Bordeaux with kids: what works, from bike rides to dinosaurs
4 min read
The answer first
For most families, the guided bike tour for all ages is the best use of a morning. It takes 3 hours, costs €37 and is rated 4.8/5 from 19 reviews. The page says it is open to ages from young children to grandparents, and that children ride their own bike from age 6; for younger children up to 22 kg a child seat is available on request. Rainy days and short attention spans call for the indoor options below.
What the pages say
- Bike tour for all ages (€37). Dutch-style bikes, a maximum of 15 participants, a route from the Grosse Cloche to Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d’Eau.
- Do not confuse it with the Old Town and Chartrons bike tour (€36). That page covers about 13 km alongside traffic with a minimum age of 12 and a minimum height of 150 cm, and lists children under 12 as not suitable.
- Little electric train (€14). 45 minutes, described as suitable for families and people of all ages, with commentary in eight languages. Food and drinks are not allowed on board, which matters with small children.
- Dinosaurs at the Bassins des Lumières (€16). The page describes an immersive show for visitors of all ages, 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. It is not recommended for children under 2 or for people with epilepsy and photosensitivity. Strollers are allowed, but the page suggests a baby carrier. It is cool in winter.
- Museum of Illusions (€19). About 1 hour, “suitable for all ages”. One reviewer needed only about half an hour.
When it is a bad idea
Skip most wine trips with children: the Olala tours are not meant for them. Our Saint-Émilion guide names a half-day tour that takes children from 4. If you are planning a day out, the Arcachon and Dune du Pilat tour includes walking on sand. For Garonne boat trips see the cruise comparison.
Side by side
| Tour | Duration | Price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Bike tour for all ages | 3 hours | €37 |
| Little electric train | 45 minutes | €14 |
| Dinosaurs, Bassins des Lumières | 1 to 1.25 hours | €16 |
| Museum of Illusions | 1 hour | €19 |
Our recommendation
For most families, the bike tour for all ages, with the little train as the easy alternative. For rain, see our indoor ideas or all things to do in Bordeaux.
