Coming to Bordeaux is both an opportunity to stroll along the quays, but also to visit the many local must-sees through an accessible guided tour.
Wheelchair in Bordeaux with Martin Petit
When you're in a wheelchair in Bordeaux, there are plenty of places to get around easily. To take stock of the best spots to visit, social networking influencer Martin Petit (@el_marticino) gives his top tips for discovering Bordeaux when you're motor-impaired.
1. What do you think of Bordeaux in terms of accessibility for a person in a wheelchair, like yourself?
I think it's a very good city in that respect. There are a few cobblestones in the old town, but they're still quite passable. Also, you sometimes have to watch out for the streetcar tracks like on the Grand Théâtre side.
2. Is public transport easy to use in a wheelchair?
Yes, especially the streetcar! It's extremely accessible. Some platforms aren't very wide, but that's down to the layout of the streets. It's always accessible. As for the bus, it allows you to get to places not served by the streetcar. Personally, I'm quick to lose my balance in my wheelchair, so I prefer the streetcar, which has smoother turns and braking than the bus.
3. Which apps do you use the most to get around Bordeaux?
When I take public transport, I buy my tickets with the TBM mobilités app. As I don't have the use of my fingers, it's easier for me to buy my tickets this way. I also avoid the queues at the kiosks. And on the streetcar, all I have to do is wave my smartphone in front of the target on the validator. Also, to prepare my journeys, I use the TBM app a lot, which allows me to spot the best routes.
4. What walk would you recommend?
The quays are ideal for wheelchair users! Everything is flat, and there are ramps spaced out to access the signs in Bordea'Eau village if you want to do some shopping. Then you can stop at the Halles de Bacalan or the Cité du Vin, which is very accessible. The right bank is then easily reached by crossing the Chaban Delmas bridge. The cycle path along the Garonne on this side is perfect for wheelchair users.
5. What do you recommend visiting in Bordeaux?
I really like Darwin. The atmosphere is nice and the people benevolent. You can have a drink, eat on the spot, admire the graffiti or even skate! L'association Pratikable offers skate sessions in armchairs. Also in Bordeaux, it's easy to get around the Grand Théâtre. There's also the place Pey Berland, which is well worth a visit and still very easy to get to. I recently took some friends to visit Bordeaux there!
6. What are your favorite places to eat?
I know plenty! If I have to choose, I'd say le Clémenceau on the Place Gambetta side, it's a top place. Then in summer, there's the Chantiers de la Garonne which offers a beautiful view of the left bank. Otherwise, I also like to go to Eklo or to café Bastide.
To follow Martin:
- on Facebook and Instagram: @el_marticino
- on youtube: step by wheel
