Bordeaux: Street Art Guided Tour

Exploring Bordeaux is about more than just wine — it’s also about discovering neighborhoods full of life, stories, and unexpected art. This 1.5-hour street art tour costs only $18 per person and takes you from the Garonne riverside into the charming district of Chartrons. Led by a French-speaking guide, this walk offers a lively, informal way to see some of Bordeaux’s most striking murals while soaking up the district’s history.

What sets this tour apart? First, we love how it combines public art with local stories — you’re not just gawking at murals but learning about what inspired some of Bordeaux’s most talented artists. Second, the family-friendly vibe and accessible route mean that travelers of all ages can participate comfortably, making it a great choice for families or groups with kids.

One consideration? Since it’s a guided walk in French, non-French speakers might want to check if translation options are available or prepare some basic vocabulary. Also, as with any outdoor activity, good shoes and sun protection are a must. Otherwise, this tour best suits those curious about street art, local history, or Bordeaux’s creative scenes who want an authentic, budget-friendly experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhoods: Focuses on Bordeaux’s historic Chartrons district, not just the city center.
• Street Art & Murals: Highlights works by renowned artists like Clet, A-MO, Mr Poulet, and Alber.
• Educational & Fun: Combines art appreciation with stories about Bordeaux’s past and its districts.
• Family Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for all ages and wheelchair users.
• Affordable & Short: At only 1.5 hours for $18, it offers excellent value.
• Guided by a Passionate Local: The guide’s enthusiasm elevates the experience, making history and art engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Bordeaux Street Art Tour

Starting Point and Location

The tour begins conveniently at the Tram B stop “Les Chartrons”. This makes it easy to incorporate into your Bordeaux plans, whether you’re arriving by tram or exploring the city on foot. From here, the guide leads you into the Chartrons district, an area that was once Bordeaux’s wine trading hub and has evolved into a lively neighborhood full of antique shops, former wine warehouses, and lively cafes.

What to Expect on the Walk

As you follow your guide, you’ll pass by some of Bordeaux’s most colorful murals, often painted directly on the walls of old buildings. The guide provides context about each piece, discussing the artists’ backgrounds, artistic techniques, and the meaning behind the murals. You’ll get to admire works by notable artists like Clet, A-MO, Mr Poulet, and Alber.

We loved the way the guide connected the art to Bordeaux’s history and local culture. For example, some murals are playful, others provocative, but all are rooted in the neighborhood’s character. The tour stretches from the Garonne quays — where the city’s wine trade thrived — into the backstreets of Rue Notre Dame, where the walls tell stories of diverse visitors and the neighborhood’s growth over centuries.

Why We Love the Details

One of the real delights is how the tour combines visual art with stories that bring the neighborhood alive. As one reviewer, Clarissa from Switzerland, puts it: “Belle présentation de la street art avec son histoire et ses artistes,” which translates to “beautiful presentation of the street art with its stories and artists.” The guide’s ability to weave artistic appreciation with local history makes the experience meaningful and memorable.

Another perk is the family-friendly nature. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the murals and the stories behind them. The pace is relaxed enough to take photos and ask questions, making it a great introduction for anyone new to Bordeaux’s creative side.

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A Few Considerations

The main drawback? Some travelers have experienced poor communication or issues with timing. One review from Véronique mentions waiting nearly 40 minutes in the heat because the guide never arrived. While most experiences are positive, it’s wise to arrive early, confirm the meeting details, and check for any updates, especially if you’re traveling in high season.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Bordeaux’s neighborhoods. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor walks and want a cost-effective, engaging way** to see a different side of the city. The French language requirement is important to note — it’s designed for French speakers or those comfortable with the language.

The Experience and What It Means for You

The tour not only shows you vivid murals but also offers insights into Bordeaux’s evolution from a wine trading city to a hub of street art and creative expression. We loved the authentic feel of walking through less touristy streets, getting a glimpse of daily life, and seeing how art can transform simple walls into stories worth sharing.

Since it’s only $18, the value is impressive. You get a local guide’s knowledge, a walk through a historic district, and a collection of murals that will stick with you long after your visit. It’s a quick but enriching way to add some color and context to your Bordeaux trip.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly introduction to Bordeaux that combines art and local history, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s good for travelers who love outdoor walking experiences and enjoy learning from passionate guides. Families with children, art enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic stroll will find it rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider This Tour

The Bordeaux Street Art Guided Tour offers a charming, inexpensive way to see a different side of the city—beyond the wines and historic buildings. You’ll expand your understanding of Bordeaux’s creative pulse and see murals that bring color and vibrancy to the neighborhood’s walls. The guide’s enthusiasm makes history and art accessible and lively, which is especially valuable if you’re new to Bordeaux or street art.

While it’s a short tour, the quality of the murals, stories, and local insights make it well worth your time and money. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to combine culture, history, and a bit of whimsy in an authentic setting. Just remember to confirm your meeting details and come prepared with comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps a sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for non-French speakers?
It’s primarily led in French, so if you’re not comfortable in the language, you might want to inquire if translation options are available or consider a guide who speaks your language.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick but content-rich activity that can easily fit into a day of sightseeing.

Where do I meet the guide?
You’ll meet at the Tram B stop “Les Chartrons”, a central and easy-to-find location in Bordeaux.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and a camera to capture the murals and scenic streets you’ll explore.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most visitors with mobility needs can participate comfortably.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Bordeaux Street Art Guided Tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and vibrant visuals for a surprisingly reasonable price. It’s a lively way to explore less touristy neighborhoods and get a different perspective on Bordeaux, especially if you love public art or want a family-friendly activity. Whether you’re in Bordeaux for a brief stay or looking to add some local color to your trip, this tour will leave you with a richer appreciation for the city’s creative spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: