Bordeaux, the elegant port city in south-west France, is a lovely destination for a family holiday. Along with warm weather and some of the best food in France, it’s a city that’s genuinely easy to explore with kids in tow — wide pedestrian streets, a simple tram network, and a river that’s just as fun to look at as it is to travel on.
From a giant reflecting pool to riverside walks, botanic gardens, historic chateaux and hands-on science, there’s plenty to fill a family week in Bordeaux. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Bordeaux with kids.
Getting Around Bordeaux With a Family
Bordeaux’s tram system makes getting into and around the city centre straightforward, which is a big help when you’re travelling with children. Renting a house or apartment near a tram stop is a good way to base yourselves outside the busiest part of town while still keeping the city within easy reach. The Garonne river runs right through Bordeaux, adding some lovely riverside walks to your days out — and opening up the option of a family boat trip along the water.
The wider region is famous for its vineyards, so if you’re staying for a week or longer, a day trip out to wine country is worth considering too (little ones in tow or not, the countryside scenery alone makes for a nice drive).
1. Miroir d’Eau (Water Mirror)
One of Bordeaux’s most photographed spots, the Miroir d’Eau — or Miroir des Quais — is the world’s largest reflecting pool, covering an impressive 3,450 square metres. It’s an unusual sight: granite slabs covered by just 2cm of water, creating a mirror-like surface right on the quay of the Garonne, in front of the Place de la Bourse.
In summer, a fine mist rises from the pool at intervals throughout the day, giving kids (and adults) a welcome way to cool off on a hot afternoon. It’s a particularly beautiful spot in the evening too, when the surrounding buildings light up and reflect across the water.
It costs nothing to visit and is one of those simple, magical experiences that tends to be a highlight for younger children in particular.
More Family Highlights in Bordeaux
Beyond the Miroir d’Eau, Bordeaux has plenty more to offer families — think riverside walks and boat trips along the Garonne, green space to run around in at the city’s botanic gardens, hands-on exhibits for curious minds, a look back in time at one of the region’s historic chateaux, and old-fashioned fun for younger children at a carousel in the city centre. Whether you have a full week in Bordeaux or just a couple of days, there’s enough here to build a varied, easy-going family itinerary around the city and its surrounding countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bordeaux a good destination for families?
Yes. Bordeaux is a walkable, welcoming city with a simple tram network, riverside spaces to explore, and a good mix of outdoor and indoor activities, making it a comfortable base for a family holiday.
What’s the best way to get around Bordeaux with kids?
The tram system is generally the easiest option for families, connecting the city centre with surrounding neighbourhoods. Basing yourselves near a tram stop makes day-to-day travel much simpler with children.
Is the Miroir d’Eau free to visit?
Yes, it’s a public space on the Garonne quayside that you can visit at any time, and it’s a lovely, low-cost activity to build into a day out in the city.
Are there activities near Bordeaux as well as in the city itself?
Yes — the surrounding region is known for its vineyards and countryside, making it a good option for a day trip if you’re staying in the area for a longer break.
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If you’re planning a family trip to south-west France, you might also enjoy our guide to campsites near Bordeaux and Bergerac, plus more of our France family travel inspiration on the MyKidsTime adventure hub.
Save This for Your Trip
Bordeaux has enough to fill a family week, so it’s worth saving this guide or bookmarking it before you travel so you have it handy for planning your days out.
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