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woman in white and red floral tank top and blue denim shorts running on black concrete - Photo by Ryan Ancill

Escape to the City of Charm: An Insider's Guide to

About Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is a charming French city known for its world-famous wines, historic architecture, and picturesque landscapes. This popular travel destination offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, from wine tastings and vineyard tours to stunning medieval buildings and museums. Discover all that Bordeaux has to offer on your next French adventure.

Bordeaux, France is a city that is well-known for its wine and stunning architecture. Located in southwestern France, it is the capital of the Gironde department. With its location on the banks of the Garonne River, it has long been an important port city.

There are many things to see and do in Bordeaux. One of the most popular attractions is the Place de la Bourse, a beautiful square that is home to the famous Water Mirror fountain. The square is surrounded by stunning 18th-century buildings, making it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. Other popular attractions include the Cité du Vin museum, which is dedicated to the history of wine, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which has an impressive collection of art from the 15th to the 20th century.

Bordeaux is also known for its incredible cuisine. The city is home to many restaurants that specialize in traditional French cuisine, as well as some that offer more contemporary dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include the local seafood, such as oysters and mussels, as well as the region's famous duck confit.

Of course, no visit to Bordeaux would be complete without a trip to one of the many wineries in the area. Bordeaux is home to some of the world's most famous vineyards, and there are many tours available for visitors who want to learn more about the history of wine in the region.

Overall, Bordeaux is a destination that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a foodie, a history buff, or a wine lover, you are sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful city. So why not plan your next trip to Bordeaux and discover all that this incredible destination has to offer?

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Popular Stays in Bordeaux, France

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Bordeaux, France

Located in the old wine merchants district, the 4-star Mercure Bordeaux Château Chartrons hotel is ideal for a family stay and a corporate seminar. Its beautiful Victorian facade lights up the neighborhood and its garden is conducive to relaxation. You will love the facilities: restaurant with terrace, fitness area, family rooms, large meeting rooms, everything is on hand for both work and leisure.
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Business hotelsHotels with charm

Best Western Premier Hotel Bayonne Etche Ona Bor

Our hotel is in the Golden Triangle of Bordeaux, made of two beautiful houses of the XVIIIth century, the Bayonne and the Etche-Ona began an important comprehensive renovation program that was 11 months long. Today we are sincerely delighted to invite you to discover a new story told with elegance, harmony and detail. The Bayonne located 4 rue Martignac welcomes you in an atmosphere Art Deco 1925-1930. The Etche-Ona located 11 rue Mautrec (at 40 meters far away) offer cabinet de curiosity – travel souvenirs atmosphere. Rooms and suites, just like the public areas offer exclusive services top of the range where comfort and latest technology go hand in hand. All the decoration, furniture, lighting, choice of materials, designs…have been done by us and for us. The color palettes are soft and shimmering through fine fabrics, the walls are punctuated with different wall patterns extremely elegant. Bathrooms are made in Corian (marble) and welcome you in a unique and exclusive setting. Our lounges of reception-bar welcome you for relaxation, but also to organize your working appointments. Wi-Fi is offered. In rooms: soundproofing, air conditioning, 40-inch TV with international channels, radio, alarm clock, telephone, mini-bar, coffee and tea facilities offer, professional Nespresso® in all of our rooms, personal safe, Wi-Fi offer, office stationery, deluxe bedding and duvet very comfortable made with vegetable/plant fiber, two sizes of pillow, totally obscuring curtains, bath or rain shower, cosmetic mirror, hair dryer, clothes line, handkerchief, NUXE® toiletries without paraben in essential oils. Bathrobe in suite, slippers in deluxe and suite. Services: Breakfast buffet or served in room, bar, meeting room, room service, laundry and pressing service, 24-hour reception desk, complimentary newspapers, business corner, shoe-shine machine, rooms for guests with limited mobility.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, discover Bordeaux through its monuments: Pey-Berland Tower; Place de la Bourse; Le Grand Théâtre; Les Quinconces & Pont de Pierre. Take time to check out the Garonne river walk, Dune of Pilat, Arcachon Bay, the Citadel of Blaye & Bordeaux's vineyards. 5 min: City Hall, Bordeaux University Hospital, courthouse, ice rink. 20 min: Universities, TGV station & exhibition center.
Don't miss out on recreational opportunities including a fitness center and bicycles to rent. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access and a banquet hall. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant or snacks in the hotel's 2 coffee shops/cafes. Mingle with other guests at the complimentary reception, held daily. Relax with a refreshing drink at one of the 2 bars/lounges. Buffet breakfasts are served on weekdays from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM and on weekends from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Make yourself at home in one of the 100 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring minibars (stocked with some free items) and flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment.
Located in the heart of Bordeaux, the Burdigala Hotel was completely refurbished in summer 2011, and its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere provides a welcome sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether traveling for business or leisure, come and enjoy the "urban chic" and warm welcome for which we are renowned.
Close to the Tauzia tramway stop, the Hotel Mercure Bordeaux Centre Gare is 450 metres from the station and the Place de la Bourse, a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. This modern hotel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms in a calm and soothing envir onment. Get to your business meetings or the tourist attractions of the town centre easily from the Saint-Jean district. In summer, relax on our restaurant patio.
Sitting at just a 5-minute drive from the Bordeaux-Mérignac airport, this hotel provides the perfect hub for anyone wishing to visit the famous Bordeaux Vineyards or just wants to explore the fabulous city itself. Business travellers will also enjoy the proximity of Palais des Congrès and the Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux, both just a 15-minute drive away. The complimentary airport shuttle service allows its guests to be relaxing on the sun loungers around the outdoor pool just minutes after stepping out of the arrivals terminal. Those are need little help to fight-off the jet lag can visit the sauna, while the fitness enthusiasts can go for a workout at the gym or a relaxed game of golf at any of the nearby courses. The onsite restaurant treats to delicious regional specialties, which are prepared with the freshest local seasonal produce.
Nostalgic French decor and UNESCO World Heritage architecture set the scene for your stay at InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. We have 13 elegant meeting rooms, Le Bordeaux restaurant, a bar, a rooftop and a gourmet restaurant inspired by Gordon Ramsay. You can also relax in the indoor swimming pool or book a massage in the Guerlain Spa.

Things to do in Bordeaux, France

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Bordeaux, France

Looking for a truly original excursion in the vineyard, source of good mood, of share and unexpected? Discover the Médoc vineyard in a mythical convertible car! Welcomed by a cultured and elegant chauffeur, you'll enjoy his funny and unknown anecdotes about Médoc. Along this excursion, you will have a visit to a grand cru classé from 1855 and a family estate. Each château will offer you the opportunity to taste between 2 and 3 of their wines. Your chauffeur will take the time to show you the well-known "route des châteaux", the village of Margaux as well as the world-famous Château Margaux. Do you have the spirit of an adventurer? If you wish, you can take the wheel of your 2CV on a small country road! * * You need to have a valid driving license with you. ** Each 2CV can take a maximum of 3 people (plus the chauffeur). If you book for 2 people you will have one 2CV. If you book for 6 people you will have two 2CVs, etc. When there are several 2CVs, we drive in convoy.
Revel in the world famous Médoc wine region where we visit one Chateau. The Medoc Tour offers the chance to see some of the most prestigious Chateaux of the Bordeaux wine region. We wind North through the Médoc Wine Route des Chateaux, visiting our long-time wine making friends along the way and tasting the best wines that the Médoc region has to offer. Taste delicious wine and learn all about the famous region of France where Cabernet Sauvignon originated.
Depart from the city center of Bordeaux aboard a van to discover the beautiful vineyards of the Margaux appellation and their wines. You will visit a first Chateau and enjoy a tasting of 3 wines, the opportunity to understand the specificities of this appellation. During your visit of the first Chateau, you will be able to admire the vineyards as far as the eye can see and discover the different grape varieties used to produce the wines of the Margaux appellation. You will also have the opportunity to discuss with wine experts who will explain the production and winemaking techniques. Then, you will pass by the famous “Chateau Margaux”, the opportunity to take a photo before going to your second guided tour in a 5th Grand Cru classified Chateau. You can then discover the history and architecture of this iconic castle while tasting at least 3 of their wines. This small-group tour in an ideal setting will allow you to learn about the art of wine and ask your questions to our guide!
Get onboard your 2CV and enjoy it convertible roof for an unforgettable visit of Bordeaux! During the tour, your chauffeur will reveal the most unexpected anecdotes that have made the history of the Gironde Capital... Along this ride, you will discover the must-see monuments and squares of Bordeaux, such as the Place de la Bourse and its famous water mirror, the Grand Théâtre or the Grosse Cloche. Your chauffeur will take you to emblematic spots of the city like the Chartrons district linked to the wine trade, or the Saint-Michel district known for its pleasant atmosphere. You will also pass on the other side of the Garonne River to enjoy a breathtaking view of the historic part of Bordeaux! At the end of your tour, Bordeaux will have no more secrets for you!  * Each 2CV can take a maximum of 3 people (plus the chauffeur). If you book for 2 people you will have one 2CV. If you book for 6 people you will have two 2CVs, etc. When there are several 2CVs, we drive in convoy.
Get onboard your 2CV for an unforgettable visit of Bordeaux! Your chauffeur will reveal the most unexpected anecdotes that have made the history of Girondine capital... During this ride, you will discover the must-see monuments and spots of Bordeaux, such as the Place de la Bourse and its water mirror or the emblematic Chartrons district. You will also enjoy a breathtaking view of the city on the other side of the Garonne River! Finally, you will appreciate a visit / wine-tasting at Château les Carmes Haut-Brion. Belonging to the Pessac-Léognan appellation, it is the only château still in Bordeaux! * Each 2CV can take a maximum of 3 people (plus the chauffeur). If you book for 2 people you will have one 2CV. If you book for 6 people you will have two 2CVs, etc. When there are several 2CVs, we drive in convoy. ** The visit / wine-tasting at Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion can take place at another château of the Pessac-Léognan appellation if this one is not available.
Play a city game where you will follow clues to discover amazing places in the old town part of Bordeaux, the French city that brims with well-preserved architecture. You will see some of the most fascinating urban gems on the banks of river Garonne, such as Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux or The Big Bell. Are you up for an adventure in Bordeaux? Discover iconic architectural landmarks: Church Notre Dame, Musée d'Aquitaine, and more. Find out what the cultural symbols of Port de la Lune are. Take a walk in a plaza with a reflecting pool! Discover Bordeaux’s fascinating history and attractions while you solve clues around the Old Town. Explore this charming city in France by playing a quest with your friends, significant other, or family. Each clue will lead you from one place to another by providing you with exact directions so you won't need a map, GPS, or guide. As you solve the problem and guess the answer, the secret story of that place is unlocked.
Embark on a city game around Brussels’ Old Town where you play the role of a brewer on a quest to discover the best beer recipe in town. Discover the most famous drinking places in Brussels, learn about Belgian beer, and discover local stories. Are you ready to walk on the most beautiful city square in Belgium- the magnificent Grand Place, check out the bar where you can drink literally thousands of beers and get to know the favorite bars of the Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte and French poet Charles Baudelaire? Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt. Each clue will lead you from one place to another by providing you with exact directions so you won't need a map, GPS, or guide. As you solve the problem and guess the answer, the secret story of that place is unlocked.
Visit the city with a passion for history, but also culture, whose goal is to help you discover some of the wonders of this city. A guide who knows how to transmit (also a teacher and comedian) and who always keeps smiling.

Why People Love Bordeaux, France

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Bordeaux, France

G
Garrett_S
5
Jul 2023
Our guide, Oceane, is terrific. We visited two very nice chateau and a fantastic chocolate shop. Oceane also showed us a relic in Bordeaux, the Palais Gallien, from the Roman era. So many people admired the old Citroen convertible!
P
Philipp_S
5
Aug 2023
I highly recommend this tour! Our tour guide was very friendly and showed us the city and 2 nice Châteaus. We had also nice tours on the win yards and for sure a good tasting. We were also able to drive the 2CV for a couple of minutes. If you search something special, do this tour - even if you a...
EK
Emma K
5
Jul 2019
We had a great time exploring the Médoc with our amazing French driver/guide, Renaud. It was great to try some local wines and see some of scenery outside the city centre. Would definitely recommend recommend this tour!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bordeaux

What are some must-visit attractions in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is known for its rich history and culture, and there are many attractions to visit. Here are some must-visit places: - La Cit du Vin: A unique museum dedicated to wine and its cultural heritage. Visitors can take part in wine tastings and various interactive exhibits. - Place de la Bourse: A beautiful square lined with 18th-century buildings and the famous Water Mirror. It's a great spot for a photo opportunity. - Saint-Andr Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. - Muse des Beaux-Arts: This fine arts museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building and features works by some of the greatest painters in history. - Jardin Public: A beautiful park that is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic with family and friends.

What are some of the best restaurants in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is known as a gastronomic capital and has a wealth of great restaurants. Here are some of the best: - Le Chapon Fin: A Michelin-starred restaurant that has been serving up gourmet cuisine since 1825. It's a great place for a special occasion. - La Tupina: A rustic and cozy restaurant that serves traditional Gascon cuisine. It's a great place to try local dishes like foie gras and confit de canard. - Le Gabriel: Another Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a contemporary take on French cuisine. The restaurant is housed in the beautiful Place de la Bourse. - Le Pressoir d'Argent: A restaurant located in the Grand Hotel de Bordeaux that is famous for its seafood and wine pairings. - L'Entrecte: A classic French steakhouse that is known for its delicious steak frites.

What are some popular activities to do in Bordeaux?

There are many activities to do in Bordeaux, including: - Wine tasting: Bordeaux is famous for its wine, and there are many vineyards and chateaus in the area that offer wine tastings and tours. - Cycling: Bordeaux has many beautiful bike paths that are perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. - Shopping: Bordeaux is a great place to shop for high-end fashion and designer goods. The city has many boutiques and shops that offer unique and stylish items. - Sightseeing: Bordeaux is a beautiful city with many historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can take a walking tour of the city or a boat tour along the Garonne River. - Relaxation: Bordeaux is also a great place to relax and unwind. The city has many parks and gardens where visitors can enjoy a picnic or a quiet stroll.

What is the best time of year to visit Bordeaux?

The best time to visit Bordeaux is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (April and October) or the low season (November to March). Keep in mind that the weather can be rainy and cold during the winter months.

What are some day trips from Bordeaux?

There are many great day trips you can take from Bordeaux, including: - Saint-Emilion: A beautiful medieval village that is famous for its wine and historic architecture. - Arcachon: A seaside town that is known for its oysters and beautiful beaches. - Dune du Pilat: The largest sand dune in Europe, located just a short drive from Bordeaux. - Mdoc: A wine-producing region that is home to some of the most famous vineyards in the world. - Bergerac: A charming town that is famous for its wine and historic architecture.

What are some kid-friendly activities in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a great destination for families, and there are many kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are some ideas: - Cap Sciences: An interactive science museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. - Grand Thtre: A beautiful theater that offers family-friendly shows and performances. - Zoo de Bordeaux Pessac: A zoo that is home to over 250 animals from around the world. - Darwin Ecosysteme: A cultural center that offers many activities for kids, including workshops, skateboarding, and urban agriculture. - Jardin Botanique: A beautiful botanical garden that is perfect for a family picnic or a relaxing stroll.

What is the nightlife like in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Here are some popular spots: - Le Comptoir du Jazz: A jazz club that offers live music and a cozy atmosphere. - Mama Shelter: A trendy rooftop bar that offers great views of the city. - La Guinguette Chez Alriq: A riverside bar that offers live music and a relaxed atmosphere. - Le Central do Brasil: A Brazilian bar that offers live music and a festive atmosphere. - Le Noailles: A wine bar that offers a wide selection of local wines and small plates.

What are some budget-friendly accommodations in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are some budget-friendly options: - Ibis Budget Bordeaux Centre Mriadeck: A budget hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms in the city center. - Airbnb: There are many affordable apartments and rooms available on Airbnb in Bordeaux. - Mama Shelter: A trendy hotel that offers affordable rooms and a fun atmosphere. - Hotel Stars Bordeaux Gare: A budget hotel that is located near the train station and offers clean and comfortable rooms. - Hotel ibis Bordeaux Centre Bastide: A budget hotel that is located across the river from the city center and offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What are some luxury accommodations in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is known for its luxury accommodations. Here are some of the best: - Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. - La Grande Maison de Bernard Magrez: A luxurious hotel that is located in a beautiful 19th-century mansion. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. - InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel: A luxurious hotel that is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. - Yndo Hotel: A luxurious hotel that is located in a beautiful 19th-century mansion. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. - Chteau Le Pape: A luxurious hotel that is located in a beautiful 18th-century chateau. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

What is the best way to get around Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a very walkable city, and many of the main attractions are located in the city center. However, if you want to explore further afield, there are many other transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to get around Bordeaux: - Tram: Bordeaux has a modern and efficient tram system that connects the city center with the surrounding suburbs. - Bus: Bordeaux also has a bus system that is run by the same company as the tram system. It's a great way to get around the city if you don't want to walk. - Bike: Bordeaux has a popular bike-sharing system called V. There are many bike stations located throughout the city, and it's a great way to explore the city on two wheels. - Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the city, but they can be expensive. - Car: If you want to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option. There are many car rental companies located in Bordeaux.