Is Bordeaux Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Bordeaux is a city in France, the capital of the department Gironde.

It is renowned for its wines, considered amongst the best in the world.

There is some famous university in Bordeaux so students are often come here for their degree.

The city is very friendly toward students with lots of benefits for them like a free bicycle loan and a reduction in the transport fees.

There are a lot of bars and clubs in the center area and Thursday is “student day” where all bars and clubs are filled with students.

Bordeaux is a beautiful city, there aren’t any big monuments that will throw you in awe of them, but surely you will slowly start to fall in love with it.

Warnings & Dangers in Bordeaux

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Bordeaux is very safe to travel to. There is a heightened risk of pickpockets and scammers, though, and you should remain vigilant for any suspicious activities since France has been targeted by terrorists many times. However, if you apply basic precaution rules, that should minimize the risk of something going wrong.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Transportation and taxis are generally safe and reliable in Bordeaux, though many pickpockets are cramming in other forms of public transport. Taxis are usually your safest bet.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

As in any European top destination, there are pickpockets at popular tourist landmarks in Bordeaux. They are your biggest worry when traveling to this city. Follow your common sense and remain vigilant at all times, especially in public transportation and at crowded stations.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Bordeaux is susceptible to floods, but they're not too common and usually aren't fatal, so there's no need to worry too much about these natural disasters.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

There are low chances of getting mugged or kidnapped in this city, although it is advised to remain cautious and avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and areas. If you find yourself in such a situation, hand over your belongings immediately.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Since this country has been targeted by terrorists numerous times, (as well as some countries near France, such as Denmark or Belgium) there is a reason to believe that this country can be targeted again. This is why it is important to remain aware of your surroundings at all times and report any suspicious activity.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

As in any French city, especially a top tourist destination, there is a risk of getting scammed. Be wary of people trying to distract you or offering you unwanted help, check your change twice and always negotiate every service beforehand.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Bordeaux is very safe to travel to if you are a female traveling solo. Apart from a few general precaution rules, you should apply, such as not walking alone in poorly lit and deserted areas, not finding yourself in a strange company at night, etc, you can relax because France is very safe in this respect.

So... How Safe Is Bordeaux Really?

Bordeaux is a very safe city to visit, with a couple of dangers to be wary of, though like in many other cities in France, its safety has been mildly compromised during the last couple of years, due to numerous terrorist attacks.

However, disregarding this, the precaution measures you will have to take are on par with those you would have to take in any other popular tourist destination, so that shouldn’t stop you from traveling to this gorgeous city.

Bordeaux is generally a low-crime area, and the inner city areas and few selected suburbs are completely safe at all hours.

Like all larger cities, it is filled with pickpockets and petty theft.

Violent crime, especially against tourists or strangers is rare, but you should bear in mind that purse snatching and pickpocketing are extremely common.

Another major issue in France is the terrorist attacks that have been happening during the last couple of years.

Due to this, police and France’s military units are patrolling the important landmarks, train stations, and airports.

This is a good thing for tourists since their presence scares away any pickpockets or bag snatchers that might be in the vicinity.

How Does Bordeaux Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Most countries do not need a visa to enter France, for any stays shorter than 90 days. Any longer than that, you might need to acquire a visa. EU nationals can stay (and work) in France for as long as they like. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, contact your local French embassy.

Currency

Euro is the official currency for Bordeaux. You can find ATMs at every airport, most train stations and on every other street corner in all towns and cities. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country.

Weather

The climate of Bordeaux is mild and rainy, being influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. There is a great deal of rainfall in Bordeaux, even in the driest months.

Airports

Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport is the international airport serving Bordeaux. It is situated in the commune of Mérignac, some 12 km west of Bordeaux.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Bordeaux, since it covers not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Bordeaux Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

France - Safety by City