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La Cité du Vin: A Global Wine Journey

Embark on a sensory journey through the world of wine at Bordeaux's architectural marvel, La Cité du Vin, exploring its history, culture, and art with interactive exhibits and panoramic tastings.

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La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux is more than a museum; it's an immersive exploration of wine culture across the globe. Housed in a striking, swirling architectural marvel on the Garonne River, this cultural center invites visitors on a sensory journey through the history, geography, and art of winemaking. Interactive exhibits, tasting workshops, and a panoramic belvedere offering stunning city views combine to create an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or a novice, La Cité du Vin offers a captivating and educational adventure into the world of wine, making it a must-visit destination in Bordeaux.

A brief summary to La Cité du Vin

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • Allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the permanent exhibition and enjoy the tasting at the Belvedere.
  • Take advantage of the digital companion (available in multiple languages) to customize your visit and delve deeper into areas of interest.
  • Check the schedule for workshops and tasting sessions to enhance your wine knowledge with hands-on experiences.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bordeaux city center, the easiest way to reach La Cité du Vin is by taking Tram Line B. The tram stop 'La Cité du Vin' is located directly in front of the building's entrance. A single 'Ticket 1 voyage' costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of unlimited travel on the TBM network (including trams, buses, and Batcub river shuttle). Purchase tickets at vending machines at any tram stop or via the TBM app. Remember to validate your ticket upon boarding. Several bus lines (Lianes 7, 25, 27, 53) also stop at La Cité du Vin.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Bordeaux city center to La Cité du Vin typically costs between €15 and €25, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. The journey usually takes 10-20 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow signs towards Quai de Bacalan. La Cité du Vin is located at 134 Quai de Bacalan. Several parking options are available nearby. Interparking La Cité du Vin, located opposite the building, offers a special rate of €6 for 5 hours. Alternatively, parking is available at Hangar 19 (Quai de Bacalan). Ten designated disabled parking spots are available at the entrance of La Cité du Vin. Expect to pay standard hourly rates outside of the Interparking special offer.

  • Ferry

    For a scenic route, consider taking the Batcub river shuttle (Line B) to the 'La Cité du Vin' stop. The Batcub connects various points along the Garonne River. A single ticket costs €1.80 if using a TBM ticket, or €3 if purchased on board. Check the Batcub schedule in advance, as service is less frequent than trams or buses.

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Discover more about La Cité du Vin

La Cité du Vin stands as a beacon of wine culture in the heart of Bordeaux, offering visitors an unparalleled journey through the world of wine. Opened in 2016, this architectural masterpiece, designed to evoke the swirling motion of wine in a glass, is more than just a museum; it's a sensory and educational experience that celebrates wine as a universal and living heritage. As you approach La Cité du Vin, its striking silhouette dominates the Bordeaux skyline. The building's unique shape, clad in shimmering gold and silver panels, reflects the Garonne River and the city's historic stone facades. This architectural boldness sets the stage for the immersive adventure that awaits inside. Stepping through the doors, visitors are greeted by a vast, open space that houses the ticket counters, information desks, and access to the permanent exhibition. The journey begins with a digital companion, available in multiple languages, that guides you through the museum's various themed areas. This interactive tool allows you to tailor your experience, delving deeper into the topics that pique your interest. The heart of La Cité du Vin is its permanent exhibition, a sprawling, multi-sensory exploration of wine across cultures and civilizations. Spread over 3,000 square meters, the exhibition is divided into several thematic 'worlds,' each offering a unique perspective on wine. From the history of winemaking in ancient civilizations to the diverse terroirs that shape wine's character, the exhibits are designed to engage all five senses. Interactive displays allow you to explore the aromas of different grape varietals, learn about the art of blending, and discover the cultural significance of wine in various societies. You can test your knowledge with quizzes, watch films that transport you to vineyards around the world, and even experience a virtual boat ride through wine regions. One of the highlights of the permanent exhibition is the 'Buffet of the Five Senses,' an interactive installation that invites you to explore the sensory dimensions of wine. Here, you can experiment with different aromas, textures, and sounds to understand how they influence your perception of wine. Beyond the permanent exhibition, La Cité du Vin also hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific aspects of wine culture. These exhibitions offer a fresh perspective on the world of wine, exploring topics such as the art of wine label design, the history of sparkling wine, and the role of wine in literature and film. No visit to La Cité du Vin is complete without a trip to the Belvedere, a panoramic tasting room located on the eighth floor. Here, you can sample a glass of wine from around the world while enjoying breathtaking views of Bordeaux and the Garonne River. The Belvedere offers a curated selection of wines, each chosen to represent a different region or style. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through the tasting, providing insights into the wine's history, terroir, and production methods. La Cité du Vin also offers a variety of workshops and tasting sessions for those who want to deepen their knowledge of wine. These workshops cover a range of topics, from wine and food pairing to the art of blind tasting. Led by experienced sommeliers and wine educators, these sessions provide a hands-on opportunity to learn about wine in a fun and engaging environment. For those seeking a more casual experience, La Cité du Vin boasts several restaurants and bars. 'Le 7,' a panoramic restaurant on the seventh floor, offers stunning views of the city and a menu that celebrates local and seasonal ingredients. The wine bar, located on the ground floor, offers a wide selection of wines by the glass, as well as a range of snacks and small plates. La Cité du Vin is more than just a museum; it's a cultural hub that celebrates wine in all its forms. With its interactive exhibits, tasting workshops, and stunning architecture, it's an unforgettable destination for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or a novice, La Cité du Vin offers a captivating and educational adventure into the world of wine. La Cité du Vin is committed to accessibility, with facilities and programs designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. The museum offers audio guides, tactile maps, and wheelchair rentals, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. Located on the banks of the Garonne River, La Cité du Vin is easily accessible by public transportation. The tram line B stops directly in front of the museum, and several bus lines also serve the area. For those arriving by car, there is ample parking available nearby. La Cité du Vin is open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum's ticket counters. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. A visit to La Cité du Vin is an essential experience for anyone interested in wine. It's a place where you can learn, taste, and celebrate the world of wine in a unique and unforgettable setting.

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