1. The Bassins des Lumières
During your stay in Bordeaux, immerse yourself in a unique experience by visiting the Bassins des Lumières, the world's largest digital and immersive art center. Housed in a former submarine base dating from the Second World War, this site blends history and modernity. A special section retraces the history of this naval base, with captivating archives and projections.
Since 2020, this artistic rehabilitation, supported by Culture Espace, offers a surface area five times larger than that of the Atelier des Lumières in Paris. In this extraordinary space, classic and contemporary works come to life through monumental projections on water and concrete walls, offering visitors total immersion. Each tour is enhanced by an enchanting soundtrack, enriching the visual experience with musical nuances.
Le Cube, the second space dedicated to immersive art, highlights innovative contemporary creations. Thanks to its two exhibition spaces, the Bassins des Lumières offer an eclectic program that blends timeless masterpieces with modern works, providing a rich and memorable cultural experience.
2. Museum of Fine Arts
Immerse yourself in art history with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, the city's oldest museum and a veritable cultural treasure trove. Its collections, spread over two wings, offer a rich and varied panorama of European and local art.
In the south wing, explore iconic works from the 15th to 18th centuries, while the north wing highlights creations from the 19th and 20th centuries. The program features major artists such as Titian, Veronese, Delacroix, Picasso and Matisse, while highlighting local talents such as Lacour and Taillasson, representatives of neoclassicism, and the cubist Lhote.
This not-to-be-missed museum invites you to explore the eras and currents of art through timeless masterpieces and exhibitions.
3. La Cité du Vin
With its spectacular architecture, the Cité du Vin is a must-see in Bordeaux. Its unique silhouette, marked by a 55-metre spire, bold curves and a wooden vault, immediately catches the eye. But the real treasure lies inside, where a total immersion in the world of vines and wine awaits you.
Ranked among the world's best museums by National Geographic, the Cité du Vin offers a fascinating journey through the history and cultures of winegrowing, from antiquity to the present day, on five continents. Its 6 thematic universes, spread over 3,000 m², combine interactive experiences, multi-sensory discoveries and moments of wonder.
You'll also discover temporary exhibitions, green gardens, and a rooftop offering a breathtaking view of Bordeaux. La Cité du Vin is much more than a museum. It's an invitation to explore the world's wine heritage in a fun, immersive way.
4. Le Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
A true landmark of the city, the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is one of Europe's finest theaters and an 18th-century architectural masterpiece. Designed by Parisian architect Victor Louis, this jewel opened its doors in 1780 with the performance of Racine'sAthalie, after several years of renovation.
Located on the Place de la Comédie, the building impresses with its majestic peristyle of 12 Corinthian columns topped by statues of the 9 muses and 3 goddesses. Inside, marvel at the elegance of one of Europe's oldest concert halls. Its circular dome, adorned with a fresco by the painter Claude Robin, and its wooden structures offer exceptional acoustics.
The royal colors of blue, white and gold that adorn the hall evoke the opulence of the Opera House at the Château de Versailles. A visit to the Grand Théâtre, whether for a tour or a performance, is a plunge into the history and cultural refinement of Bordeaux.
5. Trente Trente: the Performing Arts Festival
Bordeaux comes alive all year round with a rich program of festivals, and if your stay coincides with one of them, don't miss the opportunity to take part. Among these events, the Festival Trente Trente is a must for lovers of the performing arts.
Held every year in February, this festival offers a unique itinerary through 8 emblematic cultural venues in the Bordeaux metropolis. What makes it special? A program focused on short, hybrid forms, combining dance, circus, music, theater and cinema to offer a varied and captivating artistic experience.
For 3 weeks, Trente Trente brings the Bordeaux scene to life with some 20 companies and artists, showcasing contemporary creations from local, national and international talent. A bold and inspiring event, ideal for exploring Bordeaux's cultural richness from another angle.
6. Bordeaux International Independent Film Festival
Every year in October, the FIFIB brings together film lovers and professionals from all over the world to celebrate independent cinema. The festival showcases creativity and innovation through a rich and diverse program.
On the program: previews, artistic residencies, encounters, workshops, concerts and, of course, numerous screenings.
Competitions are among the highlights of the festival:
- International Feature Film Competition
- French Short Film Competition
- Contraband Competition
The FIFIB offers an essential platform for discovering original and daring works, while celebrating creative freedom. A not-to-be-missed event for fans of independent cinema.
7. Music Festivals in Bordeaux
Every year, Bordeaux hosts a multitude of music festivals to suit all tastes:
- Bordeaux Rock showcases local nuggets as well as international stars, providing an open stage for the diversity of independent music from here and abroad.
- Bordeaux Open Air focuses on electronic music and offers eclectic musical discoveries in green spaces, bringing young and old together in the heart of the city.
- Relache is an itinerant festival run by the Allez les Filles association, offering a varied program of concerts at different venues in Bordeaux over a 4-month period.
These events are the perfect opportunity to discover Bordeaux's dynamic music scene and enjoy some unique festive moments.
Book your plane ticket to Bordeaux Mérignac
flickr photo Philippe Gillotte