Ireland will be playing against Romania in Pool B this Saturday in Bordeaux, and it’s an event that rugby fans have been eagerly anticipating. As the Rugby World Cup 2023 finally kicks off this Friday night, Ireland’s first pool game will take place at Stade de Bordeaux, also known as Matmut Atlantique.
Bordeaux is not only a hub town for France’s most famous vineyards, but it is also a vibrant city filled with street life, classical and neoclassical architecture, museums, galleries, bars, brasseries, and brio. With thousands of fans traveling to Bordeaux for the game, it’s worth exploring what the city has to offer before the match begins. Here’s a short and sweet travel guide for your visit.
When and where is Ireland’s opening match?
Ireland will be playing against Romania in their Pool B match on Saturday, September 9 at 2.30pm. The game will be held at Stade de Bordeaux, also known as Matmut Atlantique.
How can I get there?
Stade de Bordeaux is located to the north of the city. You can take the stadium shuttles that run from Cenon Gare or Cité du Vin. A tram stadium pass costs €3. Alternatively, you can download an app and purchase TBM travel passes for rugby weekends, starting from €3.
1. Must-see attraction
The Cité du Vin is a must-visit for all wine enthusiasts. Shaped like a gigantic decanter, this cultural venue offers a sensory and immersive experience that tells the story of wine. You can even participate in tastings. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring this unique venue. Ticket prices range from €22 to €9. Visit their website at ilaciteduvin.com/en for more information.
2. Bars to visit
Le Bar à Vin is an excellent choice for wine connoisseurs. Located in the 18th-century Maison du Vin de Bordeaux, this elegant space offers local wines by the glass, with sommeliers available to provide recommendations. Prices range from around €2 to €10 per glass. For beer lovers, Café des Moines, Sweeny Todd’s, and The Connemara are popular options. Don’t forget to visit an Irish pub while you’re there. For cocktails and alternative bars, check out the guide to going out in Bordeaux.
3. Places to eat
The Halles de Bacalan is a covered market where you can enjoy a meal or grab something to go. There are approximately 20 vendors offering a variety of food options, and they even have sports screens. For Bordeaux’s famous canelés, stop by Chez Baillardran. The local tourism website provides a list and map of brasseries for more dining options. Additionally, the ‘Rugby Village’ at Saint-Michel Sports Park is a fan zone that can accommodate up to 10,000 people, showing matches on big screens and offering food and drinks.
4. Vineyard tours
While Bordeaux is known for its exceptional wines, this may not be the ideal time for an extensive wine tour. However, you can still enjoy a quick ‘Chateaux & Terroirs’ tour, which includes visits to two estates, including Saint-Émilion, for €50 per person. This half-day tour is bilingual and departs on various days surrounding the Ireland game.
5. Free attractions and walks
If you’re looking for a nice walk or something free to do, you can follow the 3.6km-long UNESCO World Heritage route marked out by bronze nails. This route will take you to over two dozen sites and monuments, such as the Grand Theatre and Church of Notre Dame. It’s a self-guided tour, allowing you to take breaks for food or drinks whenever you like. You can find a map and guide for this route to make your experience more enjoyable.
For more information, you can visit rugbyworldcup.com, bordeaux-tourism.co.uk, and rugby2023.bordeaux-metropole.fr. Enjoy your time in Bordeaux and the Rugby World Cup!
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