The city of Bordeaux is 60 miles (97 kilometers) inland from the Bay of Biscay and is the gateway to France’s most famous wine region. Smaller ships can travel up the Garonne River and dock in the city center at the Port de la Lune, but larger ships must dock in Verdon at the Gironde estuary, about two hours' drive from the city.
The city of Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient architecture and medieval attractions, but many visitors use their time in Bordeaux to venture into neighboring wine country. Choose from half-day and full-day wine tours of the French countryside, and sample wine from the Medoc and Saint-Emilion regions while learning about Bordeaux’s famous wine making traditions.
You can also spend your day in Bordeaux exploring the historic city center’s museums, galleries, and fine restaurants. Don’t miss the Basilica of St. Michael's freestanding bell tower, one of the tallest medieval towers in France and Bordeaux’s most notable landmark.
Both small ocean and river cruise ships dock in Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune. Most city attractions are located within a 15- to 30-minute walk from the dock, and several public transportation options service the port. Shore excursions typically provide roundtrip transportation.
French is the official language in Bordeaux, although English is spoken in most information centers and shops. The euro is the official currency, and an ATM is located near the port. Credit cards are widely accepted, and be aware that France places a standard 20 percent VAT on most goods and services.