City Breaks in Bordeaux

Bordeaux at a glance

The southwestern French town of Bordeaux provides a relaxed character vibrant with neoclassical architecture, pedestrianised boulevards and some of the world’s most renowned wines. Listed as “an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble” by UNESCO, Bordeaux was named a World Heritage Site in 2007. Renovations have created a sumptuous mix of both historic and modern designs to enjoy along with a re-emerging waterfront that offers a thriving hot spot for boutiques, cafes and museums along the scenic Garonne River.

Wine is an undeniable part of Bordeaux’s history, with wine production first recorded in the region sometime before 70 AD. During the 18^th century the city entered a golden age of growth, with the construction of many of its present buildings that served as inspiration for the less glorious Paris of the time. Today the ‘wine capital of the world’ also serves as the capital of the Aquitaine region.
 

Perfect if you’re looking for:

• Art and culture
• Stunning architecture
• Indulgent food and wine

Getting around

Much of the city center of Bordeaux is pedestrianised, making it easy to enjoy the major sites on foot. There is also a bus service and tram line that connects different areas of the city, as well as a ferry service that operates along the riverfront. Tickets can be purchased based on the number of journeys desired in multiples of 1, 5, or 10 journeys as well as day and weekly passes.

For those looking to pedal their way through the city, bike lanes and a popular VCUB bike share program encourages cycling in the city.

Dining in Bordeaux

With the Atlantic Ocean nearby, shellfish are a plentiful part of Bordeaux’s cuisine, while the neighbouring countryside provides an earthy, traditional touch to a refined regional gastronomy. Not to be missed, the award-winning wines of Bordeaux are plentiful and varied. Be sure to enjoy a wine tasting on one of the many vineyard tours available in the region.

Must-try local dishes

• Entrecôte sauce au vin – rib steak cooked in a gravy consisting of Bordeaux wine, butter, and shallots.
• Confit de canard – a traditional French dish prepared with salt cured duck leg poached in duck fat.
• Canelé – a small, fluted cake flavoured with rum and vanilla that has a caramelized crust and custard center.

Shopping in Bordeaux

There is a lot of hustle and bustle on the shopping streets of Bordeaux, and with reason, this elegant city boasts large department stores, luxury brands and unique Parisian couturiers, jewellers and leather goods shops. The characterful shopfronts of independent boutiques are dotted across the Triangle and Old Bordeaux.

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

• All travel and transfers on days of your choice
• Accommodation from our handpicked range of hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.