Bordeaux Travel Tips

Key Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Bordeaux

Getting Around:

• Walking: Bordeaux is a very walkable city, with its historic center easily explored on foot. Comfortable shoes are recommended!
• Tram: Bordeaux has an excellent tram system connecting most parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased from machines at stops.
• Bikes: Bike rentals are readily available and a fun way to explore the city. Many cycle paths crisscross Bordeaux, making it safe and enjoyable.

Cultural Etiquette:

• Greetings: A simple “Bonjour” (Good morning/afternoon) or “Bonsoir” (Good evening) is expected when entering shops, restaurants, or greeting locals.
• Handshakes: Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time.
• Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, attempting basic French phrases like “Merci” (Thank you) and “S’il vous plaît” (Please) will be greatly appreciated.

Dining:

• Reservations: Booking restaurants in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
• Lunch: Lunch is typically a more casual affair than dinner, with fixed-price menus (“Menus du Jour”) often available for a good value.
• Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is appreciated.

Wine Tasting:

• Respect: Treat wine tasting seriously and respectfully. Avoid loud conversations and focus on appreciating the flavours and aromas.
• Spittoon Usage: Don’t be afraid to use the spittoon provided during tastings if you don’t want to consume all the wine.
• Asking Questions: Winemakers are usually passionate about their craft and happy to answer questions.

General Tips:

• Dress Code: Bordeaux is a stylish city. While casual attire is acceptable for sightseeing, dressing up slightly for dinner at nicer restaurants is appreciated.
• Safety: Bordeaux is a safe city overall, but be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Have a wonderful time exploring Bordeaux!