Pey Berland Tower, Aquitaine Travel Guide

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Climb the historic Pey Berland Tower for unmatched panoramic views of Bordeaux and a glimpse into the city's captivating past.

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Pey Berland Tower

The Pey Berland Tower, a 15th-century Gothic bell tower, stands apart from Bordeaux Cathedral, offering panoramic city views after a climb of 233 steps. Named after Archbishop Pey Berland, it has served various purposes throughout history and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A brief summary to Pey Berland Tower

Pl. Pey Berland, Bordeaux, 33000, FR
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pey Berland Tower.

Book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes for the 233-step climb to the top of the tower.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.
Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
Take your time on the climb; the staircase is narrow, but the views are worth it.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Monument aux Girondins

Palais Gallien

Porte Cailhau

Porte d'Aquitaine

Place de la Bourse

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Getting There

Walking

From the Hôtel de Ville tram stop (Lines A and B), walk west towards Place Pey Berland. The tower is directly in front of the Saint-André Cathedral, a flat, approximately 2-minute walk. No costs are associated with this option.
Public Transport

Take Tram Line A or B to the 'Hôtel de Ville' stop. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to Place Pey Berland. Head east on Rue de la Rousselle, turn left onto Rue de la Vieille Tour, and continue until you reach the square. The tram fare is approximately €1.70 per trip.
Driving

Navigate to Place Pey Berland, 33000 Bordeaux. Several parking options are available nearby, including the underground 'Parking Pey Berland'. From the Bordeaux Wine Region, take the A630 highway towards Bordeaux center. Follow signs for Bordeaux and exit at the center. Once in the city, follow signs for 'Place Pey Berland'. Parking fees at this car park are approximately €0.50 per 15 minutes for up to 5 hours, then €10 for 5-24 hours.

Discover more about Pey Berland Tower

Rising proudly in Place Pey Berland, the Pey Berland Tower is a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into Bordeaux's rich history and architectural heritage. Constructed in the 15th century (1440-1500) under the patronage of Archbishop Pey Berland, the tower initially served as a separate bell tower for the Saint-André Cathedral, as the cathedral's marshy foundation couldn't support the weight and vibrations of the bells.The tower's Flamboyant Gothic design is a sight to behold, featuring a square base and intricate sculptures of saints and religious figures. Standing 66 meters tall, it is topped by a gilded statue of Our Lady of Aquitaine, which was erected in 1863. Over the centuries, the tower has had many functions, including serving as a dwelling, a fodder depot, and even a lead shot factory during the French Revolution. The bells weren't installed until the 19th century.Today, visitors can ascend the tower's 233 steps via a narrow, winding staircase to reach the observation terraces at 40 and 50 meters. The climb rewards you with breathtaking 360° views of Bordeaux, including landmarks like the Church of St. Michel, Place de la Bourse, and the Garonne River. The Pey Berland Tower is more than just a bell tower; it's a symbol of Bordeaux's resilience and a testament to its enduring architectural beauty.