Background

Cité du Vin: A Global Wine Journey

Embark on a sensory adventure through the world of wine at Bordeaux's iconic Cité du Vin, exploring its history, culture, and art in a stunning architectural masterpiece.

4.2

La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux is more than just a museum; it's an immersive exploration of wine culture across the globe. Housed in a striking, swirling architectural marvel, the Cité invites visitors on a sensory journey through the history, geography, and art of winemaking. Interactive exhibits, tasting workshops, and a panoramic belvedere offering stunning city views combine to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious traveler, the Cité du Vin offers a captivating and educational adventure into the world of wine, making it a must-visit destination in Bordeaux. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the permanent exhibition and enjoy a wine tasting at the Belvedere.

A brief summary to Cité du Vin

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
  • Allocate at least 3 hours for your visit to fully experience the permanent exhibition, temporary exhibits, and enjoy a tasting at the Belvedere.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide, available in multiple languages, to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
  • Check the Cité du Vin's event calendar for workshops, tastings, and cultural performances that may coincide with your visit.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bordeaux city center, the most convenient way to reach Cité du Vin is by taking Tram Line B. The tram stop is named 'La Cité du Vin' and is located directly in front of the museum entrance. A single tram ticket costs approximately €1.80. Several bus lines also serve the Cité du Vin, including Lianes 7, 25, and 27, all stopping at 'La Cité du Vin'. Bus tickets have the same cost as tram tickets (€1.80).

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber or Bolt) are readily available in Bordeaux. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Place de la Bourse) to Cité du Vin typically costs between €15 and €20, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 10-15 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow signs towards 'Bacalan' and then 'Cité du Vin'. Paid parking is available at the Interparking La Cité du Vin, located a short walk from the entrance (Rue de Gironde entrance). A 5-hour parking package costs €6. Standard hourly rates apply otherwise, with the first hour costing €2.30. There is also parking available at 'Hangar 19' (Quai de Bacalan).

Unlock the Best of Cité du Vin

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cité du Vin

La Cité du Vin, a beacon of wine culture in Bordeaux, stands as a testament to the universal heritage of wine. Opened in 2016, this architectural marvel, designed by Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières of XTU Architects, isn't just a building; it's an experience, an invitation to explore the world of wine through a multitude of lenses. From the moment you approach its shimmering, swirling form, the Cité du Vin captivates. Its design evokes the essence of wine itself – the gnarled vine stock, the swirling liquid in a glass, the eddies of the Garonne River upon whose banks it rests. The building's facade, composed of glass and iridescent aluminum panels, reflects the changing light, mirroring the golden hues of Bordeaux's famed stone buildings. Inside, the Cité du Vin unfolds across 10 levels, offering a rich tapestry of exhibitions, workshops, and tasting experiences. The heart of the Cité is its 3,000 square meter permanent exhibition, a sensory journey through the history, geography, and cultures of wine. Interactive displays engage visitors of all ages, offering insights into winemaking techniques, grape varietals, and the terroirs that shape the character of wines from around the world. The permanent exhibition is structured into several thematic areas, each offering a unique perspective on wine: * **The World Wine Tour:** A breathtaking virtual journey across the globe's wine regions, projected onto giant screens, showcasing the diversity and beauty of winemaking landscapes. * **The Worlds of Wine:** Interactive globes that reveal the spread of grape vines, the intricacies of the international wine trade, and the cultural significance of wine in different societies. * **The Terroir Table:** A tactile experience where visitors can explore the influence of soil, climate, and human ingenuity on the character of wine, with insights from winemakers around the world. * **The Metamorphoses of Wine:** An exploration of the winemaking process, from harvesting to fermentation and aging, revealing the secrets of winemakers from around the globe. * **Wine Portraits:** An introduction to the great types of wine, exploring their unique characteristics and the stories behind them. Beyond the permanent exhibition, the Cité du Vin offers a range of temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events that delve deeper into specific aspects of wine culture. These include: * **Temporary Exhibitions:** Showcasing art, artifacts, and historical documents related to wine, offering fresh perspectives on its cultural significance. * **Tasting Workshops:** Guided tasting sessions led by expert sommeliers, exploring different wine regions, grape varietals, and food pairings. * **Cultural Events:** Concerts, film screenings, and lectures that celebrate the art, music, and literature inspired by wine. No visit to the Cité du Vin is complete without a trip to the Belvedere, located on the 8th floor. Here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Bordeaux while savoring a glass of wine from a selection of international wines. The Belvedere offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the city's beauty while indulging in the flavors of the world. The Cité du Vin is committed to accessibility, offering facilities and programs for visitors with disabilities. These include designated parking spaces, adapted height displays, tactile travel companions, and audio descriptions. The Cité du Vin is more than just a museum; it's a cultural center, a gathering place for wine lovers, and a celebration of a universal heritage. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler, the Cité du Vin offers an unforgettable experience that will deepen your appreciation for the world of wine. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the permanent exhibition and enjoy a wine tasting at the Belvedere. Consider attending a workshop or event to enhance your experience. Check the Cité du Vin's website for the latest information on exhibitions, events, and opening hours. The Cité du Vin is easily accessible by public transportation, with tram and bus stops located nearby. Paid parking is also available. La Cité du Vin is a bioclimatic building that uses green and local energy, educates its visitors about the protection of biodiversity and eco-actions, calls on eco-responsible suppliers and is committed to making its cultural programming accessible to as many people as possible.

Popular Experiences near Cité du Vin

Popular Hotels near Cité du Vin

Select Currency