Musee des Douanes, Bordeaux

History of customs in the old port town of Bordeaux

featured in Sights & sites

Sitting on the stunning Place de la Bourse, the museum of customs is located in the former customs house and presents the history of the customs administration.

It has a good collection of artefacts and artwork showing the development of customs over time and its relationships with the country's economics, links to the military, transport, smuggling and the port.

An exhibition information booklet is available in several languages to help you navigate and understand the museum, plus audio guides are available to rent and give you a comprehensive one hour tour.

Worth knowing

Opened in 1984 it is the only museum of its kind in France.

Watch out for

The museum houses a beautiful painting of a custom's house by Claude Monet, painted in 1882.

Who should go

Those interested in history, specifically when it relates to the Old Port of Bordeaux. But this museum is unique in France and offers an original insight to French history which can be of interest to everyone,

Visitor comments

"Fascinating waterfront museum of Customs & Excise (not my usual cup of tea, but fascinating) All in French, so an audio guide might help, about 1/2 hour should do it & look out for the confiscated Chinese Erotic models, in a covered box to maintain decency" - Trip Advisor
"This museum provides an excellent insight into the work of the customs officials. If your French is poor then you should pay for some headphones to guide you through the museum." - Trip Advisor
"This is a small museum dealing with customs, a topic that all travelers experience. I had never given much thought to the history of customs and border checks. Bordeaux's history as a trading center makes this an interesting aspect of the development of trade. But what made it really worth while for me was a charming Monet painting of a customs house (hut). On a previous trip to France I had focuses on the impressionist painters. I had been unaware of this gem. It made my day. If you love Monet and are in the vicinity of the Bourse, drop in for a quick visit. There is a minimal fee but its well worth it." - Trip Advisor

Directions

Tram System
Tram B station 'Place de la Bourse'
Tram C station 'Grand-Théâtre'
Tram A 'Porte de Bourgogne'

Bus
Stop 'Quinconces'

Car Parks
Bourse, Jean Jaurès, Chapeau-Rouge

When to come

Open every Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 until 18:00. Closed Christmas Day and New Years Day.

How to get passes

Tickets cost 3€. Reduced fee is granted to students under 25 and groups. Free entrance is granted to visitors under 18, disabled visitors and their companion, customs officers and some professionals (journalists, Icom members, guides).