Things to Do in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the largest region in France, stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pyrenees Mountains and offers an incredible variety of experiences. From world-class vineyards and prehistoric caves to medieval villages and pristine beaches, it’s a region that caters to every traveler’s passion. Here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

1. Discover Historical and Cultural Treasures 🏰

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is rich in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient towns, and living traditions. The region’s architecture reflects centuries of prosperity, faith, and artistic achievement — from medieval citadels perched on cliffs to ornate cathedrals filled with stained glass and sculptures.

• 🏛️ Bordeaux’s Port of the Moon – The elegant 18th-century cityscape of Bordeaux is UNESCO-listed for its harmonious architecture and Enlightenment-era design. Stroll the crescent-shaped riverfront lined with neoclassical facades, explore the Grand Théâtre, and visit the Place de la Bourse to witness its stunning reflection in the famous Water Mirror. At night, the city lights transform the quays into a romantic promenade. Hidden gems like the Grosse Cloche and Saint-Michel Basilica reveal the city’s medieval roots alongside its cosmopolitan energy.
• 🍷 Saint-Émilion – A medieval village surrounded by vineyards, this UNESCO site offers underground monolithic churches, cobbled lanes, and panoramic viewpoints over the Dordogne Valley. Visitors can tour centuries-old wine cellars carved into limestone, sample the region’s velvety reds in family-owned châteaux, or climb the King’s Keep for sweeping views. Local boutiques sell the town’s signature macaron biscuits, a sweet legacy from the Ursuline nuns.
• 🎨 Lascaux Caves (Vézère Valley, Dordogne) – The Vézère Valley is known as the “Cradle of Prehistory.” At Lascaux IV, an ultra-realistic replica, digital projections and guides bring to life 17,000-year-old cave paintings of bison, horses, and deer. Nearby museums in Les Eyzies and Montignac provide deeper insights into Paleolithic life. Travelers can also visit the lesser-known Rouffignac Cave to see prehistoric engravings via a small electric train.
• ⛪ Abbey of Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe (Vienne) – Known as the “Romanesque Sistine Chapel,” this abbey features well-preserved murals illustrating the Old Testament. Its cloister gardens and riverside setting make it an oasis of tranquility. Audio guides and interactive exhibits explain the symbolism of medieval art. The small village nearby hosts artisan shops selling pottery and regional crafts.
• 🕍 Bayonne Cathedral – A masterpiece of Gothic architecture and part of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. Its twin spires rise above colorful Basque houses. The adjoining cloister is among the largest in France and offers peaceful walks under vaulted arcades. Inside, vivid stained-glass windows depict scenes of saints and sailors, reflecting Bayonne’s maritime past.
• ⚔️ Château de Castelnaud (Dordogne) – A medieval fortress overlooking the Dordogne River, showcasing weaponry and armor from the Middle Ages. The castle hosts live reenactments and trebuchet demonstrations during summer. Climb its battlements for breathtaking valley views, then continue to nearby Beynac Castle or La Roque-Gageac for a scenic loop of fortified villages. Each visit offers a glimpse into feudal life and epic rivalries between lords.
• 🏺 Limoges Cathedral and Porcelain Museum – Visit the Gothic cathedral and the Adrien Dubouché Museum to learn about the region’s world-famous porcelain heritage. The museum’s dazzling collections trace the evolution of Limoges’ craftsmanship, from medieval enamel work to modern design. In town, artisan workshops offer tours where you can watch porcelain being fired and painted by hand. The cathedral’s gardens and the banks of the Vienne River provide serene spots for reflection after your visit.

2. Explore Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures 🌲🏖️

From the Atlantic coast to mountain peaks, Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning. The region’s natural beauty unfolds through vast forests, shimmering lakes, rolling dunes, and mountain trails that invite every type of explorer. Whether you’re seeking thrilling sports, tranquil scenery, or eco-adventures, Nouvelle-Aquitaine delivers year-round opportunities to connect with nature.

• 🏜️ Dune du Pilat (Gironde) – Climb Europe’s tallest sand dune (110 meters) for breathtaking views of Arcachon Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Watch paragliders soar above the golden sands or take a sunset picnic on top of the dune as the sky turns orange and pink. For a deeper experience, explore the nearby pine forests of the Landes de Gascogne Natural Park or hop on a boat tour across the bay to Cap Ferret’s oyster farms.
• 🌊 Atlantic Coast Beaches – Surf, sunbathe, or stroll along the 720 km coastline from Biarritz and Hossegor to Lacanau and the Île de Ré. Each beach has its own character — Hossegor for powerful waves and international surf competitions, Biarritz for elegant seaside promenades, and Île de Ré for peaceful coves and family-friendly cycling paths. Coastal towns host vibrant summer markets and seafood festivals where you can taste freshly grilled sardines or mussels while enjoying live music.
• 🚣 Marais Poitevin (Deux-Sèvres) – Often called “Green Venice,” this vast wetland is perfect for tranquil boat rides, kayaking, and birdwatching. Glide silently through canals shaded by willow trees, spotting herons and kingfishers. Visitors can rent traditional flat-bottomed boats or join guided eco-tours that reveal the unique flora and fauna of this protected biosphere. In nearby Niort, visit the interpretive center to learn about the area’s centuries-old irrigation system and its cultural heritage.
• 🏞️ Lac de Vassivière (Limousin) – A massive lake surrounded by forests, ideal for swimming, boating, and hiking. Sandy beaches provide safe swimming zones in summer, while trails around the lake cater to hikers and cyclists. Don’t miss the small island that houses the Centre International d’Art et du Paysage, a modern art museum accessible by footbridge or ferry. Camping sites and lakeside chalets make this a perfect nature getaway for families and artists alike.
• 🏔️ Pyrénées National Park (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) – Hike alpine trails, see wild marmots, or ski in winter at Gourette and La Pierre Saint-Martin. The park offers landscapes that shift dramatically from lush valleys and waterfalls to jagged peaks and glacial lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts can go rock climbing, canyoning, or even take scenic drives through Col d’Aubisque and Col du Pourtalet for spectacular mountain views. In summer, shepherds’ huts open to serve local cheese and honey to hikers passing by.
• 🛶 Dordogne and Vézère Rivers – Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and picturesque riverside picnics among castles and villages. The Dordogne Valley’s calm waters make it ideal for beginners, with routes passing stunning châteaux like Castelnaud and Beynac. Stop in riverside cafés for local cuisine, or visit prehistoric caves hidden in limestone cliffs. Many outfitters offer multi-day canoe trips that include overnight stays in historic inns or campsites under starry skies. The Vézère River’s quiet stretches are equally inviting, perfect for photography or family outings.

3. Indulge in Food and Wine Experiences 🍇🍽️

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a paradise for food lovers, combining the best of French gastronomy with local specialties. The region’s cuisine tells stories of the land and sea — vineyards rolling toward the horizon, Atlantic tides shaping oyster beds, and rustic markets bursting with truffles, foie gras, and artisan cheese. From Michelin-starred restaurants to countryside bistros, there’s a feast for every palate.

• 🍷 Bordeaux Wine Route – Tour legendary châteaux in Médoc, Graves, and Saint-Émilion. Taste exceptional reds, whites, and sweet Sauternes wines while learning about the terroirs that make each unique. Many estates offer guided tastings paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. Visitors can even join grape-harvesting workshops in autumn or cycle between vineyards following scenic wine trails. The Bordeaux Wine Festival, held every two years, transforms the quays into a riverside celebration of vintages and gastronomy.
• 🏛️ Cité du Vin (Bordeaux) – A futuristic museum dedicated to the art and culture of wine. Inside its curving glass architecture, interactive exhibits explore global wine history, geography, and tasting techniques. Virtual reality experiences take visitors to vineyards around the world, and the panoramic Belvedere bar offers a glass of Bordeaux with sweeping views over the Garonne. Families can enjoy educational tastings with grape juice while adults discover sensory workshops and sommelier-led pairings.
• 🥃 Cognac and Pineau des Charentes (Charente) – Visit historic distilleries like Hennessy, Rémy Martin, or Martell to learn about centuries-old brandy-making methods. Guided tours often include a boat ride across the Charente River to aging cellars where barrels rest in cool darkness. Visitors can sample limited-edition blends or create their own custom Cognac in blending workshops. Don’t miss the annual Fête du Cognac each July, featuring open-air concerts, gourmet food stalls, and local Pineau tastings.
• 🌶️ Basque Cuisine (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) – Try Bayonne ham, piment d’Espelette, Basque cake, and pintxos in Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Basque food reflects its mountain and coastal heritage: hearty stews, grilled fish, and bold spices. In markets, you’ll find colorful Espelette peppers drying on façades, artisan cheese from the Ossau Valley, and freshly baked Gâteau Basque filled with black cherry jam. Basque cider houses near Biarritz host traditional cider tastings served with omelets and cod.
• 🍄 Périgord Specialties (Dordogne) – Taste foie gras, truffles, walnut oil, and duck confit at local markets in Sarlat or Périgueux. Visit truffle farms in winter to watch trained dogs unearth black diamonds from the soil, or join cooking classes to learn how to prepare classic Périgord dishes. Walnut liqueur and goose rillettes are other local delicacies worth bringing home. The region’s markets, often set in medieval squares, are sensory delights of aroma and color.
• 🧀 Cheese and Farm Traditions – Beyond the famous Roquefort, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers lesser-known delights like Ossau-Iraty (a Basque sheep cheese with nutty flavor), Chabichou du Poitou (a creamy goat cheese with AOP status), and Tomme de Pyrénées. Many small farms welcome visitors for tours and tastings, often paired with rustic bread and cider. In the Pyrenees foothills, shepherds’ huts serve freshly made cheese with local honey.
• 🦪 Oysters of Arcachon and Marennes-Oléron – Fresh from the Atlantic, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp white Bordeaux. Visit seaside oyster huts where farmers shuck their catch right in front of you, explaining the delicate balance between saltwater and freshwater that shapes their flavor. Pair your oysters with buttered rye bread and a splash of lemon while overlooking Arcachon Bay. In winter, cozy oyster festivals celebrate the harvest with bonfires, music, and endless tastings of seafood and sparkling wine.

4. Enjoy Family-Friendly Attractions 🎢🐠

There’s plenty to do for families and kids in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The region’s diversity means every generation can find something exciting — from interactive science parks and wildlife encounters to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences designed for young minds.

• 🤖 Futuroscope (Poitiers) – A futuristic theme park with 4D rides, virtual reality attractions, and evening light shows. Spend an entire day traveling through time, space, and fantasy worlds. Highlights include the gravity-defying roller coaster Objectif Mars, and the spectacular nighttime show La Clé des Songes with lasers and water effects. Families can stay in on-site themed hotels with space- or cartoon-inspired rooms, and dining areas that cater to kids.
• 🐠 La Rochelle Aquarium – Home to over 600 marine species, including sharks, turtles, and luminous jellyfish. The aquarium’s immersive design leads visitors from tropical lagoons to deep-sea tunnels. Educational zones explain marine conservation, and children can attend daily feeding sessions or interactive touch-pools. The panoramic café above the tanks offers incredible ocean views. Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Maritime Museum for a full day of seaside discovery.
• 🦁 Zoo de la Palmyre (Royan) – One of Europe’s best zoos, housing more than 1,600 animals in naturalistic habitats. Wander through lush pathways lined with exotic birds, lemurs, and giraffes. The zoo places strong emphasis on conservation, breeding programs, and educational exhibits. Children can attend feeding demonstrations or the playful sea lion shows. Nearby beaches and picnic areas make it easy to spend a full day surrounded by nature.
• 🚴 Lake and Forest Parks (Landes) – Try water sports, treetop courses, and cycling trails around Biscarrosse, Sanguinet, or Mimizan. Adventure parks offer zip-lining, paddle boarding, and canoeing for all skill levels. Families can rent electric bikes to explore the extensive forest paths or enjoy lakeside picnics shaded by pine trees. In summer, lifeguarded swimming zones and inflatable water playgrounds ensure safe fun for kids of all ages. Local markets nearby sell fresh fruit, crêpes, and ice cream — perfect for refueling between adventures.
• 🚤 Marais Poitevin Boat Tours – Kids love exploring the peaceful canals by flat-bottomed boat. Guided boatmen explain the legends of the marsh, from mysterious will-o’-the-wisps to ancient farming traditions. You can also rent canoes or bikes for a self-guided family outing through the labyrinth of waterways. Birdwatching enthusiasts will enjoy spotting herons and storks, while younger visitors marvel at the reflections of trees in the glassy water. Picnic spots and small cafés along the canals make for a relaxing and memorable family day in nature.

5. Visit Iconic Cities and Charming Towns 🏙️

• 🍷 Bordeaux – The region’s capital, famous for wine, elegant squares, and vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss the Place de la Bourse, Saint-André Cathedral, and the Cité du Vin. Wander the narrow streets of the Saint-Pierre district, where cafés and wine bars spill onto cobblestone lanes. The Chartrons quarter reveals Bordeaux’s merchant history through antique shops and art galleries, while the riverfront Garonne promenade is perfect for evening strolls or boat cruises. Bordeaux also boasts world-class museums and seasonal open-air festivals celebrating its art and gastronomy.
• ⚓ La Rochelle – A maritime city with medieval towers, seafood restaurants, and access to the beautiful Île de Ré. The Vieux Port’s iconic towers — Saint-Nicolas, de la Chaîne, and de la Lanterne — guard the entrance to the harbor and offer panoramic views of the sea. Explore its charming arcaded streets filled with boutiques and cafés, then visit the Maritime Museum or the Aquarium. The nearby Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron are connected by bridges, offering beaches, cycling paths, and oyster farms perfect for a day trip.
• 🏄 Biarritz – The French surf capital and former royal resort. Visit the Rocher de la Vierge, Aquarium de Biarritz, and elegant Belle Époque buildings. Surf schools line the Grand Plage, and the city’s thalassotherapy centers offer ocean-view spas for relaxation. The Hôtel du Palais, built for Empress Eugénie, reflects imperial luxury, while local markets tempt you with Basque cheese and pastries. In summer, festivals fill the beachfront with music and fireworks.
• 🎭 Bayonne – The cultural heart of the Basque Country, known for its Gothic cathedral, lively markets, and chocolate shops. Its pastel Basque houses and riverside quays invite wandering. Visit the Basque Museum to learn about local traditions or sample the city’s famous ham and hot chocolate. Bayonne bursts into life during the July Fêtes de Bayonne, when streets overflow with dancing, parades, and regional food stalls. It’s an unmissable fusion of French and Basque identity.
• 🏺 Limoges – The porcelain capital, with charming medieval quarters and the poignant Oradour-sur-Glane memorial village nearby. Explore the old Butchers’ District with half-timbered houses and artisan workshops. The Musée Adrien Dubouché displays porcelain masterpieces and explains their production techniques. Just outside the city, Oradour-sur-Glane stands preserved in silence as a WWII remembrance site. Limoges also offers beautiful parks and river walks that make it a peaceful stop for history lovers.
• 🕯️ Sarlat-la-Canéda (Dordogne) – A perfectly preserved medieval town full of markets, gastronomy, and golden-stone architecture. Stroll through the old quarter’s narrow alleys where lanterns illuminate Renaissance façades at night. Weekly markets brim with foie gras, walnuts, and truffles, and guided tours lead visitors through hidden courtyards and old merchant mansions. Sarlat becomes especially lively during summer festivals featuring open-air concerts and street performers.
• 🥃 Cognac – Picturesque old town and home to France’s most famous brandy. Walk the cobbled streets lined with distilleries and visit houses like Hennessy, Rémy Martin, or Martell for immersive tours. The Charente River adds to the town’s charm, offering scenic boat rides past centuries-old warehouses. The city’s art museums, music festivals, and riverside markets make Cognac much more than a spirits destination — it’s a cultural gem.
• 🏰 Pau – Overlooking the Pyrenees, known for its castle and scenic boulevard des Pyrénées. The Château de Pau, birthplace of King Henry IV, houses royal collections and medieval art. Take in sweeping mountain views from the promenade, visit the Fine Arts Museum, or explore the city’s lush gardens. Pau’s lively markets showcase Béarnaise cuisine, while its cable car and nearby hiking trails make it a gateway to the mountains for adventure seekers.

6. Experience Seasonal Events and Festivals 🎉🎶

• 🎈 Fêtes de Bayonne (July) – Five days of Basque music, dancing, and parades in a sea of red and white. This iconic festival attracts nearly a million visitors every summer. Participants dress in white with red scarves, join street bands called bandas, and enjoy local specialties like Basque cake and cider. The entire city becomes a carnival of joy with fireworks, children’s parades, and traditional bull runs in the main square. Early booking is essential as accommodations fill quickly.
• 🎷 Cognac Blues Passions (July) – A mix of live music and local tastings held in the lush public gardens of Cognac. The festival features renowned international blues artists alongside French jazz and rock performers. Visitors can attend open-air concerts, wine tastings, and workshops that showcase regional spirits like Cognac and Pineau des Charentes. Food stalls serve local cuisine late into the night, making it a lively, family-friendly event under the stars.
• 🍇 Bordeaux Fête le Vin (June) – France’s premier wine festival held along the Garonne quays. Over four days, Bordeaux’s riverbanks transform into a wine lover’s paradise with tasting stands, vineyard exhibitions, and fireworks above the Pont de Pierre. A tasting pass grants access to dozens of producers from Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Graves. Visitors can also enjoy boat cruises, live music, and guided workshops with sommeliers. Evening light shows illuminate the waterfront, creating a magical atmosphere for celebrating Bordeaux’s heritage.
• 🎬 La Rochelle International Film Festival (July) – One of Europe’s most respected film events that draws cinephiles and directors from around the world. Screenings take place in historic theaters and outdoor venues around the old port, offering a mix of classic cinema, independent films, and global premieres. Beyond screenings, the city hosts masterclasses, Q&A sessions, and open-air projections under the stars. The atmosphere is relaxed yet intellectual, making it ideal for culture lovers.
• 🎭 Les Francofolies de La Rochelle (July) – A major music festival celebrating French-speaking artists from across the globe. Stages are set up along the harbor, featuring pop, rock, and electro performances. Family zones and food markets offer daytime entertainment, while the evening concerts attract large crowds enjoying the coastal breeze. It’s one of France’s best open-air summer experiences.
• 🎨 Festival du Film Court de Bordeaux (October) – This short film festival showcases emerging talent and experimental cinema in the city’s theaters and cultural spaces. Screenings, award ceremonies, and workshops invite participation from the public and industry professionals alike. It’s a fantastic way to discover the next generation of French filmmakers.
• 🎄 Christmas Markets – Bordeaux, Biarritz, and Bayonne sparkle during the winter holidays with festive markets and lights. Bordeaux’s Allées de Tourny fills with wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts and mulled wine, while Biarritz hosts an illuminated seaside market complete with an ice rink and light show on the Grande Plage. In Bayonne, the Christmas Village features Basque choirs, traditional pastries, and twinkling decorations that make the season truly magical.

Travel Tips ✈️

• 🚗 Getting Around: Trains connect major cities, but a car is ideal for exploring rural Dordogne or Médoc wine routes. High-speed TGV trains link Bordeaux with Paris in about two hours, while regional TER services connect coastal and inland towns. Car rentals are widely available at airports and train stations, and driving gives you freedom to explore hidden villages, vineyards, and scenic countryside roads. For eco-friendly travel, bike rentals are common in cities like La Rochelle and Arcachon, which have well-marked cycling paths.
• 🌤️ When to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing, wine tasting, and outdoor adventures. Summer is best for beaches and festivals but can get busy along the Atlantic coast — book accommodations early. Winter brings fewer tourists, lower prices, and cozy atmospheres in villages, ideal for enjoying regional food and wine. Fall (September–October) is grape harvest season, a magical time to witness vineyards in full swing and participate in wine events.
• 🎟️ Tourist Passes: City passes in Bordeaux and La Rochelle offer discounts on museums and public transport. The Bordeaux City Pass includes tram and bus travel, entry to top attractions like the Cité du Vin, and guided tour options. In La Rochelle, passes provide access to the Aquarium, maritime museums, and tower climbs. Many towns offer regional passes covering castles, caves, or nature parks — check local tourism offices for deals. Booking combination tickets online often saves both time and money, and you can download digital passes directly to your phone for convenience.

Conclusion 🌍

From world-renowned vineyards and prehistoric caves to wild beaches and Basque culture, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers one of the most diverse travel experiences in France. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a family on vacation, this vast region promises unforgettable adventures in every corner.