Probably the best-known wine-producing region in France, Bordeaux sits to the south-west of the country, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. While any trip to this part of the country will inevitably involve vinyards and châteaux , there is so much more to explore. Located approximately seven hours drive from the ferryport at Cherbourg, a visit to Bordeaux offers the perfect opportunity for an overnight stay in one of the beautiful towns and cities along the way, such as Nantes or Rennes, so you can make the most of your French escape.
The city of Bordeaux itself is one of France’s real jewels – in fact, it is sometimes referred to as ‘The Pearl of the Aquitaine’. It is home to over 360 historic monuments, which is more than any other French city outside of Paris. The city prides itself on its beauty and visitors are treated to stunning examples of modern architecture, such as the Miroir d’Eau, stunning 18th century buildings like the Place de la Bourse, and even some buildings which date back to Roman times.
Art lovers will be in heaven at the Musée des Beaux Arts, where you can see works by greats like Renoir, Picasso and Matisse, or for a more modern experience try the Bassins des Lumières, which is the largest digital art centre in the world. If you’re going to be spending a few days in town, it’s worth checking out the Bordeaux CityPass, which gives you access to around 15 museums, a guided walking tour and free access to public transport. As well as be.
