place-de-la-bourse-bordeaux

Bordeaux, Hollywood star: 5 cult films you probably didn’t know existed!

undefined undefined 8 mars 2026 undefined 18h00

The Editor

We know it, our Sleeping Beauty is photogenic. But did you know she's also a true stand-in for Hollywood? Between American blockbusters, cult series, and international gems, Bordeaux and the Gironde pop up on the big screen more often than you think. Put away the canelés, bring out the popcorn: we’re taking you on a tour of the filming sets.

It's common to see tourists at Place de la Bourse, but did you know you could have bumped into Lily James or Jeremy Renner there? Thanks to its authentic and well-preserved 18th-century architecture, Bordeaux is the favorite playground for directors looking for Parisian chic... without the traffic jams of the capital.

1. Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again: When Place de la Bourse Plays Parisian

It’s a "scoop" that always surprises. In the sequel to the cult musical, young Donna arrives in Paris. But the cobblestones she dances on? That’s right, they’re right here with us! The production transformed the Place de la Bourse into a chic neighborhood of the capital. Grab your berets – it feels just like Paris.

2. Highlander: Duncan MacLeod Had His Port of Call on the Garonne

Attention, '90s nostalgia fans! The legendary series Highlander has set its action right here...

; his bags in Bordeaux for several seasons. The famous immortal, Duncan MacLeod, lived on a houseboat that was supposed to be docked in Paris on the Seine... but it was really on the Garonne! You can often catch a glimpse of the Pont de Pierre and the quays in the episodes.

3. Hansel & Gretel, Witch Hunters: Witch Hunt at the Grosse Cloche

To create a European and mysterious atmosphere for this action blockbuster, Hollywood set its sights on rue Saint-James. With the Grosse Cloche in the background, the natural setting was so perfect that there was almost nothing to add to immerse us in a whimsical fairytale world.

4. Valm

On: The Splendor of the Girondin Castles

Before becoming the star of The Crown, the splendor of French castles captivated Miloš Forman in Gironde. For his film Valmont, the director chose the stunning Château de la Brède. What could be better than Montesquieu's home to showcase the libertinism and elegance of the 18th century?

5. World Famous Lover: The Dune du Pilat Bollywood Style

Did you know? Indian cinema adores our region! In this Tollywood hit, the heroes love and break apart between downtown Bordeaux and the Dune du Pilat. Watching our national sand monument become the stage for an ultra-stylized Indian romance is definitely worth the trip!