Météo France warned us: it’s hot—way too hot. Even if the luckiest among us have air conditioning or a good fan, staying cooped up at home or in the office in the middle of June or July isn’t exactly how we imagined our summer! So here’s a list of things to do during heat waves and scorching weather, so you can still enjoy Bordeaux!

Right now, there’s only one thing we need: to stay cool! This year, there’s no need to wait any longer to take the plunge: Bordeaux’s swimming pools invite you to take a dip! Whether you want to swim or just relax, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a refreshing break from the 30-degree heat outside! So, time to put on your swimsuit?

The city is amazing! Bordeaux enchants us all year round with its narrow streets, riverbanks, and magnificent architecture . But right now, let’s be honest: it’s hot! And if there are two things that can provide a bit of cool relief (aside from water and air conditioning), it’s plants and the shade of trees! Fortunately, the city is full of green spaces where you can enjoy some fresh air! Here are the best spots to relax this summer surrounded by greenery!

Bordeaux’s museums are the perfect place to escape the heat while satisfying your curiosity. Plus, this year, the city is offering must-see exhibitions, such as a real virtual reality experience that lets you board the Titanic! But that’s not all—many other exhibitions await you in the cool!

The Bordeaux Water Mirror is an iconic spot where people love to gather, relax, and—above all—cool off during the summer. With its play of reflections, it offers not only a place to splash around but also a unique spot to relax! Both poetic and welcoming, it perfectly embodies the city’s summer spirit —and best of all, it cools our feet!

What if this were the perfect time to rediscover Bordeaux as a tourist? Churches , the cathedral, the basilica, or even the Cité du Vin: these iconic sites never cease to amaze. And above all, they offer a welcome bit of cool relief from the summer heat. Even when you know them by heart, you’ll always find a detail you’d forgotten.

When the thermometer soars, there’s only one remedy that really hits the spot: a nice, cold ice cream! Good news—Bordeaux is home to ice cream shops that have mastered the art of sweet, refreshing treats. From classic flavors to the boldest creations, here are the spots where you can melt with pleasure… without (too much) guilt! And bon appétit!

The ultimate summer getaway, lakes offer a welcome respite from the heat. It’s simply sublime. Luckily, the area around Bordeaux has no shortage of stunning lakes and ponds where the whole family can enjoy a refreshing break. Pack a cooler and a hat, and head out to one of the region’s bodies of water.

Are you more of a beach person than a lake person? No problem—the proximity to the coast means you can reach beautiful beaches in less than a 2-hour drive. Whether it’s a day trip or a long weekend, a beach getaway is always a great way to beat the heat.

Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or just an occasional film lover, here’s the perfect excuse to go to the movies. With popcorn in hand and comfortably seated, forget the scorching heat and enjoy a good movie on the big screen. Even in summer, Bordeaux’s movie theaters screen a wide variety of films. Whether you’re into arthouse films, blockbusters, dramas, or horror, a cool escape is guaranteed!
Quench your thirst at one of Bordeaux’s hidden outdoor cafes

Surely the most idyllic way to escape the heat: having a drink on one of Bordeaux’s hidden terraces. Skip the overly sunny terraces; opt for the more intimate ones for a cooler atmosphere—with a friendly vibe to boot.