The city of Bordeaux has a large but un-busy airport (BOD), a large train station with TGV service, and a useful tramway system.

Traveling between the airport, train station and city center at Place des Quinconces is easy by tram and bus.

Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac

Bordeaux's airport (BOD), 14 km southwest of the city center, is large, modern, and usually uncrowded. The useful airport website has an English version.

The Jet'Bus airport bus service (€7) takes you from the Arrivals Level of Terminal B to the city center (Office du Tourisme at Place des Quinconces, and Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean SNCF) every 45 minutes throughout the day. The ride takes about 30 minutes to Place des Quinconces, 45 minutes to the Gare (train station).

Tbc Liane 1 bus (see below) travels between the airport and the city center (Place des Quinconces). Though cheaper than the Jet'Bus, it takes longer because it makes numerous stops along the way.

Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean SNCF

The Gare (SNCF), 2.7 km (1.7 miles) south of Place des Quinconces, is the place to go for intercity and international trains and buses. TGV trains whisk you to and from Paris and other European capitals, regional and local trains serve the cities and towns of Gironde and Aquitaine.

The Gare has numerous services such as shops and restaurants. Hotels are nearby, the Eurolines international bus office is across the street, and city buses and trams stop directly in front of the station.

Take Tram C toward Les Aubiers to go from the train station to the city center at Place des Quinconces.

TBC Tram & Bus de la CUB

Bordeaux's public transit system known as Tbc (Tram et Bus de la Communauté urbaine de Bordeaux) will get you around the city comfortably and economically.

Fare tickets can be bought from machines at major stops (such as the Gare/train station). A single fare is €1.40. Use euro coins or a chip-and-PIN debit/credit card to pay for a card good for 1, 5 or 10 trips. One fare pays for one hour of travel, so you can transfer between tram and bus as necessary during the hour.

Although you can buy tickets on buses, you cannot buy them on trams.

When you board the bus or tram, look for the yellow compositeur machine and insert your ticket to mark (composter) it for that ride. Failing to do so could result in an expensive fine.

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