Travel around Bordeaux with Bobby
The reason I chose to enter Bordeaux was my fascination with the city’s wine culture; I wanted to see firsthand the land where some of the world’s best wines are produced. However, upon arriving in Bordeaux, I was captivated not just by its wines but also by its history and architecture. Walking along the tranquil riverside, through wide boulevards and impressive buildings, I felt the city’s high quality of life. Additionally, I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to savor some of the finest examples of French cuisine. In short, the richness and countless discoveries Bordeaux offers made it more than worth a visit for me.
Day 1First Steps into the Heart of Bordeaux: A Journey Begins with Wine
From the moment I arrived in Bordeaux, I felt the city’s captivating energy. I stayed at the InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel, located near Place des Quinconces, a luxurious hotel that reflects the city’s historical elegance. After settling in, I set out to explore.
My first stop was the iconic Place de la Bourse. Walking across the Miroir d’eau, the stunning reflecting pool, felt like the essence of Bordeaux was coming to life before my eyes. Next, I visited La Cité du Vin, a modern marvel dedicated to the city’s rich wine heritage. The museum tour was fascinating, offering deep insights into wine’s global significance, and the tastings made it even more memorable.
For dinner, I dined at Le Pressoir d’Argent Gordon Ramsay, where I enjoyed an unforgettable meal. The scallop starter was a particular highlight, showcasing the restaurant’s modern take on French cuisine. It was the perfect end to a day that celebrated the best of Bordeaux—its history, culture, and cuisine.
Starting my journey in Bordeaux by diving into its wine culture and exploring the historic center was a perfect introduction. Anyone looking to get to know the city should plan their first day like this; you can experience both the historical and cultural richness together.
Day 2 The Historical and Cultural Depth of Bordeaux
I started my second day in Bordeaux by visiting the remarkable Saint-André Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The sheer scale of the cathedral was impressive, with towering spires and finely detailed carvings that conveyed Bordeaux’s deep religious and historical significance. Walking through the grand interior, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of centuries of history. After exploring the cathedral, I climbed the Pey Berland Tower, which offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city. From that vantage point, I could truly appreciate how Bordeaux blends its historical architecture with modern life, creating a cityscape that tells the story of its past and present in one sweep.
In the afternoon, I made my way to the Saint-Pierre District, a bohemian area of the city that perfectly captures Bordeaux’s artistic and creative spirit. The district’s narrow, cobblestone streets were full of character, lined with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries that gave the area a lively, yet laid-back vibe. Strolling through this district felt like a journey through the heart of Bordeaux’s cultural soul, as every street offered something new and charming to discover.
For dinner, I headed to Le Chapon Fin, a renowned restaurant known for its inventive take on traditional Bordeaux cuisine. The atmosphere was both refined and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. I opted for one of their signature Bordeaux-style meat dishes, and it was a true delight—rich, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The combination of local ingredients with a modern culinary twist made it one of the standout meals of my trip. By the end of the day, I felt I had experienced a perfect blend of Bordeaux’s history, culture, and gastronomy, leaving me even more in love with the city.
Le Chapon Fin offers a blend of traditional and modern flavors. However, the service was a bit slow.
Food
The comfort and service quality at the hotel remained impressive on the second day as well.
Accomodation
Saint-André Cathedral and Pey Berland Tower were awe-inspiring and worth exploring. Saint-Pierre District was charming with its bohemian atmosphere.
Activity
Exploring Bordeaux's historical and cultural richness proved why this city is so enchanting. Be sure to visit the Saint-Pierre District; it's a fantastic way to experience the city's artistic and creative side.
Day 3 A Day Along the Garonne River: History, Wine, and Art
My third day in Bordeaux started with a peaceful walk along the Garonne River, where I enjoyed seeing both the modern and historic sides of the city come together. The riverside offered a perfect vantage point to appreciate Bordeaux’s beautiful architecture and vibrant city life. My first destination was the Darwin Ecosystem, a unique area where old military barracks have been repurposed into a hub for art, creativity, and sustainability. The space was alive with colorful murals, innovative workshops, and eco-friendly boutiques, making it a symbol of Bordeaux’s forward-thinking and innovative spirit.
For lunch, I chose to dine at L’Entrecôte, a renowned restaurant famous for its wine and cheese platter. It was the perfect way to experience Bordeaux’s rich wine culture, pairing local cheeses with some excellent wines. The simplicity and quality of the meal highlighted the region’s culinary heritage, making it a delightful mid-day stop.
In the afternoon, I had the chance to visit one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious vineyards, Château Pape Clément. The vineyard tour was a highlight of the day, as I strolled through the picturesque vines, learning about the winemaking process from start to finish. The history and craftsmanship behind each bottle were fascinating, and of course, the wine tasting at the end was a treat. Sipping world-class wines in such a beautiful setting made for an unforgettable experience, and it deepened my appreciation for Bordeaux’s winemaking tradition.
L'Entrecôte is excellent for pairing wine with cheese, but finding a table can be challenging.
Food
The hotel's comfort and service quality were consistently high throughout the third day.
Accomodation
The creative atmosphere at Darwin Ecosystem and exploring the vineyards made for a fulfilling day.
Activity
Spending a day along the Garonne River is a perfect way to explore Bordeaux's modern and historical aspects. Visiting the vineyards gave me a deeper understanding of Bordeaux's wine culture.
Day 4Final Touches to Bordeaux: Food, Shopping, and Nightlife
On my final day in Bordeaux, I decided to immerse myself in the city’s culinary heart by starting the morning with a visit to the Marché des Capucins. This bustling market is a true gem for anyone looking to experience Bordeaux’s food culture up close. As I wandered through the vibrant stalls, I was surrounded by the sights and smells of fresh produce, seafood, and an array of local delicacies. The market’s lively atmosphere was infectious, and it was fascinating to see locals chatting with vendors and picking out ingredients for their meals. For lunch, I couldn’t resist trying a plate of fresh seafood paired with a selection of local cheeses, making for a truly authentic Bordeaux dining experience.
In the afternoon, I explored Rue Sainte-Catherine, Bordeaux’s premier shopping street and one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. Lined with a mix of big-name brands and charming local boutiques, it was a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for high fashion or unique souvenirs, this street has something for everyone. I enjoyed browsing the stores and picking up a few last-minute items to remember my trip by, all while taking in the vibrant energy of the street.
As the day came to a close, I wanted to experience Bordeaux’s nightlife, so I headed to I.Boat, a unique nightclub housed on an old ship anchored along the Garonne River. The venue is an emblem of the city’s young and dynamic spirit, offering a cool, laid-back vibe with a mix of music and events. Dancing the night away on the deck, with the city lights reflecting off the water, was the perfect way to wrap up my time in Bordeaux, leaving me with lasting memories of this incredible city.
The fresh seafood and local delicacies at Marché des Capucins were excellent. However, the market can get quite crowded.
Food
The comfort and service quality at the hotel remained consistently high throughout the four days.
Accomodation
Rue Sainte-Catherine's shopping street was enjoyable and diverse. The night at I.Boat was energetic and unforgettable.
Activity
Exploring Bordeaux's culinary culture and shopping opportunities made for a great final day. Additionally, a night spent at I.Boat was a perfect closing to the trip, allowing me to see a different side of the city.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Bordeaux exceeded my expectations as a city where history and modernity meet in perfect harmony, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and world-famous wines. During my four-day stay, I experienced a city that offered something in every aspect. From its historical landmarks to its delightful cuisine, comfortable accommodations, and overall high quality of life, Bordeaux is undoubtedly a city worth exploring.
The meals and presentation at Le Pressoir d'Argent Gordon Ramsay were impressive and top-notch. However, the prices are a bit high.
Food
The comfort and luxury at InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel perfectly matched with the historical ambiance.
Accomodation
La Cité du Vin is a haven for wine enthusiasts. Exploring the city's historic center on foot was also a delight.
Activity