Bordeaux : Bassins des Lumières Billet dentrée

If you’re wandering through Bordeaux and craving an experience that combines cutting-edge technology with history and art, then Les Bassins des Lumières is a must-visit. For just around $19, you get a ticket to what’s considered the world’s largest digital art center, located in a dramatic, converted WWII German submarine base. This tour offers a fascinating mix of immersive exhibitions, featuring major artists and themes like Egyptian Pharaohs and The Orientalists—a real treat for both art aficionados and curious travelers alike.

What we love about this experience is the sheer visual spectacle—imagine walking through pools of water with 90 video projectors casting dazzling images onto six different spaces, including the unique The Cube, which showcases contemporary immersive art. The other highlight? The historical setting itself, as the gallery is housed in a space that once served as a WWII submarine base, adding a layer of authenticity and contrast that’s hard to find elsewhere.

A possible consideration is that, with so much visual stimulation, timing your visit to avoid crowds or missing your preferred shows can be tricky. The last entry is 1 hour and 15 minutes before closing, so planning your arrival is key. This experience suits art lovers, history buffs, or even those simply looking for a memorable, sensory adventure in Bordeaux—especially if you enjoy technological marvels or unique venues.

Key Points

• Unique Venue: Located in a WWII submarine base, blending history with modern digital art.
• Immersive Exhibitions: Features thematic shows like “Egyptian Pharaohs” and “The Orientalists,” crafted with innovative projection technology.
• Accessible & Practical: Wheelchair accessible and flexible booking options, including free cancellation.
• Great Value: For $19, you gain access to a world-class digital art display that lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
• Authentic Experience: The contrast between the building’s past and present adds depth and intrigue.
• Highly Praised: Visitors consistently mention the stunning visuals, excellent use of space, and knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

Bordeaux’s Bassins des Lumières offers an extraordinary blend of art, history, and technology. For around $19, you’re transported into a world of visual wonder that’s especially captivating for those interested in modern digital art or seeking an unusual backdrop during their Bordeaux stay. The experience lasts about one hour and a quarter, and includes two major exhibitions: “Egyptian Pharaohs: The Immersive Experience” and “The Orientalists: Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme.”

The venue itself is a transformed WWII submarine base, tall in history and scale. The vast, soundproofed spaces and water pools filled with projected images create an environment that’s both stunning and atmospheric. It’s a place where art meets innovation, and where you’ll get to see artworks leap from their frames into the space around you through the magic of high-powered projectors.

The Venue: A Historical Setting with a Modern Twist

Walking into Les Bassins des Lumières, you can’t help but feel the juxtaposition of the past and present. The German submarine base was once a secret wartime installation, and now it’s a catalyst for creativity. This building’s industrial, cavernous ambiance lends a dramatic backdrop for the vivid images and animations that fill the space.

The facility features six separate zones, including the notable The Cube, which is dedicated to contemporary immersive art. Here, the soundproofed environment allows visitors to concentrate on the visual spectacle without external distractions. You’ll also find four 110-meter-long pools of water, each serving as a canvas for the projections. The reflections in water and the play of light and shadow create a magical atmosphere.

Exhibitions: Art, History, and Innovation

The current exhibitions are carefully curated to highlight the skill of digital projection technology while respecting the themes and artists.

“Egyptian Pharaohs: The Immersive Experience”

This show fascinates many visitors, with the visuals bringing ancient Egypt to life. The massive scale of the projections makes you feel as if you are standing among the pyramids or in the presence of the Pharaohs themselves. Reviewers like Kimberley from New Zealand mention it as the “greatest part,” praising the use of the building and the digital display.

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“The Orientalists: Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme”

This exhibit offers a tour of 19th-century Orientalist paintings, but reimagined through dynamic projections. It’s a new way to experience familiar artworks, and many find it both educational and visually exciting. Natalie from the UK called it “spectacular” and emphasized how much she enjoyed the music and sound accompanying the visuals.

The Art of Technology

A highlight of the experience is The Cube, which showcases artists specializing in immersive art. The programming is designed to engage all senses, and visitors often comment on the stunning visuals and the technological ingenuity used. Sight and sound are combined to create a multi-sensory journey that’s suitable for all ages.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Tickets are priced at $19 per person, which we think is exceptionally good value given the quality and scale of the display. Once inside, you’ll be free to wander among the spaces, with last entry allowed 1 hour and 15 minutes before closing—making it crucial to plan your timing.

The experience lasts about 90 minutes, giving enough time to appreciate the exhibitions without feeling rushed. The site is wheelchair accessible, which is important for visitors with mobility concerns.

Tips for Visiting

• Timing: Arrive early or during off-peak hours if possible, to enjoy the exhibits without large crowds.
• Schedule: Consider the timing of the shows—while no detailed schedule is provided, some reviews suggest that knowing what specific exhibitions are happening when could enhance your visit.
• Clothing: Since part of the experience involves walking through water pools and darkened spaces, comfortable shoes and layered clothing are advisable.
• Booking: Reserve tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak tourist season.

What Visitors Are Saying

With a 4.6/5 rating from nearly 400 reviews, visitors are overwhelmingly positive. Many praise the visual effects, with Daniel from France calling it “magnificent,” and Marina from the UK describing it as “absolutely fantastic.” The use of the building and the creative presentation consistently earn high remarks.

Some mention that more historical context about the submarine base would be appreciated, as James from the US notes, “A presentation about the history of the submarine base would have been nice,” but overall, they find the experience well worth the visit.

Reviewers also appreciate the value for money, the quality of projections, and the knowledgeable guides (if available). The combination of art, technology, and history creates a memorable experience that’s both educational and entertaining.

This tour is especially well-suited for art lovers who appreciate technology and history enthusiasts intrigued by the building’s past. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a visual feast that breaks away from traditional art galleries. If you enjoy innovative displays, spectacular visual effects, and interactive experiences, this is likely to be a highlight of your Bordeaux trip.

For $19, you get access to one of the most impressive digital art centers in the world, housed in a setting filled with history. The visual spectacle alone makes it worthwhile, especially if you love modern art or want a unique experience in Bordeaux.

The blend of history and contemporary digital art enriches the visit, offering more than just pretty pictures—it’s a thought-provoking, sensory journey. The staff and guides are often praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, adding a helpful layer of context.

While the space can get busy, planning your visit during less crowded hours and timing your entry well will maximize your enjoyment. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious traveler, Les Bassins des Lumières offers a compelling crossroad of past and present that’s unforgettable.

Is there a limit to how long I can stay inside?
Yes, the last entry is 1 hour and 15 minutes before closing, and the experience lasts approximately 90 minutes. It’s best to arrive early to enjoy the full exhibition.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Les Bassins des Lumières is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility challenges.

Can I cancel my ticket if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your trip plans shift.

Are there guided tours available?
The reviews mention knowledgeable guides, and the experience is designed to be engaging, but specific details about guided tours are not provided. It’s primarily a self-guided visit.

What’s the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
While not explicitly stated, arriving early in the day or during weekdays might help you dodge larger crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.

Are there other similar experiences nearby?
Yes, Bordeaux offers other attractions like boat cruises, wine tours, and the Musée de l’Illusion, which you might find equally fascinating. Check the provided links for options.

Whether you’re after a dose of stunning digital artistry, a connection to history, or just a delightful and different way to spend an hour and a half, Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux is a choice that’s sure to surprise and delight.

You can check availability for your dates here: