Bordeaux hotels

Hotels in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France, is perfect for city breaks and laid-back summer getaways. The pace here is relaxed, yet the city's regeneration gives it a fresh and modern outlook.

Take a wine tour or casual walk during the day, and relax in a refined Bordeaux hotel in the evening. The area has a reputation for the finer things in life, so even at the city's budget Bordeaux hotels you'll receive a 5-star welcome.

Sightseeing

Close to half of the city is listed by UNESCO, making it the largest single World Heritage Site in Europe. The area is known as Port of the Moon, spanning the harbour and the old town.

Place de la Bourse, one of Bordeaux's landmarks, is at the port. At night, the Miroir d'eau reflecting pool mirrors the building's illuminations, creating a beautiful optical illusion.

Bordeaux has been nicknamed ‘little Paris', and the pedestrian avenues and pavement cafés make the city feel very much like the capital. Paris is also the only city in France to claim more protected buildings than Bordeaux's 347.

Bordeaux, the wine region

The city and the wider area of Bordeaux are known for producing some of the best wines in the world. It also hosts Vinexpo every year.

Going on a wine tasting during your visit is a must. Bordeaux wine has been made since the eighth century, and the region has thousands of chateaux to choose from. Wine tours head out from the city on a daily basis.

Tastings can be family friendly, as a number of chateaux welcome kids. Activities are usually offered in English to keep things simple.

Getting around

When it comes to public transport, Bordeaux is very well connected. At the turn of the 21st century, the mayor rapidly upgraded the city's transport systems. Most tourist guides advise not using the car, as traffic jams are common and parking spaces are rare.

Gare Saint Jean is the main rail station, with trains stopping at Paris, Marseille, Nice and Toulouse. The city also has an extensive tram network. A unique power system at ground level preserves the unspoilt view of buildings alongside the tram lines.

As the city sits on both sides of the River Garonne, there are numerous bridges across. Pont de Pierre was the first to be built, finished in 1822. A ferry service also stops off at several points, perfect for river cruising.