Bordeaux taxi fares: how much does a taxi cost?
French taxi fares are not set freely by the driver — they are capped by the local prefecture. Here is how the price of a ride is calculated in Bordeaux, and how to get the amount confirmed before you travel.
Regulated fares, not free pricing
Unlike ride-hailing (VTC) cars, taxis in France charge fares regulated by prefectoral decree. Each département sets maximum rates, revised every year, which taxis may not exceed. In the Gironde, that is the Bordeaux prefecture.
In practice: the price is not haggled over. It comes from a public scale, applied by the taximeter fitted in every licensed taxi. That is your protection as a visitor — there is no tourist price.
What makes up the fare
The metered amount combines a pick-up charge (a fixed sum when the ride starts), a distance rate per kilometre, and a time rate that takes over when the vehicle is stopped or crawling in traffic.
On top of that: a minimum fare below which no ride can be charged, and where applicable regulated supplements (extra passengers, bulky luggage) according to the current scale.
The A, B, C and D tariffs
The scale sets four tariffs, and this is what explains most of the difference between two rides:
Tariff A — daytime ride (Monday to Saturday, daytime) with a return fare. Tariff B — the same at night, on Sundays or public holidays. Tariff C — daytime ride where the taxi must return empty, so the per-kilometre rate is higher. Tariff D — empty return at night, on Sundays or public holidays.
This is why a one-way trip to a distant destination costs more per kilometre than an urban ride: the empty return leg is built into the scale.
Knowing the price before you travel
For an airport transfer, a station pick-up or a long-distance trip, you don't have to wait until the end of the ride: the amount is confirmed before departure, based on the scale and the planned route. No surprises on arrival.
The quote is free. Call +33 6 27 35 17 27 or send a WhatsApp message with your pick-up address, destination, date, time and number of passengers — an answer comes back quickly, in English or French.
Transparency and receipts
The current fare sheet is displayed inside the vehicle, showing the exact amounts in force for the year. The meter stays visible throughout the ride.
A printed receipt is issued at the end of the trip — automatically above the regulatory threshold, and on request below it. Useful for expense claims.
Frequently asked questions
Good to know
How much does a taxi from Bordeaux airport to the city centre cost?
The amount depends on your exact address, the time of day and traffic, because it is metered according to the prefectoral scale. For an airport transfer the price is confirmed before departure: ask for a free quote on +33 6 27 35 17 27 with your address and flight time.
Are Bordeaux taxi fares fixed?
They are regulated, not fixed. The Gironde prefecture sets maximum rates, revised each year and applied by the meter. The price therefore depends on distance, duration and which tariff applies (day/night, loaded or empty return).
What do the A, B, C and D tariffs on the meter mean?
A = daytime ride with a return fare; B = the same at night, on Sundays or public holidays; C = daytime ride with an empty return; D = empty return at night, Sundays or public holidays. C and D are higher per kilometre because the taxi drives back without a passenger.
Can I know the price before the ride?
Yes, for airport transfers, station pick-ups and long-distance trips: the amount is confirmed before departure, as a free quote by phone or WhatsApp.
Do I get a receipt?
Yes. A receipt is issued automatically above the regulatory threshold, and on request below it — handy for expense claims.
What is the difference between a taxi and a VTC in Bordeaux?
A taxi charges a fare regulated by the prefecture, with a meter and a displayed fare sheet. A VTC sets its own price, announced when booking. Only taxis may be hailed on the street and use reserved lanes.
Booking
Book your ride
For an immediate ride or an advance booking, call me directly or message me on WhatsApp. I'll confirm your pickup as soon as possible.
Or by email: [email protected]