Pey Berland Tower, Bordeaux Travel Guide

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Climb the historic Pey Berland Tower in Bordeaux for unmatched panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

The Pey Berland Tower, a historical landmark in Bordeaux, France, stands as the bell tower of the Saint-André Cathedral. Built in the Gothic style in the 15th century, it offers visitors the chance to climb its 233 steps for stunning panoramic views of the city.

A brief summary to Pey Berland Tower

Pl. Pey Berland, Bordeaux, 33000, FR
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the tower's 233 steps.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photographs and to avoid crowds.
Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Place Pey Berland and the Saint-André Cathedral.

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Explore Pey Berland Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pey Berland Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), walk east on Rue de la Rousselle, then turn left onto Rue de la Vieille Tour. Continue until you reach Place Pey Berland and the tower. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.
Public Transport

Take Tram Line A or B to the Hôtel de Ville stop. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the Pey Berland Tower. Head east on Rue de la Rousselle, turn left onto Rue de la Vieille Tour, and continue until you reach the square. A single tram fare is approximately €1.70.
Taxi

From Bordeaux city center, a taxi ride to Pey Berland Tower typically takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €5-€10 for a short trip within the city center.

Discover more about Pey Berland Tower

The Pey Berland Tower, an iconic structure in Bordeaux, France, is a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. Constructed between 1440 and 1500 under the direction of Archbishop Pey Berland, the tower initially served as a separate bell tower for the Saint-André Cathedral. The cathedral's foundation, built on marshy ground, couldn't support the weight and vibrations of a large bell tower, hence the decision to build a detached structure.The tower's Gothic design features a square base and a height of 64 meters, adorned with sculptures of saints and religious figures. Over the centuries, the tower has served various purposes, including a meeting place for citizens, a bell tower during the French Revolution, and even a lead shot factory. In 1853, a massive tenor bell, the fourth largest in France weighing 11 tons, was installed. A gilded statue of the Virgin and Child, known as Notre-Dame d'Aquitaine, was added in 1863, further enhancing the tower's significance.Today, the Pey Berland Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized both as part of the "Bordeaux, Port of the Moon" urban ensemble and as a component of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Visitors can ascend the tower's 233 steps via a narrow, spiral staircase to reach the top, where they are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Bordeaux. From this vantage point, landmarks such as the Church of St. Michel, the Place de la Bourse, and the Grand Théâtre can be seen.