Bordeaux · Place de la Bourse and the quays
Porte Cailhau
A medieval city gate built between 1493 and 1496, 35 metres high, with exhibitions inside and a climb to the top.
- 1 h
- €7
- Booking: not needed
- Place de la Bourse and the quays
Data checked on November 3, 2026
The gate mixes military features, such as the portcullis and the machicolations, with Renaissance details. It is described as the only medieval civic monument open to visitors in Bordeaux. The visit has four floors: the defensive role of the gate, interactive displays about Bordeaux in the 15th century, and a climb up the tower to a view of the quays, the Pont de Pierre and the rooftops. The staircase is narrow.
What to look for
- Portcullis and machicolations
- Displays about 15th-century Bordeaux
- View from the top over the quays and the Pont de Pierre
Opening hours
| Monday | Closed | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed | |
| Wednesday | 2:00 pm–6:00 pm | |
| Thursday | 2:00 pm–6:00 pm | |
| Friday | 2:00 pm–6:00 pm | |
| Saturday | 11:00 am–1:00 pm, 2:00 pm–6:00 pm | |
| Sunday | 11:00 am–1:00 pm, 2:00 pm–6:00 pm |
From November to March it opens Wednesday to Friday 14:00 to 18:00, and on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 11:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00. Monday and Tuesday are not listed as opening days in that period. From April to October it opens every day 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00. It is closed on 25 December and 1 January.
Source: Porte Cailhau, checked November 3, 2026
Tickets and booking
Adult ticket €7. The ticket is 7 euros, or 5 euros reduced. It is free for children under 13 with an adult and on the first Sunday of each month. A combined ticket with the Saint-Michel spire costs 11 euros.
Getting there
Tip
In winter, go on a Saturday or Sunday if you want a morning visit, since weekdays open only in the afternoon.