Flèche Saint-Michel
A soaring bell tower offering breathtaking 360° views of Bordeaux, with a historical crypt and impressive architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Flèche Saint-Michel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A soaring bell tower offering breathtaking 360° views of Bordeaux, with a historical crypt and impressive architecture.
"An unbeatable view of Bordeaux in an architectural delight. 5 euros to go up!"
Ascend for the Views
Don't miss the climb for incredible city panoramas! :climbing_hand:
Check for Refurbishment
Verify if any ongoing work might impact your visit. :construction_worker:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Top of the tower
Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Bordeaux from this architectural marvel.
Crypt Exploration
Base of the tower
Discover the historical crypt located at the foot of this impressive bell tower.
Contemporary Stained Glass
Adjacent Cathedral
Admire the modern design of the stained glass windows in the neighboring cathedral.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Ticket & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Advice for visiting Le Mont Saint Michel
Ascend for the Views
Don't miss the climb for incredible city panoramas! :climbing_hand:
Check for Refurbishment
Verify if any ongoing work might impact your visit. :construction_worker:
Travel tips Mont st Michel
Been to the Mont Saint Michel last week ask me anything!
Hear the Organ
Try to catch a moment when the organ is playing in the cathedral. :musical_score:
Budget-Friendly
The 5 euro entry fee is a great deal for the experience. :euro:
Best way to do a day trip to Mont-Saint-Michel?
Tips
from all over the internet
Ascend for the Views
Don't miss the climb for incredible city panoramas! :climbing_hand:
Check for Refurbishment
Verify if any ongoing work might impact your visit. :construction_worker:
Hear the Organ
Try to catch a moment when the organ is playing in the cathedral. :musical_score:
Budget-Friendly
The 5 euro entry fee is a great deal for the experience. :euro:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Flèche Saint-Michel for its stunning 360-degree views of Bordeaux and its affordable entry fee. The historical crypt and the adjacent cathedral with its contemporary stained glass are also noted as highlights. Some visitors mention ongoing refurbishment, so checking ahead is advised.
"An unbeatable view of Bordeaux in an architectural delight. 5 euros to go up; you see the crypt, the bells, and the 360 view of the city. If your legs are willing, don't pass this by!"
Ian Padgham
"Magnificent cathedral with a separate nell tower. Stained glass very contemporary design, we were fortunate to hear the organ playing"
Wendy Leung
"Impressive. But currently refurbished."
G Kom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Flèche Saint-Michel is located in the heart of Bordeaux. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option, allowing you to soak in the Bordeaux atmosphere.
Parking in the vicinity of Flèche Saint-Michel can be challenging due to its central location. It's advisable to use public transportation or consider parking garages slightly further away and walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee to ascend the Flèche Saint-Michel is approximately 5 euros, offering access to the crypt, bells, and the panoramic city views.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official website or local listings before your visit, especially as there might be ongoing refurbishment.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site. It's wise to arrive a bit early, especially during peak season, to ensure you can ascend without long waits.
The ascent involves stairs, so it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues. The crypt at the base is generally accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
From the top, you'll get a stunning 360-degree view of Bordeaux, including the Garonne River, the city's historic architecture, and the surrounding landscape.
Yes, visitors can explore the crypt at the base of the tower and see the bells. The adjacent Saint-Michel Cathedral also features impressive contemporary stained glass.
A visit, including the ascent, time at the top, and exploring the crypt, usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on crowds and how long you spend enjoying the views.
While the views might be obscured by rain or fog, the experience of climbing the tower and seeing the bells can still be interesting. However, clear weather offers the best panoramic experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide the most beautiful light for photographing the tower and the city views.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in enclosed areas like the crypt.
From the Champ de Mars, you can capture the entire tower. For city views, the top offers excellent opportunities to photograph Bordeaux's skyline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the timing of your visit to avoid peak crowds, which can make navigating the narrow staircases easier. The adjacent Basilica of Saint-Michel also offers a chance to admire impressive stained glass, which can be a visually engaging experience for kids. Pack water and snacks, as amenities within the tower itself are limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding neighborhoods on foot, which is free and allows you to discover more of Bordeaux's charm. Utilizing public transport to reach the tower also keeps travel costs down. Consider packing your own lunch to enjoy in a nearby park, further enhancing the budget-friendly aspect of your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Flèche Saint-Michel
What makes the Flèche Saint-Michel particularly interesting is its independent existence from the basilica, a common practice for bell towers in medieval and Renaissance Europe. This separation allowed for construction to continue even if the main church faced delays or issues. The tower houses a set of bells that have historically marked time for the city. While the tower itself is a masterpiece, the adjacent Basilica of Saint-Michel is equally noteworthy, featuring stunning contemporary stained glass windows that offer a modern contrast to the ancient architecture.
For those who undertake the climb, the experience is rewarded with more than just the view. You get to appreciate the engineering and craftsmanship up close, seeing the details of the stonework and the mechanics of the bell chamber. The crypt at the base also offers a glimpse into the historical layers of the site, adding a deeper dimension to the visit beyond the visual spectacle.
Experiencing the Views and Beyond
Beyond the breathtaking vistas, the visit includes exploring the crypt at the tower's base, offering a historical context to the site. Many reviewers also mention the chance to hear the organ music from the adjacent Basilica of Saint-Michel, adding an auditory dimension to the experience. The stained glass windows within the basilica are also highlighted as a point of interest, showcasing a modern artistic interpretation within a historic setting.
Practical advice from visitors often centers on timing. Going during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late afternoons, is recommended to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography. While the tower itself is the main attraction, the surrounding area and the basilica contribute to a richer overall experience of this significant Bordeaux landmark.
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