Bordeaux’s historic center and Chartrons district come alive on this captivating 3-hour bicycle tour. Weaving through the city’s picturesque streets, cyclists enjoy a tapestry of architectural wonders, from the Palais Gallien’s Roman ruins to the soaring Bordeaux Cathedral. Crossing the iconic bridges over the Garonne River, they’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the skyline before exploring the vibrant Quai des Chartrons, a hub of maritime heritage and contemporary culture. With remarkable landmarks and stunning riverside views, this tour promises to unveil Bordeaux’s captivating blend of history and modernity. The only question is, where will this journey take you next?
Key Points
- A 3-hour guided bicycle tour covering 14 km through Bordeaux’s historic center and Chartrons district in small groups of up to 12 participants.
- Tour starts at two convenient locations near the Jardin Public, with guides on hand to assist with bike setup and a smooth start.
- Highlights include the Palais Gallien, Place des Grands Hommes, Bordeaux Cathedral, Pont de Pierre, and the Darwin Eco-systeme showcasing Bordeaux’s sustainability efforts.
- Cyclists will enjoy the picturesque Quai des Chartrons, a waterfront promenade with boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafés.
- Tour is suitable for adults 155 cm (5 ft 1 in) and taller, with a choice of standard or electric bikes available.
Tour Overview
The Bordeaux Bicycle Tour offers a captivating 3-hour guided exploration of the city’s historic center and Chartrons district, covering a distance of 14 km (9 miles) through its charming streets.
Suitable for adults 155 cm (5 ft 1 in) and taller, the tour takes place in small groups of up to 12 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Along the way, cyclists will discover the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Palais Gallien, the Bordeaux Cathedral, and the Pont de Pierre.
With the choice of standard or electric bikes, the tour caters to a range of cycling abilities, ensuring an enjoyable and accessible adventure for all.
Meeting Points
Participants can choose from two convenient starting locations for the Bordeaux Bicycle Tour – 16 Rue du Jardin public or Rue Baste, both situated near the picturesque Jardin Public.
These meeting points provide easy access to the tour, allowing cyclists to simply arrive and get set up with their bikes and gear.
Whether you’re at the Rue du Jardin public or Rue Baste, you’ll be in the heart of Bordeaux’s historic center, ready to embark on an exciting journey through the city’s charming streets and districts.
The tour guides will be on hand to greet you and ensure a smooth start to your two-wheeled adventure.
Palais Gallien and Place Des Grands Hommes
Palais Gallien, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, stands as a testament to Bordeaux’s rich historical heritage.
From here, the tour makes its way to the elegant Place des Grands Hommes, a picturesque square flanked by neoclassical buildings that once housed the city’s elite.
Cyclists will marvel at the grand architecture and imagine the bustling social scene that once occupied this vibrant public space.
The guide will share fascinating stories of the square’s history and point out architectural details that showcase the city’s 18th-century splendor.
This segment of the tour provides a glimpse into Bordeaux’s illustrious past, setting the stage for the journey through the charming Chartrons district that lies ahead.
Bordeaux Cathedral and Tribunal Judiciaire
From the magnificent Palais Gallien and elegant Place des Grands Hommes, the bicycle tour continues to the imposing Bordeaux Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece that dominates the cityscape. Riders will gaze up at the cathedral’s soaring spires and intricate stone carvings, marveling at the skilled craftsmanship that brought this architectural wonder to life centuries ago.
Next, the group will pedal towards the Tribunal Judiciaire, the grand neoclassical courthouse that stands as a symbol of Bordeaux’s judicial legacy, its stately columns and ornate facade a testament to the city’s proud history.
The tour offers a captivating blend of Bordeaux’s rich past and vibrant present, inviting cyclists to enjoy the city’s timeless charm.
The Big Bell and Pont De Pierre
After marveling at the ornate facade of the Tribunal Judiciaire, the tour group will pedal towards another Bordeaux landmark – the iconic Big Bell, whose deep, resonant chimes have echoed through the city’s streets for centuries.
Looming over the Jardin Public, the grand bell tower stands as a proud symbol of Bordeaux’s enduring heritage, its impressive height and intricate stonework capturing the essence of the city’s architectural grandeur.
The tour will then cross the Pont de Pierre, a stunning 19th-century bridge that arches gracefully over the Garonne River, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. This landmark structure serves as a testament to Bordeaux’s engineering prowess, its elegant design and sturdy construction inspiring awe in all who encounter it.
Darwin Eco-systeme and Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas
Riding alongside the Garonne River, the tour group next encounters the strikingly modern Darwin Eco-systeme – a vibrant hub of sustainable innovation and community-driven initiatives that embody Bordeaux’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
This repurposed industrial site showcases the city’s forward-thinking approach, blending eye-catching architecture, renewable energy technologies, and public green spaces into a dynamic urban oasis.
After exploring this eco-friendly haven, the tour continues across the impressive Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas, a cable-stayed bridge that spans the river and offers breathtaking views of Bordeaux’s historic skyline.
This engineering marvel, completed in 2013, stands as a testament to the city’s continued evolution, seamlessly integrating modern infrastructure with its rich cultural heritage.
Quai Des Chartrons
The tour group next finds themselves along the charming Quai des Chartrons, a picturesque waterfront promenade that showcases Bordeaux’s enduring maritime heritage. This vibrant district, once the domain of wealthy merchants and shipowners, now bustles with a lively mix of boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafés that cater to both locals and visitors alike.
As they cycle past the grand 18th-century mansions and charming restored warehouses, the group takes in the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the Garonne River. The Quai des Chartrons offers a glimpse into Bordeaux’s rich history and its transformation into a modern, cosmopolitan city:
Admire the architectural gems, from the elegant townhouses to the industrial-chic warehouses, that tell the story of the district’s prosperous past.
Discover the vibrant arts and culinary scene, with galleries, boutiques, and eateries that showcase the city’s creative energy.
Soak in the relaxed, waterfront ambiance and imagine the bustling trade that once took place along these quays.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The guided Bordeaux bicycle tour includes the rental of a bicycle and helmet, as well as the services of an experienced tour guide. Plus, participants can opt for eco-friendly e-bikes. While the tour covers the historic center and Chartrons district over 14 km, hotel pickup and drop-off as well as food and drinks are not included in the tour price. This allows for maximum flexibility and a personalized experience.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Bicycle rental | Hotel pickup and drop-off |
| Helmet | Food and drinks |
| Tour guide | |
| E-bike option | |
| 14 km route |
Recap
This guided bicycle tour through Bordeaux’s historic center and Chartrons district offers a delightful way to take in the city’s captivating past and vibrant present.
From iconic landmarks to charming waterfront promenades, the tour showcases Bordeaux’s remarkable architecture, maritime heritage, and cultural vibrancy.
It’s a must-do experience for visitors looking to explore the enchanting sights and sounds of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
