What Is Bordeaux Airport? — Code, Name & Overview
Bordeaux Airport is the main international airport serving Bordeaux and the wider Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwest France. Its official name is Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport and its IATA code is BOD. Also known as BOD Bordeaux Airport, Bordeaux BOD Airport, or Mérignac Bordeaux Airport — all names refer to the same airport located in Mérignac, approximately 12 km west of Bordeaux city centre. Bordeaux Airport handles domestic, European, and international flights — serving tourists, wine travelers, business visitors, and holidaymakers heading to Arcachon, Lacanau, Biscarrosse, Saint-Émilion, and all of southwest France.
| Official Name | Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport |
| Common Names | Bordeaux Airport · Bordeaux BOD Airport · BOD Airport France · Mérignac Bordeaux Airport · Bordeaux France Airport |
| Airport Code Bordeaux (IATA) | BOD |
| ICAO Code | LFBD |
| Location | Mérignac, Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France |
| Distance from Bordeaux City Centre | ~12 km · 25–35 min by taxi · 35–45 min by tram |
| Terminals | Hall A (international/Schengen) · Hall B (domestic) · Billi Terminal (low-cost) |
| Main Transport Options | Tram · Bus · Taxi Bordeaux Airport · Private transfer · Car rental · Hotel shuttle |
| Car Rental at BOD | Sixt Bordeaux Airport · Avis Bordeaux Airport · Alamo Bordeaux Airport · other major brands |
| Popular Routes | Bordeaux city centre · Bordeaux Saint-Jean · Arcachon · Lacanau · Biscarrosse · Pessac · Bergerac · Saint-Émilion |
Wine & Tourism Gateway
BOD is the main arrival point for Bordeaux wine tourism — vineyard visits to Saint-Émilion and Médoc, historic old town, riverfront dining, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine cultural travel.
Atlantic Coast Access
Bordeaux Airport is the closest major airport for Arcachon Bay, Lacanau surf beach, Biscarrosse lake, and Cap Ferret — popular holiday destinations best reached by rental car from BOD.
Rail Hub Connection
Bordeaux Saint-Jean is France's key TGV hub — connecting to Paris in 2 hours, Toulouse, Nantes, and Arcachon. The BOD to Saint-Jean route is one of the most important journeys to plan.
Car Hire Destination
Car rental at Bordeaux Airport is hugely popular. Sixt, Avis, Alamo, and other brands serve travelers collecting vehicles on arrival to explore vineyards, coastal towns, and countryside independently.
Where Is Bordeaux Airport? — Location, Address & Distances
Bordeaux Airport is located in Mérignac, a commune in the Gironde department, approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) west of Bordeaux city centre. The official address is Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport, 33700 Mérignac, Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. Use this address for GPS navigation, taxi bookings, and transfer arrangements. Despite sitting outside the city limits, the airport provides fast access to Bordeaux and all major destinations in southwest France.
25–35 min taxi · 35–45 min tram
30–40 min · Main train station
10–15 min · Business & hotel zone
15–20 min · University & offices
~1 hour · Car or transfer
55–70 min · Surf beach
~1h 20m · Lake & beach
~1h 20m · Dordogne region
Bordeaux Airport Terminals — Hall A, Hall B & Billi Terminal
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport has three passenger terminal areas. The layout is compact compared to many major European airports, so passengers move efficiently without long walking distances. Check which terminal your airline uses before arriving.
Hall A
Hall A primarily handles international and Schengen flights. Services include check-in, security, arrivals, departures, restaurants, shops, and transport access.
Hall B
Hall B handles domestic flights within France and selected international services. All essential passenger services are available including check-in, baggage reclaim, and departures.
Billi Terminal
The dedicated Billi Terminal serves budget airlines on European routes. Check-in, departures, arrivals, cafés, and public transport access are all available.
| Facility | Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Check-in / Self-Service | ✓ Yes | All terminals |
| Baggage Drop & Reclaim | ✓ Yes | Airline-specific counters |
| Security Screening | ✓ Yes | Keep liquids and electronics accessible |
| Passport Control | ✓ Available | Non-Schengen international flights |
| Free Wi-Fi | ✓ Yes | All terminal areas |
| Airport Lounge Bordeaux | ✓ Yes | Access by ticket type, membership, or paid entry |
| Restaurants & Cafés | ✓ Yes | All terminals · Hours vary — check for early flights |
| Shops & Duty-Free | ✓ Yes | Duty-free for eligible international passengers |
| ATMs & Currency Exchange | ✓ Yes | Arrivals and departures areas |
| Car Rental Desks | ✓ Yes | Sixt, Avis, Alamo and other brands |
| Taxi Rank | ✓ Yes | Outside arrivals · Use official rank only |
| Tram & Bus Access | ✓ Yes | Connects to Bordeaux urban network |
| Accessible Facilities | ✓ Yes | Request assistance in advance via your airline |
| Baby Changing Rooms | ✓ Yes | Family restroom areas |
| Lost Property | ✓ Yes | Airport information desk |
Bordeaux Airport Arrivals, Departures & Flight Information
Bordeaux Airport handles domestic and international flights across its three terminals. Whether checking Bordeaux Airport arrivals to collect someone or planning your own Bordeaux Airport departures, knowing the process avoids unnecessary delays.
📊 Bordeaux Airport Arrivals
After landing: follow signs for passport control (if applicable) → baggage reclaim → customs → arrivals hall. Taxis, tram, car rental desks, private transfer meeting points, and buses are all directly accessible from the arrivals area.
✈ Bordeaux Airport Departures
Check flight status before leaving. Complete online or counter check-in, bag drop, security, and passport control when required. Monitor airport screens for gate changes — gates can change before boarding.
Airlines & Destinations from Bordeaux Airport (BOD)
Bordeaux Airport serves domestic routes within France, European city connections, seasonal holiday flights, and selected international routes. Flight availability changes by season — confirm direct route availability before booking.
🏭 Airline Types at BOD
🌍 Popular Destination Types
Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Nantes
London, Manchester, Dublin
Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon
Rome, Milan, Florence
Marrakesh, Casablanca, Algiers
Summer beach & seasonal routes
How to Get from Bordeaux Airport to City Centre — All Options
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport is well connected to the city and wider region. Here is a full breakdown of every transport option from BOD to Bordeaux city centre — from the cheapest tram to a private door-to-door transfer.
| Transport Option | Time to Centre | Cost Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tram | 35–45 min | Low | Budget travelers, light luggage, solo travel |
| Bus | 35–50 min | Low | Budget travel, local stops, flexible timing |
| Taxi Bordeaux Airport | 25–35 min | Medium | Families, late arrivals, luggage, direct hotel |
| Private Airport Transfer | 25–35 min | Medium–High | Business, groups, regional routes, fixed pick-up |
| Car Rental | Depends on route | Variable | Wine regions, coastal towns, multi-destination |
| Hotel Shuttle | 5–15 min | Free–Low | Airport hotel guests only |
🚊 Bordeaux Airport Tram
The tram connects Bordeaux Airport to Bordeaux's urban tram network — the most economical way to reach the city centre in 35–45 minutes.
🚌 Bus from Bordeaux Airport
Bus services connect the airport with local stops and city areas. Good budget option — check timetables and routes before traveling as frequency and stops vary by time of day and season.
Private Transfer — Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD) to City / Saint-Jean
Bordeaux Airport to Saint-Jean — Complete Route Guide
Bordeaux Airport has no mainline train station inside the terminal. For TGV and regional trains, travelers must first reach Bordeaux Saint-Jean — the city's main railway hub connecting to Paris (2h), Toulouse, Nantes, Arcachon, and beyond. Searched as: Bordeaux Airport to Bordeaux St Jean, Bordeaux Airport to Gare St Jean, Bordeaux Airport to train station.
| Transport | Time to Saint-Jean | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30–40 min | Luggage, direct connection, tight timing | Best if train departs soon after landing |
| Private Transfer | 30–40 min | Families, groups, business travelers | Pre-book — driver tracks your flight |
| Tram / Public Transport | 45–60 min | Budget, light bags, flexible timing | May require connection — check route carefully |
| Bus | 45–60 min | Low cost | Timetable essential — not reliable for tight connections |
Taxi Bordeaux Airport — Costs, Routes & Tips
A taxi from Bordeaux Airport is one of the most convenient ways to reach your hotel, Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station, or any city address. Taxis wait outside the arrivals hall and provide direct point-to-point travel. Bordeaux Airport taxi cost varies by destination, traffic, time of day, and holiday or weekend surcharges.
| Route | Travel Time | Price Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux Airport to city centre | 25–35 min | Medium | Most hotels and tourist areas |
| Bordeaux Airport to Saint-Jean | 30–40 min | Medium | Direct to main train station |
| Bordeaux Airport to Mérignac | 10–15 min | Low–Medium | Airport hotels and business zones |
| Bordeaux Airport to Pessac | 15–25 min | Medium | University area and local stays |
| Bordeaux Airport to Arcachon | ~1 hour | High | Private transfer often better value for this distance |
| Bordeaux Airport to Lacanau | 55–70 min | High | Book pre-booked transfer in advance |
✓ When to Choose a Taxi
- Traveling with heavy luggage — avoid carrying bags on tram or bus
- Late-night arrivals when public transport is limited or stopped
- Early morning departures requiring reliability
- Direct transfer to Bordeaux Saint-Jean for a TGV train
- Business trips where time is more important than cost
- Families with children who need direct door-to-door service
💡 Taxi Tips
- Use the official taxi rank outside arrivals only — avoid unofficial drivers
- Show your hotel name or full address before starting the journey
- Ask about card payment before departing if you have no cash
- Rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and weekends add 10–15 min to journey time
- For Arcachon, Lacanau, or Bergerac, a pre-booked private transfer is more cost-effective
Bordeaux Airport Transfers — Private, Group & Luxury Options
A private Bordeaux Airport transfer is pre-booked before travel. Your driver meets you in arrivals with a name board, helps with luggage, and takes you directly to your hotel, train station, or destination — at a fixed, confirmed price. Better than a taxi for families, groups, regional routes, and when you want certainty after a long flight.
🚘 Private Sedan — Standard Transfer
Best for solo travelers, couples, and small groups going to central Bordeaux or Bordeaux Saint-Jean. Driver monitors your flight for delays — no waiting stress at the taxi rank.
🚉 Minivan — Family & Group Transfer
More luggage space and seating for families and groups. Especially useful for Bordeaux Airport to Arcachon, Lacanau, or Biscarrosse trips where public transport is impractical.
💸 Executive Car — Luxury Transfer
Premium vehicle with professional driver. Meet-and-greet in arrivals. Used by business travelers, VIP guests, wine tour groups, wedding guests, and long-haul passengers needing comfort after a tiring flight.
🚀 Long-Distance Regional Transfer
Pre-booked transfers to Arcachon (~1 hr), Lacanau (~1 hr), Biscarrosse (~1h 20m), and Bergerac (~1h 20m). More cost-effective and comfortable than a metered taxi for long distances.
Car Rental Bordeaux Airport — Sixt, Avis, Alamo & Tips
Car rental at Bordeaux Airport is one of the most popular choices for visitors to southwest France. Picking up a hire car at BOD gives freedom to explore vineyards, Atlantic beaches, Dordogne countryside, and rural areas that are difficult to reach by public transport. Major brands including Sixt Bordeaux Airport, Avis Bordeaux Airport, and Alamo Bordeaux Airport have desks in or near the terminal.
Sixt Bordeaux Airport
Sixt is a commonly searched car hire brand at BOD. Options include compact city cars, family vehicles, SUVs, and premium rental models. Check pick-up location, opening hours, fuel policy, and insurance before booking.
Avis Bordeaux Airport
Avis Bordeaux Airport is popular for business travelers and families. Always compare the full total price — insurance, extra driver fees, GPS, and child seats may add to headline rates shown online.
Alamo Bordeaux Airport
Alamo Bordeaux Airport offers competitive car hire in Bordeaux, France. Compare across brands for your required vehicle size, transmission type (automatic can be limited — book early), and rental duration.
💡 Cheap Car Rental Bordeaux Airport — Tips to Save
Summer, wine festivals, and school holidays fill up fast. Book 3–6 weeks ahead for best rates and choice.
Headline prices often exclude insurance, extra driver, child seats, GPS. Always check the complete total.
Most transparent fuel policy. Avoid pre-purchase unless you plan to return the car empty.
Most companies require a credit card for deposit — debit cards are often not accepted.
Take timestamped photos of the car before leaving the lot — document all pre-existing marks.
Late returns carry extra charges. Allow time to refuel and find the return lane before your flight.
| Route from BOD | Why Rent a Car | Approx. Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux Airport to Arcachon | Beaches, oyster markets, Dune du Pilat — public transport requires going via city centre first | ~1 hour |
| Bordeaux Airport to Lacanau | Surf beach — no direct public transport from BOD | 55–70 min |
| Bordeaux Airport to Biscarrosse | Lake holidays, family camping — multiple stops en route | ~1h 20m |
| Bordeaux Airport to Saint-Émilion | Vineyard visits — no direct train from airport to Saint-Émilion | ~45 min |
| Bordeaux Airport to Médoc | Chateau wine route — multiple estates spread across the peninsula | 40–60 min |
| Bordeaux Airport to Bergerac | Dordogne and Périgord exploration — rural area best by car | ~1h 20m |
| Bordeaux Airport to Cap Ferret | Peninsula tip — no practical public transport from BOD | ~1h 10m |
Hotels Near Bordeaux Airport — Mérignac & Airport Area
Hotels near Bordeaux Airport are ideal for early morning flights, late arrivals, overnight stopovers, or business meetings in Mérignac. The airport hotel zone is primarily around Mérignac, with options from budget brands to premium stays like the Sheraton Bordeaux Airport.
Sheraton Bordeaux Airport
The most well-known hotel near BOD — premium facilities, business amenities, and close terminal access. Ideal for corporate travel and same-day connections.
Business Hotels Mérignac
Several mid-range business hotels in Mérignac near the airport's commercial zones. Good for corporate stays and teams visiting the business park area.
Budget Hotels Near BOD
Budget options in Mérignac within a short drive of the terminal. Ideal for overnight stays before departures or travelers who don't need city access.
Bordeaux City Centre Hotels
For Bordeaux wine bars, riverfront, restaurants, and historic old town — staying in the city is better. Tram or taxi connects you to BOD on departure day.
Bordeaux Airport Car Park — Parking Guide & Tips
Bordeaux Airport offers short-stay parking, long-stay parking, and dedicated drop-off and pick-up areas. Whether driving to catch a flight or collecting a passenger, the right parking choice saves time and cost.
⏱ Short-Stay Parking
For brief airport visits — dropping someone off, collecting arrivals, or quick stops. Located close to the terminal. Time limits and rates apply.
- Collecting or dropping off passengers
- Helping with luggage for a brief time
- Meetings near the terminal
🚹 Long-Stay Parking
For passengers leaving their car during a trip. Best for holidays, multi-day business trips, or travelers from outside Bordeaux without easy public transport to the airport.
- Multi-day holidays and business trips
- Travelers from outside Bordeaux city
- Early morning flights with no public transport
💡 Bordeaux Airport Parking Tips
Bordeaux Airport Facilities & Stores Guide
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport offers a full range of passenger services across its terminals — from dining and shopping to lounges, ATMs, and accessible facilities.
Food & Restaurants
Cafés, restaurants, snack bars in all terminals. Hours vary — check for early morning availability if catching an early flight.
Shops & Duty-Free
Convenience stores, newsstands, cosmetics, perfumes, alcohol, local gifts, and duty-free shopping for eligible international passengers.
Airport Lounge Bordeaux
Lounge available for business travelers, premium ticket holders, frequent flyer members, or paid-entry passengers. Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, refreshments.
Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi throughout all terminal areas. Good for checking flight status, contacting your transfer provider, or confirming onward bookings.
ATMs & Currency Exchange
ATMs in arrivals and departures areas. Currency exchange also available — useful before traveling to destinations where cards are less accepted.
Accessible Services
Full accessibility throughout. Request special assistance in advance through your airline — support available at check-in, security, boarding, and arrival.
Family Facilities
Baby changing rooms, family restrooms, child-friendly waiting areas. Allow extra time at security when traveling with young children and strollers.
Information & Lost Property
Tourist information desks and lost property assistance at airport information points. Check flight screens regularly for gate, delay, and departure updates.
Closest Airport to Bordeaux France — Alternatives & Comparisons
The closest airport to Bordeaux France is Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD) itself. However, depending on your route, final destination, or available flights, other southwest France airports may be relevant to consider.
| Airport | Code | Distance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport ⭐ | BOD | 12 km from city | Main airport — best for all Bordeaux visits |
| Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport | EGC | ~100 km east | Dordogne visits, wine east of Bordeaux, regional travel |
| La Rochelle Airport | LRH | ~175 km north | Atlantic coast and western France |
| Biarritz Pays Basque Airport | BIQ | ~180 km south | Basque coast and southwest France |
| Toulouse-Blagnac Airport | TLS | ~245 km southeast | Wider southwest France connections |
| Nantes Atlantique Airport | NTE | ~330 km north | Western France and Loire Valley |
Popular Routes from Bordeaux Airport — Coastal, Wine & Regional
Bordeaux Airport is the starting point for some of southwest France's most popular routes — from Atlantic coast beaches to wine villages and the Dordogne. Here are the most-traveled routes and the best transport for each.
Arcachon Bay is the most popular coastal route from BOD — known for oysters, the Dune du Pilat, beaches, and sailing. A rental car gives the most flexibility. Public transport goes via Bordeaux Saint-Jean then regional train (~90 min total). For families or groups, a private transfer is the most practical direct option.
Lacanau is a famous Atlantic surf beach and holiday destination. No direct public transport from BOD — rental car or private transfer is the practical choice for surf trips, pine forest walks, and family beach holidays.
Biscarrosse is popular for lakeside holidays, family camping, and Atlantic beach access. Rental car is by far the most practical — public transport from BOD requires multiple connections through the city.
Car rental from BOD is the best way to explore Saint-Émilion UNESCO wine town, Médoc chateau wine route, and Bordeaux vineyards. Private tastings, rural hotels, and multiple estate visits are all more accessible with a hire car.
Paris to Bordeaux is often faster and more convenient by TGV from Paris Montparnasse (2 hours direct) than connecting between airports. The Charles de Gaulle Airport to Bordeaux by train route requires a connection into central Paris first. If flying, land at BOD and continue by taxi or tram. The train from Bordeaux to CDG Airport goes via Bordeaux Saint-Jean and Montparnasse with a Paris Metro connection.
Travelers visiting Dordogne and then flying from Bordeaux Airport can travel the Bergerac to Bordeaux Airport route by rental car or private transfer. This is a common routing for visitors who start in the Dordogne wine region and end their trip with a flight from BOD.
Essential Travel Tips for Bordeaux Airport (BOD) 2026
Confirm Your Terminal Before Arriving
Bordeaux Airport has three terminals: Hall A, Hall B, and Billi. Check which your airline uses before traveling. Arriving at the wrong one loses time — especially during busy summer weekends and holiday periods.
Arrive at the Right Time
Domestic: 1.5–2 hours. European: 2 hours. International: 2.5–3 hours before departure. Add 30 minutes during school holidays, summer, and busy wine festival periods. Checked luggage always requires more time than cabin-bag-only.
Book Car Rental (Sixt, Avis, Alamo) Early
Car hire at Bordeaux Airport fills up fast during summer and wine tourism season. Book 3–6 weeks ahead for best rates and vehicle availability. Automatic cars are especially limited — book early if needed.
Tram = Budget · Taxi = Convenience
The tram (35–45 min) is cheapest but unsuitable for large luggage. A taxi or private transfer (25–35 min) is easier for families, business trips, late arrivals, and direct hotel drops. Choose based on luggage, time of day, and group size.
Train Connection = Allow 90 Min–2 Hours Buffer
If catching a TGV from Bordeaux Saint-Jean after landing at BOD, allow at least 90 minutes to 2 hours between flight arrival and train departure. Flights delay, baggage takes time, and rush-hour traffic slows the journey.
Always Use the BOD Airport Code
When searching for flights, car rental, or airport transfers, confirm your search shows BOD — the Bordeaux airport code. This ensures you arrive at Bordeaux–Mérignac and not an alternative airport like Bergerac (EGC) or Biarritz (BIQ).