Bordeaux

Most people know this city because it lends its name to one of the most famous types of wines, but Bordeaux also happens to be one of France’s most vibrant cities. It’s filled with museums, theaters, and grand churches that are a reminder that this has long been the center of great wealth.

That’s not to diminish the importance of wine to the local economy. One of your first stops before heading out to wine country is Bordeaux’s Maison du Vin, or House of Wine. You’ll learn a lot about the local cash crop and names like Margaux, Lafite, and Mouton-Rothchild.

The gay scene in Bordeaux comes alive at night, with many gay and gay-friendly bars and clubs downtown. Lesbian and Gay Pride Bordeaux takes place every June.

Getting here

Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac, about 7 miles from the center of the city, has mostly domestic flights. From Terminal B, at arrivals level, the Jet'Bus shuttle connects Bordeaux Airport to Bordeaux train station every 45 minutes, every day. The trip takes around 45 minutes and costs 7 euros -- pay the driver. This is a major train hub, so you can catch a train to Bordeaux from almost anywhere in France. See SNCF for national and international train services.

Getting around

Bordeaux has a modern and extensive public transportation system, the TBC, with buses, trams, downtown free electric buses and a water shuttle. Regional rail service links Bordeaux with Archachon, the Medoc and other nearby areas. See  the TER-Aquitaine website for details. If you want to explore wine country, you’ll need a car.

Currency and Money

France is part of the Euro Zone, so the euro is the accepted currency. There are plenty of ATMs in the downtown area.

Local Media

Info Gay Bordeaux is an online resource for news and local listings, in French and English. Actu-Gay also has an online guide to gay Bordeaux

Têtu is the national gay magazine, packed with interesting features and profiles. It’s also one of the slickest gay magazines ever produced.

For gay and gay-friendly businesses, with locations and web links, see our Bourdeaux gay map & listings pages.