Bordeaux is the most walkable city in France
Is Bordeaux Walkable? Absolutely! Here’s Why!
In fact, Bordeaux has proudly earned the title of having the largest pedestrian zone in France, and it’s only getting better.
Let me break it down for you in a way that’ll make you want to lace up your walking shoes and explore this charming city.
A Pedestrian Paradise
Thanks to the city’s forward-thinking policies, Bordeaux has transformed into a haven for walkers.
As of 2024, the city boasts a whopping 40 kilometers of pedestrianized streets, covering 245 hectares.
Bordeaux has surpassed other walkable French cities like Strasbourg and Nantes to claim the top spot.
By 2026, the pedestrian zone is set to expand to 259 hectares (that’s 44 kilometers of car-free streets!).
Why Does This Matter?
All these changes aren’t just about making Bordeaux easier to navigate, they’re about improving quality of life.
By prioritizing pedestrians, the city is reducing traffic, cutting air pollution (nitrogen oxide emissions have dropped by 28% in four years!), and creating a safer, more enjoyable environment for everyone.
What does it mean for visitors?
1. Compact City Center
Bordeaux’s historic city center is relatively compact, with many of its main attractions clustered close together. Key landmarks like Place de la Bourse, Saint-André Cathedral, and Rue Sainte-Catherine (Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street) are all within easy walking distance of each other. This makes it easy to explore the city on foot without needing to rely on public transportation.
2. Pedestrian-Only Zones
Bordeaux has invested heavily in creating pedestrian-only zones, especially in the city center. The Quais de Bordeaux (riverside promenade) and the area around Place de la Bourse are perfect examples. These car-free spaces make walking safe, relaxing, and enjoyable.
3. Wide Sidewalks and Green Spaces
The city boasts wide sidewalks and plenty of green spaces, like the Jardin Public. The streets are well-maintained, and many areas are shaded by trees, making walking comfortable even on warmer days.
4. Flat Terrain (Topography)
Bordeaux’s topography is mostly flat. Bordeaux is easy to navigate on foot, even for those who aren’t used to long walks.
5. Safety and Accessibility
Bordeaux is a safe city for pedestrians, with well-marked crosswalks and traffic signals. The city is also working to improve accessibility, with ramps and smooth pathways for strollers, wheelchairs, and those with mobility challenges.
6. Walkable Neighborhoods
Beyond the city center, neighborhoods like Saint-Pierre, Chartrons, and Quinconces are also very walkable. Each has its own unique charm, with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés that invite you to explore at a leisurely pace.
I’ve created a free self guided walking tour of Bordeaux for you to discover the main landmarks.
If you’d like to walk a bit more and gain a deeper insight into Bordeaux’s history, feel free to join me on my free walking tour!
