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Place du Palais: Bordeaux's Royal Square

Discover Place du Palais in Bordeaux: a historic square with stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and a gateway to the city's rich past.

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Place du Palais, a historical square in Bordeaux, is known for its elegant architecture and the iconic Porte Cailhau. Once the residence of the Dukes of Aquitaine, it's now a pedestrian-friendly space with cafes and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the city's charm.

A brief summary to Place du Palais

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the square with fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
  • Check local event calendars for festivals or performances that may be taking place in the square.
  • Look through the Porte Cailhau archway to see the oldest bridge in Bordeaux, the Pont de Pierre, in the distance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Bordeaux city center, walk southwest on Rue Sainte-Catherine, a main pedestrian street. Continue to Place de la Comédie, where you'll see the Grand Théâtre. Take Rue du Parlement Sainte-Catherine towards the river, then turn right onto Quai des Chartrons. Follow it to Place du Palais, located just off the Quai. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, tram stations like 'Place de la Bourse' or 'Gambetta' are good starting points. Take Tram Line A (towards 'La Gardette - Ginko') or Line B (towards 'Pessac Centre') and get off at the 'Palais Rohan' stop. Walk east on Rue de la Palais to Place du Palais (about 5 minutes). A single ticket costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour. A 2-journey ticket costs €3.20. Validate your ticket upon boarding.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bordeaux. A short taxi ride from the city center to Place du Palais typically costs between €6-€8 and takes only a few minutes. Taxi stands can be found near major attractions and transportation hubs.

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Discover more about Place du Palais

Place du Palais, nestled in the heart of Bordeaux, offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural grandeur. This picturesque square, once the residence of the Dukes of Aquitaine during the Middle Ages, is framed by remarkable buildings that echo the past. The square provides a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts and those seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. The square's centerpiece is the Porte Cailhau, an emblematic monument of Bordeaux that dates back to the late 15th century. This 35-meter-high defensive gate commemorates King Charles VIII's victory in Fornovo, Italy, in 1495. Its unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, adorned with sculptures and animal representations, makes it an architectural jewel. Today, Place du Palais is a pedestrian-friendly space where visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, relax at welcoming terraces, and appreciate the beauty of Bordeaux. The square's transformation into a calm and pleasant environment for pedestrians was completed in 2009, with light-colored tiles replacing the old bitumen surface. The square also features contemporary art installations, including a fountain with stainless steel stones and a three-dimensional map of the neighborhood.

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