Chartrons, Bordeaux Travel Guide

Discover Chartrons in Bordeaux: A historic wine merchant district turned vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and scenic riverfront views.

Nestled along the western bank of the Garonne River, Chartrons is a neighborhood that effortlessly blends Bordeaux's rich history with its modern vibrancy. Once a hub for the city's wine merchants, the area now boasts a mix of elegant 18th-century architecture, bustling markets, and trendy cafes. Visitors will immediately feel the laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere that characterizes this district. For those keen on exploring Bordeaux's wine heritage, Chartrons offers an array of wine bars and boutiques where one can sample local vintages and learn about the region's storied viticulture. The Musée du Vin et du Négoce is a must-visit, providing fascinating insights into the wine trade's history and its impact on the city. As you stroll through the narrow, cobblestone streets, you'll encounter an intriguing juxtaposition of old and new, with contemporary art galleries and chic boutiques nestled alongside historic buildings. Chartrons is also a haven for food enthusiasts. The Marché des Chartrons, an open-air market, is a treasure trove of local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods. It's the perfect spot to grab fresh ingredients for a picnic by the river or to enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the surrounding bistros. Additionally, the neighborhood's proximity to the Garonne River makes it an ideal starting point for scenic walks or bike rides along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the city's skyline.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the Musée du Vin et du Négoce to delve into Bordeaux's wine trade history.
Explore the Marché des Chartrons on Sunday mornings for fresh local produce and artisanal goods.
Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to enjoy the scenic views along the Garonne River.
Don't miss the chance to sample local vintages at one of the many wine bars and boutiques.

Explore Chartrons: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Chartrons

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Cap Sciences

Explore the wonders of science and technology at Cap Sciences in Bordeaux, with interactive exhibits, workshops, and stunning views of the Garonne River, perfect for curious minds of all ages.

4.3

Jardin Botanique du Jardin Public

Discover a world of botanical wonders at Bordeaux's Jardin Botanique: explore diverse plant collections, engage in educational workshops, and escape to a tranquil oasis in the city center.

4.6

Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux

Explore a world of botanical wonders at Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux, a tranquil oasis showcasing diverse plant collections, thematic gardens, and educational exhibits in the heart of the city.

4.1

Best landmarks in Chartrons

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La Cité du Vin

Explore the world of wine at Bordeaux's premier cultural center: immersive exhibits, tastings, and panoramic views await!

4.2

Les quais de Bordeaux

Discover Bordeaux's waterfront: stroll along the Garonne, explore historic sites, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Les Quais.

4.7

Monument aux Girondins

A majestic monument in Bordeaux honoring the Girondins, featuring a towering column, bronze fountains, and allegorical sculptures on the expansive Place des Quinconces.

4.5

Place des Quinconces

Discover Place des Quinconces, one of Europe's largest squares, in the heart of Bordeaux, featuring monuments, events, and easy access to the city.

4.6

Best restaurants in Chartrons

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Le Confidentiel

Experience the essence of French cuisine at Le Confidentiel in Bordeaux - where elegance meets culinary excellence along the Garonne River.

4.3

El Nacional

Discover El Nacional in Bordeaux: A sophisticated restaurant blending traditional French cuisine with modern elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

Chez Dupont

Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Dupont, where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of Bordeaux.

4.5

Le Bistrot des Anges

Experience exquisite French cuisine and craft beer at Le Bistrot des Anges in Bordeaux – where tradition meets innovation.

4.4

Best bars in Chartrons

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Molly Malone's

Discover the charm of Molly Malone's, an Irish pub in Bordeaux offering delicious food, lively music, and a warm atmosphere for every traveler.

4.4

Symbiose

Discover the vibrant flavors of Bordeaux at Symbiose, where innovative cocktails and exquisite French cuisine create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.6

The Market Tavern

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Market Tavern in Bordeaux, where locals gather for excellent drinks and hearty pub fare.

4.3

YARRA

Experience the essence of Bordeaux at YARRA, a charming wine bar offering exquisite selections and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Chartrons

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Le Cercle - Boite de nuit à Bordeaux

Discover the lively nightlife of Bordeaux at Le Cercle, where music and dance create unforgettable moments in a stylish atmosphere.

3.6

Le Theatro

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Le Theatro, Bordeaux's top night club, where music and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

The Base - Bordeaux

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Bordeaux at The Base, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come together in a pulsating disco atmosphere.

2.5

LA DAME Club

Discover Bordeaux's nightlife at LA DAME Club, where music and dance create unforgettable memories in a chic setting.

3.2

Best shops in Chartrons

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Bord'eau Village

Explore the vibrant Bord'eau Village in Bordeaux, a delightful destination for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences along the waterfront.

4.1

Do you speak French?

Explore the unique charm of Bordeaux at 'Do you speak French?', your go-to store for cosmetics, jewelry, home goods, and more!

4.8

A CBD SHOP Bordeaux Chartrons

Explore the finest CBD products in Bordeaux's Chartrons district, where quality meets community in a vibrant shopping experience.

4.9

Urban Kustom Shop

Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Urban Kustom Shop, where style meets individuality in the heart of Bordeaux.

4.7

Explore Chartrons on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Chartrons, mapped for you.

Chartrons Essentials

Chartrons is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Bordeaux. From the city center, you can take Tram Line B towards ‘Rocade’ and alight at the ‘Chartrons’ stop. If you're coming from the Saint-Jean train station, catch Tram Line C towards ‘Parc Bordelais’ and transfer to Line B at ‘Place de la Bourse’. Buses also connect Chartrons to various parts of the city, with lines 1 and 15 being particularly useful.
Chartrons is well-connected through public transport. The tram and bus systems are efficient, with stops throughout the neighborhood. Bicycle rentals are also a popular option, with bike-sharing schemes like VCub available. Walking is an excellent choice too, as many attractions are within easy reach. Taxis and rideshare services operate in the area, providing convenient transport options.
Chartrons is considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, visitors should remain cautious, particularly in less crowded areas at night. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist hotspots. It is advisable to avoid walking alone in secluded areas after dark and to keep personal belongings secure. Areas around the riverbanks, while beautiful, can be less populated at night, so exercise caution.
In case of emergency in Chartrons, dial 112 for general emergencies or 15 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available for urgent medical care. The nearest police station is located on Rue de la Course. It's recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout the neighborhood for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and stylishly; Bordeaux is known for its chic fashion sense. Don’t wear overly casual or beach attire when dining out. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when entering places of worship. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t use your phone loudly or play music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly ‘Bonjour’. Don’t initiate conversations in English without first attempting in French. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and dishes at restaurants. Don’t eat while walking, as this is not the local custom.
To experience Chartrons like a local, explore the charming streets and visit the Marché des Chartrons, a vibrant market on Sundays. Take time to appreciate the local wine shops and art galleries that line the streets. Engage with local residents, many of whom are passionate about their neighborhood’s history. For a unique perspective, consider a wine tasting at one of the nearby vineyards, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Garonne River, especially at sunset.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Chartrons

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Chartrons. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ree-uhn]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi / Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwa / day-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va ?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et toi ?
  [byen. ay twah]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais ?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vee-ahnd]
- Cheers!Santé !
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours !
  [oh suh-coor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en !
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police !
  [ah-puh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin !
  [ah-puh-lay uh mayd-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-shet-ay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhuhst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte ?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh share]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix ?
  [poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il ?
  [kell uhr eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh tun uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix et demie
  [dees ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [wheat]
- 9Neuf
  [nurf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où se trouve...?
  [oo suh troov]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse ?
  [kell eh lahd-rehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte) ?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus) ?
  [kahn eh luh proh-shahn (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Chartrons

Originally a rural area outside the city walls of Bordeaux, Chartrons began to develop in the early 18th century as a center for the wine trade. Its location along the Garonne River made it an ideal hub for merchants and traders, leading to the establishment of wine warehouses that would become integral to Bordeaux's economy.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Chartrons flourished as Bordeaux's wine industry expanded. The neighborhood became synonymous with the export of Bordeaux wines, with many merchants setting up their businesses in the area. The architecture of the period reflects this prosperity, with grand mansions and warehouses lining the streets, showcasing the wealth generated by the wine trade.
The 19th century saw Chartrons become a cultural melting pot, attracting a diverse population of merchants, artisans, and immigrants. This influx contributed to a vibrant community life, characterized by markets, theaters, and cafés. The area became known for its artistic and intellectual circles, influencing the cultural landscape of Bordeaux.
As the wine trade evolved and Bordeaux's economy shifted in the 20th century, Chartrons experienced decline. Many warehouses were abandoned, and the neighborhood faced challenges. However, the latter half of the century saw a renaissance as artists and creatives began to move into the area, drawn by its historic charm and affordable spaces.
Today, Chartrons is a vibrant neighborhood that blends its historical roots with contemporary life. The area is known for its antique shops, art galleries, and trendy cafés, attracting both locals and tourists. Events such as the weekly market and the annual wine festival celebrate its rich heritage while showcasing the dynamic spirit of modern Bordeaux.