Viator Rating : 5 (27 reviews)
Bordeaux
Bordeaux History: Private Guided Walking Tour
120
Overview
Experience the “Private Bordeaux History Tour,” a special walking tour where you'll uncover the city's amazing past. A professional historian will guide the way, making history fun and easy to understand. Explore famous places and hear the stories of the people who made Bordeaux what it is today.
This tour takes you to places like Saint-André Cathedral, a beautiful church with a lot of history. Walk down Rue Sainte-Catherine, a street that has been important since the Middle Ages. See Porte Cailhau, an old gate that looks like it's from a fairy tale. Stand in awe at the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, where amazing shows still happen today. You'll also discover hidden spots like Place Gambetta, Passage Sarget, Place du Chaplet (Église Notre-Dame), Allées de Tourny, and Monument aux Girondins.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide who knows all about Bordeaux's history. It's a private tour, so it's just for you and your group. After your historical adventure, the guide will give the company's top recommendation for a local wine bar. Please note that tips for your guide are not included. 
Highlights
Discover Bordeaux's Hidden History: Explore the city's past with a historian as your guide.
See Iconic Landmarks Up Close: Visit famous places like Saint-André Cathedral and the Grand Théâtre.
Enjoy a Private, Personalized Tour: Experience Bordeaux at your own pace, with just your group.
Get Local Tips and Recommendations: Find out where the locals go for great wine and food.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved learning about Bordeaux's history from knowledgeable guides.
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Many enjoyed the flexibility of the private tour and the ability to customize the experience.
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Visitors appreciated the guide's recommendations for local restaurants and attractions.
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Several reviewers highlighted the guide's passion for Bordeaux and their ability to bring the city's history to life.
A few customers felt the tour could have included more specific historical details.
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Some reviewers mentioned that the pace of the walking tour was a bit fast for them.
The Journey
Saint-André Cathedral
Step into the grandeur of Saint-André Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site that has stood as a silent witness to Bordeaux's history for centuries. Imagine Eleanor of Aquitaine's royal wedding within these very walls. Marvel at the intricate carvings, soaring nave, and the stories etched into every stone. This cathedral is not just a building; it's a living testament to Bordeaux's religious and cultural evolution, a place where history resonates with every echoing footstep.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Dive into the vibrant heart of Bordeaux on Rue Sainte-Catherine, Europe's longest pedestrian street! Feel the pulse of the city as you stroll along this bustling thoroughfare, tracing its origins from Roman times to its current status as a shopping paradise. Discover hidden architectural gems tucked between modern storefronts, soak in the lively atmosphere, and let the energy of this iconic street sweep you away. It's a sensory feast and an essential Bordeaux experience.
Bordeaux (Middle Ages)
Journey back in time to the Middle Ages in Bordeaux. Explore the remnants of medieval architecture that whisper tales of the city's past. Uncover the fascinating history of Bordeaux's transformation and its brief but significant period under English rule. Delve into the historical events and cultural shifts that shaped this city into the vibrant hub it is today.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Dive into the vibrant heart of Bordeaux on Rue Sainte-Catherine, Europe's longest pedestrian street! Feel the pulse of the city as you stroll along this bustling thoroughfare, tracing its origins from Roman times to its current status as a shopping paradise. Discover hidden architectural gems tucked between modern storefronts, soak in the lively atmosphere, and let the energy of this iconic street sweep you away. It's a sensory feast and an essential Bordeaux experience.
Place du Palais
Admire Place du Palais, a landmark steeped in history and architectural significance. Uncover the design principles behind its creation and learn about its historical relevance to the city. Immerse yourself in the stories that echo through this square, understanding its role in Bordeaux's evolution and the visionaries who shaped it.
Porte Cailhau
Step through Porte Cailhau and journey back to Bordeaux's golden age! This magnificent 15th-century gateway, built to honor King Charles VIII, once served as the city's main entrance. Marvel at the fusion of Gothic and Renaissance styles, while discovering its strategic importance in defending Bordeaux and its symbolic role as a gateway to prosperity. It's a captivating blend of history and architecture you won't want to miss.
Bordeaux's Historical Heart
Embark on a private walking tour through the historical heart of Bordeaux. Discover the city's most famous monuments, each with its own captivating story, guided by expert insights that deepen your understanding of Bordeaux's rich heritage. From the iconic Place de la Bourse and Miroir d'Eau to the stunning Bordeaux Cathedral and Porte Cailhau, this tailored tour is the perfect opportunity for history enthusiasts to explore Bordeaux's architectural treasures up close.
Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Behold the Grand Théâtre of Bordeaux, a breathtaking icon of neoclassical architecture and a cultural crown jewel! Built in 1780 by architect Victor Louis, this is more than just a theater; it's a masterpiece. Marvel at the majestic colonnaded facade adorned with statues of muses and goddesses. Step inside to discover the opulent interior, from the grand staircase to the glittering chandelier. Learn about its significant role in Bordeaux's artistic legacy and how it continues to host world-class performances today.
Place Gambetta
Discover Place Gambetta, a historic square at the heart of Bordeaux, brimming with a fascinating past! Once the city's western gate, it transformed into an urban hub in the 18th century. Stroll through lush gardens, admire the elegant architecture, and learn about its ties to Bordeaux’s political history, including its role during the French Revolution. Today, it’s a tranquil retreat, perfect for absorbing the city’s charm and history.
Passage Sarget
Step into the elegance of Passage Sarget, a historic covered passage dating back to the late 19th century. This charming walkway, named after philanthropist Jean-Alexandre Sarget, connects Rue de la Porte-Dijeaux with Place des Grands-Hommes. Inspired by Parisian arcades, it showcases refined stone architecture, intricate ironwork, and a stunning glass roofing. Once a haven for luxury boutiques and intellectual gatherings, Passage Sarget remains a captivating glimpse into Bordeaux’s Belle Époque heritage, filled with delightful shops and cafés.
Place du Chaplet (Église Notre-Dame)
Visit Place du Chaplet, home to the Église Notre-Dame, a historic 17th-century landmark. Marvel at the church's impressive organ, whose melodies still resonate during special performances. Explore its historical significance, including its connection to a renowned painter's funeral in the 19th century. This place of reflection, rich in artistic and architectural heritage, is a cultural treasure at the heart of Bordeaux.
Allées de Tourny
Stroll along Allées de Tourny, a grand avenue that reflects the vision of a key figure in Bordeaux's transformation. Discover how this avenue’s design, created by a visionary who shaped Bordeaux and influenced urban development in Paris, embodies classical elegance with its tree-lined walkways. Witness the lasting impact of this influential figure in every detail of this iconic Bordeaux landmark.
Monument aux Girondins
Behold the Monument aux Girondins, a stunning tribute to the Girondin deputies who perished during the French Revolution. Located on Place des Quinconces, this towering masterpiece features dramatic sculptures symbolizing liberty, the triumph of the Republic, and Bordeaux’s maritime heritage. Delve into the revolutionary history it commemorates, the fascinating symbolism woven into its design, and its role as a centerpiece for the city’s largest square. It’s an unmissable fusion of art, history, and civic pride!
Know Before You Go
This private historical walking tour of Bordeaux includes an English-speaking guide to lead you through the city's rich past. It does not include gratuities for your guide, so please plan accordingly. After the tour, the guide will share the company's top recommendation of wine bars. Meetup location will be disclosed after booking.
Hot Tip
Many visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, be sure to ask your guide for their favorite local spots to eat and drink – they have great suggestions!
Review Summary
People finds this tour highly informative and personalized, praising the knowledgeable guides and the flexibility to explore Bordeaux’s history at their own pace. Many appreciate the inclusion of a glass of Bordeaux wine and the insider tips on local wine bars. Some travelers mention that the walking can be tiring, and a few note that entrance fees to certain sites are not included, which can add to the overall cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
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