The 10 best squares in Bordeaux: a must-see!

The squares of Bordeaux form one of the most spectacular architectural ensembles in Europe. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they bear witness to more than three centuries of French history. From the majestic Mirror of Water to the imposing Quinconces Square, each corner tells a unique story that you can discover during our free tour of Bordeaux.

Join us for a tour of the 10 best squares in Bordeaux that have shaped the destiny of the Aquitaine capital. You’ll discover why they are a must-see for any lover of architecture and history.

1. Place de la Bourse

The Place de la Bourse, also known as Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, is located on the banks of the Garonne River. Its elegant 18th century buildings are remarkable for their perfect symmetry and their facades decorated with masks. Today, these buildings house the National Customs Museum and the Chamber of Commerce.

Its privileged location opposite the Mirror of Water makes it one of the most photographed places in the city.

2. Water Mirror

The Miroir d’eau or Water Mirror is a contemporary work of art that is unique in the world. With its 3,450 square metres of reflecting surface, this urban space has become the symbol of modern Bordeaux. Designed by the artist Michel Corajoud and inaugurated in 2006, it operates in cycles that alternate between a perfect mirror effect and a gentle refreshing mist.

It is also considered to be the largest water mirror in the world. Its innovative design and its perfect integration with its historic surroundings have made it one of Bordeaux’s most fascinating sights.

3. Quinconces Square

The Quinconces Square in Bordeaux is the largest square in the city and a real green lung in the heart of the city centre. It covers an area of 126,000 square metres. Created in 1820 on the site of the former Château Trompette, its name comes from the peculiar arrangement of its trees, planted in the shape of a quincunx.

This monumental space is captivating because of its two most representative elements:

• The decorative columns symbolising Bordeaux’s naval and commercial tradition.
• The Monument to the Girondins of Bordeaux: built between 1894 and 1902, it pays tribute to the Girondin representatives who lost their lives during the French Revolution.

Today, the famous Place des Quinconces hosts the city’s most important events, from traditional markets to funfairs and cultural festivals. Its strategic location, between the historic centre and the Garonne river, makes it an essential meeting point for the people of Bordeaux.

4. Place Gambetta

Bordeaux’s Gambetta Square, also known as Place Gambetta, is a perfect example of 18th century French town planning. Located in the heart of Bordeaux, this circular square surprises with its neoclassical design and its central garden.

The buildings surrounding the square maintain a perfect architectural harmony and house elegant cafés with terraces and boutique shops. The calm and sophisticated atmosphere invites you to pause for a coffee while watching the locals come and go.

5. Place de la Comédie

Located in the heart of Bordeaux’s historic centre, the Place de la Comédie is a place full of life and culture. This 18th century neoclassical building impresses with its majestic façade of twelve Corinthian columns.

The emblematic Place de la Comédie is located opposite the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, a cultural landmark of the city. Here, locals and tourists gather to enjoy theatrical performances and other open-air events. Thanks to its central location, it is an ideal starting point to explore the city’s main monuments.

6. Place du Parlement

In the heart of the Saint-Pierre district lies the Place du Parlement in Bordeaux, one of the city’s Renaissance treasures. For centuries, the Place du Parlement was the commercial epicentre of Bordeaux under the name of Place du Marché Royal.

The façades frame a space that today is full of life thanks to its lively terraces and traditional restaurants. It’s the perfect place to experience Bordeaux’s gastronomy while admiring the historic architecture.

7. Place de la Victoire

Between the student hustle and bustle and the history of Bordeaux, Bordeaux’s Place de la Victoire emerges. It marks the beginning of the university quarter and the end of Bordeaux’s famous rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest pedestrian artery in Europe.

The most emblematic element of this site is its impressive 16-metre pink marble column, inaugurated in 2005. This work by the sculptor Ivan Theimer pays homage to Bordeaux’s wine-making tradition: its helical shape simulates a vine stock, while the bronze plaques tell the story of wine.

The Place de la Victoire vibrates with a special energy thanks to its young and cosmopolitan atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the city’s nightlife.

8. Stalingrad Square

On the east bank of the Garonne River, you will find the renovated Stalingrad Square in Bordeaux. Located in the La Bastide district, Place Stalingrad connects the historic centre with the riverfront via the iconic Stone Bridge. There, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Port de la Lune.

However, the undisputed star of this space is the famous Blue Lion, a striking contemporary sculpture by the artist Xavier Veilhan. This monumental work of art has become the symbol of the transformation of La Bastide.

9. Place du Palais

A stone’s throw from Bordeaux’s Saint-André Cathedral hides one of the best-preserved medieval corners of the city: the Place du Palais. Its historic charm lies in the imposing Porte Cailhau de Bordeaux, a Gothic construction dating from 1495 that served as the triumphal entrance to the medieval city.

The cobbled streets leading to the square keep the spirit of old Bordeaux intact. The centuries-old buildings are home to small shops and cosy terraces where you can enjoy the local gastronomy. The proximity of the Museum of Aquitaine further enriches the cultural value of one of Bordeaux’s finest squares.

10. Place Saint Michel

Place Saint Michel is located in the Saint-Michel district of Bordeaux. Presided over by the impressive Gothic spire of the Basilica of Saint-Michel, this square stands out for its multicultural and dynamic character.

Bordeaux’s famous Saint-Michel market transforms the square several times a week. Saturdays are particularly popular, when food and antique stalls are set up under the shadow of the basilica. The diversity of restaurants and cafés surrounding the square offers a gastronomic journey through flavours from all over the world.

As we have seen, Bordeaux’s squares tell a unique story from the Middle Ages to the present day. These urban spaces create the perfect setting for the cultural, social and gastronomic life of the people of Bordeaux. We encourage you to discover every corner of these squares and enjoy a unique experience in the capital of Aquitaine.