Insider tip Bordeaux: The city behind the famous wine is so beautiful

Bordeaux, the elegant city in southwest France, is far more than just the home of fine wines. It's a destination that also captivates vacationers with architectural treasures and spectacular cuisine. In short: Bordeaux is a vacation destination that belongs on every bucket list.

Nestled in the rolling hills of the wine region, Bordeaux boasts wide avenues whose classic facades exude French savoir-vivre. The city is sometimes referred to as the "Paris of the South" because in terms of elegance, cultural vibrancy, and culinary offerings, Bordeaux is in no way inferior to the capital. We present some of the highlights the city has to offer.

The city is the heart of the Bordeaux wine-growing region, one of the most renowned in the world. Visitors should definitely plan a wine tasting at one of the numerous wineries in the area. The Wine Route, or "Route des Vins," leads travelers through picturesque vineyards and offers unique insights into the production of this fine wine.

For wine lovers, a visit to La Cité du Vin is an exciting experience. In the interactive museum, you can learn all about the history of wine, taste different varieties, and even enjoy a glass of wine on the roof terrace with views of the city.

La Cité du Vin: An architectural masterpiece that celebrates the world of wine in all its facets.

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The Wine Museum building is an architectural highlight and also a fascinating symbol of the vitality and flow of wine. Its elegant, curved form is intended to reflect the essence of this fine wine.

Nestled directly on the left bank of the Garonne River, Bordeaux's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can admire landmarks from the 17th and 18th centuries, including the famous Place de la Bourse—a city landmark—and the famous Miroir d'eau.

Winding alleys lead to the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, whose imposing tower dominates the cityscape.

The Cathedral of Saint-André in Bordeaux.

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The charming alleys of Bordeaux's old town are also bustling with life. Inviting boutiques line the streets, cozy cafés, and restaurants, waiting to be discovered on a leisurely stroll. The best way to soak up the incomparable French flair is to walk through the lively squares. Sit at a sidewalk café, enjoy a café au lait, and watch the hustle and bustle.

Bordeaux also boasts other magnificent squares and landmarks, such as the Place des Quinconces and the Porte Cailhau, which bear witness to the city's glorious past. The impressive Grand Théâtre, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture, and the historic Hôtel de Ville (Bordeaux Town Hall) with its elegant façade also contribute to the city's unique charm and bring the city's history to life.

The Garonne River, which flows gently through Bordeaux, is inextricably linked to the city's character and atmosphere. Its riverside promenade is an inviting place for strolls and a starting point for explorations from the water. Especially in summer, life pulsates along the river, where numerous cafés and bars line the streets, offering a prime spot for the impressive spectacle of the sunset.

The historic Pont de Pierre, a stone bridge of timeless beauty, not only connects two parts of the city but also offers a spectacular perspective on the entire cityscape that unfolds along the riverbank.

Aerial view of the cityscape of Bordeaux on the banks of the Garonne and the Pont de Pierre.

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In addition to the world-famous Bordeaux wine, the city is also known for its excellent gastronomy. Restaurants offer a mix of traditional French dishes and modern culinary creations. Whether fresh fish, tender meat, or delicious pastries – there's something for every taste in Bordeaux.

Canelés are particularly noteworthy. These small, caramelized pastries with a vanilla and rum flavor are served in many cafés and pastry shops and are guaranteed to sweeten your vacation. And for a bit of variety, try Macarons de Bordeaux: They're more traditional than the colorful Parisian macarons and consist primarily of almonds and sugar.

Canelés not only look delicious – they taste just as good!

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A visit to Bordeaux's markets, such as the Marché des Capucins, is an excellent way to experience local cuisine in all its diversity. Here, visitors can purchase fresh produce and regional specialties—from aromatic cheeses and crusty baguettes to seafood and regional wine.

The nearby Bay of Arcachon is known for its fresh and fleshy oysters. They are often enjoyed on their own with a squeeze of lemon or with a vinaigrette of shallots and vinegar. They are sold freshly caught at the market.

Bordeaux not only attracts with its fascinating architecture and culinary specialties, but also turns out to be a true paradise for art lovers. Amidst the city's historic splendor, a vibrant art scene unfolds, presenting both traditional and contemporary works in an impressive way.

The facade of the Museé des Beaux-Arts already reveals: Some art treasures are hidden here

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A visit to the numerous museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts with its important art collection and the innovative CAPC Musée d'Art Contemporain , underlines the importance of Bordeaux as a vibrant center for art and cultural exchange.

Bordeaux is vibrant with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The renowned Festival des Arts de Bordeaux in the fall is an absolute highlight, attracting art enthusiasts from all over the world who want to experience the latest trends and developments in the art scene.

In general, the city has become a popular destination for both short breaks and longer stays. Its charming, relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make it a perfect place to fully enjoy French life without being overwhelmed by tourist crowds. The best time to visit is the late spring and summer months (May to September), when the weather is pleasantly warm and sunny and the vineyards are a lush green.

The vineyards and main building of Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Bordeaux.

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The fastest way to reach Bordeaux from Germany is by plane. Airports such as Berlin, Düsseldorf, Cologne, or Frankfurt fly directly to Bordeaux, and the flight time is approximately two hours. However, including travel to and from the airport and waiting times, you should expect a total travel time of approximately four to six hours.

The train journey takes longer with a change in Paris (approximately 12 to 15 hours). By car, the journey time is approximately 12 to 18 hours (driving time only), while the bus journey is the longest option (16 to 28 hours or more).

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