Expat Transport Guide: Getting Around Bordeaux

Transportation Overview

Bordeaux scores 4.0/5 for public transportation, with a cost of living rating of 3.0/5. Budget for approximately 18 transportation-related costs including transit passes and vehicle expenses.

Bordeaux boasts a modern, efficient, and well-integrated transportation system that has undergone significant improvements since the early 2000s. The network is anchored by an award-winning tram system that connects the city center with suburbs. The entire network is managed by TBM (Transports Bordeaux Métropole), providing comprehensive coverage throughout the metropolitan area with high frequency service.

Quick Stats

Transport Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

3.0 /5

Weather Score

3.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$7,225

Monthly Costs

$1,312/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Driving License Conversion $45

Driving License New $850

International Driving Permit $18

Monthly

Public Transport Pass Adult $48/mo

Public Transport Pass Child $24/mo

Car Rental Monthly $580/mo

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Practical Tips

Buy TBM annual pass in August

you get the remaining days of August free, effectively getting 13 months for the price of 12

Use V3 bike stations near Sainte-Catherine before 8:30 AM

bikes are redistributed overnight, making morning the only reliable time to find available bikes in city center

Take the Lianes 1 bus directly from key city stops for airport access.

It provides the most direct public transport route to Bordeaux Mérignac Airport.

these lines have frequent maintenance works not shown on general schedules, especially during wine festival seasons

Useful Links

TBM - Bordeaux Public Transportation

Official Bordeaux metropolitan transportation network with trams, buses and bike-sharing services, offering maps, timetables and passes.

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ANTS - French Driving License Exchange

Official government site for exchanging foreign driving licenses and registering vehicles when relocating to Bordeaux.

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Préfecture Gironde - Vehicle Registration

Local government office handling vehicle importation and registration procedures for new residents in Bordeaux.

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SNCF - French Railways

National railway service connecting Bordeaux to Paris and other cities, with English booking options and transportation cards.

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Bordeaux Airport

Official website of Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport with flight information, ground transportation options and services for travelers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Public transportation in Bordeaux includes buses, metro, trams, and other transit options. Coverage and frequency vary by neighborhood. Use ReloPlanner to see detailed transport scores for each area.

Whether you need a car in Bordeaux depends on your neighborhood and lifestyle. Create a free ReloPlanner account to compare transportation costs and options for your specific situation.

There are approximately 18 transportation-related costs to consider when moving to Bordeaux, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

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Data verified: March 2026

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