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Place du Palais: A Historic Gateway to Bordeaux

Discover Place du Palais in Bordeaux: a historic square where the past meets the present, offering a tranquil escape with stunning architecture.

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Place du Palais, a triangular square in Bordeaux, offers a pedestrian-friendly space with restaurant terraces and historical significance. Once the main entrance to the city from the port, it provides access to the Cailhau Gate and the site of the former Palais de l'Ombrière.

A brief summary to Place du Palais

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture, especially the Cailhau Gate.
  • Check local event calendars for festivals or performances that may take place in the square.
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through the square and take in the atmosphere.
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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. Turn right onto Quai des Chartrons and follow it to Place du Palais, located just off the Quai. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, tram stations 'Place de la Bourse' or 'Gambetta' are good starting points. Take Tram Line A (towards 'La Gardette - Ginko') or Line B (towards 'Pessac Centre'). Get off at the 'Palais Rohan' stop. Walk east on Rue de la Palais to Place du Palais, a short walk away (about 5 minutes). A single ticket costs €1.80.

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Discover more about Place du Palais

Place du Palais is a charming and historically significant square in Bordeaux, France. Once the primary entrance to the city from the port, it now serves as a calm, pedestrian-friendly area where visitors can relax and soak in the city's atmosphere. The square's triangular shape is lined with inviting restaurant terraces, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is closely associated with the Cailhau Gate, an architectural jewel dating back to the late 15th century. This gate, standing 35 meters high, commemorates King Charles VIII's victory at Fornovo. The Palais de l'Ombrière, a medieval residence of the Dukes of Aquitaine, once stood near the square but was destroyed in the 19th century. In earlier times, Place du Palais functioned as a bus terminal and parking lot until renovations in the 21st century transformed it into the pedestrian space it is today. The light-colored tiles accentuate the luminosity of the Bordeaux stone facades surrounding the square. Today, Place du Palais provides a tranquil environment for families and tourists to stroll and appreciate Bordeaux's rich history.

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