How long does it take to walk from Place Gambetta to the Blue Lion?

The walk typically takes 120 to 180 minutes depending on your pace. The distance is approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) through the city center and across the Pont de Pierre bridge.

Is the Bordeaux turtle walk suitable for strollers?

Yes, this walking route is mostly flat and stays on paved sidewalks. You may encounter some cobblestones near the medieval gates, but they are manageable for most strollers.

Are the giant turtles in Bordeaux free to see?

Yes, the bronze turtles are public art installations located in Place de la Victoire. They are free to visit and children are allowed to climb on them for photos.

What is the Blue Lion in Bordeaux?

The Blue Lion, or 'Le Lion de Veilhan,' is a contemporary geometric sculpture by Xavier Veilhan. It is located at Place Stalingrad on the Right Bank and serves as a modern landmark for the city.

Can I see medieval sites on this Bordeaux walking route?

Yes, you will see the Porte Cailhau, a stunning 15th-century gate, and the Musée d'Aquitaine, which houses prehistoric and Roman artifacts.

When is the best time to do this self-guided walk?

Morning or early afternoon is ideal so you have plenty of daylight to see the sculptures. Afternoon light is particularly beautiful for photos when crossing the Pont de Pierre.

Is there a lot of traffic on this walking route?

Most of the route follows pedestrianized streets or wide sidewalks. However, you should be careful near the tram lines, which run through several of the main squares like Place de la Comédie.

Turtles and Treasure: A Family Adventure | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Bordeaux is often celebrated for its world-class wines and 18th-century grandeur, but beneath its sophisticated surface lies a playground of whimsical sculptures and medieval mysteries perfect for a family adventure. This self-guided walk invites you to look beyond the limestone facades and discover a city filled with stone giants, fairy-tale towers, and modern art that begs to be explored. This neighborhood stroll transitions from the lush gardens of the city center to the vibrant, student-filled squares of the south, eventually crossing the river to meet a contemporary icon. Your journey begins in the recently renovated Place Gambetta, a green lung in the heart of the city that offers a peaceful start before diving into the bustling streets. As you explore independently, you will encounter the elegance of the Place de la Comédie, where a vintage carousel provides a touch of nostalgia against the backdrop of the Grand Théâtre. This route is designed to keep younger explorers engaged with tactile landmarks, such as the towering Porte Cailhau, a medieval gate that looks like it was plucked straight from a storybook. One of the highlights of this walking route is the discovery of the giant bronze turtles in Place de la Victoire. These oversized creatures are more than just art; they are a tribute to the region's viticultural heritage, with wine-related symbols hidden on their shells. Finally, the walk takes you across the historic Pont de Pierre to meet the Blue Lion, a massive, geometric sculpture that stands guard over the Right Bank. This self-guided adventure allows you to set your own pace, stopping for a crêpe or a rest whenever you like, making it the ideal way to experience the charm of Bordeaux with the whole family. Whether you are hunting for hidden details on ancient monuments or marveling at bold new installations, this walking tour Bordeaux offers a fresh perspective on a classic French city.

Tour Highlights & Things to See

Marvel at the fairy-tale architecture of the medieval Porte Cailhau
Ride the vintage carousel at the elegant Place de la Comédie
Climb and play on the giant bronze turtle sculptures at Place de la Victoire
Snap a photo with the iconic, bright-blue geometric Lion of Veilhan
Walk across the historic Pont de Pierre for stunning river views
Explore the lush, English-style gardens of the renovated Place Gambetta

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

Place Gambetta Gardens

Welcome to the starting point of your self-guided adventure! Place Gambetta was once a site of somber history, but today it is a lush, English-style garden often called 'Little Paris.' Following a major renovation, it has become a serene oasis in the city center. As you stroll through, notice the pond and the variety of plant species. This square marks the intersection of the city's golden triangle of shopping and its historic heart. It is the perfect place to let the kids stretch their legs before we head toward the more architectural wonders of Bordeaux. Take a moment to enjoy the contrast between the green space and the elegant 18th-century stone buildings surrounding it.

2

The Carousel at Place de la Comédie

Arriving at Place de la Comédie, you are standing in one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Dominating the view is the Grand Théâtre, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture with twelve Corinthian columns topped by statues of muses and goddesses. But for families, the real star here is the vintage carousel. Its ornate design and classic music add a touch of old-world magic to the square. This area is the heartbeat of Bordeaux, where the historic city meets modern life. Looking around, you might also spot 'L'Observatoire,' a massive bronze face sculpture by Jaume Plensa that seems to watch over the crowds with a peaceful expression.

3

Porte Cailhau

As you walk toward the river, you will encounter the magnificent Porte Cailhau. Built in 1494, this gate was once the primary entrance to the city from the docks. It was constructed to commemorate King Charles VIII’s victory at the Battle of Fornovo. With its conical roofs and decorative turrets, it looks like a miniature castle. If you look closely at the carvings, you can see a statue of the King himself. This gate was once part of the city's defensive walls, and standing beneath it, you can almost imagine the medieval merchants and soldiers who passed through here centuries ago. It is one of the few remaining pieces of the city's medieval fortification.

4

Musée d'Aquitaine

The Musée d'Aquitaine is the guardian of the region's history, from prehistoric times to the modern day. While the museum is vast, even the exterior and the entrance hall hint at the treasures within. It occupies the former 'Faculté des Lettres' and houses the cenotaph of Michel de Montaigne, one of Bordeaux's most famous philosophers. For families, the Gallo-Roman collection is often a highlight, featuring impressive statues and mosaics that tell the story of 'Burdigala,' the ancient Roman name for Bordeaux. It is a great spot to pause and appreciate how many layers of history are beneath your feet as you walk through these modern streets.

5

The Giant Turtles of Place de la Victoire

Welcome to Place de la Victoire, a lively square marked by a soaring pink marble obelisk and two very special residents: the giant bronze turtles. Created by sculptor Ivan Theimer, these turtles are a favorite for children to climb on. But they aren't just for play; they are full of symbolism. Look closely at their shells and the grapes in their mouths—they represent the long history of wine production in Bordeaux. One turtle is larger and seems to be leading the way, while the smaller one follows. The square itself is a popular student hangout, framed by the impressive 'Porte d'Aquitaine,' another of the city's historic ceremonial gates.

6

The Blue Lion (Le Lion de Veilhan)

To reach our final stop, you will take a scenic walk across the Pont de Pierre, the first bridge ever built to span the Garonne River. On the other side, at Place Stalingrad, you will find the Blue Lion. This eight-meter-long sculpture by artist Xavier Veilhan is impossible to miss. Its vibrant cyan color and faceted, geometric design make it a modern icon of the city. The artist chose the lion as a symbol of strength and pride, but gave it a contemporary, almost digital look. From this vantage point, you can look back across the river for a stunning panoramic view of the Bordeaux skyline, a perfect end to your family adventure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk focusing on the city's sculptures and parks is often best for families. This route includes the giant turtles at Place de la Victoire and the Blue Lion at Place Stalingrad, providing interactive stops for children.