Cool Neighborhoods To Explore In Bordeaux
By Sam Lee, 2025. The best areas to explore in Bordeaux, whatever your travel vibe.
Bordeaux might be seriously old (in a good way), but it also has a young, energetic vibe with cool underground spots and chill neighborhoods. It's a blast to explore, and there’s a lot to fall in love with ❤. Whether you're into culture, food, shopping, or just want to chill, Bordeaux's got you covered.
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Travel Tip!
Get the scoop on Bordeaux with local tours that don't suck:
01—
Food Scene
Got a thing for food? Bordeaux won't let you down. Ever.
Head to Rue Saint James and Place Fernand Lafargue. These spots are packed with cafes, bistros, and restaurants serving up everything from classic French dishes to trendy international bites. Perfect places to grab a bite or sip a coffee while people-watching.
And don't miss the local bakeries—the pastries are next level. If you’re into markets, check out Marché des Capucins for fresh produce, cheeses, and more. The foodie scene here is a real treat for your taste buds.
Top Tip: It’s a great idea to have a local guide take you around.
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Shopping District
If you’re up for some shopping and a bit of culture, check out Pey Berland and Meriadeck.
Pey Berland's got the main Cathedral and a few great museums, making it a perfect spot to mix a little history with your retail therapy. Meriadeck (pictured above) is more modern and has a big shopping mall with all the usual suspects. Whether you're hunting for the latest fashion or just want to wander and window shop, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy here.
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Fancy Area of Bordeaux
Feel like treating yourself? Check out the Quinconces and Triangle d’Or areas. You’ll find swanky boutiques and chic cafes that make you feel like a million bucks. The Jardin Public is a gem—perfect for a classy stroll or a fancy picnic. Even if you're just window shopping, it's fun to dream a little.
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Quiet and Green Areas
Need a breather from all the city buzz? The Jardin Public and Saint Seurin neighborhoods are just what you're looking for.
These areas are super lush and perfect for kicking back. Imagine tree-lined streets, cute little parks, and plenty of spots to just sit and relax. Got kids? They’ll love the open spaces to run around and have a blast. It’s also great for those morning jogs or leisurely strolls.
Plus, you can find some cozy cafes and local shops to explore. It's a nice change of pace and a chance to enjoy a more laid-back side of Bordeaux.
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Cosmopolitan Vibes
For a mix of cultures and flavors, Saint Michel, Saint Croix, and Victoire are where you want to go. These neighborhoods are synonymous with energy and diversity. Stroll through streets filled with global eats, from kebabs to sushi.
Saint Michel’s (pictured above) has a cool flea market where you can snag unique finds. Victoire is student central, meaning it’s packed with lively bars and affordable eats.
And Saint Croix? It’s got this awesome mix of historic vibes and new, trendy spots. The energy is very infectious, making it perfect if you love a bit of everything. Overall, great places to soak in some local flavor and meet new friends.
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Other Side of the River
Check out the Bastide neighborhood if you're looking for something chill with a splash of edgy. It’s got this laid-back vibe with cool summer bars and riverside restaurants perfect for a relaxed evening.
You can enjoy the scenic views while sipping on a drink or grab a bite at one of the cozy spots. There's a local market where you can pick up fresh produce or some handmade stuff.
And let’s not forget the uber-cool Darwin district (pictured above) with its renovated warehouses, film festivals, pop-up bars, restaurants, and gig space.
Plus, the Botanical Garden is a great spot for a quiet walk or a lazy afternoon. It's a refreshing change from the city’s hustle, giving you a cool place to unwind and soak up the sun (if it decides to peak its head out of the clouds!).
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Grungy Area
Bacalan district is all about that artsy, offbeat vibe. It's somewhat gritty, but in a cool way. Think street art, indie galleries, and a laid-back atmosphere. The Cité du Vin (pictured above) is a must-visit if you're into wine—it's like wine heaven.
There are also funky bars and quirky cafes that make you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem. It's not polished, but that's what makes it interesting. The area is buzzing with creativity and has this underground feel.
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Near the Train Station
Gare Saint Jean area is pretty handy if you're arriving by train. It's got that local, everyday vibe, perfect for feeling like you're part of the city. Grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafes or check out a couple of restaurants that offer decent meals without breaking the bank.
There's also some cool street art around if you're into that. While it may not be the most glamorous part of Bordeaux, it's practical and has everything you need. Plus, it’s well-connected with public transport, so getting around France is a breeze.
Quick note: Like most major cities, some areas around the train station can get sketchy at night.
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Quiet Neighborhoods
Saint Genes and Nansouty (pictured above) are like those secret spots only locals know about. Perfect for when you want to be close to the city center but need some peace and quiet.
Both neighborhoods have a laid-back vibe and are super chill. The streets are lined with charming houses, and you'll find small, family-owned shops and cafes that give off a cozy feel. Plus, getting around is easy with the tram lines running through.
One of the best things about these areas is the sense of community. Neighbors actually know each other, and there's always something local going on, whether it's a small market or a street fair.
These neighborhoods are also great if you’re into a bit of history without the tourist crowds. You might stumble upon an old church or a historic building just by wandering around. And the local bakeries are great: You can grab some amazing pastries without having to deal with long lines.
10—
Village Vibes
Saint Augustin is a solid pick if you’ve got kids in tow. It’s like a little village in the city. Picture tree-lined streets, spacious parks, and plenty of places for the little ones to run around.
The weekly market is great—fresh produce, local goodies, and a great chance to mingle with the locals. Plus, there are a bunch of family-friendly cafes where you can grab a coffee while keeping an eye on the kiddos on the playgrounds.
Saint Augustin also has excellent public transport links, making it easy to explore other parts of Bordeaux without too much hassle.
11—
Bordeaux Lac
Bordeaux Lac is a bit off the beaten path but definitely worth checking out. Up north, it’s close to the Parc des Expositions and a huge shopping center, so there’s always something happening. The area has a cool mix of nature and urban life, making it great for a relaxed day out.
One of the best things about Bordeaux Lac is the lake itself (pictured above). It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, a leisurely walk, or even some water activities if you’re feeling a little adventurous.
Shopping here is pretty epic with the big center offering all the popular stores, plus some local shops for unique finds. Foodies won’t be disappointed either. The area has a range of dining options, from casual spots to more upscale restaurants.
12—
Areas to Avoid in Bordeaux
I’ve spent a lot of time in Bordeaux and never had a problem or felt particularly unsafe. However, like any major city, there are areas you probably want to avoid, especially at night. Areas in the city that are not completely safe at night include:
The Le Belcier district
Some areas around Gare Saint-Jean (train station)
The Marché des Capucins (market) when it’s closed
Le Boulevard Jean-Jacques-Bosc.
Suburban neighborhoods that you’ll probably want to avoid are:
Les Aubiers
Chantecrit
Grand Parc.
13—
That’s a Wrap!
Bordeaux has so much to offer! From incredible markets and charming architecture, every neighborhood has its own unique vibe, making Bordeaux a city you can't help but fall in love with. ❤
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