In a few years, must-see spots sprang up in Bordeaux for live music lovers. Here is a selection of our favorites.
Looking to unwind after a day at university, listen to music and chill with friends? Bordeaux is the ideal city for that. Follow the recommendations of Charlotte Fricain, M3B student at Vatel Bordeaux.
Darwin (Bordeaux, right bank) : The perfect spot for happy hours
‘Darwin is an amazing spot for a Wednesday night out. All Bordeaux residents know this preserved old barrack renovated 3 years ago, on the right bank of the city,’ says Charlotte.
The venue hosts “Happy hours” every Wednesday evening from 6 P.M to midnight, a fun event to enjoy with friends and to discover local crafted beers and organic juices. Whether to the sound of techno, house or rock music, the spot is a top pick for music fans. When it is not free which is very rare, it costs 2 to 5€ per entry. So if you don’t want to spend your Wednesday evening at home watching Netflix, “Happy hours” is a must for an evening out meeting other Bordeaux residents!
Arkea Arena (Floirac): Meet glitzy international stars at Bordeaux
Want to experience a good dose of music enjoyment? Bordeaux has a new concert venue that can accommodate 11 000 concertgoers: Arkea Arena. It features concerts, musicals and all types of performances. Charlotte is a big fan: “I went to a magic show ‘The Illusionist’. The venue is in a pebble shape which allows for full enjoyment of the performance even though I wasn’t the closest to the stage or in the front-rows. It was really impressive.’
This immense venue features an alluring line-up. In 2018, the talented Shakira rocked Bordeaux! In 2019, The Avener and Soprano pulled off great performances spreading good vibes all over the venue. ‘If everything goes as planned, we will soon host brilliant artists such as Alicia Keys.’
Le Rocher de Palmer (Cenon): The place to be for eclectic concerts
If you’re looking for a nice concert this weekend, don’t miss out on Le Rocher de Palmer at Cenon. This concert venue is accessible by tramway from Bordeaux downtown.« It has something for everyone, whatever the music genre you like. I’ve seen there many artists play different types of music: Naaman (reggae), Darktek/Vandal (hardtek), Etienne de Crécy (electronic), Moha la Squale (rap)… I even saw my own friends playing at the Rocher’ (this how Bordeaux citizens call it).
The best feature about this concert venue? Its wide outdoor area where you can chill with friends or make new ones. Prices are reasonable, depending on the artists of course. Gigs could cost up to 40€ but you can enjoy some for less than 10€!
‘This remarkable venue has hosted in 2019 some of the best musicians: Aya Nakamura, Jeanjass, Caballero, Metronomy and Jeremy Frérot. It also hosted many other exceptional artists over the years!
Bordeaux, once called ‘the Sleeping beauty’ for being a quiet city, is now turning into a modern vibrant city. It is becoming an attractive destination for youngsters and gaining appeal amongst music lovers of all genres.
Article written by Charlotte Fricain, M3B student at Vatel Bordeaux