Bordeaux: Cité du Vin Entry Ticket and Wine Tasting
Hightlight
-
English-Speaking
-
Group-Friendly
-
Local guide
-
Non smoking
History
Bordeaux, a global wine capital, has cultivated vineyards since Roman times, with its wine trade flourishing in the Middle Ages under English rule and peaking in the 18th century as a hub for exporting fine wines like claret. The Cité du Vin, opened in 2016, celebrates this heritage with its striking, decanter-shaped building along the Garonne River, designed by architects Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières. As a museum and cultural center, it explores wine’s historical, cultural, and economic impact across civilizations, from ancient Mesopotamia to modern Bordeaux, showcasing the region’s pivotal role in shaping global viticulture.
The museum’s permanent exhibition traces wine’s journey through time, highlighting Bordeaux’s unique terroir—its gravelly soils and maritime climate—that produces world-renowned varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The Cité du Vin also reflects the city’s modern identity as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending its historic wine trade with innovative storytelling. This experience immerses visitors in Bordeaux’s vinicultural legacy, connecting the past to the present through interactive displays and panoramic views.
Highlights
- Embark on an immersive, sensory, and interactive wine museum experience.
- Explore 18 thematic displays dedicated to the cultural heritage of wine.
- Marvel at 360-degree panoramic views from the 35-meter-high 8th-floor Belvedere.
- Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine from a selection of approximately 15 world wines.
- Use a digital travel companion in 8 languages to guide your visit.
Full Description
Step into the world of wine at Bordeaux’s Cité du Vin with a direct-entry ticket, bypassing the ticket desk by scanning your voucher on the second floor. Located along the Garonne River, this modern museum offers a 3-hour self-guided journey through its permanent exhibition, featuring 18 interactive and thematic spaces. With a portable digital guide (available in 8 languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese), explore wine’s global history, from ancient vineyards to modern winemaking techniques, engaging all senses through dynamic displays.
Discover vineyards worldwide, test your senses with aroma stations, and learn about the intricate process of winemaking, from grape to glass. The exhibition highlights Bordeaux’s pivotal role in viticulture, alongside global wine cultures, with immersive visuals and interactive tools. Conclude your visit on the 8th-floor Belvedere, 35 meters high, where you’ll savor a complimentary glass of wine from a curated selection of 15 world wines while enjoying panoramic views of Bordeaux’s skyline and the Garonne River.
After the tour, explore the on-site boutique, wine cellar with an international selection, restaurants (including a panoramic 7th-floor option), and a reading room. This experience blends education, sensory exploration, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Why Choose This Experience?
The Cité du Vin offers a unique, immersive dive into wine’s global heritage, perfect for both novices and connoisseurs. The direct-entry ticket saves time, while the multilingual digital guide ensures accessibility and depth. Its interactive exhibits, sensory stations, and stunning Belvedere views set it apart from traditional museums, blending education with enjoyment.
Ideal for a 2–5 hour visit, the tour’s flexibility allows you to linger at displays or relax with a glass of wine. The museum’s modern design and Bordeaux’s wine legacy make this a standout cultural experience, enhanced by dining and shopping options, all set in the heart of a UNESCO-listed city.
What’s Included
- Direct-entry ticket to La Cité du Vin (no ticket desk queue).
- Access to the permanent exhibition with 18 thematic displays.
- Digital guide in 8 languages (English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese).
- Access to the 8th-floor Belvedere with panoramic views.
- One glass of wine from a selection of approximately 15 world wines.
- Access to the boutique, wine cellar, restaurants, and reading room.
Itinerary
- Start at La Cité du Vin, 134 Quai de Bacalan, Bordeaux.
- Scan voucher on the second floor for direct entry.
- Explore the permanent exhibition with digital guide (~2–3 hours).
- Visit the 8th-floor Belvedere for panoramic views and wine tasting (30–45 minutes).
- Optional: Browse boutique, wine cellar, restaurants, or reading room.
- Conclude at your leisure within museum hours.
Pricing
From $26 per person
Meeting Point
Go directly to the second floor of La Cité du Vin, 134 Quai de Bacalan, Bordeaux, and scan your voucher for entry (Open in Google Maps).
How to Get There
- By Tram: Take Line B to Cité du Vin stop, a 2-minute walk to the entrance.
- By Bus: Routes 7 or 32 stop at La Cité du Vin, directly at the museum.
- By Foot: From central Bordeaux (e.g., Place des Quinconces), it’s a 30-minute walk along the Garonne River.
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Request a drop-off at 134 Quai de Bacalan for direct access.
Good to Know
What to Bring:
- Passport or ID card (for verification).
- Comfortable shoes for exploring the large exhibition spaces.
- A charged smartphone for the digital guide (headphones optional for clearer audio).
- A light jacket, as some areas may be cool.
Know Before You Go:
- The museum closes at 4 PM on December 24; check hours (typically 10 AM–7 PM).
- No priority entry; expect minor security waits during peak times (summer).
- The tour is self-guided; allow 2–5 hours depending on your pace.
- The museum is wheelchair-accessible, with elevators to all floors, including the Belvedere.
- No food, drinks, or large bags allowed in exhibition areas.
- The wine tasting is for ages 19+; non-alcoholic options may be available for younger visitors.
- Restaurants and the boutique offer additional dining and shopping opportunities post-tour.
Reviews
- Wonderful wine museum! The pre-purchased ticket made entry smooth, and the interactive displays were exciting. A must-visit for wine lovers!
- The design and visuals of the exhibits were stunning, and the narration made French wine history engaging. The Belvedere view and tasting were highlights!
- Novel experience with beautifully curated exhibits. The building is striking, and the wine tasting with Bordeaux views was unforgettable. Highly recommend!
Maps
Video
FAQ's
How does the digital guide work, and do I need headphones?
The digital guide is a portable device (or app, depending on setup) provided at entry, offering commentary in 8 languages (English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese) on the 18 exhibition spaces. It enhances your self-guided tour with insights into wine history, production, and Bordeaux’s role. Headphones are optional but recommended for clearer audio in busy areas; bring your own, as none are provided. Ensure your smartphone is charged if the guide is app-based (check voucher instructions).
How long should I plan to spend at the Cité du Vin?
The permanent exhibition takes about 2–3 hours to explore thoroughly, depending on your engagement with the 18 interactive displays. The Belvedere visit, including wine tasting and enjoying the panoramic view, adds 30–45 minutes. Allow extra time for the boutique, wine cellar, or restaurants (e.g., the 7th-floor panoramic option). Most visitors spend 2–5 hours total, making it ideal for a half-day activity. The self-guided format lets you set your own pace.
Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
The tour is family-friendly, with interactive exhibits like aroma stations engaging older children (8+). However, the wine tasting is restricted to ages 19+, and younger visitors may receive non-alcoholic alternatives (check on-site). The museum is wheelchair and stroller-accessible, but parents should supervise kids in crowded areas. The content suits adults more, so bring activities for younger children to stay entertained. All attendees need tickets, and the flexible pace accommodates family needs.
Is the Cité du Vin accessible for people with mobility challenges?
The museum is fully wheelchair-accessible, with elevators to all floors, including the 8th-floor Belvedere, and accessible restrooms. The exhibition spaces are spacious, and the digital guide is easy to use for those with mobility aids. However, notify the operator when booking if you have specific needs, as peak times may involve crowds. Comfortable shoes are recommended for all, as standing or walking for 2–3 hours is common, even with accessibility accommodations.
What types of wines are included in the Belvedere tasting?
The complimentary tasting on the 8th-floor Belvedere offers one glass from a rotating selection of approximately 15 world wines, including Bordeaux reds (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blends), whites, or international varietals. The selection changes regularly to showcase global diversity, guided by staff who provide brief tasting notes. Non-alcoholic options may be available for those under 19 or non-drinkers (confirm on-site). The panoramic view enhances the relaxed, scenic tasting experience.
