Schmap Bordeaux Art & Entertainment

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Bordeaux - Art & Entertainment
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Works of Art As far as the cultural scene is concerned, the international wine capital is certainly full of surprises. If you're specifically looking for works of art, the impressive museums and many small galleries are the places to head for. At the Musée des Beaux Arts you'll find masterpieces by Breughel and Rubens, as well as many fine examples of 20th century art (Matisse, Picasso). The CAPC contemporary art museum is the number one destination, if you're interested in the evolution of art since the 1960's: over six hundred pieces await your inquisitive eyes.

History and Literature The large Musée d'Aquitaine is the ideal spot if you want to learn more about Bordeaux and the surrounding area. A tour around this impressive building will give you a thorough insight into the history of the Aquitaine region. Lovers of French culture will also be well cared for in Bordeaux; don't miss the houses of Montaigne, Jeanne Lartigue (the wife of Montesquieu), or the Centre François Mauriac, which also offers a great view of the city.

Nature and Science Visitors interested in natural history and the animal kingdom won't be disappointed either. The area surrounding Bordeaux offers some wonderfully preserved natural domains as well as several superb eco-museums (such as the Ecomusée du Libournais). In town you'll also enjoy the Museum d'Histoire Naturelle, and science enthusiasts definitely shouldn't miss Cap Sciences, a large and cleverly thought-out centre where laymen will soon catch the experts up, thanks to regular themed exhibitions.

Other Places of Interest Among the smaller spots, one obviously can't miss the city's wine museums. Two of the most interesting are Vinorama and the Musée de la Vigne et du Vin. Other less well-known spots, are the Musée National des Douanes (customs museum), the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the Centre Jean Moulin (dedicated to the French resistance movement) and the fabulous Colbert warship that lies on the banks of the river Garonne and is open to visits. And a great way to get to know the city from a slightly different angle is the Aérolune, a hot-air balloon that offers a magnificent view of Bordeaux.

Cinema

Bordeaux is equally well equipped as far as cinemas are concerned. Around the thriving Place Gambetta you will find the City Centre's largest commercial movie theatres as well as the wonderfully old-fashioned Trianon Jean Vigo, which specialises in old movies and art-house productions. Another great spot for cultural and underground movies is the Utopia, a five-screen cinema that is set in a beautifully restored old chapel, in the heart of the attractive Saint Pierre area.

If you're into multiplex theatres, Bordeaux won't disappoint on that front either. The Méga CGR is a great place, and the Mégarama is an even more thrilling experience since the cinema is set inside a huge historical monument, on the right bank of the river Garonne - the former Orléans train station.

Theatre & Dance

For those of you who are interested in theatrical productions and dance, Bordeaux offers some very high quality shows, as well as many smaller places where you're sure to find a wide and varied choice of cultural entertainment. The Molière, Scène d'Aquitaine, the Théâtre du Port de la Lune and the Théâtre de la Pergola are three of the favoured spots, but if you're looking for more amusing plays, why not try the Théâtre des Salinières. There is also a large underground theatre scene in Bordeaux; La Théâtrerie and La Lucarne should not be missed if you're into less well-known productions.

For dance enthusiasts the offers an exciting program and you'l also find a wide selection of dance shows, from classical choreography to contemporary work at the Molière, Scène d'Aquitaine and, of course, at the Grand Théâtre, which is also a magnificent historical monument.

Music

Classical If you want to hear some pure classical music while you're in Bordeaux, you will certainly have a lot to choose from. Opera lovers should visit the Grand Théâtre, where great French and international performers flock all year round. The décor in itself is worth a look, as is that of the Chapelle de Mussonville whose concerts mostly feature Renaissance work and other early classical music. The Salle Jacques Thibaud, Conservatoire de Région,, definitely offers one of the most diverse programs in France, ranging from early chamber pieces to the very latest in contemporary music, composed and played by both talented students and confirmed professionals, depending on the show.

Jazz-blues Although Paris unquestionably provides France's major jazz and blues scene, Bordeaux does possess some unbeatable venues for those of you who enjoy these timeless styles. One spot that certainly shouldn't be missed is the Thélonius, in the North of the city, and the Tempo, in the Quais area, which boasts some pretty hot jazz concerts several nights per month.

Rock The Bordeaux rock and pop scene is thriving at the moment, and the many local reggae and salsa bands add to this excitement. For the best concerts try Le Jimmy, Rock School Barbey or Krakatoa. These aren't huge venues, so the ambiences are intimate and buzzing, and ripe ground for hot new talent. Many small concerts take place at weekends in the town's bars and cafés; Le Plana and Le Fiacre are two that regularly hold good concerts. Great national and international names often stop off in Bordeaux's La Patinoire arena, so be sure to keep an eye on the many billboards and adverts in the weekly free magazine, Clubs et Concerts, that you'll find in most of the city's bars.

House, electronic music If this is your idea of good music you've definitely come to the right place. Just check out the concerts at Space Opéra, O'Ventilo, or le Zoobizarre. These are just three of a very long list of great spots that organise excellent modern electronic music shows. Definitely worth a serious look.

Night Clubs & Shows

For Parisian style cabaret shows, Le Caesar's is the place to go. The setting itself is sumptuous and you won't find a more refined atmosphere anywhere in Bordeaux. L'Ange Bleue is another good spot for this type of timeless spectacle.

Young and trendy clubs come by the dozen in Bordeaux and here are some of the best places to try out: you could start with the Nautilus, a large dock warehouse on the banks of the river, to the North of town. The concerts and DJ sessions there are without doubt among the hottest in France at the moment. In the Quais area you can't miss Le London, the house music club in Bordeaux. Another great place, where the décor will surely amaze you, is Le 4 Sans, a huge warehouse club (and concert hall) with a rather diverse musical program and some unbelievable live electronic music shows. And last but not least, The In'n'out, an up and coming gay club in Bordeaux where one tends to find a more and more heterogeneous crowd, ever willing to have a good time.

Gardens & Parks

For those who enjoy taking a stroll and relaxing in a pleasant green and wooded environment, Bordeaux certainly has a lot to offer. Le Jardin Public and le Parc Bordelais are two of the city's most peaceful spots, wonderful havens of tranquillity when the bustle of the streets gets too much. The is also worth a look, as long as the somewhat morbid side of French graveyards doesn't upset you. Slightly out of the City Centre you'll also be able to relax in the Parc de Mussonville or the Parc municipal de Thouars, spots where you'll feel surprisingly far away from modern urban life without, however, having to drive for miles on end.

The Domaine départemental d'Hostens or the Domaine départemental de Blasimon, two preserved natural areas, are both a bit further away from the city, but equally relaxing for those who enjoy trekking in unspoilt areas of countryside.

Sports & Theme Parks

For a city of its size, Bordeaux is extremely well equipped for sports amateurs and professionals. The reputations of the Girondins de Bordeaux football team and the Bordeaux-Bègles rugby team are well established, and the city can boast a high level of capability in all major sporting fields. Whatever your particular interest, you can be sure to find people in Bordeaux who share your favourite sports and leisure activities. As far as the city's sports monuments are concerned, don't miss the impressive Stade Lescure or the Stadium Vélodrome de Bordeaux Lac.

If you're looking for a good day out at a theme park, be sure to give the watery Aqualand a try; don't forget, Bordeaux is only half an hour's drive from the coast. La Ferme exotique de Cadaujac is also an impressive spot where the young and less young will appreciate the large selection of exotic animals and plants. For a more down to earth, but equally amusing zoo, you could also try the Bordeaux-Pessac Zoo.

And if you're in the South West of France for a while, you definitely mustn't miss the Futuroscope, in Poitiers. The European image theme park is roughly an hour and a half away by car or train and obviously worth a good look. What's more, with the new TGV fast speed train link, there will soon be direct and quicker access to the theme park.

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Aquitaine Museum

Discover the local history

20, cours Pasteur
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000
France
+33 556 01 5100
http://www.mairie-bordeaux.fr/...

In 1783, this museum was opened to exhibit gemstones. It wasn't until 1862 that it became a museum of local history, archaeology and ethnography, and took on the name that we recognise today. The building is split over four levels, of which 5,000m2 are devoted to permanent collections, 1,000m2 belong to temporary exhibitions and 4,500m2 to reserve stock. Collections chart life in the region from prehistoric times to the modern day, taking a detour through the Gallo-Roman era and the Middle Ages. Acquisitions from overseas, including Africa and the South Sea Islands, make up a significant part of the objects on display. The museum also houses a reference library, a children's library and a specialist library. Admission to permanent collections is EUR4; free on the first Sunday of the month.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Stav Ruler

Photo: Judy Senecal

Bordeaux Zoo at Pessac

Wolves, lions and giraffes 3, chemin du Transvaal
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33600
France
This five-hectare park is home to some 400 animals belonging to 110 different species. Animals from Africa and Asia, including lions and giraffes, are there to be discovered, as well as a species of wolf with a mane. The zoo offers a number of free attractions, such as water tobogganing and a riding school for the kids. Picnics are permitted although the zoo also provides fast-food refreshment.The zoo is located about 15 minutes drive from the centre of Bordeaux. Entry is around EUR6.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Scott Matthews
Photo: Emmanuel ARNOUD
Photo: Emmanuel ARNOUD
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Photo: jiva
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Caesar's

Bordeaux version of the Moulin Rouge 170, cours du Médoc
(Place Ravesies)
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000
France
In the tradition of Parisian cabaret, the focus here is on scantily clad young wonen in a whirlwind of feathers and sparkle. The décor is reminiscent of a Roman palace, with columns, drapes and velvet throughout. There are several dinner-show options available: the most expensive is accompanied with a wonderful Baron Philippe de Rothschild wine. Adjacent to the cabaret, the Caesar disco gets very busy on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Review © 2007, Wcities

City Centre

Bordeaux
France
The centre of Bordeaux comprises several quarters offering a wide variety of attractions. Of the neighborhoods found here, St. Pierre, perhaps most notably, lies in the heart of Bordeaux, and is the historic centre of the town. It is made up of beautiful little streets, some of which are still paved. Saint Pierre is Bordeaux's culinary capital, with a large variety of restaurants to suit every taste and pocket—something for gourmets and gourmands alike. The Place du Parlement is home to some wonderful architecture and a decorative fountain. Also in the area is the Eglise Saint Pierre, built in the XVth and XVIth centuries on the site of the former Gallo-Roman port.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: mistca (Eugene Zhuko

Museum of Contemporary Art

A shrine to modern art 7, rue Ferrère
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000
France
+33 556 00 8150
http://www.mairie-bordeaux.fr/... Located in an old harbour warehouse built in the 19th century, this museum now presents the major movements of the art world since the 1960s. Works are displayed in monographic or thematic categories, and many young artists are given pride of place. Visitors can admire over 700 works in the permanent collection as well as several temporary exhibits, which altogether unite some 140 artists. After visiting the gallery, the library and bookshop are perfect for book lovers whilst foodies can take a break at the Café du Musée. There's an entry fee for the permanent collections, but free on the first Sunday of every month and for children under 18.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Josh Clark
Photo: Josh Clark
Photo: James Finister

Museum of Fine Arts

A fine collection Jardin de la Mairie
20, cours d'Albret
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000
France
+33 556 10 2056
http://www.mairie-bordeaux.fr/... Bordeaux's museum of fine arts was founded in 1801 by Napoleon Bonaparte. In 1829, the curator managed to obtain a collection of 280 paintings comprising works from Italy, Belgium, Germany and Holland. The Dutch paintings elevated the city's public collection to one of the finest in the country. The north and south wings of the building were renovated in 1994. They are now home to the French and foreign schools of art from the 16th to the 18th century – most noteworthy are exhibits from the Italian and Dutch schools as well as some 19th and 20th-century works ranging from the Romantic to the Impressionist. The museum also contains a library, an information centre, a photo lab and a shop selling postcards and prints. Admission EUR4; free first Sunday of every month.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Museum of Natural History

Discover the natural world Hôtel de Lisleferme
5, place Bardineau
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000
France
+33 556 48 2986
http://www.mairie-bordeaux.fr/... Opened in 1811, Bordeaux's Natural History Museum is one of the oldest of its kind in France. Set in a stunning private mansion adjoining the Jardin Public, the museum hosts a zoological collection of specimens from all over the world. It features present-day species, including those at risk of extinction, belonging to the mammal, bird, reptile and fish families, as well as crustaceans, mollusks and insects. Considerable space is dedicated to local wildlife and to palaeontology, with an impressive collection of fossils. The library is open to researchers and the shop offers copies of the museum's publications among other works.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: ej_steel

Nautilus

Mixed crowd and famed DJs 122, quai de Bacalan
(Rue Lucien Faure)
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000
France
This large hangar is a temple to techno, house and trance music, and regularly welcomes DJs of international repute for themed evenings. Reggae, rap and pop concerts are sometimes organized. It has an industrial and modern décor, with metallic statues hanging from the ceiling. It is home to many Gay Pride events, but for the rest of the year is frequented by a diverse crowd. Even though the bar is huge, it is still virtually impossible to get in on busy evenings!

Review © 2007, Wcities

The Grand Theatre

The Bordeaux Opera 2, place de la Comédie
(Cours de l'Intendance)
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33025
France
+33 556 00 8595 Built by Victor Louis between 1773 and 1780, this is considered as one of the most beautiful 18th century buildings in Europe. Well-known companies, such as the National Orchestra of Bordeaux Aquitaine, perform here, but the program delights opera and ballet lovers as well. This superb theatre was renovated in 1990 and 1991 in shades of blue, enhanced with gilt. The Grand Café welcomes spectators and visitors wishing to have a coffee or lunch. One hour tours are available and cost EUR4.50.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Wine and Winemaking Museum

From vine to wine Grand Poujeaux
Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33480
France
+33 556 58 0123 To visit Moulis' old cellars and warehouses, built in 1871, is to discover the industrial art of wine producing, from the grape to the glass. Opened in 1987, this permanent exhibition covers the process from vine stock to wine tasting, from working in the vineyards to the study of wine. Associated professions involving cask and cork manufacture and the creation of tasting glasses are also presented. In addition, you can pick up some of the etiquette and you'll find a collection of engravings connected to the world of wine. The total duration of the tour is around 1.5 hours and includes a wine tasting session.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Bordeaux - Art & Entertainment"
Bordeaux
Bordeaux - Historical Background
Bordeaux - Neighborhood Guide
Bordeaux - Where to Stay
Bordeaux - Dining & Drinking
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