What To Do in Bordeaux in July
Are you looking for an exciting holiday destination this year? If so, then you should consider visiting one of France’s most famous wine-producing regions. The July in Bordeaux travel guide features the best things to do in Bordeaux in July. and it offers a mixture of different Bordeaux July activities, cultural events, festivals, and of course, the chance to enjoy the wines that have made Bordeaux famous worldwide.
July weather in Bordeaux is warm with extended daylight hours and numerous outdoor summer events, which makes it a perfect month to visit. If you are wondering what to do in Bordeaux in summer, look no further; here are some of the best things to do in Bordeaux in July, which of course should include Bordeaux wine tours in July.
Bordeaux July Activities
July is perfect for summer sightseeing in Bordeaux, and if you are visiting with the family, there are many fun family-friendly tours in Bordeaux this summer. You will be spoiled for choice as there are endless activities that are tailored with younger visitors in mind. There are plenty of things to do in 2025 for visitors of any age.
The Parc Bordelais and Jardin Public are the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon picnic with plenty of trees that offer shady areas on hot days, perfect to enjoy an afternoon nap or a good book. They both feature beautiful open spaces where children can play and run off all their extra energy. Remember to bring water bottles, as some of the parks have fountains where it is easy to refill your water supply. There are many activities for visitors during the summer, including the famous Le Guignol Guérin in the Parc Bordelais, which was created in 1853, and it is one of the oldest puppet shows in France.
The theatre offers traditional puppet shows every afternoon during July and August that have been particularly adapted for families, with shows that are particularly engaging for children and create a universe that is warm and nostalgic universe. The puppets create a joyful atmosphere and carry on the tradition of classic puppet shows that have been enjoyed in Bordeaux for almost two centuries.
Summer Exhibitions, Bordeaux Museums
The Bassins de Lumières is the largest digital art centre in the world. It is five times bigger than the Atelier des Lumières in Paris, and it took nineteen months to create the space. The exhibit was opened in June 2020 in an old disused submarine base from World War Two at Port de La Lune. There are four pools of water that are 110 metres long, and the surface area of the projections has a surface area of 12,000 m² with ninety 90 video projectors that create an immersive experience where visitors can plunge into different digital exhibitions that change throughout the year.
They include themes such as “The Little Prince” and “The Pharaohs of Egypt,” as well as other breathtaking exhibitions that create an experience that is breathtaking and is beyond your wildest imagination.
Masterpieces from every corner of the globe are transformed into projections that are twelve metres high and twenty-two metres wide, where visitors can walk amongst the colours to the peaceful sounds of music and listen to the commentary about each one.
The flagship exhibition of 2023, the Dali & Gaudí exhibition broke all records, attracting almost 800,000 visitors, before giving way to the Van Gogh exhibition. So, rest assured, there is something exciting for everyone in the family to enjoy.
The Cité du Vin was opened in 2016, and visitors can enjoy an immersive and interactive digital journey that is centred around nineteen different interactive wine themes that delve into the mysteries of wine and focuses on the emotions, sensations, and dreams of each visitor as it tells the story behind how wine is made and its culture.
The exposition is in a massive 13,530 square metre building, featuring bold and modern architecture that looks different depending on which perspective it is being viewed from. There is a 360° viewing platform where visitors can enjoy a full view over Bordeaux and its surroundings. There are also activities for younger visitors to enjoy whilst parents are enjoying a wine tasting.
The Cap Sciences Museum is a perfect outing for visitors of all ages who are curious about science and culture. There are different activities and exhibitions that are dedicated to technology and science and there is even a special area for young visitors the “Carré des 366 ans”, that offers a couple of exhibition-workshops that are created especially for the little ones, as well as “Cap Sciences Juniors” for children between 8-14 years of age with hands on activities such as photo workshops and scientific investigations.
If you and your kids love animals, then you should take them to La Ferme Exotique on the outskirts of the city to enjoy a day out with many types of exotic animals that they can feed and interact with.
July Festivals in Bordeaux
Les Épicuriales – Summer Food & Wine Festival is held in the Allées de Tourny. This open-air event features pop-up restaurants, wine stalls, and live music. It is a perfect place to sample local cuisine such as foie gras, canelés, and many other tasty delights in a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
There are many exciting Bordeaux quayside events. There are many different pop-up events during the month to enjoy. If you love dancing, then the Dansons sur les Quais Bordeaux dance festival, which runs from 10-27 July, is the place to be. The Quayside is transformed into a giant, open-air dance floor. So, bring your dancing shoes and enjoy free group classes that offer a variety of different dance styles such as salsa, tango, hip‑hop, and Bollywood. Enthusiasm and fun are guaranteed!
Bordeaux Summer Concerts
If you enjoy music and live concerts, then Bordeaux will not disappoint. There are many different concerts that are hosted during the month of July. To see musical events are taking place in July, check the local schedule for the latest updates.
The Pulsations festival features different classical concerts that are set in different venues around Bordeaux, such as churches, theatres, and public squares. Guests can enjoy some of the finest classical music for free or at a very small price, which offers the opportunity for artists and guests to interact in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere that is set in venues with a great atmosphere.
Celebrate Latin American culture at the Corazón Latino Festival that is organised at the Rocher Palmer in Cenon and celebrate this rich culture by celebrating their dance and music in the colourful universe of Latino culture in a convivial atmosphere while enjoying salsa, bachata, reggaeton, concerts, workshops, and dance evenings throughout the day and night
In nearby Marmande, there are open-air festivals that feature electronic and rock, such as the Bordeaux Open Air and Garorock, as well as jazz concert evenings, “We Call It Jazz,” and classical music events such as Les Estivales in Médoc.
Open-air cinema in Bordeaux, July
If you enjoy outdoor cinema, there are plenty of options to choose from in and around Bordeaux. Many of these events are free or require a small admission charge. Before planning to attend the event of your choice, it is a good idea to check if advance tickets are required, as well as any other details specific to the event. Don’t forget to bring the popcorn and a blanket or chair to relax on.
You can enjoy events such as the Bleu Nuit Cinema Festival at Barbey Village features independent film premiers, cult classics, DJs, food, and drinks under the stars, and entry is free until 21:00. After this time, admission is €4.00. The Cinéma en Plein Air by Sénéjac at Château Sénéjac in Pian-Médoc features a classic French comedy, Le Sens de la Fête. Entry is €15 per adult and includes a glass of wine, €5 for kids ten years or older with a glass of juice, and free for visitors under ten years old.
Bordeaux Summer Markets
No trip to Bordeaux would be complete without exploring the many different markets that are scattered across the city. From the famous Marché du Capucins to the Sunday markets at Chartons and Marché des Quais, where visitors can enjoy fresh oysters, regional produce, and chilled white wines that can be enjoyed in sunny spots that are ideal for enjoying a laid-back brunch while observing the locals as they go about their daily activities.
If you are looking for a bargain, then you should explore the Braderie d’été, which are open-air street markets that are summer clearance sales that take place around different locations in Bordeaux. Check the local listing for dates and times. These events feature home goods, fashion, artisan stalls, street entertainment, local food such as Canelés, and a great local vibe is perfect for the entire family. Remember to bring bags and arrive early to have a chance at the best items, as they will go fast.
There are also various evening and night markets in the Gironde region – check local websites for more information.
Bordeaux Garonne River Cruise
Experience the beautiful sights of Bordeaux from the water with a scenic river cruise on the Garonne River that offers a different perspective of the city, where you can enjoy a scenic day cruise or a dinner cruise where you can see all the historic landmarks, such as Pont de Pierre and Place de la Bourse. There as several companies that offer different options as well as child-friendly experiences.
Bastille Day Bordeaux Events
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If part of your visit to Bordeaux includes 14 July, then you should join the locals in the holiday festivities that include free concerts and a military parade at Place des Quinconces. Once the sun has disappeared and is replaced by darkness, enjoy the fantastic Bordeaux Bastille Day fireworks show over the river. A perfect viewing place is at the Miroir d’Eau or on the riverbanks.
If you would like more details about parades, fireworks timings, and local traditions, read our complete guide on how to celebrate Bastille Day in Bordeaux before planning your evening.
Wine Experiences Bordeaux July
Discover the best vineyards to visit near Bordeaux in July with Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim, one of the leading wine tourism companies in the region, and specialising in Saint-Émilion day trips from Bordeaux, where you will explore local wineries in this medieval village on state-of-the-art e-bikes. You will spend the day cycling through the picturesque vineyards of Saint-Émilion for some of the finest Bordeaux wine tastings in July. The tours are led by a charming and friendly native English-speaking guide who is not only a wine expert, but also there to ensure you can immerse yourself in the ambiance and charm as well as enjoy delicious Bordeaux food and wine pairings in a local restaurant at lunchtime.
Immerse yourself in the local wine culture and experience the ambiance and beatify of wine country as you experience the beautiful scenery and enjoy some of the best wines from the local wineries. Your extremely knowledgeable guide will answer any questions (wine or non-wine related) that you may have along the way and will share the local history of this exceptional wine region that has been making wine for over two centuries. Bordeaux vineyard visits in summer or any time of the year can be tailored to meet your specific requirements and can be one or more days.
When you book with Bordeaux Wine Pilgrim, all of the details are taken care which means that your only priority is to enjoy an unforgettable day out. Contact them for further information about Bordeaux wine tours in July.
There are many Wine bars in Bordeaux old town that offer some of the most diverse selections of local wines and often feature local cuisine as well. For example, Les Trois Pinardiers in Place Gambetta features outdoor seating and is open every day, offering a wide selection of wines by the glass that can be accompanied by delicious charcuterie and cheese boards. A quick search on the internet offers many different options across the city.
Enjoy Free Walking Tours in Bordeaux In July
There a many fun outdoor tours in Bordeaux in July. Join a walking tour in Bordeaux in July and explore the charm of the beautiful streets of Bordeaux accompanied by an expert guide with Bordeaux Free Walking Tours. Your friendly and knowledgeable guide is a wealth of information and will ensure that you experience the city like a local. It is a great way to explore Bordeaux on foot in July. Check out their website for the Bordeaux Free Walking Tours summer schedule.
Travelling to and Staying in Bordeaux
There are daily flights from most major European cities to Bordeaux Airport. Alternatively, you can drive or take the TGV, which will deliver you right into the centre of the city.
Bordeaux has many different accommodation options, from traditional hotels to self-catering options. France is renowned for its exceptional food, and Bordeaux is no exception. You can choose from traditional bistros to more elegant Michelin-starred restaurants. There is something to please any palate, and many of the restaurants are child-friendly.
Bordeaux is the perfect place to visit in July before the August crowds arrive. Enjoy the fun and thrill of French culture in this famous port city, Bordeaux is calling!