The All Saints' Day holiday is a great time to slow down and enjoy a change of pace. In Bordeaux, fall offers the chance to combine cultural outings, fine dining, walks, wine, and events without having to plan every minute of your day.

In 2026, the school break begins on October 17. This period coincides with several events in the city of Bordeaux and the Bordeaux wine region, including exhibitions, cultural events, and open houses at the châteaux.

Here are eight ideas for enjoying Bordeaux during the All Saints' Day break, with a slightly less touristy and slightly more local approach.

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1. Take a cultural break at the CAPC

When the weather becomes less predictable, museums are always a safe bet. But rather than just “going to a museum,” why not choose an exhibition that really intrigues you?

The CAPC will feature several exhibitions in the fall of 2026, including *Blackground: Murmurs of the Hills* and *SomaSemaSoma* by Alexandra Bircken. The museum also organizes guided tours and workshops during school breaks. 

For families, the Cool Kids Club is back on October 10 and 11 with workshops, games, a fashion show, a dance party, and a variety of creative activities. 

It’s also a great way to explore Bordeaux once you’re already familiar with its main landmarks: by focusing on contemporary art rather than the usual tourist routes.

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2. Spend a day in the vineyards

It’s hard to separate Bordeaux from its vineyards. But you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy a day centered around wine.

During the weekend of October 17 and 18, 2026, the Graves Open House event offers visitors the chance to tour châteaux, explore wine cellars, meet winemakers, and take part in tastings and other activities.  

Another event to note during the same time: the Nuit des Châteaux, October 16–18. Several estates in Gironde will open their doors for evening tours; reservations are required at some of the châteaux.  

For a getaway during the holidays, it's a great way to get out of Bordeaux without losing the flow of your trip.

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3. Discover Bordeaux Through Its Cuisine

Bordeaux's cuisine is about more than just cannelés.

For a few days, the idea might be to try out a variety of little experiences: coffee in the morning, a trip to the market, a pastry, lunch at a neighborhood restaurant, and a glass of wine at the end of the day.

The main point is not to limit your discoveries to a single “gourmet” meal. You can also discover Bordeaux through its everyday customs: taking the time to enjoy lunch, trying a local specialty, or stopping by a place that catches your eye.

It’s this kind of flexible schedule that works especially well during vacations: a planned activity, followed by time for spontaneous discoveries.

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4. A Different Way to Shop

For those who love independent shops, designers, and unique items you can’t find just anywhere, Bordeaux is also a great place to explore through shopping.

The center offers a mix of major brands and more off-the-beaten-path shops. And if you’re looking for a truly personalized experience, Marty works with Alicia Keane, a personal shopper.

In particular, it offers a Group Shopping Tour for two to five people, as well as a VIP Shopping Tour, with the option to reserve a store exclusively for your group. Prices start at €210.  

A way to turn an afternoon of shopping into a true exploration of local creativity.

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5. Changing Perspectives Through Architecture

Bordeaux is often associated with its 18th-century facades. However, the city also has a modern architectural heritage that is well worth exploring.

Mériadeck is one of the most visible examples of this. The neighborhood underwent a profound transformation beginning in the second half of the 20th century and features modernist architecture that is very different from that of historic Bordeaux.  

The Caisse d’Épargne de Bordeaux-Mériadeck, designed primarily by Edmond Lay, Pierre Dugravier, and Pierre Layré-Cassou, is now designated as a historic monument.  

An architectural walking tour can therefore be a great way to spend your vacation, especially if you’ve already explored the waterfront and the historic district during a previous visit.

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6. Treat yourself to an artistic experience

Looking for an activity that’s a little different from the usual?

Le Marty offers a Street Art Tour with Pierre Lecaroz, a gallery owner whose works are on display in the hotel lobby. Lasting about three hours, the tour combines urban art, architecture, and the discovery of lesser-known building facades.  

The hotel can also recommend various experiences to its guests, such as shopping, vineyard tours, sports activities, or personalized excursions.  

The idea isn't to fill every half-day, but to choose one or two experiences that really match what you enjoy.

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7. Stay Active, Even During Vacation

A week-long vacation in Bordeaux can also include some time for sports.

Marty works with Ultimate Physical, a gym located right next to the hotel, about 50 meters away. Individual or small-group sessions can be arranged based on each person's goals.  

For Pilates enthusiasts, our partner studio, Sculpt, also offers Reformer classes, subject to availability.  

A great way to incorporate physical activity into your trip without turning your vacation into a sports camp.

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8. Set aside a day with no plans

This is probably the easiest experience to organize. No need to make any reservations.

Have a coffee, take a walk around Bordeaux, pop into a store, grab lunch somewhere, stop to check out an exhibit, head back to the hotel, and go out again for a drink.

The city is actually quite well-suited for this kind of day, when you just go wherever the mood takes you.

This is also where the hotel’s location and recommendations come into play. Located in Mériadeck, the Marty is about ten minutes from the city center, according to information provided by the hotel.  

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Where should you stay during the All Saints' Day break?

For a vacation stay, a 4-star hotel in Bordeaux can also serve as a base rather than just a place to stay.

At Marty, the front desk can help arrange certain experiences before your arrival or during your stay. Wine tours, personal shopping services, street art tours, transportation, and sports activities can be booked based on partner availability.  

The goal is simple: to design a living room that reflects who you are, without necessarily following the same formula as everyone else.

Are you planning a trip to Bordeaux for the All Saints' Day break? The team at Marty can help you plan your activities before you arrive or once you’re there.