Nothing Boring about Bordeaux

Bordeaux is the second most popular french city to visit after Paris, and I can tell you that there's more than wine to enjoy. I'll get into Bordeaux Wine and Food in separate sections. For now, let us focus on the many things to do in Bordeaux. Where to stay, and you'll want to stay for a few days, trust me.

Grand Hotel Francais: Think Plaza Athenee but near the most famous wine region. It's not cheap, but it's regal and quite comfortable, and you're literally in the middle of Bordeaux.

Villa Victor Lewis: clean and comfortable this hotel is within walking distance to many of Bordeaux's interesting sights. 

Depending on what time you visit, there are many things to do, but I prefer spring or fall. This allows you to get around quite easily. Also, in August, the French take their vacation so many of the wineries are closed. Bordeaux is home to Place de la Bourse, Cailhan Gate Bordeaux, Grand Theater de Bordeaux, and Parliament Square. Getting around by foot is easy, but I recommend taking the river shuttle, bike, Tramway, or like me, renting a scooter and driving to the right or left bank wine regions. The Tramway is my favorite as it's modern and new and goes to every part of the city. The longest shopping street is Rue Sainte-Catherine, with all types of shops and bistros. I've picked up many wine-themed items that I've not seen elsewhere. The St. Catherine Promenade has all kinds of food and shopping. The Galeries Lafayette is not as big as the Paris version, but it can satisfy most needs. The beautiful Galerie des Grands Hommes is gorgeous and deserves a peek. If it's luxury you’re after, you need look no further than Luxury Cours de l'Intendance for all your couture needs. 

For a walk along the water, you have many cafes and shops, including Bord'eau Village, with various food choices and small shops. Getting lost and just watching children run through the sprinklers of the Place de la Bourse, you will see how charming this city has become. Cite du Vin, with its wild architecture, is probably one of the finest wine museums in the world. Not so English friendly when I visited, but hopefully that's changed as the wine tasting class I took was challenging with my mediocre French.