Bordeaux, the captivating city in southwestern France, continues to enthrall visitors with its dynamic blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy. Famed for its world-renowned vineyards, exquisite architecture, and delectable cuisine, Bordeaux offers something for every traveler in 2024. This year promises exciting new developments across wine tourism, gastronomy, cultural experiences, and accommodation options.
Wine Delights: From City Strolls to Vineyard Adventures
Bordeaux remains a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the city offers a multitude of ways to delve into the world of wine. Participate in a unique wine tasting workshop, held in a charming Bordeaux apartment or a historic cellar. For a casual exploration, unwind at one of the city’s many wine bars and savor the diverse range of Bordeaux’s nectars.
To gain a deeper understanding of how wine has shaped the city’s history and culture, embark on the captivating walking tour “In the footsteps of wine in the city.” This tour unveils the hidden connections between wine and Bordeaux’s architecture, art, and statues. And for a truly immersive experience, don’t miss the annual Bordeaux Fête le Vin wine festival. Held from June 27th to 30th, this lively event brings the Garonne River banks to life with wine tastings, exciting activities, and the opportunity to meet local winemakers and merchants.
For those seeking an extended wine adventure, Bordeaux offers exceptional accessibility. Public transportation, including trams, buses, and bicycles, connects you to a dozen charming wine estates within the city limits. Venture slightly further, and discover hundreds of welcoming vineyards eager to share their passion for winemaking and the responsible practices they embrace.
A Culinary Journey for Every Palate
Bordeaux is a haven for gourmands, catering to all taste buds and budgets. From Michelin-starred establishments to trendy new restaurants, local product showcases, bustling food courts, and lively markets, the city celebrates the art of fine dining.
Here’s a glimpse into Bordeaux’s vibrant culinary scene in 2024:
- Ganache: A haven for gourmet food lovers, Ganache introduces “Ganache lets its hair down,” a series of festive dinner evenings on weekends.
- Epicentre: Located in the city center, Epicentre offers a delectable prix-fixe lunch menu for €26.
- Inima: A fresh take on a familiar space, the Cromagnon restaurant transforms into Inima, led by the talented and creative chef Oxana Cretu.
- Vivants: Chefs Tanguy Laviale and Maxime Rosselin bring casual fine dining to Vivants. This intimate eatery with around forty seats focuses on showcasing the best of local produce.
- Souquo: This charming spot offers delightful vegetarian and colorful homemade cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Atelier des Citernes: Opening its doors in the first half of 2024, this unique venue in the station district houses 900 square meters of food stalls, community spaces dedicated to art and gastronomy, and a stage.
Culture Blooms with Immersive Experiences
Bordeaux boasts a vibrant cultural scene, offering a year-round program of exhibitions, performances, and events. Several unique cultural institutions further enrich the city’s artistic landscape.
The Bassins des Lumières, a stunning digital art center housed within a former submarine base, continues to captivate visitors. From February 16th, the exhibition “From Vermeer to Van Gogh, the Dutch Masters” invites you to embark on a journey through the works of these Northern European artistic giants. Additionally, a dedicated section pays homage to the architect of color, Piet Mondrian.
A must-visit for any visitor to Bordeaux, the Cité du Vin is a unique cultural destination. Refurbished in 2023, the permanent exhibition utilizes interactive digital technology to explore world vineyards, highlighting their cultural, historical, and social significance. For the second year running, don’t miss Via Sensoria, a sensory journey available from March 26th to November 3rd. Guided by a sommelier, you’ll embark on a multi-sensory exploration of wine through four immersive spaces.
Beyond the City: The Excitement of the Olympic Games
Bordeaux isn’t just about leisurely exploration. The city will be buzzing with sporting energy in 2024. Following the Rugby World Cup in 2023, Bordeaux will welcome the Olympic flame on May 23rd. Additionally, the city will host seven matches of the women’s and men’s football tournaments between July 24th and August 2nd. Sports enthusiasts can also witness the TOP 14 semi-finals on June 21st and 22nd.
Embracing Sustainable Tourism
Bordeaux is committed to promoting tourism that benefits not only visitors but also its residents and the environment. The city prioritizes ethical practices and is steadily establishing itself as a leader in responsible tourism. Bordeaux’s dedication to eco-responsibility is reflected in its 9th-place ranking on the Global Destination Sustainability Index 2022 (GDS Index), an international benchmark that analyzes destinations’ responsible performance.
From transportation and accommodation to leisure activities, Bordeaux offers countless options for a sustainable vacation. The city actively works to ensure every trip enriches visitors while preserving the environment for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some new and exciting things to experience in Bordeaux in 2024?
A: Visitors to Bordeaux in 2024 can look forward to new hotels, unique culinary experiences, and the energy of the Olympic Games. Wine enthusiasts can explore vineyards with ease thanks to accessible public transportation, while art lovers can delve into immersive experiences at the Bassins des Lumières and the Cité du Vin.
Q: What type of cuisine does Bordeaux offer?
A: Bordeaux caters to all palates, from Michelin-starred establishments to trendy new restaurants focusing on local produce. The city also boasts lively food courts, bustling markets, and vegetarian options.
Q: How can I get to Bordeaux from the UK?
A: Traveling to Bordeaux is convenient with direct flights from several UK cities or a scenic train journey via Paris.
