Cathédrale Saint-André - EHPAD Le Fort Manoir
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Cathédrale Saint-André

4.6
·14k reviews·Bordeaux, France

A magnificent 11th-century Gothic cathedral in Bordeaux, offering stunning architecture, peaceful interiors, and a treasury of historical artifacts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Cathédrale Saint-André - EHPAD Le Fort Manoir

Cathédrale Saint-André

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent 11th-century Gothic cathedral in Bordeaux, offering stunning architecture, peaceful interiors, and a treasury of historical artifacts.

4.6
(14k reviews)

"Absolutely stunning cathedral in the heart of Bordeaux. The Gothic architecture is breathtaking!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Entry, Small Fees

Cathedral entry is free! Treasury room is €2, bell tower climb is €9. :euro:

Climb the Bell Tower

200+ steps for amazing Bordeaux panoramas. Worth the effort! :cityscape:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Breathtaking Gothic design with intricate details, both inside and out. A true masterpiece.

Stained-Glass Windows

Stained-Glass Windows

Beautifully crafted stained-glass windows that cast a magical glow when sunlight streams through.

Treasury Room

Treasury Room

Discover historic religious artifacts in this small but fascinating treasury.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While entry to the cathedral is free, consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the serene atmosphere. Check for organ recitals for a unique auditory experience.

Beyond the Cathedral

Don't miss the nearby Tour Pey-Berland for panoramic city views. The treasury room offers a glimpse into historical religious artifacts for a small fee.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During organ recitals
Why
Enchanting musical experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

How should I spend 4 days in / around Bordeaux?

Free Entry, Small Fees

Cathedral entry is free! Treasury room is €2, bell tower climb is €9. :euro:

Climb the Bell Tower

200+ steps for amazing Bordeaux panoramas. Worth the effort! :cityscape:

reddit.com

How to spend a few hours in Bordeaux

reddit.com

Bordeaux Cathedral, France, built between the 12th and 14th century. Its swampy site meant that only two of four planned bell towers could be built, leading to its asymmetry.

Peaceful Interior

Step inside for a peaceful, history-filled experience. :pray:

Admire Details

So much detail to admire inside and out. Take your time! :magnifyingglasstilted_right:

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry, Small Fees

Cathedral entry is free! Treasury room is €2, bell tower climb is €9. :euro:

Climb the Bell Tower

200+ steps for amazing Bordeaux panoramas. Worth the effort! :cityscape:

Peaceful Interior

Step inside for a peaceful, history-filled experience. :pray:

Admire Details

So much detail to admire inside and out. Take your time! :magnifyingglasstilted_right:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(14k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Cathédrale Saint-André for its breathtaking Gothic architecture and the peaceful, historical atmosphere within. Many highlight the beauty of the stained-glass windows and recommend visiting the treasury room for its artifacts. Some find the cathedral can be crowded, and the constant requests for donations can be off-putting to a few.

"Absolutely stunning cathedral in the heart of Bordeaux. The Gothic architecture is breathtaking, and the interior is peaceful and majestic. Make sure to visit the nearby Tour Pey-Berland for incredible views of the city. A must-see if you’re in Bordeaux!"

Jean Nairon

"Exceptional!
The treasury room is a mere €2 and has some incredible historic religious artifacts.

The bell tower (which stands alone) is €9 and if you decide to climb the 200+ steps you'll enjoy a panorama of Bordeaux.

The cathedral itself is free entry."

Alan Farquhar

"I was unfortunately visiting after a family bereavement so my opinion is probably not as positive as others would be. It's large, overwhelming at times, and is very popular. I had no real access to peace and tranquility due to the large crowds and tours operating. Like all cathedrals it begs for money constantly and is vulgar in the way it spends on making itself look attractive."

Philip Branigan

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Peaceful interior
Beautiful stained-glass windows

What People Dislike

Crowded at times
Donation requests

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cathedral is centrally located in Bordeaux, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by tram (lines A or B to 'Hôtel de Ville' or 'Victoire') or by bus. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from other city center attractions. :bus: :tram:

Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a nearby public parking garage such as 'Hôtel de Ville' or 'Victoire'. :car:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the main cathedral is free for all visitors. However, there are separate charges for specific areas like the treasury room and the bell tower. :ticket:

Yes, the treasury room is open to visitors and houses incredible historic religious artifacts. The admission fee is a modest €2. :euro:

Climbing the adjacent Tour Pey-Berland costs €9. It offers a rewarding panorama of Bordeaux after ascending over 200 steps. :moneybag:

Opening hours can vary, but the cathedral is generally open daily. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays or for specific events. :clock1:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find magnificent Gothic architecture, stunning stained-glass windows that create a beautiful play of light, and various artworks depicting religious themes. The treasury room also holds significant historical artifacts. :art:

Absolutely! The cathedral's grandeur, intricate details, and the light filtering through the stained-glass windows make it a fantastic spot for photography. Remember to be respectful of ongoing services. :camerawithflash:

While not always advertised, guided tours may be available, especially for groups. It's best to inquire at the cathedral or check their official website for any scheduled tours or information on how to arrange one. :microphone:

Yes, the cathedral hosts regular services. Attending a service can offer a more profound experience of the space, though it might mean some areas are less accessible during that time. :church:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the cathedral is in the heart of Bordeaux, surrounded by numerous cafes, brasseries, and restaurants offering a wide range of French cuisine. You'll find options for every budget and taste nearby. :forkandknife:

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior facade offers grand perspectives, while the interior is stunning with light streaming through the stained-glass windows. The view from the top of Tour Pey-Berland is also a must for city panoramas. :camera:

Photography is generally permitted inside the cathedral for personal use, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Flash photography is usually discouraged to protect the artwork and avoid disturbing visitors. :iphone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the cathedral itself offers a quiet, historical experience, the climb up Tour Pey-Berland can be an exciting adventure for older children who enjoy a challenge and a great view. The treasury room, with its ancient artifacts, might also capture their imagination. Keep in mind that the cathedral's solemn atmosphere might require younger children to be kept calm. Consider a visit during less crowded times to ensure a more comfortable experience for everyone. :child:

💰 Budget Travelers

Cathédrale Saint-André is a fantastic option for budget travelers as entry to the main cathedral is free. You can soak in the magnificent architecture and peaceful ambiance without spending a euro. If you wish to enhance your experience, the treasury room offers a valuable historical insight for a small fee of €2. While the bell tower climb has a higher price (€9), it's still a relatively affordable way to get incredible city views compared to other attractions. :moneywithwings:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel

Cathédrale Saint-André is a prime example of Gothic architecture in Bordeaux, with its construction spanning several centuries. The sheer scale and intricate detailing are awe-inspiring. Visitors often marvel at the height of the nave and the delicate stonework. The cathedral's history dates back to the 9th century, though the current structure is largely from the 11th century onwards, showcasing evolving architectural styles.

The stained-glass windows are a particular highlight, especially when the sun catches them, bathing the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors. These windows not only add to the aesthetic beauty but also serve as narrative elements, depicting biblical stories. The treasury room offers a more intimate glimpse into the cathedral's past, housing precious religious artifacts that speak to its long and significant history. Reddit

Experiencing the Tour Pey-Berland

Adjacent to the cathedral stands the Tour Pey-Berland, a separate bell tower that offers a rewarding challenge and an even more rewarding view. For a fee of €9, visitors can ascend over 200 steps to reach the summit. Reddit This climb, while strenuous, is highly recommended by many for the breathtaking panoramic views it provides over Bordeaux. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the city's layout, its historic rooftops, and the winding Garonne River.

It's important to note that the tower is a distinct experience from visiting the cathedral itself. While the cathedral offers a sense of peace and historical immersion, the tower provides a more active and visually expansive encounter with Bordeaux. The effort of the climb is often cited as being well worth the spectacular reward. Reddit