Bassins des Lumières Immersive experiences in the heart of Bordeaux's former submarine base

Bassins des Lumières, former submarine base and immersive center in Bordeaux

Housed in one of Bordeaux's most imposing heritage sites, the Bassins des Lumières occupies the former Bordeaux Submarine Base, a colossal reinforced concrete structure built during World War II. Since 2020, this extraordinary historical gem has been transformed into an immersive center – the largest in the world – and is now one of Bordeaux's most visited landmarks. A must-see for heritage enthusiasts and anyone curious to experience a place steeped in history and enhanced by the Bassins' immersive programming.

A colossal monument inherited from the Second World War

The submarine base in Bordeaux was built by the Germans during World War II. Its dimensions defy imagination: several hundred meters long, some twenty meters high… After the war, this monument of military architecture remained unused for a long time before being purchased by the City of Bordeaux and gradually repurposed for cultural and heritage uses. An entire chapter of 20th-century European history comes alive as soon as you step through its doors.

A tour route in 6 spaces to experience unique immersive experiences

The venue is explored through immersive experiences projected in six distinct spaces, allowing visitors to grasp both the architectural scale of the space and its programming. Walkways run alongside the pools, enabling visitors to observe the projections up close and appreciate the unique character of the venue. Another space, the Cube, showcases more contemporary creations. The programming is regularly updated and features works by some of the greatest artists in history, as well as more family-friendly programs.

Visit bassins-lumieres.com to discover current and upcoming experiments.

Open 7 days a week, all year round.

Address: Impasse Brown de Colstoun, 33300 Bordeaux. Book online or by phone at 05 35 00 00 90.

Exceptional rating: 4.7/5 based on nearly 19,000 Google reviews.

A visit to be integrated into a wider discovery of the Bacalan district and its emblematic sites: Cité du Vin, Submarine Base, Musée Mer Marine, Pont Chaban-Delmas.