Rivaled perhaps only by Champagne and Napa, there is no area in the world more closely associated with its fabulous vineyards than Bordeaux. Located in the southwest of France, not far from the Bay of Biscay, Bordeaux offers more vineyards—more than 100,000—than you could possibly try, but there’s glory even in just scratching the surface. The crescent-shaped city of Bordeaux, found along the Garonne River, has been the region’s wine capital for decades, with its illustrious past on display in the Golden Triangle area’s ornate buildings. Granted, in the not too distant past, Bordeaux was plagued by pollution, traffic jams, and urban decay. But today, when you travel to Bordeaux you’ll find a revitalized village, charming, 18th-century buildings, a pedestrian-friendly city center, and a thriving waterfront area with chic boutiques and cafés. There’s also world-class art, as well as theater and dining. Read on in this Bordeaux region travel guide to start planning your trip.
Things Not to Miss in the Bordeaux Region
• Taking the two-hour wine tasting course—available in English or French—at Maison du Vin de Bordeaux, located near the Golden Triangle
• Splurging on art at Le Passage Saint Michel, where you can find anything from Renaissance pieces to mid-20th-century treasures.
• Sampling creative dishes—like tomato ice cream—at La Tupiña.
• Explore Bordeaux’s city center, St-Michel, and the Flêche St-Michel tower, one of the tallest medieval stone towers in France
When to Go to the Bordeaux Region
The prime time for Bordeaux travel is between June and August: that’s when most French and other Europeans visit Bordeaux. For fewer crowds and lower rates, come in spring, or autumn. One downfall of coming in fall: starting in September, the wineries start doing their harvests, and some don’t allow visitors. While it can get chilly, a December visit to Bordeaux is very Christmas-festive.
No matter the season, you might get some rain in Bordeaux: spring and fall can see frequent showers, and so can the otherwise hot summers.
DON'T MISS
A two-hour wine tasting course—available in English or French—at Maison du Vin de Bordeaux, located near the Golden Triangle.
Splurging on art at Le Passage Saint Michel, where you can find anything from Renaissance pieces to mid-20th-century treasures.
Sampling creative dishes—like tomato ice cream—at La Tupiña.
RECOMMENDED LINKS
For more to see and do in Bordeaux, visit NileGuide-
15 Places You Can Stay for Free Around the World
Traveling the world can get pricey, which is why it’s great when you can find free accommodation.Whether you’re looking to hike through America’s... Read More
-
You Can Stay in a Castle in French Wine Country for As Little As $184 a Night
There are no shortage of options for travelers looking to take a wine vacation. Napa Valley, Tuscany, Mendoza — the diversity of these far-flung wine... Read More
-
This River Cruise Through Bordeaux Is All About Wine, Cheese, Oysters, and Lavish Châteaux
The forecast had called for clouds with a chance of rain, not the Great Flood. Half-drunk and fully drenched, Michelle and I pedaled furiously through... Read More
-
If This Marathon With 23 Wine Tastings Doesn't Make You Want to Run, Nothing Will (Video)
If your idea of a triathlon consists of an appetizer, entrée, and wine pairing, there’s a marathon in France that should excite your athletic instincts... Read More
-
A Direct London-to-Bordeaux Train Line Could Whisk You Away to Wine Country
It’s been nearly 24 years since the Chunnel — the over 31-mile rail tunnel connecting England to France under the English Channel — first opened. If you... Read More
-
'Disruptive' Woman Suspected of Sneaking Bottle of Liquor Onto Flight Before Causing 800-mile Diversion
Let it be known to all the travelers out there: your airline is (probably) not BYOB.Having a small drink on board is perfectly fine for adults flying on... Read More
-
There’s an Entire Trail of Free Cabins for Hikers Exploring Bordeaux
Those looking to explore Bordeaux’s natural offerings can take advantage of free accommodations that have been set up for hikers and nature enthusiasts... Read More
-
Bordeaux Is Changing—for the Better
I confess I came late to Bordeaux. My experience with wine began as a kid growing up in Buffalo in the 1950s. My paternal grandfather, Gaetano, who... Read More
-
The Top Trending Destinations for Families in 2017
When you're traveling with family, not any destination will do.While a quiet seaside resort could be the perfect getaway for two, it could prove too... Read More
-
Here's Why You Need to Travel to Bordeaux, a Wine Gem Made New
Winemakers and wine professionals in Bordeaux routinely begin the history of this year’s harvest with an anecdote from a few hundred years ago. Speaking... Read More
-
Visit France for Only $485 Round-Trip
Today The Flight Deal found an impressive sale for destinations scattered across France.For trips departing between January and March, travelers... Read More
-
French Wine Marathon Tests Competitors Strength of Stomach
Médoc, France—in the Bordeaux wine region—is preparing to host its annual wine marathon Saturday.The event is a full-length marathon of 42 kilometers,... Read More
-
The Best International Cities for Food
No matter where in the world you’re traveling, you’re going to eat. And if you plan to make that a very important part of your trip (which we suggest... Read More
-
Drink Your Way Through The World’s Wines At This Massive New Museum
There’s a new museum in Bordeaux that belongs on every wine lover’s bucket list. La Cité du Vin (which translates to “the city of wine”) will open on... Read More
-
The Best Beaches in France
Too often, travelers heading to France overlook some of the best the country has to offer. Beachgoers don’t look beyond Cannes and St. Tropez,... Read More