Discovering Bordeaux with kids: your unforgettable family-adventure guide
Welcome to Bordeaux, the ultimate family getaway destination! If you’re planning a family trip with kids, Bordeaux has everything you need for an incredible family adventure. From exciting attractions to kid-friendly activities, this charming city in southwestern France will leave you and your kids with precious memories, proving that it’s much more than just a wine lover’s paradise…
Visiting Bordeaux for one day only? This MEININGER article contains our custom-made list on how to spend the perfect one day in Bordeaux!
🏰 Travel back in time
Immerse yourselves in history and architecture by visiting the Bordeaux Cathedral and the grand Palais Rohan. Get wowed by the impressive structures and introduce your kids to the city’s rich heritage.
🎪 Youpi Parc Bordeaux Lac: fun, fun, fun
Looking for an amusement park that will make your kids’ eyes sparkle? Youpi Parc Bordeaux Lac is the answer! This indoor wonderland offers countless thrilling activities for children of all ages. From bouncy castles to trampolines and giant slides, you’re going to have a blast here. Watch your little ones laugh, make friends and create joyful memories while you unwind and witness their pure happiness.
🛹 Some skating love
Brace yourselves for the ultimate skateboarding experience at the Hangar Darwin Skatepark in Bordeaux. Explore a park filled with ramps, features and areas designed to take your skateboard skills to the next level, and feel the thrill whether you and your little ones are beginners or pros. Want to take your fam’s skills up a notch? Take a private lesson with an instructor or join a group lesson for a small fee. And no need to bring your own skateboard, you can find all the equipment you need there!
🌿 Get your green on at the Jardin Public
Get ready for a fun-filled day at the Jardin Public. This lovely park gives you sprawling green lawns and delightful playgrounds where your children can run, play, and enjoy a fantastic picnic, family-style.
🎮 Non-stop fun at Kidooland
Get ready for non-stop fun at Kidooland, the ultimate indoor play area in Bordeaux’s city center. With many games and thrilling slides, kids will be in their element, bouncing with joy in this indoor wonderland. While the little ones explore and play, you can relax in the designated sitting area, sipping on your favorite drink.
And remember to check out Kidooland’s website for exciting upcoming events before traveling with kids to Bordeaux. The cherry on top? On Friday and Saturday nights, Kidooland stays open until 10:30 PM, giving you the perfect chance to enjoy a family dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
🎥 A next-level cinematic experience
When the rain clouds roll in during your Bordeaux adventure, Cinema Megarama has got you covered with a blockbuster solution. You and your fam can enjoy the latest releases and prepare to be amazed by the gigantic IMAX screen and mind-blowing sound treatment. But there’s more… Experience movies like never before in 4D, where your seat moves, scents fill the air, and even a little water spray adds an extra… splash of fun!
🏄♂️ Ride the wave at the Wave Surf Café
Did you say, “surf indoor Bordeaux”? Yup, you read that right. Surf’s up, even indoors! Head to the Wave Surf Café for a unique surfing experience that will leave your family starstruck. Regardless of the weather outside, this one-of-a-kind surf center offers you an artificial-wave experience perfect for beginners, pros, adults and kids. Let your little ones take surf lessons, or simply enjoy the thrill of getting carried by a wave. It’s an exhilarating adventure that guarantees… smiles and high-fives all around. Make sure you visit it if you’re in Bordeaux with children.
🚀 Cap Sciences: where learning meets fun
At Cap Sciences, a cutting-edge science museum, education becomes an exciting journey for the whole fam. This interactive space offers you a wide variety of exhibits and hands-on activities that will captivate every curious mind. From exploring the wonders of space and unraveling the mysteries of the human body to kid-friendly workshops focusing on astronomy, film-making, green chemistry, photography and culinary experiments, Cap Sciences is a hotspot of knowledge and entertainment. It’s a must-see when you’re in Bordeaux with kids.
🦖 A… wild adventure at the Muséum Bordeaux
Step into a world where stuffed animals come to life, making your little ones jump with joy. This modern marvel takes the traditional museum experience to the next level with interactive multimedia screens, immersive soundscapes, and touch-and-feel objects. Plus, for your tiny explorers aged 6 and under, there’s another section within the museum, Le Musée des tout-petits, which offers you a space with all the essentials for a hassle-free adventure.
🎨 A special artistic journey
Les Bassins de Lumières invites you and your kids to step into the immersive world of classic artists. Get ready for big-screen projections that make you feel like you’re a part of the exhibition itself. Currently, the venue is showcasing the vibrant and eccentric works of the Spanish artist Dalí and the architectural wonders of Gaudí.
🎭 Watch puppets come to life
Get ready to be enchanted by the oldest puppetry show in France at Le Guignol Guérin. Established in 1853, this beloved puppet show brings joy to kids of all ages with their daily spectacles in the picturesque Parc Bordelais during the summer months of July and August. The show typically begins at 4:00 PM, but keep in mind that it may be canceled/rescheduled in case of rain or scorching heat. One of the most fun activities, ideal for Bordeaux families.
🌳 Free your inner thrill-seekers at Darwin Eco-système
Nestled along the Garonne River, you and your loved ones will love Darwin Eco-système as well as its thrilling outdoor adventures. Hop on rented bicycles and explore the picturesque surroundings or challenge yourselves with exhilarating zip-lining or rock climbing. If you’re skateboarding enthusiasts, you’ll find your paradise here, and there are even urban gardening workshops available—perfect for your little nature lovers. Experience the great outdoors and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If it’s cool and edgy spots that you’re looking for, our article offers the best insights into the top instagrammable spots in Bordeaux for the coolest family snap! 📸
🌊 Check out iconic spots
As the temperatures rise in Bordeaux, Miroir d’eau, the city’s magnificent water mirror, becomes the ultimate destination for kids and adults. Every 15 minutes, the water rises, creating a shallow pool where your little ones can run and splash to their heart’s delight. And when it’s time for a break, you can enjoy a yummy picnic in the nearby garden.
🍝 Say bye to… hunger tantrums
Hungry families, meet your match in Bordeaux’s kid-friendly restaurants. We all know how exhausting it can get to find a restaurant that caters to both adult and kid palates. That’s why we have a handy list of family-friendly dining spots to save the day. Try the Osteria Pizzeria de Bartolo, check out mouthwatering burgers at Kokomo, or grab a light lunch at Horace–Café cuisine canons. Bon appétit!
If you’re hungry for more tips, check out our article on the top things to do in Bordeaux to wrap up the full experience!
Bordeaux with kids: FAQs
What is Bordeaux known for, and how can it be appealing for children?
Bordeaux, located in the Southwest of France, is internationally recognized for its world-class vineyards and wine. However, it's not just a destination for wine lovers. The city has beautiful architecture, fascinating history, museums, and a variety of family-friendly attractions such as the Miroir d'eau, a giant reflective pool that children love to play in.
Are there any family-friendly hotels in Bordeaux?
Absolutely, there are several hotels in Bordeaux that cater to families. The best place to stay when you're in Bordeaux with your kids is the MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean, nestled in the city center, next door to countless family-friendly activities and hotspots.
Is there any interactive activity or museum in Bordeaux suitable for kids?
Yes, there is. Cap Sciences is a fantastic interactive museum that engages children in science and technology through fun and practical experiments. It offers activities suitable for a range of age groups, including young children.
What outdoor activities can children engage in while in Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is blessed with beautiful natural scenery and parks, such as the Parc Bordelais, which has a lake, a playground, and even a small animal park. The Jardin Public is another excellent choice with its vast green spaces, playground, and puppet theatre. Additionally, the Miroir d'eau offers a unique and fun water play experience.
Are there any child-friendly dining options in Bordeaux?
Yes, many restaurants in Bordeaux offer child-friendly menus. Some even provide play areas to keep children entertained. Try the Osteria Pizzeria de Bartolo, check out mouthwatering burgers at Kokomo, or grab a light lunch at Horace–Café cuisine canons. Bon appétit!
Is Bordeaux safe for families with children?
Bordeaux is generally safe for families. Like any other city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas. The city has a good public transportation system that is generally safe and reliable.
What's the best time to visit Bordeaux with children?
The best time to visit Bordeaux with children is during the late spring and early fall when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. However, the summer months can also be a great time to visit, especially for outdoor activities.
🛎️ Where to stay in Bordeaux
The best place to stay when you’re in Bordeaux with your kids is the MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean, nestled in the city center, next door to countless family-friendly activities and hotspots.
Address: 12 rue du Commerce, 33800 Bordeaux, France