Tour Pey-Berland - a black and white photo of a double decker bus
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Tour Pey-Berland

4.5
·4k reviews·Bordeaux, France

Ascend the 15th-century Gothic bell tower for unparalleled panoramic views of Bordeaux. A historic climb rewarded with breathtaking city vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Sunday of the month

Free admission!

CrowdHigh
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Tour Pey-Berland - a black and white photo of a double decker bus

Tour Pey-Berland

Best Time

First Sunday of the month

Free admission!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend the 15th-century Gothic bell tower for unparalleled panoramic views of Bordeaux. A historic climb rewarded with breathtaking city vistas.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"The panoramic views of the city are breathtaking, well worth the effort of the climb."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your 'Pey-Berland reservation' online for a specific time slot to avoid queues.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs! Be prepared for a good workout to reach the top.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of the tower

Ascend the historic tower for breathtaking, far-reaching views across Bordeaux. A truly unforgettable perspective.

Reddit
Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Exterior and interior of the tower

Admire the intricate 15th-century Gothic design of this impressive bell tower. A masterpiece of its era.

Reddit
The Climb Itself

The Climb Itself

Staircase

Experience the unique challenge of narrow stairs and passages leading to the summit. A memorable part of the visit.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Pey-Berland Tower Tickets Online

Securing your 'Pey-Berland reservation' in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Online booking for 'Tour Pey-Berland tickets' often guarantees a time slot and can save you waiting time. Reddit

Prepare for the Climb

The 'Pey-Berland Tower' involves a significant number of stairs. While the climb is rewarding with breathtaking views, wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a good workout. Reddit

Best Times

When
First Sunday of the month
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your 'Pey-Berland reservation' online for a specific time slot to avoid queues. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs! Be prepared for a good workout to reach the top. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Go Early for Fewer Crowds

Enjoy the views with fewer people around by visiting earlier in the day. Reddit

📜 Grab the Info Handout

Information at the top is limited; get the handout at the bottom for context. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your 'Pey-Berland reservation' online for a specific time slot to avoid queues. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs! Be prepared for a good workout to reach the top. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Go Early for Fewer Crowds

Enjoy the views with fewer people around by visiting earlier in the day. Reddit

📜 Grab the Info Handout

Information at the top is limited; get the handout at the bottom for context. Reddit

💰 Check for Free Days

Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the top of Tour Pey-Berland, calling it a must-do for experiencing Bordeaux. The challenging climb up the historic Gothic tower is seen as a rewarding adventure, though some note limited information at the summit. The affordability and occasional free admission make it an accessible attraction for many.

"We had a great weather. It costs few euro, lots of stairs, but worth the climb. Great view over the city."

Jakub Šesták

"Reaching the top of Tour is no easy feat, but the panoramic views of the city are breathtaking. The narrow stairs and passages add to the challenge, but it's well worth the effort. A must-visit for anyone looking to experience in center of Bordeaux."

Filipe Silva

"Great view, not too many people.
Little to no information on the top, there is a handout in different languages available at the bottom of the stairs.
Staff was friendly, ticket was booked online (for a certain time frame).
We came because it was included in the bordeaux pass and would recommend it if you want to have a view over the city"

Joan Lisa

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Historic Gothic tower
Rewarding climb

What People Dislike

Limited info at top
Strenuous climb

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tour Pey-Berland is centrally located in Bordeaux, adjacent to the Cathedral Saint-André. You can easily reach it by foot if you're in the city center, or via tram lines B and C to the 'Hôtel de Ville' stop. Reddit

Yes, there are several underground parking garages near the tower, such as 'Parking Tour Intendance' and 'Parking Q-Park Victoire'. Street parking can be challenging to find. Reddit

Absolutely! The 'Hôtel de Ville' tram stop is very close and served by multiple lines, making it easily accessible via Bordeaux's public transport network. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Standard 'Tour Pey-Berland tickets' are around 9€, but it's worth checking for potential discounts or free admission days. Reddit

It's highly recommended to book your 'Pey-Berland reservation' online, especially during busy periods, to secure your entry time and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Yes, the first Sunday of each month offers free admission. The Bordeaux Pass also often includes entry to the tower. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. Generally, it's open daily with extended hours in summer. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, the narrow stairs and confined spaces might make it challenging for very young children or individuals with mobility issues. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The climb itself, including stops to catch your breath and enjoy the views, can take around 30-45 minutes. Allow extra time for entry and exit. Reddit

The ascent involves numerous narrow, winding stairs and some tight passages. It's a physical climb but offers a unique experience. Reddit

No, there is no elevator. The only way to reach the top is by climbing the stairs. Reddit

There's limited information at the very top. A handout with details in various languages is available at the bottom of the stairs. Reddit

Absolutely! Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Bordeaux, making the effort well worthwhile. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for cityscapes. Early mornings can provide clearer skies and fewer people for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the tower and from the viewing platforms. Be mindful of other visitors in the narrow spaces. Reddit

You'll get stunning wide-angle shots of Bordeaux's rooftops, the Garonne River, the Cathedral Saint-André, and the surrounding cityscape. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Climbing the Tour Pey-Berland can be an exciting adventure for older children who enjoy a physical challenge. The numerous stairs and narrow passages can feel like exploring a secret passage. However, parents should be aware that the climb is strenuous and the spaces can be tight, which might be difficult for very young children or those with mobility issues. Ensure children are supervised closely throughout the ascent. Reddit

Consider bringing water and snacks for after the climb. The reward of the panoramic view is often a big hit with kids, offering them a unique perspective of the city they've been exploring. If the climb seems too daunting, admiring the tower's impressive Gothic architecture from the ground is still a worthwhile experience. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Tour Pey-Berland offers excellent value for money, with tickets typically costing around 9€. For budget-conscious travelers, the absolute best tip is to visit on the first Sunday of each month, when admission is completely free! Reddit

If your visit doesn't coincide with a free Sunday, consider purchasing the Bordeaux Pass, which often includes entry to the tower along with other attractions. This can be a cost-effective way to see multiple sights. Remember to factor in the cost of comfortable shoes, as there are no shortcuts via elevator! Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Architecture of Tour Pey-Berland

The Tour Pey-Berland is a magnificent 15th-century Gothic bell tower that stands proudly next to the Bordeaux Cathedral Saint-André. Its construction began in 1440 and continued for over 50 years, making it a significant example of late Gothic architecture in the region. The tower was originally intended to house the cathedral's bells, which were too heavy for the existing cathedral structure. Its imposing height and intricate stonework reflect the wealth and ambition of Bordeaux during the late medieval period. Reddit

Architecturally, the tower is characterized by its slender form, soaring buttresses, and detailed ornamentation. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship involved in its construction as they ascend. While the exterior is a testament to Gothic grandeur, the interior reveals the practicalities of its design, including the winding staircase that leads to the summit. The tower's history is intertwined with the city's, having witnessed centuries of change and development from its elevated vantage point. Reddit

Today, the Pey-Berland Tower serves not only as a historical monument but also as a popular tourist attraction, offering unparalleled views of Bordeaux. Its enduring presence is a reminder of the city's rich past and its architectural heritage. The experience of climbing the tower is often described as a journey through history, culminating in a spectacular reward. Reddit

Experiencing the Climb and the Views

The ascent to the top of the Tour Pey-Berland is an adventure in itself. Visitors are greeted by a narrow, winding staircase that spirals upwards for over 200 steps. This climb is often described as a good workout, with some passages being quite tight, adding to the sense of exploration. While challenging, the journey is punctuated by small openings and landings that offer glimpses of the tower's interior structure and the city below. Reddit

Upon reaching the summit, the effort is handsomely rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Bordeaux. From this vantage point, you can see the terracotta rooftops, the majestic Garonne River, the spires of the Cathedral Saint-André, and the sprawling cityscape stretching out in all directions. Many visitors find the 360-degree vista to be the highlight of their visit, offering a unique perspective on the city's layout and landmarks. Reddit

It's worth noting that information at the very top is minimal. Travelers are advised to pick up a descriptive handout available at the base of the tower before ascending to fully appreciate the historical and architectural context of the views. The combination of the physical challenge and the stunning visual payoff makes the Pey-Berland Tower climb a memorable experience for most visitors. Reddit

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