Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel, Bordeaux Travel Guide

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Ascend Bordeaux's iconic Flèche Saint-Michel for panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's captivating, sometimes macabre, history.

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Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel

The Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel, or simply 'La Flèche' (The Spire), is a towering, detached bell tower and a proud symbol of Bordeaux. Standing 114 meters high, it's the second tallest bell tower in France and offers stunning panoramic views of the city for those who brave the 230 steps to the top. Built in the 15th century, the Flèche has a unique and somewhat macabre history, having been erected on a former burial ground.

A brief summary to Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel

16 Pl. Meynard, Bordeaux, 33000, FR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel.

Check the opening hours before you go, as they can vary depending on the season.
Be prepared for a climb! There are 230 steps to the top of the Flèche.
The area around the Basilique Saint-Michel is a vibrant, multicultural district with many markets and shops to explore.

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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.

Pey Berland Tower

Place de la Bourse

Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux

Château du Hâ

Grosse Cloche

Explore Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Place de la Bourse, walk southeast along the Garonne River on Quai Richelieu. Continue onto Quai Deschamps, then turn left onto Place Pierre Renaudel. Turn right onto Rue des Faures, and the Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs are associated with this approach.
Public Transport

From Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean, take tram line C towards 'Gare de Blanquefort' or 'Cracovie'. Get off at the 'Saint-Michel' stop, which is directly next to the basilica and the Flèche. A single tram ticket costs €1.70.
Taxi/Ride-share

From the city center (e.g., Grand Théâtre), a taxi or ride-share to the Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8-€12.

Discover more about Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel

Rising proudly in the Saint-Michel district, the Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel is more than just a bell tower; it's a historical landmark and a testament to Bordeaux's rich past. Unlike many churches, the Flèche stands apart from the Basilique Saint-Michel, a striking example of a freestanding campanile. This separation was intentional, designed to prevent the tower's weight from destabilizing the basilica, given the area's marshy subsoil.Construction of the Flèche began in the 15th century on the site of an old charnel house. For many years, the crypt housed mummified bodies exhumed from a nearby cemetery, a bizarre and fascinating attraction that drew visitors, including famous authors like Victor Hugo and Gustave Flaubert. The mummies were removed in 1990, and an audiovisual presentation now recounts the history of this peculiar exhibition.The Flèche offers a rewarding climb for those seeking unparalleled views of Bordeaux. From the top, 'La Belle Endormie' (The Sleeping Beauty), as Bordeaux is known, unfolds in a breathtaking panorama. The tower has faced its share of adversity, including damage from earthquakes and lightning strikes, but has been carefully restored over the centuries. Currently (July 2025), the Flèche is undergoing extensive restoration work, expected to last until autumn 2025.