A guide to Bordeaux

Paris has been in the spotlight this year, but the capital certainly isn't the only French city worth shouting about. The vibrant Bordeaux has much to offer the European traveller. From foodie hot spots and plentiful wine to scenic walks and fascinating museums, this beautiful gem in the Southwest of France has romantic city break written all over it.

When to go
City breaks are often known for being a good option year-round. Bordeaux is no exception—there are things to do come rain or shine.

During the warmer months, you can take a stroll around the lush green park, or along the river. If you walk from the Cite Du Vin into the centre, you get a lovely view of the city at the other end of the water. Relax at a restaurant in the square with a cold beer or glass of wine in-hand.

As the weather gets colder, the city gets cosier. Bordeaux is known for experiencing relatively mild winters. If you don’t mind the occasional rainy day, it is a great time to visit for fantastic museums and fewer crowds. It would be an excellent time to crack open a warming bottle of red, too.

Getting around
Arriving by air is easy, with the airport sitting around 40 minutes outside the centre by tram. Transport around the centre itself is also easier by tram. You can buy a travelcard at the tram stop, with a set number of uses, and simply tap on and tap off. Bordeaux is also fun to explore on foot, with beautiful streets and architecture at every turn, or by bike. There are plenty of powered and hire bikes in the centre, so why not give these a try and take a picturesque cycle along the waterfront?

Things to do

Cite du vin/Bassins des Lumières
Along the river, you’ll find the wine museum. This uniquely-shaped building offers immersive exhibits to teach you all about the process and history of wine-making. Wine tastings are also available at this interactive and sensory experience, to enhance your visit. Pair what you’ve learned with samples of the real thing.

For more immersive experiences, visit Bassins des Lumières. This digital arts centre is housed in Bordeaux’s old submarine base. Created by Cultural Spaces in 2020 to give a new life to the second world war base, this venue holds immersive exhibits using light and projections.

Plage du lac (little beach)
If your visit is during the summer months, you can head to this lovely little city beach. Feel the sand between your toes just ten minutes outside the centre. Calm shores, lifeguards, and an enclosed swimming area—a slice of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, without having to leave it!

Rock Climbing
For those who like to combine their travels with an adrenaline rush, there is the recently opened rock climbing wall at Renaissance Bordeaux. The hotel has made a feature of the old grain silos which stand on the land, and they have now become host to open-air climbing walls, too. Wave to those below and get a unique view of the city from 33 metres up. This is the highest urban climbing site in France.

Foodie Haven

Bordeaux is full of small cafes and restaurants. The seating and tables spill out into the main square, creating a lovely buzz. Many of these small venues are culinary institutions, which give great soul to their food and reflect the histories and unique flavours of the region. We recommend La Tupina, for those who eat meat, which offers free-range meats, fresh vegetables, carefully curated cheeses, and delicious wines. It sits in the city’s historic district and welcomes you with a warm and rustic charm.

Les Halles de Balacin
This food hall sits further towards the outskirts of the city and offers a trendy venue away from the busy centre. It is warm and vibrant, with an array of food choice. A board of wonderfully tender steak and fries? Got you covered. Potatas Bravas, smothered in a tasty cheese sauce? Absolutely. Whatever you’re feeling—be it pasta, cheese, curry, fish, or wine (of course) —this is the place to be. For views over the city, you can head up to the top of the hotel next door—Gina’s bar and restaurant has a rooftop terrace.

A trip to wine country
Perfectly placed for excursions into the French countryside, Bordeaux allows you to visit wine country with ease. Take the train from Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean—the station is a lovely building to admire in its own right before you board.

Saint Emillion is an excellent day-trip. This small commune in Gironde is quaint and picturesque. With small vendors, rolling green hills, and pretty views galore, this stop’s old-town charm will win over even the non-wine-lovers on your trip. Browse boutique shops, admire the surroundings from the viewpoints, and enjoy a croque-monsieur for lunch at the bottom of the hill. We recommend booking a tasting at one of the walkable vineyards here for an interesting talk on the region’s wine production. If you’re lucky, you might even get to try some delicious dark chocolate paired with a deep and fragrant red.