Background

Pey Berland Tower: A Gothic Landmark with Panoramic Views

Climb the historic Pey Berland Tower in Bordeaux for panoramic city views and a glimpse into centuries of French history and architecture.

4.5

The Pey Berland Tower, a 15th-century Gothic bell tower, stands apart from Bordeaux Cathedral. Ascend its 233 steps for stunning panoramic views of the city and Garonne River, and explore its rich history as a religious site and even a former lead shot factory.

A brief summary to Pey Berland Tower

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the 233 steps to the top of the tower.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography and to avoid crowds.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Take your time on the climb; the staircase is narrow, and it can be strenuous.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), walk towards the Place Pey Berland. The tower is located directly on the square, next to the Bordeaux Cathedral. The walk is short and straightforward.

  • Public Transport

    Take Tram Line A or B to the Hôtel de Ville stop. The tower is a short 2-minute walk from the tram stop, located on Place Pey Berland. A single tram ticket costs €1.70.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from the Bordeaux city center to the Pey Berland Tower typically costs between €5 and €6, and the journey takes approximately 2 minutes. Taxis are readily available throughout the city center.

Unlock the Best of Pey Berland Tower

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Pey Berland Tower

Rising proudly in the heart of Bordeaux, the Pey Berland Tower is a captivating historical landmark offering visitors a unique blend of architectural splendor and breathtaking city views. This 66-meter-tall Gothic bell tower, named after Archbishop Pey Berland, was constructed between 1440 and 1500. A distinctive feature of the tower is its separation from the Saint-André Cathedral, a deliberate design choice to protect the cathedral's structure from the vibrations of the bells. The tower's history is as intriguing as its architecture. Initially intended solely as a bell tower, it has served various purposes throughout the centuries. Due to a delay in acquiring bells, it was used for housing until 1790. During the French Revolution, it was repurposed as a lead shot factory. In 1851, the tower was restored to its original religious function, and bells were finally installed. Today, the tower houses four bells, with the largest, Ferdinand-André II, weighing a hefty 11 tons. Visitors can climb the tower's 233 steps via a narrow, winding staircase to reach the top, where they are rewarded with unparalleled 360-degree views of Bordeaux. From this vantage point, iconic landmarks such as the Church of St. Michel, the Place de la Bourse, and the Grand Théâtre can be seen. The tower itself is adorned with sculptures and religious figures, showcasing the intricate details of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. Crowning the tower is a gilded statue of Notre-Dame d'Aquitaine, erected in 1863. The Pey Berland Tower is a designated 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.

Popular Experiences near Pey Berland Tower

Popular Hotels near Pey Berland Tower

Select Currency