Miroir d'Eau
World's largest reflecting pool, offering stunning architectural reflections and a refreshing interactive water experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best reflections, fewer crowds
Miroir d'Eau
Best Time
Best reflections, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World's largest reflecting pool, offering stunning architectural reflections and a refreshing interactive water experience.
"Highly recommend removing shoes and socks and paddling around in it. It was refreshing on a day that was in the high 30s."
👟 Paddle Away!
Don't be shy! Remove your shoes and socks to paddle in the water. It's incredibly refreshing on a warm day.
🌬️ Wind Watch
For the best reflections, visit when it's not too windy. Evenings are often calmer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Reflecting Pool Magic
Place de la Bourse
Witness stunning reflections of historic buildings in the world's largest reflecting pool. A truly mesmerizing sight.
Mist and Water Play
Miroir d'Eau
Experience two distinct water features: refreshing mist sprays and a shallow, 2cm deep water layer. Fun for all ages!
Paddling Paradise
Miroir d'Eau
Kick off your shoes and enjoy a refreshing paddle in the shallow waters. Perfect for hot days and playful moments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status
Embrace the Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Is the water mirror not working at the moment?
👟 Paddle Away!
Don't be shy! Remove your shoes and socks to paddle in the water. It's incredibly refreshing on a warm day.
🌬️ Wind Watch
For the best reflections, visit when it's not too windy. Evenings are often calmer.
How to spend a few hours in Bordeaux
MIROIR D’EAU…
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great spot for photos, especially with the historic buildings as a backdrop.
🆓 Free Admission
Enjoy this public space without any entry fees. Perfect for budget travelers!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Paddle Away!
Don't be shy! Remove your shoes and socks to paddle in the water. It's incredibly refreshing on a warm day.
🌬️ Wind Watch
For the best reflections, visit when it's not too windy. Evenings are often calmer.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Great spot for photos, especially with the historic buildings as a backdrop.
🆓 Free Admission
Enjoy this public space without any entry fees. Perfect for budget travelers!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Miroir d'Eau's unique design, calling it a fascinating creation that offers both visual beauty and interactive fun. The ability to paddle in the shallow water, especially on hot days, is a major highlight, providing a refreshing escape. While wind can impact the reflection quality, the overall experience is highly recommended for its beauty and playful nature.
"Fascinating creation right next to the river. You can see a clear reflection of people and buildings, if it is not too windy. They have two different exhibitions, a mist spray followed by about 2cm deep of water coming up from the bottom."
Michael Richards
"An interesting location and use of water in a public space. Unfortunately the day we were in Bordeaux it was windy. The evening was calmer and allowed for some good reflections."
Stuart Turner
"A brilliant idea in combining a modern structure with the old buildings on the other side of the square. When there is no wind, the buildings are reflected in the water. It is very beautiful, as are the blooming gardens along the embankment. A wonderful space for walking!"
Olga Istomina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Miroir d'Eau is conveniently located on the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, right by the Garonne River. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center and many tram lines stop nearby, such as the B line at 'Place de la Bourse'.
Yes, there are several parking options near the Place de la Bourse. The 'Bourse Maritime' car park is very close. However, driving and parking in central Bordeaux can be challenging and expensive, so public transport or walking is often recommended.
The Miroir d'Eau is an open public space and can generally be visited at any time. However, the water features and mist may operate on specific schedules, and nighttime visits offer beautiful reflections of the illuminated Place de la Bourse.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Miroir d'Eau is a public attraction and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely walk around and interact with the water features.
As a public space, it's generally accessible at all times. However, the water spray and mist features typically operate during daylight hours and into the evening. It's best to check local information for exact operational times, as they can vary.
The Miroir d'Eau has experienced temporary closures for maintenance or repairs in the past. It's advisable to check recent local news or visitor forums for any current closure information before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning reflections of the historic buildings, aim for times with minimal wind, often in the early morning or calm evenings. Overcast skies can also provide softer light for photography.
The entire area offers great photo opportunities. Standing on the opposite side of the square provides a classic view of the reflections. Getting closer to the water allows for shots of people interacting with the mist and shallow water.
Drone usage in Bordeaux city center is subject to strict regulations. It's highly unlikely that drone flights are permitted directly over the Miroir d'Eau or Place de la Bourse due to proximity to buildings and public spaces. Always check local drone laws before flying.
🎫 💧 Onsite Experience
Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to remove their shoes and socks and walk in the shallow water. It's a popular and refreshing activity, especially on hot days.
The water depth varies. It features a misting effect and a shallow layer of water that is typically only about 2cm deep, making it safe and enjoyable for walking.
Yes, children often love the Miroir d'Eau! They can enjoy the mist and paddle in the shallow water. It's a fun and interactive experience for families.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Its free admission makes it an ideal budget-friendly activity for families exploring Bordeaux. The open space of the Place de la Bourse also provides room for kids to move around, and the visual spectacle of the reflections can be captivating for all ages. It’s a memorable and fun experience that breaks up a day of sightseeing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
It’s also a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Bordeaux. Whether you're seeking a moment of quiet reflection or a playful interlude, the Miroir d'Eau provides a unique and memorable experience that’s easily accessible and completely free.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Reflection: Understanding the Miroir d'Eau
The installation is designed to operate in two modes: a fine mist that envelops the square, creating an ethereal atmosphere, and a shallow layer of water, approximately 2 centimeters deep, that covers the granite surface. This shallow depth is intentional, allowing people to walk in the water without significant risk, turning the attraction into an interactive experience. The water is circulated and filtered, ensuring a clean and pleasant environment for visitors to enjoy.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Miroir d'Eau serves as a vital public space, encouraging interaction and providing a unique sensory experience. It transforms the grand square into a playful and refreshing area, particularly appreciated during Bordeaux's warmer months. Its success lies in its ability to blend historical grandeur with contemporary innovation, making it a must-see attraction.
Experiencing the Miroir d'Eau: Tips from Visitors
For the best photographic results, timing is crucial. The calmness of the water is essential for clear reflections of the Place de la Bourse. Visitors suggest that evenings or early mornings, when the wind tends to be less strong, offer the most spectacular mirror-like effects. While overcast skies might not be ideal for bright, sunny photos, they can still provide a beautiful, diffused light for capturing the atmosphere.
It's also worth noting that the Miroir d'Eau is a free public space, meaning no tickets are required. This makes it an accessible and enjoyable attraction for everyone. While it can get busy, especially during peak times and warm weather, the sheer size of the area and the engaging nature of the water features mean there's usually space for everyone to enjoy their visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit