Immerse yourself in this wine world capital.
Bordeaux is where you go to relax and indulge. Slow and hearty, it feels like a lazy afternoon with an old friend. It embodies the French notion of ‘l’art de vivre’: a place to savour simple pleasures, linger over moments, and prioritise quality above quantity, though there is quantity enough for those who want that too. Whilst there is no shortage of things to do in and around the La Perle d’Aquitaine (Pearl of Aquitaine), the real joy lies in the sunshine, small-plates and world-class selection of fine wines.
A self-guided history tour avec le vin
Bordeaux is highly walkable. A self-guided route through the historic centre takes in grand boulevards and winding streets, with plenty of opportunities to stop at wine bars along the way. Begin at Place des Quinconces, a vast square lined with monuments and ornate fountains, which frequently hosts fairs and markets, including one of the region’s largest flea markets. From here, stop at La Vinotheque wine cellar for a glass of vintage before continuing to Place de la Bourse.
Bordeaux’s iconic 18th century square is framed by neoclassical architecture, which now houses the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the National Museum of Customs and the Central Pavillion. Yet it is the newest addition to this historic square which attracts the most attention. Between the tramway and the river sits the Miroir d’eau (Water Mirror), the world’s largest reflecting pool and most photographed monument in Bordeaux. On warm days it can double as a place to cool off, though a glass at nearby Blouge wine bar, is arguably a better option.
Continue south to the La Porte Cailhau, the castle-like city gate topped with slate-blue spires, then on to Pont de Pierre, a 17-arch bridge spanning the Garonne River. Loop back towards Place des Quinconces and finish up in the beautifully designed Le Bar à Vin which stocks the full Bordeaux range – reds, dry and sweet whites, rosés, clairets and sparkling wines – and is very good value for money.
A ‘sensory experience’ at La Cité du Vin (The City of Wine)
Contrary to how it sounds, Le Cité du Vin is much more than giant wine bar. In fact, it is a giant carafe. It’s shiny, silver base sits amongst bushy green foliage, like a snake curled around itself. Its neck a vertical rise of tall glass shards, with dashes of yellow and green to make it shimmer. Inside, Le Cité du Vin is a cultural centre dedicated to the living heritage of wine, spanning centuries and continents. The permanent exhibition culminates at the 8th floor Belvedere bar, where a tasting is paired with panoramic views over the city. Alongside traditional tastings, the museum offers immersive ‘sensory’ experiences, pairing wines with sound, light and artistic installations to transport you through the seasons.
Just across the road, Les Halles Bacalan brings together regional producers, serving everything from Arcachon Bay seafood to local cheeses and charcuterie – an ideal spot to continue tasting.
A visit to Darwin’s organic micro-winery
On the right bank is, Darwin, an ‘urban ecosystem’ built on a former military barrack and known for its street art and sustainability focus. Since launching in 2011, it has grown into a hub for organic food, locally roasted coffee and craft be
A Bordeaux sub-city wouldn’t be complete without a winery. La Micro Winerie was set up in 2021, using organic and biodynamic farming methods to produce wine from hand-picked grapes. The organic wine is produced where it is sold; a convenient and deliberate move. By bringing the production site to the wine bar, guests can learn about wine production without going to a chateau to visit a cellar. Tastings are informal and on-the-house, with bottles available to take away – including Zephyr, a crisp sauvignon–sémillon blend.
In the wine hills of Saint-Émillion
A short train ride from Bordeaux, the medieval town of Saint-Émillion, sits among rolling wine hills, streaked with grape vines, and dotted with charming chateaux. The town was awarded UNESCO world heritage status on account of its Romanesque architecture, and history of wine-making which dates back to 56 BC.
Today, the area is home to over 800 wineries. Whilst best known for its rich reds, the town’s wine bars, which line the steep narrow streets, showcase the wider regional offering. For those without wheels, there are a number of vineyards in walking distance of Saint-Émillion, bicycles available for hire, and the Le Train des Grands Vignobles (mini tourist train) which operates on loop.
With so much choice, it’s worth combining a wine bar for variety, a cellar for a behind-the-scenes experience, and a vineyard to drink in your surroundings, and then some. The gorgeous Chateau Sansonnet provides the perfect setting for just that.
Essentials
Getting there and around
Several UK airports offer flights to Bordeaux (BOD). Flights to Bordeaux are available from London Gatwick (LGW), London Luton (LTN), London City (LCY), and Heathrow (LHR). Other airports like Bristol (BRS), Edinburgh (EDI), Manchester (MAN), Birmingham (BHX), and Belfast International (BFS) also offer flights to Bordeaux.
When to go
Visit between May and October for pleasant weather and blooming vineyards. The harvest season in September and October is particularly magical, with vineyards at their most beautiful and winemaking in full swing.
Where to stay
Bordeaux offers a wide range of accommodation prices, with budget options starting around £24 per night and luxury hotels reaching upwards of £214 per night. There are also unique accommodation options such as castles, with prices starting an £240 per night.