Nowadays, Bordeaux is one of the tourists’ favourite. It was nicknamed the Sleeping Beauty as its touristic development took more time than in Paris or Marseille. The city is stunning and offers an incredible combination of culture and art-de-vivre. It is located in Westerner France, near the Atlantic Ocean and within the greatest wine producing area in the world. If you have visited Paris, Marseille, or Lyon, you may be surprised by Bordeaux. As the city is becoming increasingly popular, you should plan a visit soon! Here are our top tips to plan a great visit to Bordeaux and to make the most of your time there.
How to get to Bordeaux?
Nowadays it is very easy to get there. The quickest way is via plane: you will land at Bordeaux International Airport after a 1h40min flight from London. After a quick taxi ride, you will be in the heart of the city. You can also take public transport and reach the centre in less than 1 hour. Flights from London to Bordeaux can be found for as little as £20.00 return with low-cost companies.
The train is a very credible alternative. Indeed, travelling from London St Pancras to Bordeaux now only takes 6 hours. It is due to the brand new high-speed track between Tours and Bordeaux. If you are after a comfy trip without the hassle of going to the airport, the train is probably the best option for you. However, it is not the cheapest option as a return trip ticket will set you back £140.00.
Where to stay in Bordeaux?
Due to its 18th-century city centre, Bordeaux has a sense of grand like no other. You will find several luxurious hotels like the Intercontinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel or La Grand Maison de Bernard Magrez. These 2 prestigious hotels are in the heart of the city and you will be able to reach most of the landmarks walking. If you plan to discover Bordeaux and its region, we would recommend Les Sources de Caudalie or Le Saint-James that offers a beautiful view of the city.
Airbnb is another option if you prefer to stay in an apartment and to “live like a local”. We recommend you the area of the Chartrons as there is a very creative vibe and you will definitely discover brilliant innovative shops and restaurant!
Our good addresses:
Intercontinental Le Grand Hotel (£££)
La Grand Maison de Bernard Magrez (£££)
Les Sources de Caudalie (£££)
Le Saint-James (£££)
What to do in Bordeaux?
Last time she visited, Queen Elizabeth II said that Bordeaux is “the very essence of elegance”. The 18th-century architecture of the city centre is now listed UNESCO World Heritage. The monumental heart of the city is the Golden Triangle, located between the Allées de Tourny, Cours de l’Intendance and Cours Clemenceau. We encourage you to wander from the Golden Triangle to the Miroir d’Eau. It is a spectacular fountain showing the reflection of the beautiful Place de la Bourse. Definitely one of the most iconic locations in the world!
Bordeaux is in the heart of arguably the best wine producing region in the world. You can either take a day trip to the Medoc, the Pomerol, Saint-Emilion or the Graves and visit a few chateaux. Instead of renting a car, we would recommend a private hire or a bus. The Tourism Bureau will be able to give you more details to find the best offer for you.
Also, you may want to have a coffee and enjoy a canelé from Baillardran or La Toque Cuivree. This unusual pastry is an icon in Bordeaux, and you can bring some home to share with your family or your friends.
C’est parti! And now let’s go!
In summary, the Sleeping Beauty has it all: elegance, culture, good food and wine. We are sure you will enjoy your visit there. Before you travel, make sure your passport is up to date. If you need to renew your passport, click here to discover our guide >
- Eight things you did not know about Austria - July 6, 2020
- Ten things you did not know about Denmark - June 22, 2020
- Are you ready to visit Disneyland, the “Best Place on Earth”? - May 9, 2020
