It’s Friday night, and you’re looking forward to experiencing the nightlife in Bordeaux. But while it’s easy to know your go-to spots at home, finding the perfect place in a foreign country can be a bit tricky.

You’re looking for a bar that strikes the right balance—not too crowded but lively, not too loud but with a groove. You want a place where you can have a drink, dance to the beat, and still chat comfortably with friends—or maybe even new connections.

We’ve done the groundwork for you and selected 5 spots in Bordeaux  that are perfect for starting the night off right. Listen to the call of the night—this is your invitation to dance to the rhythm.

Jamboree

If you were to walk past it, you might not notice Jamboree at first; it’s a small bar that doesn’t immediately catch the eye. But if you slow down and let the enticing music draw you in, you’d be making a choice you won’t regret.

With over 200 flavors of shooters, Jamboree is the ultimate shooter bar. The bartenders are more than happy to help you navigate the selection, and they put on an impressive show as they prepare your drink right in front of you.

Whether you’re starting your night or capping it off, Jamboree is the perfect spot to spark your dancing energy and ignite your inner fire with their homemade shooters. Just take one and let the music take over.

Central Do Brasil

If you’re looking for something unexpected and exotic, Central Do Brasil is the place to be.

Known for serving what might just be “the best Caipirinhas” in town, this bar is tucked away near the docks on a charming little street. And even if you don’t see it right away, you’ll definitely hear it—the lively Brazilian music will draw you in before you can resist.

You’ll enjoy their homemade tapas as much as the music; the team here really knows what they’re doing. The friendly and welcoming staff create a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to relax and enjoy the experience at this unique spot.

Bonus for beer lovers:

• They even brew their own beer, and we highly recommend giving it a try.

Le Singe Vert

This bar’s name sounds like something from a cartoon: Le Singe Vert, or “The Green Monkey” in English. And true to its name, you’ll find green monkeys on the wallpaper—and sometimes even hanging from the chandeliers.

Situated along the waterfront with a spacious terrace, Le Singe Vert transforms into a lively dance floor at night, especially on weekends. Whether it’s a scheduled DJ set or a lively playlist, you’ll find yourself joining the crowd in no time.

If you’re with a large group, you can reserve tables in advance, sparing you the hassle of wandering from bar to bar in search of enough space for everyone. As for drinks, Le Singe Vert offers a wide selection of beers, classic cocktails, and a monthly special. And if you’re avoiding alcohol but still want a great night out, try a local ginger beer or one of their mocktails—they’re just as refreshing.

L’Engrenage

Owned by the same people as Le Singe Vert, L’Engrenage is another fantastic bar, conveniently located near the city center. Named after the French word for “gear,” this bar is all about turning heads and keeping things moving.

While the terrace is small and cozy, the inside offers a memorable experience. Split between two floors, the decor gives you the sense of being on a ship’s deck. With its screens, warm brick walls, and wooden tables, L’Engrenage transports you to a unique, inviting atmosphere.

The bar hosts events throughout the week—from blind quizzes to DJ sets that will have you practicing your best dance moves. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the lower floor, where you’ll find a pool table and a pinball machine. L’Engrenage boasts a wide selection of beers on tap and house cocktails that are definitely worth a try.

Le Fiacre

Affordable cocktails, dartboards, and friendly staff are the hallmarks of Le Fiacre, a discreet yet beloved fixture on the Bordeaux bar scene. Conveniently located near Bordeaux’s historic center, this bar welcomes guests day and night. With the ambiance of a classic French troquet, Le Fiacre invites you to enjoy an evening in a cozy, vintage setting with a laid-back vibe.

Locals especially love the complimentary popcorn served with drinks, as well as the bar’s warm, friendly atmosphere that has remained constant over the years. With rock music playing in the background, you can lose yourself in a different time and place as you sip on a local beer—or ask the bartender to shake up a cocktail just for you.

For those who are early risers or planning a daytime adventure, check out our selection of ideal day-trip destinations outside of Bordeaux. Start planning your next getaway.