Tram at Station Porte de Bourgogne on Tramway de Bordeaux

Porte De Bourgogne Tram Stop

Porte de Bourgogne Tram Stop Bordeaux, France: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Porte de Bourgogne is a defining gateway to Bordeaux, seamlessly blending historical grandeur, neoclassical architecture, and modern urban life. Originally designed in the mid-18th century as part of an ambitious urban transformation, this triumphal arch now stands not only as a monument to Bordeaux’s past but also as a vital tram stop connecting locals and visitors to the heart of the city. Whether you are a history lover, architectural enthusiast, or traveler seeking the best access to Bordeaux’s UNESCO-listed sites, this guide provides comprehensive information on the monument’s significance, visitor logistics, transportation tips, and current tram developments (Wikipedia – Porte de Bourgogne; Audiala Guide; TBM Network Map).

Overview and Historical Origins
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Getting There: Tram Stop Guide
2025 Tram Network Upgrades and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Practical Visitor Advice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Overview and Historical Origins

The Porte de Bourgogne was constructed between 1753 and 1755, marking Bordeaux’s eastern gateway as part of a sweeping urban renewal under Intendant Louis-Urbain-Aubert de Tourny. Designed by André Portier, the arch replaced the older Porte des Salinières and was intended to symbolize Bordeaux’s transition from a medieval fortress city to a cosmopolitan urban center. It was one of several monumental gates built to beautify the city and facilitate commerce, particularly Bordeaux’s lucrative wine trade with Burgundy (Wikipedia – Porte de Bourgogne; Audiala Guide; Evendo – Porte de Bourgogne; Free Walking Tours Bordeaux).

Strategically located at Place Bir-Hakeim, facing the historic Pont de Pierre and opening onto Cours Victor Hugo, the arch became the ceremonial entrance to Bordeaux and a focal point for both locals and visitors.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The Porte de Bourgogne exemplifies 18th-century neoclassical architecture with its harmonious proportions, Corinthian columns, and restrained decorative motifs. The structure features a grand central arch flanked by four Corinthian columns, supporting an entablature and a triangular pediment adorned with royal insignia and allegorical figures. This design reflects Bordeaux’s Enlightenment-era ambition and civic pride, echoing the grandeur of Parisian triumphal arches (Free Walking Tours Bordeaux).

Over time, the gate has witnessed significant historical moments, including its renaming to “Porte Napoléon” during Napoleon’s visit in 1808, and has survived the upheavals of the French Revolution and both World Wars (Thesanetravel). In recognition of its historical value, the monument was formally classified as a Monument Historique in 1921 (Wikipedia – Porte de Bourgogne).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: The Porte de Bourgogne is an open-air monument accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Tickets: No tickets or entry fees are required to visit the monument. Guided walking tours that include the monument may have associated costs.
Accessibility: The area is fully accessible, with smooth pavements, step-free tram access, tactile paving, and nearby public facilities designed for visitors with disabilities.

For updated tour schedules, check the Bordeaux tourist office or the Audiala app (Audiala Guide).

Getting There: Tram Stop Guide

Location and Tram Connections

The Porte de Bourgogne tram stop is located on Quai Richelieu, adjacent to the monument and a short walk from the Garonne riverfront. It serves as a major interchange for tram lines A, C, and D, connecting visitors to:

Gare Saint-Jean (main train station)
Place de la Bourse
Saint-Michel district
Northern and southern Bordeaux districts

The Bordeaux tram system, inaugurated in 2003, features a ground-level power supply system that preserves the visual integrity of the historic center (Bordeaux Expats).

Operating Hours

Tram Service: Daily from 5:00 AM to midnight, with frequent intervals (3–5 minutes at peak, 7–10 minutes off-peak) and extended night service on weekends (TBM Timetables).

Ticketing

Single-ride: ~€1.70–€1.80
Day passes/multi-trip cards: Available at ticket machines, via the TBM mobile app, and onboard trams (TBM Tickets).
Contactless payment: Supported for convenience.

Intermodal Connections

Multiple bus lines (24, 45, 62) and VCub bike-sharing stations within walking distance (VCub Bordeaux).
Facilities for cyclists and accessible pathways for all users.

2025 Tram Network Upgrades and Travel Tips

Modernization Works (Summer 2025)

Major infrastructure works are scheduled for June–August 2025 to integrate new tram lines E and F, with significant upgrades at Porte de Bourgogne (Le Bonbon – Tramway News; France 3 Nouvelle-Aquitaine; Bordeaux Métropole PDF). During this period:

Tram A service between Sainte-Catherine and Stalingrad will be suspended; substitute buses will operate.
Allow for additional travel time and consult the TBM website or app for real-time updates (TBM Mobile App).
Multilingual staff and clear signage are in place to assist visitors.

Post-2025 Enhancements

With the inauguration of lines E and F (expected December 2025), Porte de Bourgogne will become a central interchange, improving direct tram connections between the main train station, airport, and Bordeaux’s suburbs (Bordeaux Secret).

Nearby Attractions

Pont de Pierre: Bordeaux’s historic stone bridge with panoramic river views.
Place de la Bourse: Iconic 18th-century square with its famous water mirror.
Grosse Cloche: Medieval gate and bell tower symbolizing the old city.
Saint-Michel Basilica & Market: Lively Gothic church and open-air market.
Quais de Bordeaux: Riverside promenade ideal for walks and leisure.

All sites are within easy walking distance from the tram stop (UNESCO Bordeaux; Travelfrancebucketlist.com).

Practical Visitor Advice

Plan ahead: Use the TBM mobile app for ticketing and real-time updates.
Avoid peak hours: Visit outside weekday rush (7:30–9:30 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM) for a quieter experience.
Photography: Early mornings and evenings offer optimal lighting for photos.
Amenities: Public restrooms, cafés, and convenience stores are within a 2-minute walk of the tram stop.
Safety: The area is well-lit, with CCTV, emergency intercoms, and frequent patrols.
Accessibility: Substitute buses during works are designed for full accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Porte de Bourgogne monument?
A: The monument is open-air and accessible 24/7.

Q: Are tickets required to visit the monument?
A: No, visiting the monument is free. Guided tours may require a fee.

Q: How do I reach the tram stop from Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station?
A: Take tram line C directly to Porte de Bourgogne.

Q: Is the tram stop accessible for people with reduced mobility?
A: Yes, all platforms and substitute buses are fully accessible.

Q: Will tram works affect my visit in summer 2025?
A: Yes, Tram A will be disrupted, but substitute buses and clear signage will facilitate your journey.

Q: What nearby attractions are recommended?
A: Pont de Pierre, Place de la Bourse, Saint-Michel Basilica, and Grosse Cloche.

Conclusion

The Porte de Bourgogne stands as both a majestic emblem of Bordeaux’s historical legacy and a dynamic, modern transport hub. Its neoclassical arch, open to visitors day and night, offers a unique intersection of past and present. With ongoing tram upgrades and enhanced accessibility, the area continues to welcome travelers and locals alike, providing seamless access to Bordeaux’s most celebrated sites. For optimal planning, consult the TBM and Audiala mobile apps and Bordeaux’s official tourism channels for real-time updates, travel guidance, and event news.