Do you need help figuring out what to do in Bordeaux for three days? Just say oui! I’ve just been there alone and devised a great plan for your visit.
This itinerary includes all the small details and tips you’ll need for your trip.
I traveled alone from Paris to Bordeaux, but this plan works for anyone, not just solo travelers.
Bordeaux is one of my all-time favorite destinations in France! Although three days is not necessarily a lot of time, if you follow this itinerary, you will see all the best sites this city has to offer!
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Monument-Bordeaux.jpg)
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Bordeaux: 3-Day Itinerary Overview
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bordeaux-Itinerary-jpg.webp)
Day 1
Here is a brief overview of what you can expect on your first day in Bordeaux!
- Visiting the Primatial Cathedral of St Andrew of Bordeaux (Bordeaux Cathedral)
- Climb the free-standing Bell Tower next to Bordeaux Cathedral
- Visit the Monument aux Girondins
- Lunch at L’Entrecôte
- Tea at La Diplomate
- Shopping on Rue Sainte Catherine
- Dinner at Nama
Day 2
Your second day in Bordeaux includes the option of joining a guided tour. If you prefer to do a self-guided tour, you are welcome to copy the itinerary listed from the guided tour.
- Breakfast at Café Piha – Torréfacteur
- Self-guided or 2-hour Guided Walking Tour of Bordeaux city highlights
- Lunch at Symbiose
- Explore Jardin Public
- River Cruise on Garonne River
- Dinner at Restaurant Berthus
Day 3
Your last day in Bordeaux starts with leaving for the day and heading to the most picturesque village in France I have ever been to!
- Day trip to Saint Emilion Region
- Wine Tasting at Grand Cru Winery
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site town of Saint Emilion
- Dinner at Restaurant Influences
Full Itinerary
Day 1 In Bordeaux
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bordeaux-Cathedral-jpg.webp)
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
Start your day at the impressive Bordeaux Cathedrale Saint Andre. I enjoy visiting a church more than visiting a museum.
This is not because I am a religious person, I find a building more interesting than a bunch of old artifacts.
Exploring the cathedral is a lovely way to spend a morning in Bordeaux. Visiting the Bordeaux Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux, is a captivating experience that offers a glimpse into the city’s history and architecture.
Climb The Cathedral’s Bell Tower
![Views from Climbing the bell tower in Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/views-from-bell-tower-jpg.webp)
Next, get ready to ascend the Cathedral’s bell tower! I promise it will be worth the breathtaking panoramic view of this beautiful city that awaits you.
From this vantage point, you can admire the city’s picturesque rooftops, the Garonne River winding through the landscape, and the surrounding historic buildings.
This 66-meter bell tower was constructed back in the 15th century. You must climb 233 steps in a narrow spiral staircase to reach the terrace at the top of the tower.
An extra tip from A Solo Woman Traveling: The wait for tickets can be a bit long, so go early. It’s a tight stairwell, so you should reconsider if you have issues being in small spaces.
Visit the Monument aux Girondins
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Monument-aux-Girondins-jpg.webp)
After climbing the bell tower, walk 13 minutes to the most beautiful monument in Bordeaux!
The Monument aux Girondins is an incredibly beautiful fountain with a towering column erected to honor the Girondin revolutionaries.
The monument is located in the center of Bordeaux, near the Garonne River. It is the perfect spot to visit at sunset.
The Girondins Monument is a significant tourist attraction, so to avoid crowds, you may need to visit in the early morning.
If I could visit only one monument when visiting Bordeaux, this would be it. It was a wonderful experience for me.
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Fountain-in-Bordeaux-jpg.webp)
Lunch at L’Entrecôte
Dining at L’Entrecôte in Bordeaux is a must when you are in Bordeaux! Famous since 1962, L’Entrecôte is located in the heart of the city and is known for its signature dish, the entrecôte steak.
Tea at La Diplomate
![Visiting La Diplomate in Bordeaux 3 day itinerary](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/la-diplomate-jpg.webp)
After indulging at lunch you will walk 6 minutes to relax at my favorite tea house in Bordeaux. This tea salon exudes sophistication and offers a haven of relaxation.
As you enter La Diplomate, you’ll be greeted by an ambiance with refinement. The tasteful décor, featuring plush seating, soft lighting, and tasteful accents, creates an atmosphere of comfort and sophistication.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensures that your tea experience is nothing short of exceptional.
Shopping on Rue Sainte Catherine
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Rue-Sainte-Catherine-jpg.webp)
Spend the remainder of your day before dinner hitting the shops on the world-famous Rue Sainte Catherine.
Shopping on Rue Sainte Catherine in Bordeaux is one of the best places to go shopping!
As one of the longest shopping streets in Europe, Rue Sainte Catherine offers an array of shops, boutiques, department stores, and charming cafés.
Walking along Rue Sainte Catherine, you’ll find a mix of international brands, well-known retailers, and local boutiques, ensuring that there’s something for everyone’s taste and budget.
❤︎ Be advised that shops are closed on Sundays and holidays in France!
Dinner at Nama
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Nama-jpg.webp)
Finish your first day by eating at Nama in Bordeaux.
It might not be what you expect to eat at a Japanese / French-style bistro, but I encourage you to try it! I went all out and order the “mystery menu”.
Each dish was a total surprise and the most exciting way to have a meal in Bordeaux!
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or a curious food adventurer, dining at Nama in Bordeaux promises an exceptional gastronomic journey.
Immerse yourself in Japan’s flavors, textures, and aromas as you savor each bite and appreciate the artistry that goes into every dish.
✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!
Day 2 In Bordeaux
![Day 2 in Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/What-to-do-in-Bordeaux-jpg.webp)
Wake up on your second day in Bordeaux, ready to see some major landmarks and eat croissants!
If you are looking for the best breakfast in Bordeaux, head on over to Café Piha—Torréfacteur. They offer more than delicious coffee and pastries.
Café Piha – Torréfacteur has a full breakfast with eggs if you are in the mood for something more savory.
Self-Guided or Guided Walking Tour of Top Attractions
After a filling breakfast, it is time to walk it off, seeing some of the rest of the top sites in Bordeaux.
My favorite part of visiting Bordeaux was just strolling around, admiring the incredible architecture.
From Cafe Piha, it is a 5-minute walk to your first stop!
The Grosse Cloche
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Grosse-Cloche-jpg.webp)
When I first saw the Grosse Cloche I felt as if I was in a fairytale! It is a must-see for anyone visiting Bordeaux!
This iconic bell tower, dating back to the Middle Ages, is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and symbolizes civic pride.
The Grosse Cloche is located in a trendy neighborhood of the best wine bars and coffee shops and gets a bit crowded during the summer months.
Over the centuries, the Grosse Cloche witnessed numerous historical events and underwent several transformations.
In the 15th century, the tower was heightened to accommodate the growing population and provide a better vantage point for surveillance.
![Visiting The Grosse Cloche in Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Things-to-do-in-Bordeaux-jpg.webp)
The bell housed within the Grosse Cloche played a crucial role in the city’s history. It was rung to announce curfews, signal emergencies, and mark significant events.
The bell’s resonant sound became ingrained in Bordeaux’s fabric, echoing through the city’s streets and squares.
If you want to visit the interior of the Grosse Cloche you can do so with a guide. Visitors can explore its interior, climb the winding staircase, and marvel at the stunning views from the top.
The tower’s chambers also house exhibitions that delve into Bordeaux’s history and the tower’s role in shaping the city.
Quais de Bordeaux Walk
After a visit to the Grosse Cloche, it is time to take a walk to Quais de Bordeaux Walk.
I had a great time visiting the Quais de Bordeaux Walk, a glorious stretch of road along the Garonne River.
Strolling along the promenade, you’ll get a real feel for just how grand and elegant this city is.
I loved admiring the 18th-century buildings, with their distinctive façades and wrought-iron balconies.
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/A-Solo-Woman-Traveling-in-Bordeaux-jpg.webp)
The Quais de Bordeaux Walk is also home to several iconic landmarks. The Place de la Bourse, with its magnificent Water Mirror, reflecting the grandeur of the surrounding buildings, is a sight to behold.
The majestic Pont de Pierre, a stone bridge with its impressive arches, connects both sides of the river and provides a perfect vantage point to admire the city’s skyline.
As you continue your stroll, you’ll come across lively squares and public spaces where locals and tourists gather and your next stop.
The Quai des Chartrons
Your walk along the promenade will take you to the Quai des Chartrons, an area known for its antique shops and art galleries.
Here, you can take a glimpse into Bordeaux’s artistic side and explore unique treasures, from vintage furniture to contemporary artwork.
Use Google Maps to know when to turn off the promenade and enter the posh neighborhood.
Quai des Chartrons has one-of-a-kind boutiques filled with hidden treasures. Exploring this area will take you to your lunch spot.
Lunch at Symbiose
One of the best dining experiences I had in Bordeaux was at Symbiose. I highly recommend making a reservation there
Symbiose offers a prix fixe menu daily. Enjoy two starters, two main courses, and three desserts.
It is closed on Sundays. It is open Monday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
❤︎ Save Money in Bordeaux with the CITY PASS
Explore Jardin Public
After a fulfilling lunch at Symbiose, take a relaxing stroll in Jardin Public! I found the Jardin Public a serene oasis nestled within the bustling city.
Here I spent time on my solo trip exploring this enchanting public park.
The Jardin Public dates back to the 18th century and offers a variety of activities.
Jardin Public is also home to a magnificent lake, where graceful swans glide across the shimmering waters.
Musée d’Histoire Naturelle
Art and culture enthusiasts will find delight in the Musée d’Histoire Naturelle, located within Jardin Public.
This natural history museum showcases an extensive collection of specimens, fossils, and exhibits, offering an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Exploring the museum’s halls provides insight into the wonders of the natural world and its diverse ecosystems.
You can buy a ticket to the exhibition from 10 to 13 euros.
River Cruise on Garonne River
![Garonne River](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/River-Garonne-jpg.webp)
At 5 pm be ready to take an hour and a half river cruise! The cruise is approximately a 20-minute walk from Jardin Public, so plan accordingly.
On this cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey and discover Bordeaux from the enchanting waters of the River Garonne.
One of the highlights was catching a glimpse of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gothic Cathedral, from the boat.
Cruising along, I almost had to pinch myself as we sailed along the riverbanks. These grand buildings exuded a sense of history and charm, showcasing Bordeaux’s past as a thriving trading port.
🎟️ Garrone River Cruise Tickets: Be sure to get your ticket in advance here!
Dinner at Restaurant Berthus
![Getting at Berthus Restauarnt](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Best-Restaurant-in-Bordeaux-jpg.webp)
After your boat cruise, I highly recommend reserving and eating dinner at Restaurant Berthus!
Eating here was one of my most memorable experiences, and keep in mind that I visited Bordeaux solo.
Even alone, it was an incredible experience. Simply put, Restaurant Berthus is a culinary delight that immerses you in the vibrant flavors of the region.
Day 3 in Bordeaux
![Best day trip on 3 days in Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/St-Emillion-jpg.webp)
Day Trips From Bordeaux to Saint Émilion
On the third day, a great place to visit in the Bordeaux wine region is Saint Emilion!
I can’t think of any other activity more fun in France than a half-day tour of a world-famous wine region!
Visiting Bordeaux without doing a wine tasting is like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. If this interests you, this is a perfect day trip from Bordeaux.
Not interested in wine? If you a rather do something else, I have you covered, check out this food tour!
![](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Day-trip-to-taste-wine-in-St-Emillion-jpg.webp)
Luckily, Bordeaux, France, is one of the top locations in Europe for wine tasting. Bordeaux wine has a great aging potential and excellent taste, which makes it a delight for wine lovers.
The history of wine in the Bordeaux region dates back to around 43 AD when the Romans cultivated wine for soldiers by establishing vineyards in the city.
St. Emilion Day Trip
A day tour is a great way to see more of the surrounding areas without having to do any of the planning.
I chose this tour company for my day tour to Saint Émilion, and I couldn’t be happier!
![Wine Tour on a Day Trip From Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Wine-Barrels-jpg.webp)
This 5.5-hour tour covers all the highlights of St. Émilion. The tourist office in Bordeaux is your meeting place for this tour.
From there, you will get in an air-conditioned van and ride for about 40 minutes to the winery. The drill is as follows: First comes wine theory, such as harvesting and production, and then comes the practical bit, which is… drum roll, please… wine tasting.
After tasting red and white wine, you are taken to the small village of St Emilion. I can highly recommend visiting this charming village even if you are not a wine lover!
After about a 45-minute walk around the town, you meet with the group and head back to Bordeaux.
🎟️ St. Emillion Day Trip Tickets: Get your wine tasting and tour of St. Emilion Tickets here!
Dinner at Restaurant Influences
After a day in St. Emillion, come back to Bordeaux and have the best dinner of your trip at Restaurant Influences!
Be prepared to be amazed by the surprise menu or just order al a carte!
Luckily you can just make your reservation online, here!
e any other in Bordeaux.
Top Rated Organized Walking Tours of Bordeaux
Rather see Bordeaux with a professional guide?
Here are all the best and highest-rated tours to consider for your Bordeaux itinerary.
- Visit the La Cité du Vin Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket & Wine Tasting
- Bordeaux: Historic Center & Chartrons District Bicycle Tour
- Private Half Day Walking Tour
Is It Safe To Travel To Bordeaux?
![Is it safe to travel solo in Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Is-Bordeaux-safe-jpg.webp)
I found that traveling solo as a female in Bordeaux felt very safe. The region has an excellent public transportation system with buses and trams covering the whole city, so it’s easy to get around.
You can also easily walk between many of the attractions in the city center, with safe and well-lit paths. The locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors, so it’s easy to make friends during your trip.
And of course, the city is full of amazing sights that will make your stay memorable!
With all of these factors combined, you can have a stress-free and enjoyable experience as a solo female traveler in Bordeaux.
My Go-to Resources
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Emergency Number in Europe: Dial 112 &
Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911
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Best Way to Get Around Solo in Bordeaux
For solo female travelers, one of the best ways to get around Bordeaux is by taking public transportation.
The city has an extensive metro system that covers most of the city and makes it easy to reach any destination.
Additionally, there’s also a reliable bus network with buses running frequently and a comprehensive tram system that allows visitors to explore the city conveniently.
Taxi services are also available and can be booked online or by phone. Uber does operate in Bordeaux.
- 📲 Download TBM Transit App for iPhone
- 📱 Download TBM Transit App for Android
Bike-share programs are offered at several locations around Bordeaux for those looking for a more active way to explore the city.
Finally, car rentals are also an option if you prefer to explore on your own terms.
Whichever way you choose, there are plenty of options available to get you around the city safely and conveniently.
How Many Days Do You Need in Bordeaux?
![a woman at a fountain in Bordeaux. Sites to see in 3 days in Bordeaux solo](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Is-bordeaux-solo-travel-safe-jpg.webp)
The number of days you need in Bordeaux really depends on the type of traveler you are. Bordeaux is a place I could spend weeks exploring and experiencing. But in general, 3 nights would suffice in most cases.
If you are active, 3 days will be plenty to see the main attractions in Bordeaux. This is primarily possible because Bordeaux is a smaller city.
Having experienced both the vivid big top destination life and the enchanting small cities around Europe, I prefer the latter.
When saying ‘small’ cities in France, do not envision isolated villages that may depress an energetic female solo traveler.
Think medium-sized, great transport links, and not too touristy.
Seeing all of Bordeaux in just 3 days is a bit ambitious, but yo
Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
![3 Days in Bordeaux](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_7165.jpg)
100% YES, Bordeaux is worth visiting! Spending 3 days in Bordeaux, France, is a superb idea if you’re searching for a lovely city with pleasant people and world heritage sites. And if you are visiting Paris, taking the train down to Bordeaux is easy!
There is a certain charm found in Bordeaux that makes it such a visit-worthy city. You will escape so much of the congestion you find in bigger cities like Paris. Walking the streets, I felt a sense of ease, and peace, unlike other places I have visited.
Bordeaux is also more affordable than Paris, with a friendlier atmosphere. The city is very clean and less crowded than I was expecting.
Is Bordeaux a Walkable City?
![Visiting Bordeaux Viewing Tower, Best cities in France to visit](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Resized18.jpg)
Bordeaux is very walkable since it is a small city you can easily get around without ever needing public transit. I would rank it among one of the most walkable cities I have visited.
There are a lot of pedestrian-only squares in Bordeaux, which I love. The city has a well-connected public transportation system, subways, buses, and trams. Renting a car wasn’t even a thought in my mind when visiting Bordeaux for 3 days.
Bring your comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones can be hard on your feet! One of the best things to get is the Bordeaux City Pass! It will come in handy, I promise!
The Bordeaux City Pass is an excellent option for 3 days in Bordeaux. This pass includes transit within Bordeaux city for buses and trams. Also, enjoy free entry to museums, and discount tickets to excursions around Bordeaux.
I always recommend utilizing a city pass or bus tour on the first day of any trip. Getting a broad overview of the city highlights is the best way to see everything you want to see.
City Pass for 48 -72 hours costs 39 euros. It includes :
- Unlimited access to tram, bus, river shuttle
- 20 museums and monuments
- 1 guided tour
- Many discounts on cruises, wine tours, and more
- Great for day trips from Bordeaux
Solo Travel Bordeaux Top Tips
![Solo Travel Bordeaux Tips](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solo-travel-bordeaux-jpg.webp)
If you are traveling alone in Bordeaux here are some helpful tips!
- If you are arriving via the Bordeaux International Airport, research how you will get to the hotel. For newbies solo travelers, arrange an Airport Pickup! It’s nice to be greeted when you land.
- Make sure to call your phone carrier and understand your options for using your mobile phone abroad! I recommend getting a European SIM card.
- Download all apps for travel, especially Google Offline Maps! Just in case you need to access them when service is low.
- Book a hotel in the center of town. I spend a little more to stay central when I am traveling alone. It always pays off!
Where to Stay for 3 Days in Bordeaux
The perfect hotel for 3 days in Bordeaux is Hotel de Tourney. This boutique hotel is located in the city center of Bordeaux.
It is within walking distance of Monument aux Girondins. My room was modern, sparkling clean, and offered free wifi.
![](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/11000000/10430000/10428500/10428482/b20a117b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=1200&ra=fit)
When returning to Bordeaux, I will make sure to stay at this hotel.
For other top hotels in the area, check out these:
Where to Visit After Bordeaux
If you want to extend your itinerary after Bordeaux, consider the Paris, Marseille, or other destinations in the south of France. The Dordogne region, also known as Périgord, is renowned for its scenic beauty, picturesque villages, and rich history.
Visiting the Dordogne region and its highlights, including Sarlat-la-Canéda and Rocamadour.
Related:
- Visit the nearby city of Toulouse
- Solo Trip Weekend in Paris Guide
- How To Go From Marseille to Cannes Guide + Map
- 3 Best Saint Emilion Wine Tours
- Is Mont Saint Michel Worth Visiting?
- Cost Guide for a Solo Trip to Paris
📲 Downloadable Map of Bordeaux
📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!
My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!
👩🏻💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary!
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I always enjoy getting a city pass if I’m not in a time crunch it’s a great way to get access to a city.
The city pass is such a great tip! Thanks for so many amazing specifics for everything. And all those food shots… must go now!
What a lovely guide! Bordeaux looks very pretty – perfect for a weekend getaway! 🙂 I’m pinning this, thanks for sharing!
What a great guide! I’ve heard some good things about Bordeaux so I’ll have to put it on my ever-growing list. Love your pics too 🙂
I’m going to France for the first time in March, and Bordeaux is on the itinerary! I’ll be traveling with my mom instead of going solo, but there are still lots of great recommendations here we can use. Saving this for my trip planning!
I have spent so much time in France and think it is very female friendly! Bordeaux is such a beautiful region!
Looks like you got to some great places. That food looks fantastic. I love visiting France and have traveled on my own there before and on girls trips, always found some great places to visit.
I loved Bordeaux. It’s such a beautiful part of France. Great recommendations.
What a lovely post! I’m from France and I’ve never even been to Bordeaux but it looks so beautiful. I might stop there for a few hours when I go home for Christmas!
I can only imagine how incredible it will be at Christmas!! Take lots of pictures!!
So many wonderful tips, Melissa! Love your photos – it looks so dreamy. Would love to try the avocado on toast at the Black List Cafe, sounds delicious 😀
Great suggestions! Good to know that a city pass is available. I think it´s a great chance to save a bit money when you visit some attractions, museums, etc. anyway! The winetasting possibilities sound also awesome!
Somehow after living in France for over 2 years I still never made it to Bordeaux! I guess I’ll just have to go back! Great article for female travelers, Melissa! xx
Bordeaux looks like a dreamy destination! Thank you for the detailed guide and the helpful map! Love your pictures!
Great post! I’d love to go back to France. I’ve only been to Paris.
Krystianna @ Volumes and Voyages
Bordeaux looks so beautiful! I haven’t been yet, but will definitely visit one day 🙂
Lovely photos! Thanks for all the useful tips, I think the city pass one was especially helpful plus it’s so worthwhile with 20 museum entry included. I’m so particularly interested in the restaurant, Nama. Saving this for when I visit.
We’ve been to Paris quite a number of times but somehow haven’t had the chance yet to explore France beyond that – so that’s definitely something that’s been on our bucket list for a while. I’d love to visit Bordeaux next time around – the architecture looks stunning and those bistros look so inviting. We love exploring the countryside by bike so I wonder if there are biking tours available that can head out to those wineries.
My brother suggested I might like this blog. He was entirely
right. This post truly made my day. You can not imagine simply
how much time I had spent for this information! Thanks!
Very nice article, exactly what I was looking for.
So glad you found it helpful! I would love to hear how your experience was in Bordeaux! It is one of my favorite destinations!