In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Bordeaux city: the most charming cafés for a delicious brunch, luxury hotels within walking distance of the main sights, my favourite Michelin-star restaurants, and iconic wine estates like Château d’Yquem, Château Talbot, and Château Smith Haut Lafitte. You’ll also get insider tips for exploring the immersive museum La Cité du Vin, plus my personal go-to addresses in Bordeaux. From a relaxing spa and a cozy bookstore to the city’s finest chocolate and cookies.
I’ve lived in the Bordeaux region for over 15 years, and although it’s world-famous for its wine, I quickly realised that the city has so much more to offer. Every return visit brings new discoveries, whether I’m strolling along the Garonne riverfront, trying a new restaurant, or visiting another wine estate. I’ll keep updating this guide regularly with fresh tips and insights, so it remains a true reflection of the city’s best experiences.
On the move to Bordeaux in France
Known worldwide as the wine capital of France, Bordeaux is served by an international airport just 20 minutes from the city centre. Alternatively, the train station is easily accessible, either on foot or via a quick tram ride to downtown.
From Bordeaux airport to the centre, there are two main options. One is the shuttle bus, which goes from the airport to the train station in about 30 minutes. Tickets cost €10 per person when purchased directly from the driver, or €9 if you book online. The downside? You might have to wait for the bus to depart, and once you arrive at the station, you still need to make your way to your hotel.
That’s why, especially when travelling with two or more people, I usually just take an Uber. It’s quicker, takes me directly to the hotel, and costs around €20 depending on the time and day, I’ve paid as little as €16 or as much as €22 on a Sunday.
Discovering La Cité du Vin: a must do in Bordeaux and wine lover’s dream
I must admit, I’ve called the Bordeaux region home for over 15 years, yet I only recently had the chance to visit La Cité du Vin. And I was truly impressed. Of all the things to do in Bordeaux, this is a definite must. It belongs at the top of your bucket list. Especially if, like me, you’re a wine lover eager to know everything about wine.
Book your tickets online for a smooth visit
♥ My first tip: book tickets online. That way, you skip the queue at the ticket desk and head straight into the permanent exhibition. Several ticket options are available, some include tastings or special events. The main ticket grants access to the permanent exhibition and the 8th-floor viewpoint, with two glasses of wine, for €27 per person.
Arriving at La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux: architecture and location
Upon arrival, I was immediately seduced by the building’s elegant curves, which mirror wine swirling in a glass. The location is easily accessible, I walked there from the centre along the Garonne river. If walking isn’t your thing, the tram line B (ticket 1,90€) takes just a few minutes from Hotel de Ville or Grand Theatre to La Cite du Vin.
Immersive wine learning: the 3,000 m² permanent exhibition
The permanent exhibition spans 3,000 m² and is completely dedicated to the world of wine. It’s an interactive, sensory journey. The suggested visit time is 2–3 hours, but I’d recommend 3–4 hours if you want to take your time and fully enjoy the experience. On my visit, it was calm, with very few visitors and I stayed 4 hours. With time and a passion for wine, you could easily spend the whole day.
Discover the six wine universes of La Cité du Vin
The permanent exhibition at La Cité du Vin is divided into six universes:
- Through the Ages
- Vineyards of the World
- Know-How
- Wine Around the World
- Bordeaux
- Art of Living
With the audioguide in hand and guided by interactive displays, I moved through the different universes of the museum. Along the way, each universe awakened my senses in a different way, inviting me to smell, touch, and explore. Little by little, it felt like diving to the bottom of the wine glass, uncovering where wine comes from and how it’s crafted.
The 8th-floor viewpoint: wine with a view
After exploring the permanent exhibition, I then headed up to the 8th-floor viewpoint. From there, I discovered breathtaking views over the Garonne River and Bordeaux’s cityscape, all while enjoying a glass of wine. To be honest, for me, it wasn’t so much about the wine itself, but about the moment. A calm, pleasant way to close the visit.
After this experience, I went back down to the ground floor to linger over rare bottles in the wine shop. Next, before leaving, I stopped by the museum shop to pick up a few souvenirs. Perfect reminders of this extraordinary must-do in Bordeaux.
Why La Cité du Vin should be at the top of your Bordeaux must do list
Visiting La Cité du Vin is truly one of the must do in Bordeaux experiences. I regret not going sooner! Whether you’re a wine novice or a passionate (connoisseur) like me, this immersive journey shows you just how rich and diverse the world of wine really is. From the interactive exhibition to the breathtaking 360-degree viewpoint, it’s an experience that combines education, culture, and fun. If you’re planning your itinerary, put this at the very top of your list of things to do in Bordeaux, it’s an absolute highlight of the city.
- My complete guide to La Cité du Vin: experience, highlights, and insider tips for your visit.
From wine knowledge to terroir: visiting Bordeaux’s most Iconic Châteaux
After immersing myself in the world of wine at La Cité du Vin, visiting a wine château felt like the perfect continuation of the experience. Indeed, it’s one of the most memorable things to do in Bordeaux for any wine lover. Furthermore, pairing these visits with gastronomic experiences at some of the best restaurants in Bordeaux makes the journey even more unforgettable.
Bordeaux city: your exclusive gateway to the region’s finest châteaux
One of the must do things in Bordeaux is using the city as a base to explore its legendary wine estates. Conveniently, Bordeaux is perfectly located, with some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic châteaux just a short drive away. For example, the golden elegance of Château d’Yquem in Sauternes that contrasts beautifully with the powerful Médoc estates like Château Talbot or Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Each visit will deepen your connection to the land and the wine it produces.
♥ Insider tip: plan ahead for Bordeaux’s legendary estates
If like me you dream of visiting Bordeaux’s Grand Cru Châteaux, planning ahead is essential. Indeed, some of these legendary estates don’t welcome visitors on weekends, and with high demand, booking five weeks in advance is often barely enough.
I’ve tried several times to visit Château Margaux and Château Latour, but so far, I haven’t managed to align my stays with their limited availability. It reminded me that some of Bordeaux’s most famous estates stay pretty exclusive, so you need a bit of patience to get a visit. Still, walking their gravel paths and tasting wine right from the vineyards makes it worth the wait.
Of course, not all Bordeaux châteaux are quite so exclusive. In fact, there are many exceptional estates, where you can easily secure a tasting, a tour or both.
Living wine: my visits to Château d’Yquem, Talbot, and Smith Haut Lafitte
After exploring La Cité du Vin, I wandered the historic grounds of Château d’Yquem, admired the architecture of Château Talbot, and explored the legendary barrels at Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Each visit offered a unique perspective. Beyond the visits themselves, tasting the wines where they are born, hearing stories from passionate winemakers, and witnessing the vineyard’s seasonal changes made the experience unforgettable. Learning about wine is one thing, but living it, on location, is something else entirely.
Château Smith Haut Lafitte: #5 among the World’s 50 Best Vineyards
A highlight of my stay at Les Sources de Caudalie was visiting Château Smith Haut Lafitte, ranked #5 among the World’s 50 Best Vineyards in 2025. It features 80 hectares of vineyards, where seven red and white grape varieties are grown and carefully blended to create the Château Smith Haut Lafitte wines.
I loved starting the visit at the 16th-century tower before exploring the wine vat hall and underground cellars, where over a thousand barrels age.
My favourite moment? Watching the cooper at work in the estate’s own tonnellerie (cooperage). It’s not often you get to witness such historic craftsmanship in person. The visit ended with a tasting of both first and second wines, a perfect way to appreciate the richness and elegance of this estate.
The tour lasts about an hour and costs €25. A must do in Bordeaux for any wine lover.
- Step inside Château Smith Haut Lafitte, the renowned Grand Cru Classé estate in Pessac-Léognan.
- Curious about my wine-therapy escape and visit to Château Smith Haut Lafitte? Discover my full experience at Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux.
Château d’Yquem tasting history
Visiting Château d’Yquem is an experience I’ll always remember. First, the reception’s architecture immediately impresses, and I have to say, even the toilets are worth a peek! Then, the extraordinary view stretching over the vineyards made me realise why this region has inspired winemakers for centuries.
Françoise Joséphine de Sauvage: the woman who made Château d’Yquem legendary
What captivated me most was the story behind this 400-year-old estate, centered around one remarkable woman: Françoise Joséphine de Sauvage.
At just 16 years old, she had already lost both of her parents and took over her family’s heritage. At the same age, she entered an arranged marriage with the 24-year-old Louis-Amédée de Lur Saluces. It didn’t last long. Just three years later, he tragically died in a horse-riding accident.
Totally on her own, she went on to guide Château d’Yquem to international acclaim.
Overlooking the vineyards from the Yquem castle, while hearing her story made me truly appreciate the courage, vision, and passion behind this legendary wine estate.
♥ I love the surname the wine workers gave her: La dame d’Yquem (the Lady of Yquem).
It says everything about the respect she earned as a woman in a position that was incredibly rare at the time.
Private Château visits only: intimate, exclusive, and tasting included
During my visit, I discovered the vineyards’ meticulous practices. From selective picking to the famed late harvest (vendanges tardives), these methods have earned Château d’Yquem its unique Premier Cru Supérieur status in Sauternes. All visits are private, limited to six people, and end with a degustation in one of the château’s elegant wings. Visits run Monday to Friday and ticket options range from €100 to €350 per person, tasting included. Experiencing Château d’Yquem this way made me feel deeply connected to the château, almost as if it had opened its doors just for me. As a perfect finale, tasting the wine at the end of the visit felt like drinking a living piece of history.
- Explore Château d’Yquem, the legendary Premier Cru Supérieur estate of Sauternes, and plan your visit.
Château Talbot a family legacy
Château Talbot stretches across 110 hectares, surrounding the château itself, so you feel fully immersed in the land. I learned that at Talbot the harvest is carried out entirely by hand, with some 120 grape pickers (vendangeurs). The vineyard is mostly red: 105 hectares of red vines versus just 5 hectares of white, which makes the white wine very exclusive.
The Grand Chai: Bordeaux wine architecture at its finest
The Grand Chai (wine cellar), completed in 2013, immediately caught my eye. Monumental and striking, it stands as one of Bordeaux’s most remarkable expressions of wine architecture. Instead of traditional pillars, impressive tree-like columns rise and seem to cling to the ceiling. Inside, 1,800 barrels age patiently for 16 months, each one closely monitored. As I learned more, I was fascinated to discover how coopers, rackings, and aging lengths are carefully tailored to each lot. Walking through the chai, I could feel the rhythm of winemaking, methodical, patient, and deeply respectful of the process.
A century of care: walking the vineyards with the Cordier family legacy
Behind the vineyards and barrels lies a story almost as rich as the wine itself. Indeed, Château Talbot has been in the Cordier family since 1918. As a Grands Crus Classés, it stands as a mark of exceptional quality and tradition. While discovering the Grand Chai and tasting the Talbot wines, I felt I was seeing it all through the family’s eyes. The same eyes and hands that have crafted these exceptional wines for over a century.
Choosing your Château Talbot experience: three ways to explore
Visits are available in three types, letting you decide how deeply to immerse yourself in the wines.
- Classic visit – €21 per person, 1 hour, includes a tasting of two red wines.
- Discovery visit – €47.50 per person, includes a garden walk and tasting of two red wines.
- Prestige visit – €89.25 per person, 1.5 hours, with tasting of three grands millésimes plus their white wine.
I chose the Prestige Visit. It’s perfect if you want a full, immersive experience and a taste of Talbot’s top vintages.
- Curious to learn all the details about my Châteaux visits in the Bordeaux region
- Hold on I’m currently writing: Visiting Bordeaux wine châteaux: a luxury travel guide to the region’s finest estates 👩💻
- Book your visite at Château Talbot, a 4th Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Julien
My favourites and the best restaurants in Bordeaux
What better way to pair world-class wines than at a Michelin-star restaurant? Indeed, when it comes to the best restaurants in Bordeaux, the city is a true gastronomic destination. With more than ten, one- and two-Michelin-star restaurants, food and wine lovers are spoiled for choice. From refined fine dining to contemporary, creative tables, the options are endless.
Two-Michelin star – best restaurants in Bordeaux
• Le Pressoir d’Argent by Gordon Ramsay. This restaurant is located on the first floor of the InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hôtel. Here, Chef Gordon Ramsay highlights authentic regional and French products. His signature dish is the Breton lobster, and it’s one I’m very much hoping to savour soon.
• La Grand’Vigne at Les Sources de Caudalie, Chef Nicolas Masse and Chef sommelier Aurélien Farrouil took me on a gastronomic wine and dine journey through the Bordeaux vineyards. From ingredients sourced in the organic garden, to the presentation of each course, down to the choice of tableware. they completely immersed me in the unique local vineyard terroir.
• L’Observatoire du Gabriel is located on the iconic Place de la Bourse in the heart of Bordeaux. Although I wasn’t able to secure a table at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant, I had the pleasure of discovering their bistronomic restaurant Le 1544.
• Maison Nouvelle by Chef Etchebest, received its first Michelin star shortly after opening in 2022 and was awarded a second star very recently, in 2025. At his restaurant, the chef takes guests back to the heart of regional cuisine from Aquitaine, the region to which Bordeaux belongs.
A taste of Bordeaux’s best restaurants
One-Michelin star – best restaurants in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is also home to an impressive selection of one-Michelin-star restaurants, each offering its own distinctive experience.
The classic cuisine of L’Oiseau Bleu delights with refined traditional dishes, while Le Pavillon des Boulevards holds a Michelin star for nearly 40 years. Creative cuisine is at the heart of Soléna, where Chef Victor Ostronzec highlights seasonal ingredients. Italian-inspired fine dining shines at Tentazioni, which in 2022 was ranked 15th among the 50 best Italian restaurants in the world.
Ressources, a newer addition to the city’s gastronomic landscape, is led by Chef Tanguy Laviale, serving modern, seasonal French cuisine rooted in Bordeaux’s terroir. Le Quatrième Mur, a bistronomic brasserie within the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, may not be starred as a brasserie, but its La Table d’Hôtes, allows guests to fully immerse themselves in a Michelin-starred culinary show. At Amicis, Chef Alexandre Baumard brings together the Michelin-starred La Table Amicis and the bistronomic La Table des Amis, with a menu that showcases the finest fresh fish and seafood.
My personal experiences
I’ve had the chance to experience two of what I personally consider among the best restaurants in Bordeaux. Each completely different in style and atmosphere. First there’s La Grand’Vigne, the two-Michelin-star restaurant at Les Sources de Caudalie. Then there’s L’Oiseau Bleu, a Michelin-star restaurant in the heart of Bordeaux city centre.
Valentine’s Day dinner experience in Bordeaux
For Valentine’s Day, I was absolutely determined to dine at the two-Michelin-star restaurant L’Observatoire du Gabriel. As always, I didn’t plan too far ahead, and by the last minute, getting a table was impossible. This restaurant, considered one of the top four best restaurants in Bordeaux, has 30 tables, but that evening, they received over 90 booking requests!
Fortunately, I placed myself on a waiting list and managed to get a table at their gastronomic bistro, Le 1544, thanks to a last minute cancellation.
La Grand’Vigne two-Michelin-star restaurant
Dining at two-Michelin star restaurant La Grand’Vigne is more than dinner, it’s a journey through Bordeaux’s vineyards. During my stay at Les Sources de Caudalie, Chef Nicolas Masse’s refined interpretation of the Graves terroir impressed me. Organic garden produce, exceptional local ingredients, and perfectly paired wines create a deeply sensory experience.
From the artistry of each plate to the seven-course tasting and exceptional cheese trolley, every detail reflects the soul of the vines. In addition, with a cellar of over 1,200 bottles, this is truly one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux for wine lovers. Moreover, gastronomy, terroir, and a strong sense of place come together beautifully.
- Taste the gastronomic experience of two Michelin star restaurant La Grand’Vigne at Les Sources de Caudalie.
L’Oiseau Bleu: Michelin-star dining in the heart of Bordeaux
In contrast, Michelin-starred L’Oiseau Bleu, located in the heart of Bordeaux city centre, offers a more contemporary and lively atmosphere. The cuisine is precise, creative, and seasonal, making it a standout among the best restaurants in Bordeaux for modern fine dining.
I chose L’Oiseau Bleu after La Grand’Vigne, partly because Chef François Sauvetre had been Nicolas Masse’s sous-chef. He earned a Michelin star in January 2020 and took over the restaurant with his wife Sarah in 2022. Like chef Nicolas Masse, his cuisine focuses on seasonal ingredients from local producers.
To start the experience, I could choose between a three-, four-, or six-course menu. If you’ve read my previous Michelin-star experiences, you already know how this ends. I went straight for the six-course L’Envol menu with wine pairing. What makes the experience special is that the chef invites you for a gastronomic discovery in three steps. Les Premices (first notes), L’Océan et la Terre (sea and land), and Les Douceurs (sweets), with two courses in each step. And, of course, I couldn’t resist the additional cheese trolley, a must-try for any French cheese lover.
The wine list was nothing short of impressive, 350 references from Bordeaux, across France, and beyond. For my part, I opted for the full pairing, though you could just as easily enjoy a single glass or a carefully chosen bottle to suit the moment.
Le 1544 gastronomic bistro on the iconic Place de la Bourse
I usually wouldn’t recommend going to a restaurant on February 14th, Valentine’s Day, but circumstances had me in Bordeaux that evening, and of course, spending the night in the city without savouring one of its incredible restaurants was out of the question.
Aiming for the two-Michelin-star experience
My heart was set on the two-Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant L’Observatoire du Gabriel, but learning that there were 90 booking requests for just 30 tables, some made as early as November, left me with little hope. Fortunately, I was able to place myself on the waiting list for their bistronomic restaurant, Le 1544. Both restaurants share the same charming building right on the Place de la Bourse.
First impressions: the building and bar
Upon entering on the ground floor, I was immediately greeted by the bar, with its beautiful Art Deco interior and large surrounding windows. Then, upstairs on the second floor, I arrived at Le 1544. I didn’t get the chance to visit the third floor, where Chef Bertrand Noeureuil’s ultimate two-Michelin-star restaurant is located.
The dining experience & Valentine’s menu
My experience at Le 1544 was flawless when it came to the dining experience itself. That said, I was a bit disappointed that arriving 20 minutes early to try a cocktail at the bar was refused. Once seated, I then waited 15 minutes despite being only the second guest to arrive, time that would certainly have allowed for a quick cocktail beforehand.
Given it was Valentine’s Day, there was a set menu. In my personal opinion, the choice of the main dish didn’t quite live up to the level or price of the evening. While perfectly presented and expertly prepared (likely cooked at low temperature), it was essentially chicken with macaroni and a light truffle filling. After starting the evening with coquilles Saint-Jacques and langoustine ravioli, the main dish felt a little underwhelming for me personally.
Overall impression
Nevertheless, the service and wine selection were perfect, and overall, it was a memorable experience in a beautiful setting. For a more balanced experience and pricing, I would recommend visiting Le 1544 outside of Valentine’s Day.
- Discover L’Observatoire du Gabriel, Le 1544, The Bar and their menus.
My go-to addresses in Bordeaux
Batch Cookies: for the best cookies of Bordeaux (and maybe France)
Batch Cookies serves what I can confidently call the best cookies in Bordeaux (and maybe all of France). I always eat mine immediately, although you can take a box home or order online. My favourite? The classic chocolate chip cookies, which is soft and chewy, and totally irresistible. In addition, there’s a vegan cookie with speculoos and other varieties with nuts, perfect for satisfying every craving.
Chocolaterie Lalère the ultimate chocolate destination
At chocolaterie Lalère, you can taste and buy the finest chocolates, from chocolate bars to spreads. It’s both a boutique and a tasting space. Whenever I go with my friends, we spend hours sipping hot chocolate and enjoying chocolate-fueled conversations about our lives and our dreams. It’s a chocolate lover’s paradise in the heart of Bordeaux.
Le Petit Café – my favourite lunch address
For a light lunch, Le Petit Café is my go-to spot in Bordeaux. From poke bowls to croque (French toasted sandwich) with truffled ham and fresh quiches, everything is prepared daily. So arrive on time to grab your favourite. My personal delight? All their desserts are homemade, and you can pick them right from the display and the bar. On a sunny day, sitting on the terrace at Place Gambetta, I feel like I’m living the ultimate Bordeaux lifestyle.
Spa Caudalie boutique in Bordeaux city centre
After a busy day exploring Bordeaux, a grape seed extract massage or facial at the Spa Caudalie Boutique is exactly what I need to relax and refresh. From start to finish, it’s pure bliss and the perfect way to unwind. Think about booking at least one month in advance, and even earlier for weekend appointments, as availability fills up quickly.
My favourite brunch in Bordeaux (come hungry!)
I’m a fervent fan of brunch when I’m on the move. After trying many brunch spots in Bordeaux, my number one choice is Sauvage Café. However, I wouldn’t recommend going here if you had a gastronomic dinner at one of the best Michelin-star restaurants in Bordeaux the night before. The brunch portions are truly generous.
When the weather allows, I love to sit on their terrace with the ‘Saint-André’ cathedral in the background. Reservations aren’t possible (except for groups of 8 people and more), and the place is very popular. Therefore, I recommend to arrive at opening or be prepared to wait. I promise it’s worth it: pancakes, avocado toast, fresh juices, and homemade tea await you, all for €29 per person.
Hermès: my luxury stop in Bordeaux
Finally, no visit to Bordeaux is complete without a stop at Hermès, my favourite luxury store. I’m currently on the waiting list, hoping one day to be offered an iconic Birkin bag. Each time I’m in Bordeaux, I step inside to admire the latest scarves, add to my collection, and gently update my request. It has become a little ritual, part wishful thinking, part fashion love affair, and pure timeless French elegance.
Where to stay in Bordeaux for a short stay or longer vacation
Each time I visit, I know that where to stay in Bordeaux can completely shape the experience. On the one hand, I love the buzz of the city centre, with its historic streets, lively cafés, and Michelin-starred restaurants. On the other hand, I also crave the calm of the countryside, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.
To help you plan your stay, I’ve selected three of my favourite options. One for a luxurious city experience, one for a serene vineyard retreat, and a third that offers a stylish, modern stay right in the heart of Bordeaux.
Les Sources de Caudalie – best luxury vineyard retreat
Where slow living meets wine-therapy luxury in Bordeaux
Looking back at my stays at Les Sources de Caudalie, I realise it was about reconnecting with nature, with wine, and with myself. From the moment my little sausage dog Takkie and I arrived among the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, the pace naturally slowed. Over the following days, time unfolded gradually, shaped by vineyard walks, spa rituals infused with grape extract benefits, and two Michelin star dining that celebrates the Bordeaux terroir in its purest form.
More than a hotel: a journey of reconnection
What truly sets Les Sources de Caudalie apart for me, is how seamlessly everything connects. Also, the vines outside your window are the very same ones that inspire the cuisine, power the Vinothérapie® Spa, and shape Caudalie’s skincare philosophy. Here, luxury feels intentional, rooted in sustainability, craftsmanship, and deep respect for the land.
Misty vineyard walks with dachshund Takkie and exceptional dining
Each morning, I wandered through the misty vineyards with my cream dachshund, Takkie. Later afternoons drifted between spa treatments, cycling paths, or simply doing nothing at all. And in the evenings, I enjoyed exceptional dining, whether by the fireplace at ‘La Table du Lavoir’ or immersed in the refined world of La Grand’Vigne’s two-Michelin-star cuisine.
More than once, I caught myself thinking how rare this kind of place has become. A destination where wellness isn’t a trend, but a philosophy. Where sustainability isn’t marketed, but lived. And where slow travel isn’t something you plan, it simply happens.
A place that lingers in your memory
Ultimately, Sources de Caudalie isn’t just one of the best hotels in Bordeaux for wine lovers and spa seekers. For me, it’s a reminder of how good it feels to step away from constant motion and surrender to a softer rhythm of life.
If you’re seeking quiet luxury, meaningful experiences, and a true sense of place in Bordeaux wine country, this is where slow living begins.
- Read all the details about my vineyard-inspired luxury escape at Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux
FirstName Bordeaux by Hyatt: stylish comfort in the heart of the centre
For a stylish stay that blends modern comfort with Bordeaux city charm, FirstName by Hyatt is, for me, the perfect place to stay. Ideally located, just behind the historic ‘Saint-André’ cathedral neighbourhood, it’s perfect for exploring the city entirely on foot.
A room with a terrace (and a jacuzzi!)
I don’t know if it was because I spoke Italian with the hotel’s Italian front desk manager, Nicola, or just plain luck, but I received a room upgrade to a Chambre Premier. Not only, was my room spacious (43m²), with a bathroom featuring both a separate shower and bath, but it also came with a huge terrace and a jacuzzi. Although the jacuzzi wasn’t running due to the upgrade, I could easily imagine enjoying a glass of Bordeaux wine out there at sunset after a day of exploring the city.
My favourite spot: the horseshoe-shaped bar
Without a doubt, one of my favourite places in the hotel is the central horseshoe-shaped bar. Thanks to the large glass windows on both sides, it feels bright and welcoming during the day, making it perfect for a fresh juice or coffee. In the evening however, it transforms into the ideal spot for a relaxed aperitif before heading out to dinner.
Bathroom rituals with local products
Another detail that really stood out to me, was the bathroom experience. After long days strolling through Bordeaux city and the surrounding vineyards, I love unwinding in a warm bath. The bathroom amenities are local products from bio-certified Oceopin Bordeaux – Cap Ferret, and made with maritime pine seed oil. As a result, my evening rituals felt even more luxurious and deeply rooted in the region.
Breakfast bliss: start your day with a Cannelé
To start the day right, breakfast is served as a generous buffet with everything you could wish for. In particular, it includes Bordeaux’s iconic pastry, the cannelé. With its caramelised, crunchy crust and soft, custardy centre, it’s not only a delicious treat but also the perfect local fuel for a full day of exploring Bordeaux.
InterContinental Grand Hotel Bordeaux – best luxury city stay
Looking ahead, I’m counting down the days until my stay at InterContinental Bordeaux, Le Grand Hôtel, one of the most iconic luxury hotels in the heart of Bordeaux. I can’t wait to immerse myself in the city’s wine culture while enjoying the hotel’s five-star comforts. From the indulgent Guerlain Spa to the culinary excellence of two-Michelin-starred dining at Le Pressoir d’Argent by Gordon Ramsay.
Of course, I’ll be sharing every detail of this upcoming escape, from the elegant rooms to the city views, so you can experience Bordeaux through my eyes.
Wrapping up my Bordeaux luxury guide: insider tips from a local
From wandering historic streets to enjoying quayside views along the Garonne river with my dachshund Takkie, every corner offers something to delight the senses.
For me, the perfect Bordeaux experience combines city charm with vineyard elegance: stylish hotels in the centre of Bordeaux, a peaceful retreat among the vines at Les Sources de Caudalie, a deep dive into wine culture at La Cité du Vin, and intimate châteaux visits such as Château d’Yquem, Château Talbot, or Château Smith Haut Lafitte.
Naturally, exploring the best restaurants in Bordeaux like La Grand’Vigne and L’Oiseau Bleu, is essential for fully experiencing the city’s exceptional culinary scene. Each element brings Bordeaux’s wine, culture, and gastronomy beautifully to life.
If you’re looking for inspiration on things to do in Bordeaux, how to choose the best restaurants in Bordeaux, or where to stay in Bordeaux for a truly memorable trip, I hope this guide and my luxury insider guide tips help you plan your journey. This city has it all, and I can’t wait for you to experience it.
Bordeaux travel FAQ: wine, restaurants & sightseeing
Spring and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and easier château bookings.
Link to website of the Tourisme Board Bordeaux. The official site provides information on attractions, events, wine tours, and travel tips for Bordeaux and its surrounding wine regions.
There are exactly 13 one- and two-Michelin-star restaurants. These represent the top dining experiences in the city.
Absolutely. Plan 3–4 hours for the full experience, or a whole day if you’re an absolute wine enthusiast. It’s an immersive journey through the history, culture, and flavours of wine.
On average, between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Travel times depend on the specific wine estate you choose to visit.
Yes, having a car is recommended for exploring the wine châteaux. However, Bordeaux city itself is very walkable, and the tram makes getting around the centre easy.
Explore more related articles about luxury (wine-)retreats en travel in France & Italy, or about my hometown wine region Bordeaux:
- Les Sources de Caudalie: my wine-therapy escape in Bordeaux
- Bordeaux ‘La Cité du Vin’: my experience at the ultimate wine museum
- The complete guide to Les Sources vineyard Hotels in France: my experience at every property
- Bordeaux wine tour: legendary chateaux and best wines of Bordeaux
- I’m writing up this article and will be done soon 👩💻
- Les Sources de Cheverny: my Loire Valley escape of vineyard luxury, Caudalie spa and Michelin-star dining
- Castelfalfi Tuscany resort in Italy
- Florence in 2 Days Guide: to the city’s best sights and experiences
- Day Trips from Florence by train: my è curated Tuscan escapes
- Bologna Italy day trip from Florence: a slow travel guide to the 9 essentials things to see and do
Meet Jessika, a luxury travel writer with a background in international hospitality spanning over 15 years. Half Dutch, half French, and fluent in five languages, she has a natural affinity for the finer things: elegant hotels with soul, wine regions with a story to tell, and tables that celebrate local flavour at its best. Her writing is shaped by a slow, intentional approach to travel — where atmosphere, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of place matter most. She is often accompanied by her dachshund Takkie, her most discerning travel companion.
