Bordeaux airport to st. Jean train station in Bordeaux

Posted by jtridle1 on 05/22/17 01:25 AM

We arrive at Bordeaux airport at 7 pm on August 31 and by the time we get thru all the lines, let's say we are ready to go to our hotel at the St. Jean train station area by 8 pm. How is the best, most cost effective way to get there at that time of day?

Secondly, some others in our group, will be in Bordeaux for three nights. They are not experienced with getting around in Europe. I have them staying near the st. Jean train station as well, as I think it is about a 10-20 minute walk to city center or a 5 minute tram ride from train station. I know there is nothing great to see around the train station and I think the tourist stuff is in the city center, but have I made the best decision as to where to put them up. As opposed to staying in the city center? And if you think they should go stay in the city center, is the best way from airport to city center via the metro?

Posted by Sam

Green Bay

05/22/17 02:24 AM

21157 posts

There are nonstop buses, but the last one is at 8:40 pm. Cost is 8 EUR.
http://30direct.com/en/high-season-schedule/

The Liane 1 Bus runs more frequently and makes stops along the way, but costs only 1.50 EUR.
http://www.bordeaux-tourism.co.uk/Plan-your-trip/Transport/Public-transport

Posted by Elizabeth

L'Occitanie, France

05/22/17 02:24 AM

10627 posts

No metro in Bordeaux but there's a bus called Jetbus every 45 minutes. We took a taxi from the airport from the regular taxi line. It should be 35 Euros, even less for your neighborhood.

This is the only time we've ever had problems: rogue driver didn't reset the meter and had it covered. Suitcase in the trunk and exited the airport onto the autoroute before we caught it. Tried to charge 70. So be sure you can see the meter, or book a private transfer, or take the bus.

City center is much nicer and convenient than the station area. I'd change if possible.

Posted by jtridle1 OP

05/23/17 03:38 AM

100 posts

Is the Jetbus the same as the nonstop bus for 8 euros mentioned in reply #1?

Do all of the transportation modes mentioned above also take you to the city center from the airport and for about the same cost?

Posted by Sam

Green Bay

05/23/17 04:15 AM

21157 posts

The 30direct bus only runs from the airport to the train station without intermediate stops.

The Liane 1 bus makes a few stops including the city center before getting to the train station. It is just a regular single fare ticket for 1.50 EUR.

Posted by Harold

New York, NY, USA

05/23/17 11:32 PM

11294 posts

Bordeaux does not have a metro, but it does have trams (above ground). There is a tram (line C) from the St. Jean station to Bourse station, right in the center. This is easy and "goof proof" in that there are no changes required, and it's only 5 stops from St. Jean to Bourse. I remember thinking as I rode the tram, "thank God I decided not to walk this - it's farther than I thought." So, if they are staying near the station, they will want a tram pass (€4.60 for one day or €12.40 for 3 days).

Here is a brochure designed for tourists to Bordeaux (direct link to the English version of the PDF): https://www.infotbm.com/sites/default/files/u92968/Plan_Touristique_2015_V2_Anglais.pdf

If this is intimidating to anyone in your group, rebook a hotel in the center, which is very walkable. With a central hotel, they won't need any transit except to and from the airport or train station, at the start and end of their stay.

Posted by Elizabeth

L'Occitanie, France

05/24/17 02:22 AM

10627 posts

There are many places to eat and wander after dinner in the center but not near the station. If anyone wants to rest before dinner, it's necessary to go back and forth. Even though it's easy access by tram, it's a different experience to stay in the center. It's a bit gloomy near the station. I'd re-book.