La Cite du Vin, Bordeaux

Great experience! It’s expansive and takes a little getting used to the way the interactive experiences work and navigating the crowds. Going there when it’s less busy would have been better. We tasted a wine upstairs and maybe would have chosen differently if we were informed ahead that there’s only one taste per person. We wrongfully assumed we might be able to taste a few with our ticket. Overall a fun and educational time!

This impressive encyclopedic museum dedicated to viticulture, wine making and the associated culinary traditions is a must see for any oenophile who finds her/himself in the city of Bordeaux. Nearly 20 impressive multimedia powered exhibits are featured in the museum's permanent exhibit. All major languages are supported. While this museum proudly showcases France's accomplishments, visitors from other wine making powerhouses will not feel under represented. This is a "go at your own pace" experience. We spent three hours including the complimentary tasting on the highest floor followed by a visit to the wine store and gift shop. There are multiple dining options available on site from a simple cafe to a full service restaurant. If those don't appeal there is an impressive food hall across the street. Very ample parking is found in the structure adjacent to the food hall. Those staying in downtown Bordeaux might consider a walk to this museum or taking one of the many trams running along the river front. A visit to this museum might be recommended for those spending more than three days who seek information complimentary to their winery tours.

Pros: kid friendly, very educational, interactive, small enough to do in 1.5 hours (if rushing a bit), but still enough to keep you entertained. Cons: it’s a bit of sensory overload, a LOT to take in within a little space, you pick and choose so more than likely you will not get to it all, the flow of it is a little disjointed with the open footprint of wander where you’d like. The tasting at the top is really quite enjoyable with the views. Wish we had more time, but this definitely feels like a museum one can return to more than once.

A very impressive museum about the culture and history of wine but brought in a very interactive and interesting way so anyone can enjoy and learn. As part of the ticket entrance you receive headphones so you can enjoy the tour in other languages. I found the museum very innovative and progressed with the different technologies it offers to learn more about wine. The tasting at the 8th floor is great too with nice views of Bordeaux. Highly recommended!

The building itself is quite emblematic. Inside you can learn everything related to wine. I would say it’s the must go attraction in Bordeaux. During the visit you are allowed to taste a wine as well. You can spend a great time visiting this place.