Les quais de Bordeaux, Bordeaux Travel Guide

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Explore Bordeaux's waterfront: a vibrant blend of history, culture, and recreation along the Garonne River, featuring stunning architecture and attractions.

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Les quais de Bordeaux

Les Quais de Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, have transformed from a bustling port to a vibrant urban space along the Garonne River. This 4.5-kilometer promenade features restored 18th-century facades, parks, gardens, and attractions like the Miroir d'Eau. It's a must-visit for tourists and locals alike, offering a blend of history, culture, and recreation.

A brief summary to Les quais de Bordeaux

40-41 Quai des Chartrons, Bordeaux, 33000, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Les quais de Bordeaux.

Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities.
Try local delicacies at the riverfront cafes for an authentic Bordeaux experience.
Check out local events or markets that may be happening along the quays during your visit.
Bring a blanket for a relaxing picnic while enjoying the scenic beauty of the river.
Take advantage of the accessible features, including wide promenades and ramps.

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Explore Les quais de Bordeaux on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Les quais de Bordeaux, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Bordeaux city center (e.g., Place de la Bourse), take tram line C towards Berges de Garonne or Cracovie. Several stops along the quays provide access, including Place de la Bourse (for the Water Mirror), Quinconces (for the northern part), and Cours du Médoc (for Chartrons). A single 'Ticket 1 voyage' costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of unlimited travel. Validate your ticket upon boarding. A 24-hour pass costs €5, and a 7-day pass is €14.20, offering unlimited travel.
Walking

From Place de la Bourse, walk north along Quai Richelieu to reach the Miroir d'Eau in less than 5 minutes. Continue north along the quays to explore the Chartrons district, approximately a 20-30 minute walk. The promenade is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean to Les Quais (e.g., Place de la Bourse) typically costs between €15-€20, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Note that prices may increase during peak hours or events.

Discover more about Les quais de Bordeaux

Les Quais de Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007, represent the city's successful transformation from a bustling port to a vibrant and attractive urban space. Situated along the Garonne River, these quays were once the heart of Bordeaux's maritime activity, facilitating trade and commerce for centuries. However, as port activities shifted downstream, the area fell into disrepair, becoming an industrial wasteland separated from the city's core.In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a comprehensive revitalization project was undertaken to restore Les Quais to their former glory. This ambitious project, led by landscape architect Michel Corajoud, aimed to reconnect the waterfront with the city, creating a public space that celebrates Bordeaux's history and culture. The transformation involved cleaning and restoring the elegant 18th-century facades that line the river, repurposing old warehouses into shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, and creating parks and gardens for leisure and recreation.Today, Les Quais are a major attraction for both tourists and locals. The area stretches for 4.5 kilometers along the Garonne, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Visitors can stroll along the promenade, enjoying the scenic views of the river and the city's historic architecture. Cyclists can take advantage of the dedicated bike paths, while families can relax in the various parks and gardens that dot the waterfront.One of the most iconic features of Les Quais is the Miroir d'Eau (Water Mirror), a shallow reflecting pool located in front of the Place de la Bourse. This contemporary artwork creates stunning reflections of the surrounding buildings and the sky, providing a unique and memorable experience. The Miroir d'Eau has become a symbol of modern Bordeaux, attracting photographers and visitors from around the world.Further along Les Quais, visitors will find the Chartrons district, known for its wine merchant history and trendy atmosphere. The old port warehouses in this area have been transformed into the Quai des Marques, a shopping mall offering factory-priced brands. Les Quais have become a central part of Bordeaux's identity, a place where history, culture, and recreation come together to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.