Tour Pey-Berland, Bordeaux

Tower in Bordeaux

Bordeaux Cathédrale Saint André Tour Pey Berland
Bordeaux Cathédrale Saint André Tour Pey Berland
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon

The Tour Pey-Berland rises beside the Cathédrale Saint-André, a soaring Gothic masterpiece that has defined Bordeaux's skyline for centuries. Built between 1440 and 1500, this elegant freestanding tower was commissioned by Archbishop Pey Berland to safely house the cathedral's bells without risking damage to the cathedral's marshy foundations. Today, climbing its 233 steps remains one of the top attractions in Bordeaux, rewarding visitors with sweeping views across rooftops, church spires, and the gentle bends of the Garonne River.

From its terraces, the city unfolds in every direction, making the tower a highlight of any walking tour of Bordeaux. Its golden statue of Notre-Dame d'Aquitaine glints above the city, watching over the landscape and pointing toward the archbishop's birthplace. For travellers seeking a blend of history, architecture, and unforgettable panoramas, the Tour Pey-Berland captures the city's spirit beautifully.

History and Significance of Tour Pey-Berland

The construction of Tour Pey-Berland responded to both practical and architectural concerns. Saint-André Cathedral, built on soft, marshy soil, could not support the weight and vibration of massive bells. Archbishop Pey Berland's solution was visionary: a separate Gothic tower, richly decorated, crowned with pinnacles and sculptural details, and engineered to withstand the powerful resonance of bell-ringing.

Completed around 1500, the tower originally stood empty. Bordeaux suffered financially following the end of English rule in 1453, delaying the installation of bells until much later. In the 19th century, restoration brought new life to the structure, including the installation of the gilded statue of Notre-Dame d'Aquitaine in 1863. The bells followed in 1869, led by the monumental Ferdinand-André, weighing more than eight tons.

Things to See and Do in Tour Pey-Berland

Climbing the tower is the main draw. The narrow spiral staircase leads first to a panoramic terrace at 40 meters, where Bordeaux’s honey-coloured stone buildings stretch out in every direction. Continuing to the top terrace at 50 meters reveals a full 360-degree view-a breathtaking perspective of the city’s urban fabric, from the cathedral’s flying buttresses to the distant hills.

Visitors can also admire the Gothic detailing up close: crockets, finials, gargoyles, and sculpted niches that reveal the craftsmanship of the 15th century. The gilded statue atop the tower, visible throughout Bordeaux, is best appreciated from the terraces, where its symbolic orientation toward Saint-Raphaël becomes clear.

How to Get There

Tour Pey-Berland stands in central Bordeaux, right beside the Cathédrale Saint-André. It is easily reached on foot or via the city's tram lines, which stop at Hôtel de Ville. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. Parking in the immediate area is limited, but several car parks are available within a short walk. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Travellers arriving by air can reach the city centre from Bordeaux Airport via tram or shuttle. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Bordeaux on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Tour Pey-Berland

  • Best time to visit Tour Pey-Berland: Clear mornings or golden-hour evenings for the best views.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Usually between €6-€8 depending on season and concessions.
  • Opening hours: Typically daily, with variations by season; closed during severe weather.
  • Official website: bordeaux-tourisme.com
  • How long to spend: 30-45 minutes for the climb and terraces.
  • Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; 233 narrow steps with no lift.
  • Facilities: No toilets or cafés in the tower; amenities available nearby.
  • Photography tip: Bring a wide lens for capturing the cathedral from above.
  • Guided-tours: Occasionally available through local heritage organisations.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés and brasseries around Place Pey-Berland.

Where to Stay close to Tour Pey-Berland

For elegant comfort close to the city’s heritage sites, consider Hôtel de Normandie. For a boutique-style stay, Villa Victor Louis offers historic charm within walking distance. A modern option nearby is Mama Shelter Bordeaux.

Is Tour Pey-Berland Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you're drawn to Gothic architecture, sweeping city views, or Bordeaux's layered history, Tour Pey-Berland delivers an unforgettable experience. Its vantage points offer some of the best panoramas in the city, and its story is intertwined with Bordeaux's medieval and modern identity.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (3,557)

Tour Pey Berland, beside the cathedral at Pl. Pey Berland in Bordeaux, is a 15th-century Gothic bell tower that rewards visitors who tackle its many narrow stairs with sweeping panoramic views across the city; staff are described as friendly, there are multilingual handouts available at the base, and visitors say the climb is challenging but well worth it for the vistas and photographic opportunities.

plascaz
3 months ago
"Nice climb, gets you in shape ! (And a possible break about halfway in) The view at the top is more than worth it though ! Absolutely stu ing sightsof bordeaux, and great signs and historical explanations. Friendly staff. I'd recommend to anyone, from anywhere, and especially people from Bordeaux such as me who have never actually gone up !..."
Jakub Šesták
5 months ago
"We had a great weather. It costs few euro, lots of stairs, but worth the climb. Great view over the city."
Filipe Silva
5 months ago
"Reaching the top of Tour is no easy feat, but the panoramic views of the city are breathtaking. The narrow stairs and passages add to the challenge,but it's well worth the effort. A must-visit for anyone looking to experience in center of Bordeaux...."

FAQs for Visiting Tour Pey-Berland

There are 233 steps to the top terrace.
The tower’s exterior can be enjoyed from ground level, but terraces require climbing the stairs.
Older children generally enjoy the climb; younger ones may find it challenging.
Yes, though closures may occur due to weather or maintenance.
The bells do ring, but not continuously; schedules vary.

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The Tour Pey-Berland appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bordeaux!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Tour Pey Berland, Place Pey Berland, Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux: 1 km

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