The city of Bordeaux, in southwestern France, is like the smooth wines you’ll find there − an elegant city with breathtaking architecture and a rich history. It’s a charming destination, to which you can now fly directly from Malta.
With the Garonne River at its heart, it boasts a charming blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy so whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a picturesque summer getaway, Bordeaux is the perfect destination for a weekend break.
Bordeaux’s historic centre
The perfect way to start your trip is with a stroll through Bordeaux’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with baroque-era facades and art nouveau town houses. Stop for your Instagram shot in the city’s well-preserved 18th-century architecture, best admired in the Place de la Bourse, an elegant square that reflects beautifully in the Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool.
Then head west to Rue Sainte-Catherine, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe, to browse the boutique stores, take coffee in cafés, and enjoy the regular street performances. The street, which divides the city in two along a north-south axis, has been almost entirely pedestrianised since 1984 so it’s a great place to amble.
From Place de la Comédie, where the Grand Théâtre stands, to the impressive bronze and marble Theimer Column Place de la Victoire, it’s about 1,250 metres long, so that’s 2.5km of window-shopping: make sure you’ve got comfy shoes and a roomy shoulder bag or two.
Your next stop should be the Gothic-style Saint-André Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century, then climb the adjacent Pey Berland Tower for a stunning panoramic view of the city. And if you’re a fan of art and culture, the Musée des Beaux-Arts houses an impressive collection of European paintings from the Renaissance to the modern era, including masterpieces by painters from Brueghel to Picasso.
The ultimate wine experience
No visit to Bordeaux is complete without indulging in its world-famous wines. The city is the gateway to some of France’s most prestigious vineyards, the region’s quarter of a million acres produces 800 million bottles a year. It’s easy to take a bus trip to the Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Pessac-Léognan wine regions, to tour historic châteaux, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in tastings of the finest Bordeaux blends.
For a wine experience in the city itself, La Cité du Vin is a futuristic architectural marvel: its seamlessly circular design was inspired by the shapes of gnarled vines, wine swirling in a glass, and eddies on river Garonne, a fluidity that continues inside. This wine museum offers interactive exhibits, wine tastings, and panoramic views from its top-floor bar, and it’s an excellent way to understand the deep connection between Bordeaux and its winemaking heritage.
Savour Bordeaux’s culinary delights
Bordeaux’s gastronomic scene is as impressive as its wines. Start your day with a traditional canelé, a small pastry with a caramelized crust and custard-like centre that’s not very similar from a cannoli, in case you’re wondering. For lunch or dinner, try entrecôte à la Bordelaise, a deliciously chic steak dish cooked in a rich red wine sauce. (If that doesn’t float your boat, don’t worry: there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too.)
The city’s vibrant markets, such as Marché des Capucins, offer a chance to sample other local specialties like fresh oysters from the nearby Arcachon Bay, artisanal cheeses, and charcuterie. Bordeaux also boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a paradise for food lovers.
Relaxing by the river and beyond
A leisurely walk or bike ride along the Garonne River offers scenic views of Bordeaux’s quays and bridges. For something a little more bohemian, The Darwin Ecosystem is a avante-garde and creative urban zone of street art and cafes, that buzzes with a modern, eco-conscious vibe.
If you have extra time, escape from the city on a day trip to the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, which breathtaking ocean views. It’s an hour by train to the nearby town of La Teste de Buch and then a taxi to the dunes will take just over ten minutes and cost you approximately €20.
What to watch beforehand: The original Les Misérables directed by Robert Hossein which was filmed in several locations in the Bordeaux region, including the city itself.
What to read en route: The Summer Queen by Elizabeth Chadwick, in which this 12th century heroine sets off from Bordeaux to marry the young prince Louis of France.
Plan ahead: direct flights to Bordeaux with Volotea airlines begin at the end of May.
