Feb.

4

Bordeaux City Guide

Considering that BORDEAUX is a World Heritage Site with centuries of history, I was expecting a city rather subdued with old-warm charm, incredible architecture and great wine, but I discovered a modern BORDEAUX that rivaled Paris for my affections.

Often referred to as France’s sleeping beauty, BORDEAUX — located in Southwest along the Garonne River — has been experiencing a cultural renaissance thanks to an influx of diverse people moving to BORDEAUX to open shops, restaurants and energizing the historic city center with their cosmopolitan creativity. Of course the city is best known for its wine region, but I found even the vineyards offered a good balance of modernity and tradition.

For design enthusiasts, there’s antique shopping at Brocante des Quinconces (in April) and hip design shops like Hello Vintage, L’Inoxerie, La Toque Cuivree and O Design. Fashionistas will enjoy Mieux, Petrusse, Les Source de Caudalie and strolling rue Saint Catherine. Foodies will love canales at Bailladran, cheese at Fromagerie Dereulle, and L’Intendant or Max Bordeaux for wine tastings.

MUSEUMS + ATTRACTIONS
Chateau Margaux is one of the most beautiful vineyards in BORDEAUX, but there are dozens of vineyards throughout the region in Medoc, Pauillac and St Emilion. My favorite tours and tastings were at Duhart Milon, Lynch Bages, Mouton Rothschild, Pichon Longueville and Pontet Canet.

CAPC
7 Rue Ferrere
www.capc-bordeaux.fr

Bordeaux’s museum for contemporary art.

Grand Theater
Place de la Comédie
www.opera-bordeaux.com

An 18th century concert hall. Tours Wednesdays and Saturdays in the afternoon.

Musee d’Aquitaine
20 Cours Pasteur
www.musee-aquitaine-bordeaux.fr/en

Learn the fascinating history of Bordeaux and Aquitaine.

Place de la Bourse

Beautiful town square. In front, the Three Graces fountain is perfect for taking selfies.

Place de Quinconces

Another town square great for taking photos.

Tour Pey Berland
www.pey-berland.monuments-nationaux.fr/en

Climb to the top of this bell tower for expansive views of the city.

RESTAURANTS
Insider’s Tip: Be sure to make dinner reservations before you leave. Tips are usually included on your bill, but leave a bit extra if you can.