The Perfect Weekend Trip to Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned wine, is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to explore a beautiful French city, Bordeaux has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of your weekend in Bordeaux!
Stay: Floirac
We chose to stay in an Airbnb in Floirac, a charming suburb of Bordeaux. Its quiet, residential atmosphere provided a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. It is a good option if you’re looking for a more affordable option while still getting proximity to the city center.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Bordeaux
Morning:
We began our day with a visit to the famous lion statue, an iconic landmark that symbolizes the strength and pride of Bordeaux. After snapping some photos, we walked across the beautiful bridge that spans the Garonne River, offering stunning views of the city.
Our first stop for food was La Boulangerie, where we enjoyed fresh pastries and coffee. The buttery croissants and rich coffee were the perfect start to our day.
Midday:
We then strolled down Rue Saint Catherine, Bordeaux’s bustling shopping street. It was filled with a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, and lively cafes. We did some window shopping and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere.
For lunch, we grabbed a freshly baked baguette from a local bakery. The bread was incredibly fresh and delicious, a testament to French baking excellence.
In the afternoon, we rented bikes and took a leisurely ride along the river walk. The scenic path offered beautiful views of the Garonne River and the city’s historic buildings.
Evening:
For dinner, we headed to Brasserie l’Orleans. We sampled traditional French dishes like soft cheese and steak frites. While the food was decent, we would recommend exploring other dining options in Bordeaux for a more memorable meal. La Tupina looked really good and I think we would opt for this restaurant on our next trip!
Day 2: Pastries and Wine Adventures
Morning:
We started our second day with more delectable pastries at Boulangerie Louis Lamour. The pastries here were simply amazing, offering a delightful start to our day.
Day two was dedicated to exploring Bordeaux’s famous wine culture. Our first stop was a wine tasting session. It was a fun and educational experience where we learned about different wine varieties and the art of wine tasting, including the proper way to spit wine, which is a necessary skill when sampling many wines since getting drunk will impair your judgement!
Midday/Evening:
Next, we visited the Cité du Vin, a large wine museum that delves into the history and process of wine-making. The museum’s interactive exhibits and extensive information made it a fascinating visit for wine lovers and history buffs!
If you’re a wine enthusiast and willing to splurge a little more, we would recommend taking a tour of the wine region through one of the local guides. There are plenty of options to choose from and the price ranges from $100-$150 per person.
Next, we visited the Marché des Capucins, Bordeaux’s largest and oldest market. Here, we marveled at the array of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and other local delicacies. It’s a fantastic place to sample regional specialties and experience the vibrant market atmosphere.
Conclusion
Bordeaux is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and gastronomy. Whether you’re biking along the river, savoring fresh French pastries, or immersing yourself in the world of wine, there’s always something to enjoy. Our weekend in Bordeaux was filled with memorable moments, and we hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to this enchanting city.
Dining
La Boulangerie $$
A charming bakery offering fresh pastries and coffee, perfect for a delicious breakfast.
Brasserie l’Orleans $$
Offers traditional French cuisine, including soft cheese and steak frites. An okay choice, but there are many other dining options to explore in Bordeaux.
Boulangerie Louis Lamour $
Highly recommended for its amazing pastries. A must-visit for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
General Tips for Visiting Bordeaux
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Bordeaux is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are in full bloom.
Transportation: Renting bikes is a great way to explore Bordeaux. The city is bike-friendly and offers scenic routes along the river and through the vineyards.
Wine Tasting: Bordeaux is famous for its wine, so make sure to visit local vineyards and the Cité du Vin museum. Book wine tastings in advance to ensure availability.
Shopping: Rue Saint Catherine is the main shopping street in Bordeaux, offering a mix of high-end boutiques and local shops.
FAQ
What are the must-see attractions in Bordeaux?
Must-see attractions include the famous lion statue, Rue Saint Catherine, and the Cité du Vin museum. Don’t miss a bike ride along the river for stunning views.
How many days should I spend in Bordeaux?
Spending 2-3 days in Bordeaux allows you to explore its main sights, enjoy its renowned cuisine, and delve into its rich wine culture.
What is the best area to stay in Bordeaux?
Floirac is a great option for its quiet, residential feel and proximity to the city center that’s more affordable. Other popular areas include the historic district and the Chartrons neighborhood.
How do I get around Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is very walkable and bike-friendly. Public transportation, including trams and buses, is also available for getting around the city.
