daney, Bordeaux, 33300, FR
- +33556102030
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the exhibition schedule in advance, as the Base sous-marine is only open during temporary exhibitions and events. Opening times vary.
- Book your tickets online to avoid queues, especially during peak season. Consider the Bordeaux CityPass for access to multiple attractions, including the Bassins des Lumières.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on concrete surfaces. The underground chambers can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the Base sous-marine and experience the immersive art exhibitions at the Bassins des Lumières.
- Take advantage of the free municipal parking in front of the base, but arrive early as spaces fill up quickly. Alternatively, book a guaranteed parking space online.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bordeaux city center (Quinconces), take Tram C towards Blanquefort or Parc des Expositions and get off at the Ravezies stop. Then, take bus number 9 towards Brandenburg and get off at the Base sous-marine stop. The bus ride is short, and the stop is directly in front of the entrance. A single tram/bus fare is €2.
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Public Transport
From Gare Saint-Jean (Bordeaux train station), take Tram C towards Blanquefort or Parc des Expositions and get off at the Ravezies stop. Transfer to bus number 9 towards Brandenburg and get off at the Base sous-marine stop. The combined tram and bus journey takes approximately 45 minutes. A single tram/bus fare is €2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Bordeaux city center to the Base sous-marine typically costs between €9 and €12 and takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. From Gare Saint-Jean, expect to pay around €17-€21 for a taxi or ride-share, with a journey time of approximately 10 minutes.
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Driving
If driving, take the A10 then the rocade A630/E5/E606. Exit at junction 4, 'Zone Industrielle Blanquefort, Bordeaux-Nord'. Turn left onto Boulevard Aliénor d'Aquitaine, then left again onto Place de Latule, and immediately right onto Boulevard Alfred Daney. Continue on Boulevard Alfred Daney; the Base sous-marine is on your right. There is free municipal parking in front of the base, but spaces are limited and fill up quickly. Booking a parking space online is recommended. The secured car park at the Bassins des Lumières is not compulsory, but is strongly recommended. This reservation guarantees you parking on the day of your visit.
Discover more about Base sous-marine
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