Explore Bordeaux with an Actor-Guide

Landmarks & monuments Neighborhood tours Culture & history Guided tours Activities Tours UNESCO sites Religious & spiritual activities Hidden gems Architecture Rainy-day activities Sightseeing

Discover the history of the city of Bordeaux with Montaigne, unanimously elected mayor against his will in 1581 by the Bordelais.

Our Top Experiences and Tours in Bordeaux:

If youʻre booking your trip to Bordeaux last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences!

View All Experiences

Highlights

Enjoy a unique walking tour led by a professional actor
Immerse yourself in a theatrical tour through the streets of Bordeaux
Hear a myriad of fascinating anecdotes about the city of Bordeaux
Discover the Place de la Victoire, Place de la Bourse, la Grosse Cloche and more
Walk in Van Gogh's footsteps and see the inspirations of the great painter

Description

'And so it was, in September 1581, while I was enjoying the Italian thermal baths, that I became the mayor of Bordeaux to my great surprise. In my absence, the magistrates had taken the liberty of appointing me even though I had not presented myself. I had, however, made it clear to them that this position did not interest me, that I had no taste for politics, that I had no ambition. In other times, I would have declined this position. But when King Henri III categorically commands you to take the place, you must accept under penalty of incurring his wrath. And damn it, it's a challenge that awaits me, for Bordeaux is no easy task! As the principal city of the Duchy of Aquitaine, Bordeaux is a complex city that possesses one of the richest legacies in French history.I cannot do it alone... Wait! What if you came with me? That would be perfect, as I know this city all too well, and my forced appointment leaves me lacking objectivity and insight. I need a fresh perspective, new insights! It's decided, you are now also at the helm of Bordeaux.We will begin with a quick assessment: From Place de la Victoire to Place des Quinconces, passing through the Parliament, let us try to determine the critical points on which I can rely during my mandate!You will also help me assess the situation in Bordeaux, support me in my diplomatic affairs, and assist me in managing delicate situations! Amid the deadly dissensions of the religious wars, the plague epidemics, the English, still and always, this city is a veritable powder keg!I will take the opportunity to impart some life lessons and philosophical advice in which I excel. Rest assured, I will not read you the entirety of my Essays, but a bit of culture never hurts! Consider it as a leveling up, young apprentices!And above all, I expect you to be an attentive ear to this question that has haunted me and remained unresolved since my appointment: Why me? Henri III knew that I did not want this function, that I was above all a thinker and not a doer, that philosophy did not make me a seasoned politician... And yet, here we are in responsibility. I believe that together, we will be able to find the answers and like Alexander the Great in his time, we will untangle the Gordian knot of Bordeaux intrigues!'