The Elegant City of Bordeaux

After soaking in the fairytale magic of Saint-Émilion, our journey took us to Bordeaux, a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and elegance. A few nights here allowed us to experience its bustling atmosphere in a city of 100,000 residents and catch up on work.

We began our Bordeaux adventure by returning our speedy electric car and checking into our Airbnb—a modern gem nestled within a grand mansion-like building near the Jardin Public de Bordeaux, one of the city's most beautiful parks. This location proved ideal, offering daily opportunities for morning strolls and peaceful breaks amidst lush greenery.

Hungry from our travels, our first stop was at the Italian restaurant Lasagne, a spot that does exactly what its name promises: serves lasagna—and only lasagna. It didn’t disappoint! The portions were hearty, and one serving was more than sufficient to satiate our cravings.

Bordeaux is a city best explored on foot, and its beauty is everywhere—from towering church steeples to magnificent historic buildings at every turn. Although the city is lively and popular among tourists, we intentionally kept some distance from the busy tourist areas to immerse ourselves in hidden gems and local spots.

Among our discoveries were two exceptional cocktail bars: La Comtesse and Motto bar, both stylish bars with expertly crafted cocktails and a laid-back vibe, perfectly located, with friendly staff. Both bars we recommend delivering on ambience, making them ideal places to slip into the rhythm of the local scene.

Dining in Bordeaux was a mixed bag - with Bordeaux's reputation for outstanding cuisine, we hoped to experience its celebrated dining scene, but found it tricky to secure reservations. Many top-rated spots were either fully booked months in advance or open only during evenings. Nonetheless, we managed a few casual meals, including a pleasant stop at La Villa Tourny, a charming brasserie with a welcoming atmosphere. While other dining experiences were less memorable, we strongly recommend planning ahead and booking well before your visit to truly appreciate Bordeaux’s culinary delights.

On our final night in Bordeaux, we decided to treat ourselves to a stay at Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. This boutique hotel, newly opened, offered a delightful experience—modern, spacious rooms with quirky touches and a warm, inviting design that felt both luxurious and fun.

Our time in Bordeaux—and the surrounding wine-making regions of France—has only deepened our love for this country. From Saint-Émilion’s fairytale charm to Bordeaux’s vibrant city vibe, each destination added its own unique flair to our journey. We’re already eager to plan future adventures exploring even more of France's stunning regions!

Date visited: 10 Aug 2023