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Outdoor Bars and Rooftop Terraces in Bordeaux

Les Planches Éphémères summer bar in Bordeaux

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy Bordeaux’s vibrant bar scene — think sunset cocktails, live music, and dancing under the stars. In this updated list, you’ll find the best outdoor bars in Bordeaux, from laid-back riverfront spots to the most stunning rooftop bars in Bordeaux.

✨ Planning a trip to Bordeaux? Don’t miss these two essentials:

🗺️ 5-Day Itinerary: The ultimate guide to Bordeaux + two amazing day trips (Saint-Émilion & Arcachon).

📍 Bordeaux Map: A custom Google map with all the best bars, restaurants, and attractions pinned!

La guinguette chez Alriq – the best tavern in town

La Guinguette chez Alriq is one of my favorite places in Bordeaux and its opening event usually means that summer has officially started! The Guinguette is a big tavern located on the right banks of the Garonne in the Bastide neighborhood, hosting plenty of open-air concerts every summer. The performing bands and artists come from all over the world and create a laid-back party atmosphere. You can see their program here.

what to do in the summer in Bordeaux
by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: ZA Quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux / When: Wed – Sun 

Les Chantiers de la Garonne

Just next door to Chez Alriq, you can find one of Bordeaux’s best-hidden gems: Les Chantiers de la Garonne. This old hangar has been transformed into a sailing club and a restaurant with one of the best outdoor spaces in Bordeaux. Located on the banks of the Garonne River, the restaurant features an outdoor area that feels like a real beach. Low wooden tables are scattered over fine white sand, adorned with fresh seafood and cold bottles of white wine.

Les Chantiers de la Garonne - beach like restaurant
Les Chantiers de la Garonne – by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 21 Quai de Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux /  When:  open daily, see the hours here.

Mama Shelter – THE Bordeaux rooftop

Mama Shelter is likely the most popular summer rooftop bar in Bordeaux. Its funky design and original cocktails contribute to its appeal, but the prime location also plays a significant role. Situated next to Cathedral Saint André, it offers one of the best views of the city. For evening visits, booking in advance is recommended. Mama Shelter is also one of the best hotels to stay in when visiting Bordeaux.

The most popular rooftop in Bordeaux - Mama shelter
Mama Shelter- by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 19 Rue Poquelin Molière, 33000 Bordeaux / When: Open daily for lunch, dinner and drinks, see specific hours here.

Les Planches Éphémères

Les Planches Éphémères is a huge outdoor bar located next to Le Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux, offering a refreshing and relaxing experience near the Bordeaux Lake. The venue features two bars, a DJ set, a giant screen, and a vast chill-out area under the trees. You’ll also find food spaces, a stage, musical programming, pétanque, and various seasonal activities. The place is open every day until September 14.

Where: Rue Jean Samazeuilh, Parc des expositions, 33000 Bordeaux / When: open daily from May 15 to Sep 14.

The Rooftop of UCPA Sport Station

The UCPA Sport Station Bordeaux is a vibrant multisport complex and community hub. It offers a variety of activities, from sports and concerts to exhibitions and DJ sets. Located on the Brazza docks, this transparent building features facilities for squash, fitness, climbing, and escape games. The highlight is the rooftop, complete with a golf and minigolf practice area, perfect for relaxing in the sun before, during, or after your activities. See the program of events here.

Where: 10 Rue Charles Chaigneau, 33100 Bordeaux / When: open daily, see hours.

Le Bar de la Marine

Le Bar de la Marine is another hidden gem and like many places in this list, it’s also located in the Bacalan district. A few minutes walk from la Cité du Vin, you’ll pass by a little restaurant that doesn’t seem very impressive from the outside, but once you enter the door you’ll discover a magical universe. 

Since 2019, the Bar de la Marine belongs to chef Frederic Coiffe who not only makes great food but also knows how to create a perfect summer vibe. The restaurant has a secret garden in the back where you can enjoy lunch, meet friends for an afternoon drink, or have a delicious family brunch on Sunday. Reservations are highly recommended.

Bar de la Marine - one of the best summer bars in Bordeaux
By Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 28 Rue Achard, 33300 Bordeaux / When: open daily – see hours on their Facebook page

Effet Mer

If you didn’t have enough reasons to go to Bassin a flot, here’s another one. Effet Mer is a fun summer bar with daily life concerts and DJ sets. The bar is located just next to Les Bassins des Lumières, one of the best art venues in Bordeaux. A perfect opportunity to combine art with afternoon drinks!

Where: 280 Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux / When: open daily during the summer season, see the opening hours here.

Gina 

Another very popular summer place in Bordeaux is Gina, a rooftop bar and Italian restaurant located at the new Renaissance hotel in the Bassin a flot district. The place is open seven days a week and on weekends offers brunch as well. The restaurant requires a prior reservation, you can see more details and book here. 

Gina restaurant and rooftop in Bordeaux
Gina restaurant and rooftop – Lost in Bordeaux

Where: Place des Millésimes, 33300 Bordeaux / When: open daily – see the hours here.

Sasha sur le Toit – Sunset cocktails with a view

Sasha is a chic rooftop bar perched above the docks of Bacalan, offering stunning views of the Garonne and the Chaban-Delmas bridge. The vibe is relaxed early in the week and turns festive with DJ sets on weekends. Expect great cocktails, Mediterranean-style tapas, and an unbeatable sunset backdrop.

Sasha sur le Toit - one of the best rooftops in Bordeaux
Sasha sur le Toit – by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 88 Quai de Bacalan, 33000 Bordeaux / When: Mon–Fri from 6pm, Sat–Sun from 3pm

Bien Public – A new cultural terrace on the Right Bank

Located in the up-and-coming Belvédère district, Bien Public is one of the coolest new summer venues in Bordeaux. This massive space combines a rooftop terrace, bar, gallery, and concert venue, with regular DJ sets, art events, and vintage markets. It’s perfect for weekend drinks with a creative twist.

The only downside? It’s a bit trickier to reach without a car — depending on where you’re coming from, it might take two buses.

bien public - summer bar in bordeaux
Bien Public – by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: 68 Quai Deschamps, 33100 Bordeaux / When: Thu–Sat evenings, Sun from noon.

Les Halles de Talence

The Talence market is the little brother of the Bacalan market, built by Biltoki in December 2018. Inside the market, you can find a very good cheese stand, tapas, Moroccan food, sushi, oysters, and more. The best part, however, is the outdoor area! Plenty of tables are spread out in the afternoon between the market and the other restaurants in the Forum, and you can enjoy a really fun apero or dinner with a very local vibe. 

Halles de Talence - chic market near Bordeaux
by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: Place Alcala de Henares, 33400 Talence /  When:  Daily except for Mondays, the market closes for a break between 14:30 to 16:30 on weekdays 

Canopée Café in Merignac

If you want to avoid the city center, Canopée Café in Merignac is a great option! It has an indoor restaurant (open for lunch and dinner) and a chic rooftop with a huge selection of cocktails and a pétanque court, called the Bodega. Located in Merignac’s industrial zone, it lacks the views of Bordeaux’s rooftop bars but is stylish and has plenty of parking. For groups of 15 or more, booking is required. See more details here.

Canopée Café Mérignac - chic rooftop near Bordeaux
by Lost in Bordeaux

Where: Face Mérignac Soleil, 1 Chemin de Pouchon, 33700 Mérignac / When:  The rooftop is open Mon to Sat, see hours here.

Moxy Terrace

Moxi, a 3-star hotel next to the Bacalan market, offers a terrace with a light, fun, and unpretentious vibe. The bar features a chic, kid-friendly interior and a lively outdoor space. Like many summer bars, Moxi hosts numerous live shows and DJ sets. Check out their program here.

Where: 25 Quai du Maroc, 33000 Bordeaux, France

Liked the article? Want to read it again when you’re in Bordeaux? Save it on your Pinterest board.

More fun things to do in Bordeaux during the summer season!
The Ultimate Guide to Bordeaux 
Best things to do in Bordeaux this summer
The best places to visit in Arcachon
Best beaches near Bordeaux
Wine tasting in Bordeaux
Night markets in the SW of France

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via Lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

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In Biking, hiking and nature in Bordeaux Discover Bordeaux parks and nature

The most beautiful parks in Bordeaux

Parc Majolan

The amazing response to my Hiking in Bordeaux article last week, made me realize that now, more than ever, people are looking to replace their city center outings with parks, beaches, and forests. So maybe not everyone is up for a 9km hike but I’m sure most of my readers would love to discover new places where they can admire exotic flowers, observe ducks swimming peacefully in a cute pond and enjoy an outdoor picnic. I know we all miss going to restaurants but opening a bottle of good Bordeaux wine accompanied by cheese, charcuterie and a beautiful view doesn’t feel so bad to me! So this week I decided to write an article about the most beautiful parks in Bordeaux, or better yet “my favorite parks in Bordeaux” 🙂

If you leave the city center and travel to the other towns of Bordeaux Metropole, you will discover that there’s a huge amount of parks and green spaces in the Bordeaux region. Some of them have lakes, playgrounds, picnic areas, others have a more foresty vibe to them and some even have beautiful art installations. In some parts of this article, I mention things like playgrounds, animal parks, coffee places, and picnics, which were a normal thing before the pandemic. I hope that things can get back to normal as soon as possible but for now, please know that some of these places are still closed and that no gathering of more than 10 people is allowed. So be safe and prudent when visiting public spaces. 

If you’re keen on staying close to the center you can check out my older article about the best places for picnics in Bordeaux. Also, I just want to remind you that on my Instagram I post plenty of photos and stories from the places I visit in Gironde so follow me to get much more info about the hidden gems of our region.

The best parks in Bordeaux – Rive Gauche

Jardin Public in Bordeaux center

Jardin public in Bordeaux

For those living in Bordeaux, my choice to start with Jardin Public would seem too obvious, but one cannot make a list of parks in Bordeaux without mentioning this beautiful green island harmoniously placed among the historic buildings of Bordeaux. Jardin Public, created in the 18th century is the biggest park in Bordeaux center spreading over 11 hectares! This place is the epitome of city parks, it has a beautiful pond with ducks and swans, a wide green area for picnics, a lot of space for runners and two fun playgrounds for kids. It’s also home to Bordeaux’s natural history museums which is a great spot for families. You can clearly see why it’s one of the most visited places in Bordeaux by locals and tourists alike. In the summer, the park hosts a daily traditional puppets show, which makes it even more attractive for families. For more activities for kids check out my article about the best things to do in Bordeaux with kids. 

Parc Bordelais in Cauderan

Parc Bordelais in the Cauderan neighborhood is the biggest park in Bordeaux city. It’s a beautiful 28-hectare green space that attracts both friends and families for picnics around the lake, as well as runners and bikers. It also has a chic cafe, for those of you in need of a cold glass of rosé 🙂  I would dare to say that it’s the most kids-friendly park in Bordeaux. Besides two large playgrounds (for younger and older kids), there is a puppet theater, a little animal park and a kids train that takes you on a tour of the park. While it’s not in the hyper center like Jardin Public, it’s really worth the travel. 

Parc bordelais in Bordeaux

There’s no tram directly to the park but you can easily reach it by bus (number 2 or 3) from the center of Bordeaux. You can also take tram D and walk about 15 minutes to the park. It will take you about half an hour to get there walking from the center of Bordeaux. 

Parc Majolan in Blanquefort

If I had to make a list of my top three parks in Bordeaux this one would definitely be on it! Parc Majolan in Blanquefort is a great example of a beautiful landscape design. When you follow the paths in the park you feel like you walk through a forest but then suddenly discover ruins of an old gate, beautiful flowers, and finally a stunning lake. The best part of it all is the artificial caves created in the 19th century. This park is so rich that it will take you hours to explore all of it! 

Parc Majolan Bordeaux

How to get there: The entrance to the park is from Avenue du Général de Gaulle 33290 BLANQUEFORT. If you’re coming by bus, take bus number 29 and get off at Parc de Majolan station. 

Parc Bouran in Merignac

Parc Bouran in Merignac

Parc Bouran is the main park of Merignac and is easily accessible by tram A from the city center. While it’s a proper park with a lake, a beautiful chateau and playgrounds, some parts of it feel rawer and woody, which I find very nice. The park has been built around the Deveze, a stream that runs into the Garone river next to the Saint Pierre neighborhood (the original location of the old port of Bordeaux). In the city center, the stream now goes underground but here in the park, it’s in the open-air, giving it yet another special feature. This park is perfect for families and seems to be very popular with joggers as well 🙂

Parc Floral 

I feel like this amazing park doesn’t get enough credit. The 20 hectares flower park of Bordeaux side by side with the Bois de Bordeaux (the forest of Bordeaux) in the Barails natural reserve, which I have written about in my Hiking in Bordeaux article. This is one of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux for walking, running, bicycle riding or a picnic. 

Parc floral in Bordeaux

The colorful Parc floral has a beautiful rose garden with more than 500 varieties of roses. And that’s not all, among the park’s greenery you can find magnolias, many irises, every possible type of rhododendrons and many types of vines (mind you they are there to feed the birds). Throughout the park you will see plenty of statues and structures that look like they have been taken from other parts of the world. These were donated to Bordeaux from different places like Japan, Spain, and Morocco (don’t miss the stunning Moorish mosaics.) Spring is the best time to visit the park. Everything is still blossoming and after two months of confinement, it’s a good reminder that the world is still beautiful and alive 🙂 

Parc Floral is located in the Bordeaux Lac neighborhood and to get there straight without passing the forest first you will need to enter through entree roseraie (next to the Golf de Bordeaux Lac). Before heading there check out the information about the different entrances and parking spots on the official site of Bordeaux. 

Le Bois du Bouscat

Le Bois du Bouscat is a 5 hectares park stretched along the big Hippodrome in the Le Bouscat neighborhood. It’s a relatively new park, opened only in 2013 and labeled “entre nature et culture” it strives to connect  nature, art, and culture. While it’s not a huge park, its cultural aspect is particularly attractive and it can take you a few hours to see everything if you really pay attention to all the details. Plenty of sculptures are spread throughout the park, unusual benches, each designed by a different wood sculpturer, beautiful metallic animals representing the animals of the forest, and other art installations all related to nature. If you’re in for a culture hike, this is your place.

Parc Peixotto

Parc Peixotto in the center of Talence is not one of the big parks in Bordeaux metropole, but one of my favorites for sure. Well, I’m not objective here, I live just next door to it and it has been my savior every time my kids go bananas at home. What can you find here? A pond with plenty of geese and ducks, a beautiful chateau, and tons of hidden spots for romantic picnics 🙂 In the summer there are usually some nice events taking place in the park as well. 

chateau peixotto
chateau peixotto in Talence

It’s easily accessible by tram B from the city center – the Forum and Parc Peixotto stations are both very close to the park. 

Ecosite du Bourgailh in Pessac

The Ecosite of Bourgailh is not just a park, it’s a universe of plants put together in great landscape design. The area of the Foret du Bourgailh includes a 2.6 km walking trail, the largest tropical greenhouse in the region, sports facilities, a skate park, an amphitheater, a zoo and one of the most beautiful playgrounds you have ever seen, which for me is the highlight of this park. There are plenty of nice ecological and educational events taking place there throughout the year, such as mushroom hunting, a pumpkin festival, planting workshops and more. 

Ecosite du Bourgailh in Pessac

There are currently some issues with the parking there so you might have to stop further away and walk a bit. Click here to see where to park and how to get there by public transport or biking. 

Parc du Moulineau Gradignan

Parc du Moulineau Gradignan

Parc du Moulineau happens to be one of the biggest parks in the green suburb of Gradignan and it’s a real gem for kids. Not only can they enjoy a big playground but it’s also home to the Maison de la Nature that inhabits nearly 50 different animal species from rabbits to the black and white goat of the Pyrénées. The animal park is still closed so I recommend waiting until it opens up before going there. You can see all the details about the opening hours of the animal park here. 

Parc Sourreil in Villenave d’ornon

Parc Sourreil in Villenave d’ornon

This little park is well hidden behind its chateau and is easy to miss when passing by its main entrance in Villenave d’Ornon. However, if you go beyond the chateau you’ll find a cute forest-y park with a nice area for kids and some walking paths around the woods. I wouldn’t necessarily make a long trip to see this park but if you’re not far from here, it’s worth a visit!

Parks on Rive droite 

Parc de L’ermitage in Lormont 

The Parc of Lormont, or by its official name Parc de l’Ermitage Sainte-Catherine, is one of the favorite parks of rive droite inhabitants, or those who love traveling around the metropole. This beautiful hilly park is located on the east bank of the Garonne river and is part of the enormous 400 hectares green space called Parc des Coteaux, which goes through several other towns on rive droite. 

If you climb on the upper side of the park you can enjoy a stunning view of the Aquitaine bridge covering the Garonne river. However, If you’re coming with strollers or generally with little kids, beware that it’s not a very easy climb to the top of the park. In that case, I would advise you to spend your time near the lake at the bottom of the park and then reenter the park again through Haut Lormont (the higher part of Lormont) to visit the hilly part.  

Parc de L’ermitage in Lormont

I previously mentioned this park in my article about things to do with kids in Bordeaux. Just next to the park you will find the ferme d’Iris, an animal farm for kids with rabbits, donkeys, goats, and more.  For more info about the farm click here.

Parc aux Angéliques in Bastide

Parc aux Angéliques on Quai des Queyries isn’t a park per se, but rather a vast green area close to the city center, perfect for hiking, biking, or a picnic with friends. I felt that I should include it in the list for those looking for a nice picnic spot in the more tranquil part of Bordeaux. The park is spread along the Garonne river from its east side which provides a beautiful view of the buildings and monuments on the opposite side of the river such as the beautiful Place de la Bourse. There’s a very familial and tranquil vibe to it even during the more touristy months of the year. You will see groups of friends picnicking, families playing badminton, and a lot of bikers and runners (well, these are apparently everywhere in Bordeaux). If you’ve made it all the way there you can enjoy places like Darwin and Jardin Botanic, both located just in front of the park. You can read more about these two places in my ultimate guide to a weekend in Bordeaux. If you’re coming with kids, don’t panic if you don’t find a playground in the park. There’s actually a large playground just next to Jardin Botanique at Place des Droits de L’Enfant.

Parc aux Angéliques in Bastide

You can get there by tram A (Stalingrad station), by boat from the other side of the river, or with many buses that go through the Bastide neighborhood, You can use the site of the public transport in Bordeaux to find the best route. My favorite way to get there is on a city bike, you can read more about that in my article about cycling in Bordeaux. 

In this list, I included only the parks that I had a chance to visit, which is quite a lot but if you think that I should include other parks feel free to write it in the comments below. 

If you want to get more information about traveling in Bordeaux and the Southwest of France you should join my Travel in the Southwest of France Facebook group or simply join my Facebook/Instagram pages where I share almost all my travel and experiences in the region on a daily basis. If you want to get exclusive tips on traveling in the region, subscribe to my newsletter here.

Hope you enjoyed reading!

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In Discover Bordeaux Eat and Drink Places to visit Shopping in Bordeaux

The best markets in Bordeaux

Marche des Capucins, one of Bordeaux's best markets

Visiting a market in Southwest France is a feast for the senses. The vibrant red strawberries of spring, the irresistible aroma of local cheeses, and the briny freshness of seaside oysters capture the region’s culinary magic. Bordeaux celebrated for its gastronomy, is home to some of the finest markets in France—a must-visit for food lovers.

While Bordeaux’s main market is a star attraction, the city offers so much more. Thanks to the French passion for fresh, seasonal produce, open-air markets thrive in every corner. The Southwest’s agricultural abundance shines in Bordeaux, showcasing treasures like Lot-et-Garonne strawberries, Marmande tomatoes, Basque sheep cheese, and Dordogne duck.

The best markets in Bordeaux
markets in Bordeaux by Lost in Bordeaux

In this article, I’ll guide you through the best food markets in Bordeaux, both in the city center and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to dive deeper into the culinary treasures of the region, don’t miss my article on Bordeaux specialties—it’s the perfect companion to your market adventures. Let’s get started!

The Best Food Markets in Bordeaux City

Marché des Capucins – the central market of Bordeaux

The Capucins market is Bordeaux’s largest daily market, offering everything from fresh produce and spices to local sweets and oyster stands. It’s a foodie paradise where you can immerse yourself in the flavors of Southwest France—plan to spend a few hours exploring!

After browsing the stalls, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the market’s many restaurants. Need tips? Check out my article on the best places to eat at Marché des Capucins. This covered market is also a great spot to escape Bordeaux’s rainy days.

Weekends are especially lively, with locals gathering for oysters and wine. Arrive early on Sundays (before 11 am) if you want a table. For a deeper experience, join a food tour, like the No Diet Club’s group tour, or a private culinary tour with chef Anne.

Opening hours: Open daily except Mondays/ Address:  Place des Capucins, 33800 Bordeaux

Marche des Quais – the market with the most beautiful view

Every Sunday morning, the Quai des Chartrons comes alive with food stalls offering the best oysters, fresh produce, cheese, fish, wine, and food trucks. This market is one of the most popular in Bordeaux, thanks to its quality products and stunning riverfront setting.

Beyond shopping, it’s the perfect spot for an early lunch, especially if you’re craving oysters with a cold glass of local white wine. It’s a true taste of the region’s relaxed lifestyle. If you want a seat, be sure to arrive by 11:30 am.

On Thursdays, a smaller, quieter market takes place with a focus on organic products. While it lacks the Sunday bustle, it’s a great option for cooking at home. For more about the Chartrons area, check out my guide to the best places to visit nearby!

Opening hours: Every Sunday and Thursday morning (a smaller version) / Address:  Quai des Chartrons, Bordeaux

Les Halles de Bacalan – the posh market of Bordeaux

Located in the heart of the Bassins à Flots district, Les Halles de Bacalan quickly became a must-visit destination for Bordeaux’s food scene. Opened in 2017, this vibrant 1,000m2 space brings together 22 regional producers, artisans, and chefs, offering a taste of the Southwest, all just across from the Cité du Vin.

On weekends, the market hosts events like pintxos evenings, cooking workshops, live music, and kids’ activities, making it a great spot for tapas and drinks with friends. If you have time, explore the up-and-coming Bacalan district and learn more in my guide.

Les Halles de Bacalan - one of the best markets in Bordeaux
The Bacalan market – Lost in Bordeaux

Opening hours:  from Tuesday to Sunday (the market closes between 14:30 to 16:30 on weekdays) / Address: 149 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux

Marché Royal in Saint Michel

Marché Royal is one of the largest open-air markets in Bordeaux, held every Saturday morning at Place Meynard and Quai des Salinières in the lively Saint Michel district. Surrounded by the iconic church and bell tower, the market offers a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to kitchenware, clothes, and even pillows. It’s also the most affordable market in Bordeaux, although it’s not the best spot for organic produce. 

On sunny Saturdays, locals come for their weekly shopping, while others enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and nearby chic cafés. On Sundays and Fridays (a smaller one), the square hosts antique and flea markets, making it an ideal place to explore throughout the week.

Bordeaux's flea market on Sunday morning
Flea market on Sunday morning – by Lost in Bordeaux

Wondering what else to see in the area? Check out my article about the best things to do in the Saint Michel district.

Opening hours:  Saturday (food market), and Sunday (antique market).

Marché de Producteurs Saint-Seurin

The Saint-Seurin farmers market takes place every Friday morning at Place des Martyrs de la Résistance, just a 10-minute walk from central Bordeaux. With around 20 stalls, it’s a small but charming market offering high-quality products from local farmers. The cozy atmosphere makes it a lovely spot to explore, especially since it’s located next to the stunning Basilique Saint-Seurin, one of Bordeaux’s most impressive churches.

Opening hours:  Every Friday Morning (7:00-13:00) / Address: Place des Martyrs de la Résistance

Markets around Bordeaux Metropole

Les Halles de Talence – one of my favorite places in Bordeaux

Opened in December 2018, Les Halles de Talence is the smaller sibling of the Bacalan market. Located in Talence, a university town just outside Bordeaux, this market has a laid-back, local atmosphere, with regulars coming for their weekly shopping. You’ll find a variety of stalls selling meat, seafood, bakery goods, and more.

What sets Talence apart is its tapas bar and eateries, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or an aperitif. At the heart of the market is the Biltoki Bar, a popular gathering place for locals, especially on weekends, with its large terrace offering a lively ambiance. In recent years, the market has added fun events like live music and kids’ workshops. 

Wednesday open-air market: In addition to the covered market, every Wednesday an open-air market is set up outside, offering great products at more affordable prices. Food trucks are also available for lunch until around 2 p.m.

wednesday openair market in Talence
Wednesday open-air market in Talence – Lost in Bordeaux

When: Daily except for Mondays, the market closes for a break between 14:30 to 16:30 on weekdays  / Where: Place Alcala de Henares, 33400 Talence

Thouars Talence – Every Sunday 

Let’s stay in Talence a bit longer because there’s another fantastic market worth mentioning. Every Sunday morning, the Thouars Forest in Talence hosts the largest weekly market in the area, right in front of the swimming pool.

This market offers a great selection of French products, with an impressive variety of fruits, vegetables, and excellent deals at the fish stall (especially if you visit around noon). But it’s not just a food market—you’ll also find plants, clothing, and kitchen accessories, making it a great spot for a bit of everything.

Marche de thouars in Talence bordeaux

The market is nestled by a lake in a peaceful forest, so it’s perfect for a relaxing picnic after shopping. While it’s a bit tricky to reach by public transport, if you have a car, it’s definitely worth the visit!

When: Sunday morning  / Where: the parking of 235 Avenue de Thouars, 33400 Talence

Le Marché du Centre-ville de Mérignac

Another market I love visiting on the weekend is the Mérignac city center market. Just a short tram ride from Bordeaux’s city center, this market is one of the best in the area.

Held every Wednesday and Saturday morning on Place Charles de Gaulle, next to the Mediatheque Mérignac (the city library), it offers a fantastic variety of regional wines, cheeses, nuts, honey, pastries, and all the essentials like vegetables, meat, and fish. There are also a few tables where you can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee from the market’s coffee roaster stall, making it a great place to relax and take in the atmosphere.

When: Wednesday and Saturday  / Where: Place Charles de Gaulle, Merignac

Pessac center

A very nice market takes place in the center of Pessac every Tuesday and Saturday morning. Pessac is one of the more charming suburbs of Bordeaux and a market day is a good excuse to visit its lovely city center. The market isn’t big but the products are excellent, I especially love the cheese stall. And as a bonus, you can finish your market tour with a drink in one of the coffee places on the square. 

Cycling in Pessac
The central square of Pessac – Lost in Bordeaux

You can reach it easily by public transport, just take tram B from the center of Bordeaux to Pessac Centre.

A much bigger market is taking place not far from the center every Sunday morning. Le marché Bourrec, on Avenue Pierre Wiehn is hosting more than 150 merchants and farmers coming from all the departments surrounding Bordeaux (Lot et Garonne, Dordogne, Landes…) with the best products of our region. This market also has stalls of clothing, art, and more. 

When: Tuesday and Saturday and Sunday  / Where: Place de la Ve République and Avenue Pierre Wiehn. Pessac.

Marché de Rochefort –  Gradignan

For those living in the southern suburbs of Bordeaux, Marché de Rochefort is a fantastic option. Every Saturday morning, more than 70 vendors gather here selling everything from meat and cheese to fish, flowers, and more.

This market offers a warm, local atmosphere. Neighbors greet each other, and customers share cooking tips and family meal stories with the merchants, who are regulars each week. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, non-touristy experience, this is the perfect spot.

Located next to the main road of Gradignan, Cours du Général de Gaulle, it’s easily accessible by public transport from Bordeaux and Talence (bus line 10 stops nearby).

Marche de Gradignan

When: Saturday morning (8:00-13:00) / Where: rue de Rochefort ( between the cemetery and le collège des Fontaines de Monjous), Gradignan. 

Marché de Bassens

The Bassens market is less known by most tourists but it’s actually one of the biggest markets in our region and one of the most popular among people on the rive droite of the Garonne. The market takes place every Sunday at Place de la Commune de Paris in Bassen, a town located just after Lormont. 

Almost 150 stalls are waiting for you with some of the best products in the southwest of France. There are oysters from Arcachon and from Ile de Re, charcuterie from the Basque country, tarts from the Landes, and other produce from almost every corner of Nouvelle Aquitaine. Among them, there are quite a few food stalls like Morocain couscous, Portuguese grilled chicken, and a coffee place. You can spend a really fun morning here, strolling the many alleys of the market and tasting local food. 

When: Sunday morning (9:00-13:00) / Where: place de la Commune de Paris, Bassens

If this list of the best markets in Bordeaux got you in a foodie mood you can also read my article about the most foodies streets in Bordeaux and the one about the sweet specialties of Bordeaux.

Is it your first time in Bordeaux? If it is you should definitely check out my ultimate guide to Bordeaux to get familiar with all the must-see places in Bordeaux. To help you choose a hotel in Bordeaux I’ve gathered a list of the best hotels in the center of Bordeaux as well as a guide to the districts of Bordeaux to help you find your preferred AirBnB location.

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂 

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In Weekend plans

This weekend in Bordeaux (January 25-27)

oysters arcachon
It looks like it’s going to be quite a rainy weekend so I guess most of you will be looking for some indoor activities. Some of the options this weekend include the big fair of antiques and art and the Trente Trente art festival. If you prefer keeping it cozy, you can check out the list of five coffee places in Bordeaux, and enjoy some excellent local coffee. Here’s the list of things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux (January 25-27):

International magic festival

The international magic festival will take place in Théâtre Fémina on January 25-27. This year seven world-class artists (magicians and illusionists) will offer you breathtaking spectacles that you wouldn’t want to miss. For more info and tickets click here.
When: January 25-27 / Where: 10 Rue de Grassi, 33000 Bordeaux

Salon des Antiquaires et de l’Art Contemporain

The Salon of Antiques and contemporary arts is one of the biggest events in Bordeaux for Antique hunters. Around one hundred exhibitors, rigorously selected from different areas of France and other countries in Europe, will present their collections and knowledge in history and art. Le Salon des Antiques et des art contemporaine will take place at the Parc des Expositions from January 26 to February 3. Entry is 10 euros and free for kids under 15 years old. For more details click here. les hangar saint michel - antiques shop
When: January 26 – February 3/ Where: Parc des Expositions, Bordeaux Lac, 33000 Bordeaux

Bordeaux rock Festival

The Bordeaux Rock festival will take place on January 23-27 in different music venues in Bordeaux: The Iboat, Quartier libre, El Chicho, L’avant scène, Void, La Tencha, La Voute, L’imperio, L’Antidote, and Salle des fêtes du grand parc. For the full program and tickets click here. Some of the events are free.
When: January 23-27/ Where:  Different venues in the Bordeaux area (check out the full program)

Le Cirque Arlette Gruss

Arlette Gruss is a traditional French circus, founded in 1985. The circus has performed in Bordeaux several times in the last two decades and this time it’s coming back with a new show. This year they offer a free, guided visit to the circus village to those who bought a full priced ticket to the show. The circus tent will occupy place de Quinconces from January 10 to February 6. For more details and tickets click here.
When: January 10 to February 6 / Where: Place des Quinconces, 33000 Bordeaux

La nuit des conservatoires

This Friday (January 25) le Conservatoire de Bordeaux invites you to a special night with concerts and performances from all the disciplines taught at the conservatory. Besides concerts, the night includes workshops and lectures. The concert is free and open to all. For more info click here. 
When: January 25, 18:15 to midnight / Where:  Jacques Thibaud 22 quai Sainte-Croix, Bordeaux

Vietnam circus 

This week (January 23-26), Pin Galant in Merignac hosts the amazing show Teh Dar by the new Vietnamese circus. Teh Dar means dancing around the fire in the K’h, the language of an ethnic minority in central Vietnam. The circus uses the costumes, the colors and the special traditions of the region in their beautiful show. For tickets and more info click here.
When: January 25, 18:15 to midnight / Where: 34 av. du Maréchal-de-Lattre-de-Tassigny, 33700 MERIGNAC

Trente Trente – Emerging arts Festival

Trente Trente is an annual festival, created to promote emerging artists in Bordeaux and Nouvelle Aquitaine in general. The festival includes more than twenty performances by artists from all genres, with some experimenting with interdisciplinary arts. Check out the full program that includes dance, music, theater, circus and more. The festival takes place on January 18-31 in different theaters and cultural spaces across the metropole (see the full list here).
When: January 18 – 31 /Where: Different venues in the Bordeaux area (check out the full program)

Tremplin de 2 Rives

This is the 7th edition of the Tremplin de 2 rives festival which aims to promote the musical talents of Bordeaux. The festival includes eight evenings from January 5 to February 9. This weekend is dedicated to Bordeaux west. On Saturday (January 26) five bands will take the stage of Salle Quintin Loucheur. For more details click here.
When: January 26 / Where: 96 rue de La Béchadel, 33000 Bordeaux

Hostens Trails 2019

Every year the Gironde department organizes plenty of sportive events that are open to the public. The first one of 2019 is about to take place this weekend (January 26-27) in Hostens. The event offers several trails for both runners, walkers and Nordic walkers. The price varies according to the trail and prior registration is mandatory. For more info click here and here. When: January 26-27 / Where: Secteur de la Base Nautique Hostens

Album Artworks Exhibition in Pessac

Album Artworks is an exhibition of five artists that have worked with Bordelaise bands and created both cd covers and accessories for music concerts. The exhibition will be presented at Sorti 13 in Pessac between January 25 to Mars 3. For more info about the artists click here.
When: January 25 to Mars 3 / Where: Sortie 13 – rue Walter Scott, Rue Walter Scott, 33600 PESSAC

Visions graphiques Exhibition

Visions graphiques is an art exhibition by 31 students in their fifth year studying graphic design. The exhibition will be presented at the maison Bm2050 until February 21. For more info click here.
When: January 24 to February 21/ Where: 1  quai armand lalande, 33300 Bordeaux

Interactive special effects exhibition

Do you ever wonder how the special effects you see in movies are made? If you do then you should check out the “Effets speciaux” exhibition taking place these days in Cap Sciences. It’s an interactive exhibition that allows you to see the behind the scenes of the cinema world and experiment with different special effects like the green screen. Entry prices range from 6.5€ to 9€ and free for kids under 5 years old. For more info click here.
When: until August 26 / Where: Hangar 20 quai Bacalan, 33000 BORDEAUX
That’s all for this weekend guys! If you want to plan ahead check out my winter edition of things to do in Bordeaux. And if you’re not on my email list yet, join me and get more tips about Bordeaux – subscribe here!
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In Weekend plans

This weekend in Bordeaux (October 12-14)

promenade sainte catherine in Bordeaux

A great variety of festivals and events awaits us this week, the Asian culture festival, the books festival in Gradignan and the artistic project Le Point de Départre are here to make this weekend fun even if it might be pouring rain outside.  Besides these indoor events, and assuming a nice weather this weekend, you’ll be having a hard time choosing where to go as the list includes plenty of things like an independent movies festival, a performance art festival, a pumpkin festival and more. Here is the list of things to do in Bordeaux this weekend (October 12-14).

FIFIB- Bordeaux international festival of independent movies

Bordeaux Independent Films Festival will take place on October 9-15 at Rue Malby in the center of Bordeaux. The program includes film screenings, concerts and meeting with special guests. Every evening, the festival village will transform into an open cinema theater and a dance floor. The event is free and open for all. See the full program on the site of the festival and more details on their facebook page.

When: October 9-15
Where: Le Village du FIFIB, 3 rue Mably, 30000 BORDEAUX

Speen Festival

The Speen festival is a performance art festival mixing dance music and theater. Throughout the weekend of the festival (October 13-14) many performances will take place on  Place de la Comédie and Cours du châpeau rouge, among them: a Brazilian music concert, dance performances, a jazz concert, improvisation theater and more. Check out the full program here and more details on the facebook page of the festival.

When: October 13-14
Where: Place de la Comédie and Cours du châpeau rouge, 33000 Bordeaux

Foire aux Plaisirs

This is the spring edition of the traditional Bordelaise Fair that is taking place at Place des Quinconces  from October 12 to November 4. It’s a perfect activity for kids and for those who are young in spirit as La Foire aux Plaisirs de Bordeaux has it all: a big wheel, roller coasters, ghost trains, bumper cars, donuts, crèpes, barbes à papa and more. The fair is open daily from 14:00, you are not required to pay any entry fee, only for some of the attractions. See more info about the fair here.

When: October 12 – November 4
Where:Place des Quinconces , 33000 Bordeaux

FAB – International art festival

FAB is the annual International art festival of Bordeaux Metropole taking place this year on October 5-24. As one of Europe’s biggest art festivals it attracts some known names from the international contemporary art scene. During the three weeks of the festival more than 30 shows will take place in more than 20 different locations in Bordeaux, from the TnBA theater to the Opera of Bordeaux and the Base Sous Marine. Click here to see the full program of the festival.

When: October 5-24
Where: Different locations in Bordeaux – check out the program,

Lire en Poche – books festival 

Lire en Poche is a pocket books festival that will take place in Gradignan in October 12-13. Besides a huge book sale, a wide range of activities are offered to the participants, among them: reading sessions, theater shows, music, games, workshops for kids and more. The entrance to the festival is free, however some activities are paid and/or require prior reservation, which will start on October 6 at 8:00 – click here to register.  For more info click here.

When: September 12-14
Where: Théâtre des Quatre Saisons et à La Médiathèque Jean Vautrin, 32 route de Léognan – 33170 GRADIGNAN

Le Point de Départ 

See what happens when a painter, a photographer, a costume designer, 2 illustrators, a writer, a theater company, a songwriter, a flamenco dancer, 2 filmmakers, a chef, a mixologist and a sommelier all work starting from the same point of inspiration. Le Point de Départ is part exposition, part performance and part dining experience. This is the second project of this talented group of artists,  coming only a few months after the successful Projet Téléphone. The show will take place this Sunday (October 14) in Frida, with an admission of 15€ ( tickets available at the door). The event will be followed by an optional 3-course meal, inspired by the same theme for 30€ (paired with wine +15€). Reservations for the dinner can be made at frida.fr. For more details about the project and the show click here.

le point de depart

When: September 14, starting 17:30
Where: 27-29 rue Buhan, 33000 Bordeaux

Festival Animasia

Animasia is a festival of Asian pop culture that brings together many elements like J-POP music, Yosakoi  dance, karaoke and Cosplay performances. The place will also include thematic areas with martial arts, video games, board games and more. The festival will take place this weekend October 13-14 at the Parc des Expositions. For more info and tickets check out the website of the festival or the facebook page of the event.

When: October 13-14
Where: Parc des Expositions, 33000 Bordeaux

Village des Sciences

As part of the Fête de la Science events this month, Cap Sciences invites you this weekend (October 13-14) to the Science village. This year the village will be all about robots and the place they take in our day to day life. The program includes two exhibitions, several competitions, demonstrations of different robots, workshops, conferences and more. See the full program here and for more details here. The event is free.

When: September 13-14. 14:00 to 18:00
Where: Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux

Salon ABC Kidz

A big event dedicated to future parents and young families will take place on October 13-14 in Hangar 14. Salon ABC kids is the annual gathering of all the important companies and organizations related to babies and little kids from clothing to room decorations, toys and different services like child care companies and health providers. The event allows young parents to meet all the relevant products and services in one place. Many activities will take place at the Salon to make it more entertaining, among them a massage space, workshops for kids, soft play for toddlers and more. For tickets and more info click here.

When: October 13-14
Where: 115 Quai des Chartrons, 33000 Bordeaux

Nuit des Bibliothèques

Have you ever visited some of Bordeaux libraries? If you think of it as only a place storing books, think again, as the libraries in this city are much more than that. Throughout the year they propose plenty of events, courses and activities for kids. Nuit des Bibliothèques will take place on October 13, and is your opportunity to discover the libraries across the city. 25 libraries in 20 different towns in Bordeaux Metropole will participate in this event and will offer such activities as concerts, theater shows, science workshops, games for kids and more. See the full list of all the participating institutions here.

When: October 13 – evening
Where: Bordeaux, Merignac, Talence, Pessac and more – check out the full program

Salon International du Disque de Bordeaux

The international salon of vinyl and cd records of Bordeaux will take place October 13-14 in the Parc des expositions.  It’s the 58th edition of this festival that brings together 80 exhibitors from France and abroad and proposes all genres of music: rock, pop, soul, jazz, punk, reggae and more. For more info click here.

When: October 13 – 14
Where: Parc des expositions de Bordeaux – Vélodrome

Vide dressing in Darwin 

Darwin invites you to its big autumn fashion sale of more than 100 stands of women, man and children’s wear. As always, a visit in Darwin becomes a real happening and alongside the sale the program will include plenty of different workshops and activities like: beauty spot, a design space for kids, a fashion show (Sunday at 16:00), food trucks and more. The vide dressing event will take place this weekend (October 13-14), entry is 2 euros, for more info click here.
When: October 13 – 14, from 11 to 19:00
Where: 87 Quai de Queyries 33100 Bordeaux

Music brunch and a clothing sale for kids

Les Vivres de l’Art, which always surprises with cool events, invites you this Sunday to their music brunch. The event will include a concert by the cellist Julie Läderach, an exhibition by artists currently working at les Vivres de l’Art and a special vide dressing for babies and kids. Entry fee is 5€. For more info click here. For more info about the clothing sale click here.

If you’ve never heard of the place, it’s time to read my post about the Bacalan neighborhood and discover some other offbeat places in Bordeaux such as this one.

When: October 14, from 11:00 to 15:00. The vide dressing from 10:30 to 16:00
Where: 4 rue Achard, 33300 Bordeaux

Pumpkin Festival 

A pumpkin festival will take place this Sunday (October 14) in the foret du Bourgailh in Pessac. The program includes activities like visits to the vegetable garden or the tropical green house, tips from professional gardeners, tasting pumpkin recipes and more. Even if you don’t really like pumpkin, this is a great opportunity to discover this beautiful park which has plenty of activities for both kids and adults.  For more info click here.

When: October 14, from 14:00 to 18:00
Where: Avenue de Beutre, accès par Rocade sortie 13 (vers Pessac Alouette)

Exhibitions 

Paintings exhibition by Pascal Marcel

The French painter Pascal Marcel will present his works at the beautiful Bouillon d’art gallery between October 12 and November 3. For more details check out the website of the gallery.

When: October 12 – November 3
Where: 37, rue Bouffard, Bordeaux, France 33000

Photo exhibition at the Grande Poste

A photography exhibition by the photographer Nko Pictart will be presented at the Grande Poste from October 12 to October 28. This exhibition is also a breast cancer awareness event which aims to support its prevention and women suffering from the disease. For more info click here.

When: October 12 – 28
Where: 37 rue du palais gallien, 33000 Bordeaux

PROXIMA exhibition

The Proxima exhibitions is one of the main events of the space month in Bordeaux and will be presented at the Médiathèque de Mérignac from October 5th to October 26. Throughout the exhibition you will discover how astronauts prepare for their missions in space, the effects of weightlessness on their body and how their daily life looks like while they’re on mission. For more details check out the facebook page of the exhibition. Click here to see what other events are part of the space month in Bordeaux.

When: October 5-26
Where: 19 Place Charles de Gaulle, 33700 Mérignac

If you want to plan ahead check out my general list of things to in Bordeaux in October 2018. Also, if you have kids and you have no idea what to do with them during the school break – check out my list of ideas for the fall break of 2018.

Hope you enjoyed the list! Now don’t be shy, share it with your friends!

Subscribe to my newsletter if you don’t want to miss out on all the great things that are happening in Bordeaux.

Have a great weekend!

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In Bordeaux Monthly

Best things to do in Bordeaux in October 2018

The program of October proves that the Bordelaise summer is officially over. Outdoor music concerts and food truck festivals were replaced with new exhibitions, indoor events scattered across the city and some interesting outdoor activities such as a color run and an agricultural march. And yet again we see how Bordeaux can offer activities come rain or shine 🙂
From an art festival to space month and balloon flights, this is the list of the best things to do in and around Bordeaux in October 2018:

FAB – International art festival

FAB is the annual International art festival of Bordeaux Metropole taking place this year on October 5-24. As one of Europe’s biggest art festivals it attracts some known names from the international contemporary art scene. During the three weeks of the festival more than 30 shows will take place in more than 20 different locations in Bordeaux, from the TnBA theater to the Opera of Bordeaux and the Base Sous Marine. Click here to see the full program of the festival.

 

When: October 5-24
Where: Different locations in Bordeaux – check out the program,

Space month 

The city of Mérignac will host a whole month of space discovery with workshops, exhibitions, conferences, parties and more. Here’s a sneak peek at the rich program of October:

PROXIMA exhibition – discover how astronauts prepare before going to space – October 5-26  at the Médiathèque de Mérignac.

A visit at the planetarium – October 8 at MJC Mérignac Centre

L’Espace en fête – an afternoon of space workshops for little astronaut apprentices – October 6 at Côté sciences Air&Espace

This is only a small part of what is planed for you by the Town hall of Merignac and Cap Sciences. For the full program and registration details click here. For more details and updates check out the facebook page of the event.

When: October 1-31
Where: Different locations in Merignac – see the program

La Grande Transhumance Urbaine

Don’t be surprised if on the weekend of October 5-7 you’ll suddenly see plenty of sheep crossing your street, that’s the  Grande Transhumance Urbaine. The idea behind this three days even is to connect city people to agriculture. Seven breeders and their sheeps will lead the march, that will start in Blanquefort, continue through the center of Bordeaux and finish in Villenave d’Ornon. People are welcome to participate in this 33km march or parts of it. Based on the success this event has had in the last few years, more than 1500 are expected to follow the breeders.  You can still enjoy the festival even if you don’t want to make the walk, just attend the events in every town that’s on the way. See the full program of events related to this festival here.

When: October 5-7
Where:Blanquefort, Bordeaux Lac, Place de la Victoire in Bordeaux and Villenave d’Ornon (see exact location in the program)

Tauzia Fête les Jardins

Tauzia fête les Jardins is one of the most beautiful plant celebration in the south of France. The fifth edition of this fantastic event in Gradignan will take place on October 5-7. A three day event that gathers plants growers, professional gardeners, landscape architects and artists. The rich program of the festival includes plenty of workshops, conferences, activities for kids such as painting and music in the garden, creating a bamboo palisade, creating a herbarium, plastic arts in the garden for kids and more. For more info check out the facebook page of the event.

When: October 5-7
Where: 216, cours du général de Gaulle, 33170 Gradignan

Color obstacle rush

The color obstacle rush is a feast of music, color and sports. Live DJs, a fun warm-up, a 5-km course consisting of 5 color stations, 20 music zones, and 20 new obstacles including giant slides, bouncy castles, tunnels, foam, kangaroo balloons – just to name a few! The event is a bit pricey and requires prior registration  – buy your tickets here. To read more about the Color Obstacle Rush click here. The event will take place on October 6 at the Bordeaux Hippodrome.

When: October 6
Where: Hippodrome Bordeaux, 8 Avenue de l’Hippodrome, 33110 Le Bouscat

Les Campulsations

Les Campulsations is a students festival, celebrating the beginning of the new academic year in different locations in the Aquitaine region: Bordeaux, Talence, Pessac, Gradignan, Bayonne, Biarritz, Périgueux, Agen and Pau. In Bordeaux Metropole the events will take place in many different locations from university campuses to museums and theaters. The program is very varied and includes such events as a brocante party, music concerts, theater shows, exhibitions and more- check out the full program and find an event near you. The festival will take place from September 27 to October 6.

When: September 27 to October 6
Where: Different locations, consult the program.

Festival Gospel En Cathedrale

A concert of gospel music will take place in Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux on October 7 at 17:30. For more details click here.

When: October 7 at 17:30
Where: place Pey-Berland, 33000 Bordeaux,

FIFIB- Bordeaux international festival of independent movies

Bordeaux Independent Films Festival will take place on October 9-15 at Rue Malby in the center of Bordeaux. The program of the festival includes films screening, concerts and meeting with special guests. Every evening, the festival village will transform into an open cinema theater and a dance floor. The event is free and open for all. See the full program on the site of the festival and more details on the facebook page.

When: October 9-15
Where: Le Village du FIFIB, 3 rue Mably, 30000 BORDEAUX

Foire aux Plaisirs

This is the spring edition of the traditional Bordelais Fair that is taking place at Place des Quinconces  from October 12 to November 4. It’s a perfect activity for kids and for those who are young in spirit as La Foire aux Plaisirs de Bordeaux has it all: big wheel, roller coasters, ghost trains, bumper cars, donuts, crèpes, barbes à papa and more. The fair is open daily from 14:00, you are not required to pay any entry fee, only for some of the attractions. See more info about the fair here.

When: October 12 – November 4
Where:Place des Quinconces , 33000 Bordeaux

Speen Festival

The Speen festival is a performance art festival mixing dance music and theater. Throughout the weekend of the festival (October 13-14) many performances will take place on  Place de la Comédie and Cours du châpeau rouge, among them: a Brazilian music concert, dance performances, a jazz concert, improvisation theater and more. Check out the full program here and more details on the facebook page of the festival.

When: October 13-14
Where: Place de la Comédie and Cours du châpeau rouge, 33000 Bordeaux

Lire en Poche – books festival 

Lire en Poche is a pocket books festival that will take place in Gradignan in October 12-13. Besides a huge books sale, a wide range of activities are offered to the participants, among them: reading sessions, theater shows, music, games, workshops for kids and more. The entrance to the festival is free, however some activities are paid and/or require prior reservation, which will start on October 6 at 8:00 – click here to register.  For more info click here.

When: September 12-14
Where: Théâtre des Quatre Saisons et à La Médiathèque Jean Vautrin, 32 route de Léognan – 33170 GRADIGNAN

Salon ABC Kidz

A big event dedicated to future parents and young families will take place on October 13-14 in Hangar 14. Salon ABC kids is the annual gathering of all the important companies and organizations related to babies and little kids from clothing to room decoration, toys and different services like child care companies and health providers. The event allows young parents to meet all the relevant products and services in one place. Many activities will take place at the Salon to make it more entertaining, among them a massage space, workshops for kids, soft play for toddlers and more. For tickets and more info click here.

When: October 13-14
Where: 115 Quai des Chartrons, 33000 Bordeaux

Nuit des Bibliothèques

Have you ever visited some of Bordeaux libraries? If you think of it as only a place storing books, think again, as the libraries in this city are much more than that. Throughout the year they propose plenty of events, courses and activities for kids. Nuit des Bibliothèques will take place on October 13, and is your opportunity to discover the libraries across the city. 25 libraries in 20 different towns in Bordeaux Metropole will participate in this event and will offer such activities as concerts, theater shows, science workshops, games for kids and more. See the full list of all the participating institutions here.

When: October 13 – evening
Where: Bordeaux, Merignac, Talence, Pessac and more – check out the full program

Montgolfiades de Saint-Emilion

Montgolfiades is an annual festival of balloon flights organized by Le Ciel est à Toi association. The flights will take place October 19-21 above Saint Emilion and the vineyards around it, so the sight is promised to be breathtaking. For more info click here.

When: October 19-21
Where: Bordeaux, Merignac, Talence, Pessac and more – check out the full program

Bordeaux Swing Festival

The international festival of Lindy hop (part of the Swing family) will take place on October 19-21 in the Bordeaux region and this year they have invited a special guest, one of biggest stars in the the New York swing scene- Gordon Webster. Two swing parties will take place at the beautiful le Rocher de Palmer in Cenon, with a battle between the Gordon Webster Hot Swing Sextet bands. The program of the festival also includes 7 hours of classes with 11 international teachers. For more details check out the website of the festival.

When: October 19-21
Where: Different locations in Bordeaux – check out the full program

Fête du Vin nouveau & de la brocante

On the last weekend of this month (October 27-28) the Chartrons neighborhood invites you to celebrate the Autumn with a festival of new wine and a brocante. During these two days, the main street, rue Notre-Dame , will be transformed into a brocante with wine stands and roasted chestnuts. Come and spend a festive weekend on one of the most interesting streets in Bordeaux.

When: October 27-29
Where: Rue notre dame, 33000 Bordeaux

First exhibition at the Musee de la Mer et de la Marine

La Musee de la Mer et de la Marine is finally about to present its first exhibition, just a few months after the cancellation of the Monet exhibition. Although the museum itself is not due to open soon, it has decided to open an exposition room where a new photography expo will be presented between October 1st and April 30, 2019. The “Sous les mers, au-delà de l’image” exhibition consists of more than 100 photographs by Paul Nicklen and David Doubilet, two National Géographic  photographers. Check more info on the site of the museum.

When: October 1 – April 30, 2019
Where:89 rue des étrangers, 33300 BORDEAUX

New exhibition at the Base Sous Marine- Medio Acqua

It is no secret that the Base sous marine is one of my favorite places in Bordeaux so the fact that they’re about to open a new exhibition is making me very happy. The Medio Acqua exhibition will include installations by major French and intentional artists as well as a selection of video works by young emerging artists, recently graduated from the prestigious Fresnoy School. The main theme of the exhibition will be inspired by the world of water, while the location and the structure of the base sous marine plays an important role in it.

When: October 26- January 6
Where: Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux

Hope you enjoyed the list! Now don’t be shy, share it with your friends!

Do you have other events to add to the list? Please share them in the comments so all of us can enjoy them 🙂

If it’s your first time in Bordeaux and you want to discover it properly, check out my ultimate guide to your first visit in Bordeaux.

Have a great month 🙂

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In Weekend plans

This weekend in Bordeaux (September 14-16)

Base sous marine

This weekend the European Patrimony days will take place and some of you might take this opportunity to discover the city through its beautiful buildings and institutions. If you are not into that, there are still plenty of events taking place this weekend in and around Bordeaux. A street art festival, an open air electronic music party, swing dancing on the streets, a biking tour and much more.

Here is the list of things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux:

Journées Européennes du Patrimoine

The European Patrimony days are a great opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Bordeaux that are usually hidden from the public. During the weekend of September 15-16 many public and private buildings will open their doors to the and allow you a taste of the city’s history. Some of the most interesting places to visit during the weekend are: the Opera of Bordeaux, Grosse Cloche, Hôtel de Nairac, Tribunal de grande instance de Bordeaux and many more. If you haven’t planned anything yet and want to avoid standing in line, check out my post about the 10 places to visit on Journées Européennes du Patrimoine.

You can see the full list of places open to visits here.

Base sous marine Bordeaux

When: September 15-16
Where: Many places across the city, check out the program above.

Shake Well Festival

Shake Well Festival is an international graffiti festival taking place in the university campus of Pessac on September 14-16. This is a free event that gathers more than one hundred graffiti artists and gives them a huge space of 2000 m2 to express themselves during the weekend of the festival. The event will be accompanied by a lineup of different electronic music artists taking the scene from  10:00 to 21:00. For more info check out the website of the festival.

When: September 14-16
Where: Domaine Universitaire, BORDEAUX MONTAIGNE, 19 esplanade des Antilles, 33607 Pessac

Swing on the streets

Swing In Kiosque is a series of improvised dance events that are taking place in Jardin Public two times a month. This weekend the event will take place on September 16. Take a look at the full program of events on their facebook page.

When: September 16  at 15:00
Where: Jardin Public, 33000 Bordeaux

Festival L’Effet Papillon

The third edition of the Effet Paillon Festival will take place in Martignas-sur-jalle on September 14-15. The festive weekend will be packed with music, street art shows, a designers market, workshops and an outdoor food area. For more details and the lineup click here, to purchase tickets click here.

When: September 14-15
Where: 14 avenue de Verdun, 33127 Martignas-Sur-Jalle

Last Chance to see the street art expo in Base Sous Marine

Legendes Urbaines, the beautiful street art exhibition presented at the Base Sous Marine during the last 2 months is coming to an end on September 16 so this is your last chance to go and see it.  The exhibition, hosting more than 50 street artists, follows the evolution of street art from the 80’s until today and presents different art styles from graffiti, to video art, vitrage paintings, works on wood, fabric and much more. The entrance to the Base Sous Marine will be free on the weekend of September 15-16.

For more details check out the facebook page of la Base Sous-marine.

When: until September 16
Where: La Base Sous Marine, Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux

The Pavillon d’été of L’Orangeade

The summer pavilion on le Quai Deschamps on the right bank of the Garonne is a great way to enjoy your evenings during the hot Bordelaise summer days. The pavilion, organized by the Orangeade association, is hosting free music and gastronomy events every Friday and Saturday until September 22. Take a look at the program for this Friday (Sep 14) and for this Saturday (Sep 15).

When: September 7-8, starting 6pm
Where: Quai Deschamps, 33100 Bordeaux

Relache Festival

A free concert of JJ. Thames and BearCatz will take place this Friday at the Place Fernand Lafargue as part of the Relache festival. The free music festival is promoting local music, and is taking place in different locations during the  summer months. For more info click here. 

When: September 14 starting 18:00
Where: Place Fernand Lafargue, 33000 Bordeaux,

Open Air Festival

Bordeaux Open Air is a series of free summer electronic music events, all set in different locations and with a great city vibe to them. The next event will take place on September 16 in Jardin Public and will be dedicated to Djs from New Delhi .

See more info about the event on their facebook page.

When:  September 16, 14:00
Where: Jardin Public, place du Champ de Mars, 33000 Bordeaux

La Guinguette des Enfants

One of the best summer places in Bordeaux la Guinguette Chez Alriq dedicate this Saturday to families with kids. Plenty of games, workshops and a picnics will take place on the bank of the Garonne. For more info click here, the price is 5€ for adults.

When: September 15, 11:00 to 17:00
Where: ZA Quai des Queyries, Port Bastide, 33100 Bordeaux

The big scooter race

The Nire Laguna Thomas association organised a wonderful event to help raise funds for research on pediatric cancer.
A kids scooter race will take place this Saturday on the Quai of Bordeaux, starting from la Maison Eco-citoyenne. More than 300 kids, ages 5 to 10 will take place in the event. If you want your kids to participate in the race, register here.

When:  September 15 10:30 to 16:30
Where: la Maison Eco-citoyenne , 33000 Bordeaux

Summer Rock in Bouliac

This Saturday (September 15) a fun event will take place in Bouliac called “Bouliac on the Rock”. The program includes an American cars exhibition, a rock concert, a raffle, vinyl discs and food stands. The festival is free, see more info here.

When:  September 15, starting 11:00
Where: Parking du stade, Bouliac,

Exhibition and a painting atelier for kids in Le Garage Moderne

An exhibition of three painters will take place on September 13-25 in one of the most unique places in the north of Bordeaux, Le Garage Moderne. This Saturday (September 15), the Garage Moderne will also hold a painting workshop for kids so you can enjoy some art while your kids are busy creating one.

When:  September 15, 14:00- 18:00. The exhibition will be presented September 13-25.
Where: 1 Rue des Étrangers, 33300 Bordeaux

Vélotour Bordeaux

Did you ever ride a bike in a museum or a hotel? Discover Bordeaux by bike through places where usually bicycles are not allowed: museums, sport centers, cultural and historic places and more. More than ten places have opened their doors for this unusual experience. The tour will take place this Saturday (September 16) and will start at the Maison Écocitoyenne Bordeaux. For tickets click here and for more info about the event click here.

When:  September 16
Where: Quai Richelieu, 33000 Bordeaux

Open doors in Climb Up 

Climb Up Bordeaux will hold an open door weekend (September 15-16) to allow you discover one of the newest climbing centers in Bordeaux. For details check out the website and the facebook page of the event.

When:  September 15-16 (9:00- 18:00)
Where:17 Avenue Pythagore, 33700 Mérignac

Vegan Market in the Bastide Neighborhood 

A vegan and vegetarian market will take place this Saturday (September 15) at la Place Stalingrad. The stands will include food, drinks, oils, accessories, flowers and different objects, all with the agenda to promote a vegan and vegetarian lifestyle. For more info click here.

When:  September 15, 10:00- 18:00
Where: Place Stalingrad, 33100 Bordeaux

Monuments of Cinema

The Monuments of Cinema festival allows you to see great movies at remarkable monuments in the Gironde. During the whole week (September 8-15) movies such as Lumière, l’aventure continue, Monty Python and Everybody wants some! will be screened in places like Château de Cadillac,  Parc Chavat in Podensac and the Sauve-Majeure Abbey. See the full program here.

When:  September 8-15
Where: Different locations in Gironde, check out the program

 

If you want to plan ahead check out my general list of things to in Bordeaux in September 2018.

Hope you enjoyed the list! Now don’t be shy, share it with your friends!

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Have a great weekend!

 

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