In the middle of the old city, beside the long Gothic nave of the Cathédrale Saint-André, stands one of Bordeaux’s most striking monuments: the Tour Pey-Berland, a bell tower built on its own, a few metres away from the church. Work began in 1440 under Archbishop Pey Berland, and it was set apart so that the vibrations of the heavy bells would not threaten the cathedral’s structure. Today it is managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux, and climbing its narrow spiral staircase of more than 200 steps rewards you with a sweeping view of the old town, the river and the Port of the Moon from the terraces near the top, with a gilded statue of the Virgin crowning the spire above. The cathedral itself, free to enter, is one of the largest in the south-west, where the future Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine married Louis VII of France in 1137. Together they make an essential stop on any walk through the centre. This page links to the official tourist office page.
How to visit: the tower and cathedral are on Place Pey-Berland, beside the City Hall, and tram lines A and B stop at Hôtel de Ville on the edge of the square. Entry to the tower is by a timed e-ticket booked in advance through the Centre des monuments nationaux, and numbers on the terraces are limited, so book a slot as soon as you know your day. Under-18s enter free, as do EU residents aged 18 to 25, and the tower is included in the Bordeaux CityPass. It closes on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December, and winter hours are shorter with a lunchtime break, so check the official schedule when you book.
What to expect: the climb is steep and narrow, with around 230 steps and no lift, so it is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility or a fear of heights. There is a small permanent exhibition on bells and bell towers, and booklets in several languages.
Making the most of it: step into the cathedral first, then climb the tower for the view. Afterwards, walk five minutes to the Musée d’Aquitaine, or down the Rue des Trois-Conils towards the old town.
What to expect
The experience
A timed-entry climb up a narrow spiral staircase to terraces near the top of a 15th-century bell tower, plus a free visit to the cathedral next door.
Best time
A clear morning for the sharpest views; book a timed slot in advance as terrace numbers are limited.
How long
About an hour for the tower and cathedral together.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, carry little, and remember winter hours include a lunchtime break.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants the best panorama of Bordeaux and a dose of Gothic history.
- Families
- Older children enjoy the climb, and under-18s go free, but it is too steep for toddlers.
- Couples
- Climb together for the rooftop view, then linger in the cathedral.
- Pair with
- The Musée d’Aquitaine a few minutes away, or a walk down to the Place de la Bourse.
- Time needed
- About an hour.
Good questions
How many steps does the Pey-Berland tower have?+
There are around 230 steps up a narrow spiral staircase, with no lift. The tower stands 50 metres tall.
Do I need to book the Pey-Berland tower in advance?+
Yes, entry is by a timed e-ticket reserved in advance through the Centre des monuments nationaux. Terrace numbers are limited, so slots can sell out.
Is the Cathédrale Saint-André free to visit?+
Yes, the cathedral is free to enter outside services. It is right next to the tower on Place Pey-Berland.
Why is the bell tower separate from the cathedral?+
It was built apart so the vibrations of the heavy bells would not damage the cathedral. Work began in 1440 under Archbishop Pey Berland.
Is the tower included in the Bordeaux CityPass?+
Yes, the CityPass includes entry to the Pey-Berland tower. You still need to reserve a time slot.
