The Wine Capital of the World: Elegance, History, and Viticulture
Bordeaux, the capital of France’s Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a city that seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern innovation. Known worldwide for its exceptional wines, Bordeaux offers visitors a perfect mix of architectural beauty, gastronomic delights, and cultural richness. From its UNESCO-listed city center to the surrounding vineyards, Bordeaux provides an unforgettable French experience that goes beyond its famous vintages.
Essential Bordeaux Information
- Language: French (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Timezone: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1 (UTC+2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Tipping: Service is usually included in restaurant bills. Additional tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Where to Stay in Bordeaux: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
La Bastide
Located on the right bank of the Garonne River, La Bastide offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center. This up-and-coming neighborhood boasts the beautiful Parc aux Angéliques and provides stunning views of Bordeaux’s left bank. It’s perfect for those seeking a more local experience.
Saint-Michel
Saint-Michel is a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere and historic charm. Home to the Gothic Basilica of St. Michael and a popular flea market, this area offers an authentic slice of Bordeaux life and is ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Chartrons
Once the heart of Bordeaux’s wine trade, Chartrons has transformed into a chic neighborhood filled with antique shops, trendy cafes, and art galleries. Its picturesque streets and proximity to the river make it a favorite among visitors looking for a blend of history and modern amenities.
Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle, formed by Cours Clemenceau, Cours de l’Intendance, and Allées de Tourny, is the heart of Bordeaux’s city center. This area is home to stunning 18th-century architecture, high-end shops, and numerous restaurants. It’s ideal for those who want to be in the middle of the action.
Bacalan
Bacalan, in the north of Bordeaux, is an up-and-coming neighborhood that’s quickly becoming a cultural hotspot. Home to the striking La Cité du Vin wine museum and the Les Halles de Bacalan food market, it offers a glimpse into Bordeaux’s future while honoring its maritime past.
Must-See Sights in Bordeaux
- Place de la Bourse: An iconic 18th-century square with the famous Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
- La Cité du Vin: A modern, interactive museum dedicated to the history of wine.
- Cathédrale Saint-André: A majestic Gothic cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Grand Théâtre: One of the oldest wooden frame opera houses in Europe, known for its neoclassical architecture.
- Rue Sainte-Catherine: Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street.
- Grosse Cloche: A 15th-century bell tower and one of the oldest belfries in France.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts: One of the largest French museums outside Paris, housing an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.
Discover Bordeaux’s Hidden Gems
- Marché des Capucins: Known as the “belly of Bordeaux,” this covered market offers a wide array of local produce and delicacies.
- Jardin Public: A beautiful 18th-century park perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
- Submarine Base: A former WWII German submarine base turned into a unique cultural space hosting art exhibitions and performances.
- La Cité Fruges: A housing development designed by Le Corbusier, offering insight into early modernist architecture.
- Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion: An urban vineyard within Bordeaux city limits, offering tours and tastings.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Bordeaux Dishes
- Canelés: Small pastries flavored with rum and vanilla, with a caramelized crust.
- Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: Rib steak cooked in a sauce made with wine, butter, shallots, and bone marrow.
- Oysters from Arcachon Bay: Fresh, locally sourced oysters best enjoyed with a glass of white Bordeaux.
- Lamprey à la Bordelaise: A traditional dish made with lamprey eel cooked in red wine sauce.
- Macarons de Saint-Émilion: Delicate almond cookies originating from the nearby town of Saint-Émilion.
- Grenier Médocain: A type of pressed terrine made from pig stomach and various spices.
7 Essential Tips for Visiting Bordeaux
- Use the Tram: Bordeaux’s efficient tram system is an easy and affordable way to explore the city.
- Visit During Bordeaux Fête le Vin: If possible, plan your trip during this biennial wine festival in June for a unique experience.
- Explore by Bike: Take advantage of Bordeaux’s bike-sharing system, V3, to explore the flat city and its surroundings.
- Take a River Cruise: A cruise on the Garonne River offers a different perspective of the city’s beautiful architecture.
- Visit the Sunday Market: Experience local life at the vibrant Sunday market on the Quai des Chartrons.
- Book Wine Tours in Advance: Popular châteaux can be booked up months in advance, especially during peak season.
- Use the Bordeaux Métropole City Pass: This pass offers free entry to many museums and unlimited use of public transport.
How to Get to Bordeaux
Air: Bordeaux is served by one international airport:
- Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD): Located about 12 km west of the city center. It handles both domestic and international flights. The airport is connected to the city center by a dedicated bus service (Line 1) and taxis. A tram extension to the airport is expected to open in 2022, further improving accessibility.
Rail: Bordeaux is well-connected to the French and European rail network:
- Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean: The main railway station, located close to the city center. It’s served by high-speed TGV trains, connecting Bordeaux to Paris in just over two hours, as well as to other major French and European cities.
The station is integrated into Bordeaux’s public transport system, with tram and bus connections making it easy to reach your final destination in the city.
