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Diane Geddie, Product & Short Break Specialist

"Bordeaux’s greatness can be appreciated when you witness the triangle heart of the city, the Triangle-d’Or, and the mesmerising Palais de la Bourse by night, it is a wonderful city for relaxing and exploring. Bordeaux is a vibrant city bursting with youthful energy and wine-lovers must visit for the famous wine, but also to visit La Cite du Vin which is the cultural centre dedicated to international wine and its history, which I highly recommend. It is very interesting, and the rooftop gallery is the unique venue to not only sample the wines of the world but to take photos of the stunning views of 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 18th 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.

Important information
Population 239,157
Languages French
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Distance from airports
Bordeaux-Merignac Airport 13km

Tours and Excursions

Bordeaux Walking Tour

Discover this charming city on a private tour with a local guide who will give you an insight into its history and culture. Marvel at the magnificent buildings such as the Grand Theatre, designed by the French architect, Victor Louis, and the Gothic St Andre Cathedral, and admire the Mirror of Water at Place de la Bourse.

Medoc or St-Emilion Tour

Choose either the Medoc or St-Emilion wine region and enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting departing from Bordeaux. You will pass through scenic countryside and visit two wine producing châteaux, tasting a variety of wines accompanied by local bread, cheese and cured meats. The tour will end with a wine workshop to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of French wines.    

Small-Group Wine Tour with Lunch

This full-day wine tour will take you to three wineries; a Grand Cru Classé winery in the Graves region, a family-owned wine estate in Loupiac or Cérons and an estate in Saint-Emilion, where you will taste a variety of red and white wines. Enjoy a traditional French picnic lunch by the vines and stroll the charming streets of the village of Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.