Things to do in Aquitaine

Côte des Basques is one of Biarritz’s most famous beaches. Come here to enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and relaxed walks, learn to surf and attend summer festivals. Since the 1950s, Côte des Basques has been widely considered to be the heartland of Europe’s surfing culture.

Place de la Bourse is an elegant city square, bordered by grand, palatial buildings and facing the Garonne River. Marvel at the perfect symmetry of the square and surrounding buildings, designed to reflect the king's power and bring Bordeaux into modernity.

Bordeaux’s Rue Sainte-Catherine (Saint Catherine Street) stretches as far as you can see from one end to the other. It is one of Europe’s longest commercial pedestrian streets, measuring 0.8 miles (1.2 kilometers) long. Walk freely along this street filled with people. It is closed to vehicles, apart from an occasional delivery van. Be sure to explore the many side streets that offer unique and interesting stores and places to eat.

The vast Place des Quinconces stretches for about 30 acres (120,000 square meters) across the center of Bordeaux, making it an ideal venue for concerts and festivals. Explore the tree-lined square and admire its ensemble of monuments, which are dotted around the edges of the plaza. Take in views of the adjacent Garonne River.

Explore centuries of wine heritage and viticulture via cutting-edge exhibits when you visit Cité du Vin. Housed in an iconic, contemporary building notable for its bold curves, Cité du Vin is a museum, events venue and culinary space. Spend a day learning and tasting your way around the world of wine.