la Cite du Vin

Tip for an even more exceptional visit.

For a truly "smart" visit to the Cité du Vin, the trick is to deviate from the usual way of doing things: don't head straight for the permanent exhibition, but start by exploring the Latitude20 wine cellar-library on the ground floor, which houses over 14,000 bottles from around the world—a breathtaking sight often overlooked by those in a hurry. For the most unusual experience, head to the Belvedere just before sunset: the low light on the Garonne River and the golden reflections on the rooftops of Bordeaux transform your included wine tasting into a suspended moment, far removed from the morning bustle. Finally, take advantage of the BatCub river shuttle (accessible with a regular tram ticket) to arrive or depart by river: it's from the water that you'll have the most spectacular view of the building's bold architecture, offering a majestic perspective that few tourists take the time to appreciate.