The 16 things to do in Gironde

What are you wondering about visiting in Gironde for your summer vacation? Let's start discovering 16 must-see places in this department!

Today, visiting the Gironde is a very popular activity. It is particularly famous for its unique terroir and gastronomy, it is one of the most visited regions in France. The Gironde is one of the economic poles of New Aquitaine . Former port area, it is now the largest department of the hexagon. It runs along the shores of the Atlantic and is strong in its magnificent landscapes and its oceanic climate.

But this historical territory is not only distinguished by its location of choice. Indeed, it has a richest cultural heritage. Its region has long belonged to the mythical Duchy of Guyenne.

Also, are you wondering what to do during your stay in the area? So here are some must-see activities to do in Gironde and that you will love!

1. Saint-André Cathedral of Bordeaux

Built in the 12th century, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments to visit in Gironde. In Gothic style, it is a true emblem of our history. She was also the place of marriage Aliénor d’Aquitaine and Louis VII in 1137.

A few centuries later, it was the Duchess Anne of Austria who married Louis XIII between its legendary walls. With its cultural heritage, it will easily charm its visitors! And this, whether they are passionate about architecture, art or history.

2. The City of Wine

The prefecture of the department is not only known for its architectural remains. It also houses the famous Cité du Vin. Unavoidable symbol of the region, it is one of the most beautiful visits to Gironde.

His museum will plunge you into regional traditions, and the development of this legendary drink.

3. The Museum of Fine Arts of Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a real economic and historical hub of the region. This city is home to many activities in Gironde. Founded in the 19th century, the Musée des Beaux-Arts bears witness to its rich cultural heritage.

You can admire the paintings of the Renaissance, and magnificent Roman sculptures. Art lovers, this is a place not to be missed!

4. The Castle of Roquetaillade

If you're wondering what to do in Gironde, you could discover its amazing medieval vestiges. Built in the 13th century, the castle of Roquetaillade is a medieval fortress of the region. It belongs to the same family for more than seven hundred years, and fortunately has been able to maintain its atypical architecture.

Also, through your visit, he will invite you to retrace the history of this extraordinary department.

5. Zoo de Bordeaux Pessac

With nearly three hundred animals, the Bordeaux Pessac Zoo is one of the most beautiful parks to visit in Gironde. It includes many exotic faves, as well as several European species. But its diverse fauna also comes from all over the world.

Renters of Asia, royal cranes, wallabies, mangostes and giraffes will then fascinate the little ones and the great ones! If you visit the area with family, this activity could be a must.

6. La Grotte de Pair-non-Pair

The territory of Bordeaux is particularly rich in its prehistoric remains. That’s why the Pair-non-Pair Cave is a must-see in Gironde. It is one of the most amazing painted caves of the Hexagon.

It is estimated that its multiple representations date back to tens of thousands of years. This activity will therefore be ideal for the ferus of History and Culture!

7. The Château Guiraud

The terroir of the department is an integral part of its cultural heritage. Wine fields are therefore exceptional places to visit in Gironde. Château Guiraud, for example, is one of the most beautiful wineries in the region.

Since 1855, he has specialized in the production of Sauternes wines. These great vintages, renowned all over the world, are among the best grape varieties. By exploring its fabulous building, you can taste it!

8. The Ornithological Reserve of the Teich

The Arcachon basin is renowned for its beautiful green landscapes. However, it is also characterized by its particular fauna. It also houses the fabulous ornithological reserve of the Teich. Unusual discovery to be done in Gironde, she will certainly like the whole family.

In particular, you can observe herons, egrets and white storks. But this park also houses some rarer species such as the Belon tadorna or the amazing white spatula.

9. The Château de Chambrun

Among the many Bordeaux vineyards, the Château de Chambrun is an emblematic domain. Its 18th century fortress is also an interesting visit to make in Gironde. Discovering its historic building, you can learn more about local gastronomy.

Also, you will be plunged into the heart of the traditions and specialties of the region. Your experience therefore promises to be the most immersive!

10. The Church of Saint Emilion

Of course, the city Saint-Émilion is renowned for the great eponymous wines we know. However, it is not its vineyards that we offer you to visit in Gironde. Indeed, the commune houses a true architectural treasure of the region: its church.

This was entirely dug into the rock during its construction in the 11th century. It is also considered the largest underground church in Europe. Also, its magnificent architecture and unique structure will quickly charm you!

11. The Pilat Dune

Higher in Europe and an exceptional natural monument, the Pilat Sun attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is one of the must-see places to visit in Gironde, and an inevitable stop for travellers.

At the heart of the splendid Arcachon basin, it takes you to discover a fabulous wilderness setting. You can also admire the magnificent regional reserve of the Landes de Gascogne, as well as the Bordeaux region.

12. The Natural Reserve of Hurtin

To better visit the Gironde, nothing like discovering its rich natural heritage. The nature reserve of Hurtin invites you to explore its splendid dunes and marshes. As you explore, you can admire its green flora and its sumptuous landscapes.

You could even meet some species of his extraordinary endemic fauna. What's better to disconnect a little from everyday life?

13. Fort Médoc

Fort Médoc is located a few steps from the beautiful city of Bordeaux. However, its atypical architecture has nothing to envy the monuments of the regional prefecture. Indeed, it is one of the many buildings of the famous Vauban. In 2008, he was promoted to UNESCO World Heritage.

In the 18th century, it was part of a set of fortresses designed to protect the head of the department. Today it is one of the most exceptional visits to Gironde.

14. The Arcachon Basin

We have already addressed some interesting activities to be done in the Arcachon Basin. But this unique lagoon of its kind is a full discovery. It extends from Leyre to the city of Lège-Cap-Ferret, and runs along the town of La Teste-de-Buch to the south.

Unlike the lakes of the region, it is open to the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, it marks the end of the dunaire cord of the famous Côte d’Argent. This is indeed one of the most amazing places to visit in Gironde.

15. L’Estuaire de la Gironde

Similarly, the Estuaire de la Garonne and the Dordogne is an exceptional site to visit in Gironde. Indeed, it is the birthplace of the economic and cultural history of the territory. It has long been the place of important maritime exchanges, and retains many vestiges of its past.

Still today, it allows the passage of many commercial ships that go up the rivers to other cities. Through its monuments, you will be immersed in the heart of local traditions!

16. La Citadelle de Blaye

La Citadelle de Blaye is a must-see visit to Gironde. This quarantine hectare military complex is a testament to the rich historical heritage of the region. It stands on the shores of the Atlantic, and has long been able to protect the beautiful Bordeaux from maritime attacks.

Today, he was fortunately able to retain his imposing Renaissance architecture. He will, for sure, like the ferus of History, but also to culture lovers!

See also in Gironde

If you are still wondering what to do in Gironde during your stay, wait no longer. In addition to these sixteen must-see places, the department is full of unusual activities for holidays. For example, the city of Bordeaux houses many fascinating monuments. We think of the famous Place des Quinconces or the National Opera.

In the same way, you could discover local flavors by visiting the legendary Cap Ferret. You could also go refresh yourself at the Lacanau pond, or admire the magnificent Pointe de Grave. The Bordeaux region has many exceptional sites to visit in Gironde!

How do I go to Gironde?

By plane

To visit the Gironde, you could choose a plane trip. Starting from Lyon, Paris or Strasbourg, you can easily reach Bordeaux in less than an hour of flight.

However, it is best to use a flight comparator like our partner Skyscanner . You can then find the best low-cost route for your trip. Whatever your dates, this site promises you a cheaper trip for your summer holidays.

Also, once on site, it is recommended to rent a car to visit the Gironde. As we have been able to see, the territory is full of must-see places for your holidays. Unfortunately, these are not always accessible by public transport. We therefore advise you to opt for a car rental so that you can move to your ease!

By car

If you prefer the road, you can easily reach the department by car. For that, you will have to go through l’A63 or the A62 if you come from the south of France. On their side, the Nordists will only be able to get to Bordeaux by borrowing the A10 or national roads. After you put your suitcases, you will only have to choose from these many activities to do in Gironde!

Where to stay in Gironde?

Before you ask that in Gironde, you will obviously have to choose your accommodation! For a comfortable stay, we recommend using a hotel comparison . So you can easily find the ideal stay for your holidays. You will be able to select your travel dates, and find the best accommodation at low prices.

For the summer period, the average price of a room varies from 50 to 150 euros per night. Obviously, the rates depend on the type of hotel you select, its location, and the services included.

But if you want a more immersive stay in the area, why not opt for a private rental? With sites like Airbnb , you will easily find a perfect accommodation for your trip. Offered by individuals, they invite you to dive into the heart of local traditions. You could, for example, choose to rent an apartment in Bordeaux , a house of master to Arcachon , or even a cottage near Saint-Emilion .

Your next dream rental will only depend on you! Also, to visit the Gironde, we advise you to stay in one of its magnificent large cities. With a rental Bordeaux , Arcachon or Blaye, you will actually be close to the main tourist attractions. You could therefore opt for accommodation in one of these communes for an immersive stay.

Between sumptuous landscapes and regional traditions, your holidays may be unforgettable!