City Centre The Best Area To Stay In Bordeaux
The historic city centre is probably the finest area in terms of its 18th century architecture that surrounds you and the area was banished of vehicles with a streetcar system installed, meaning that the centre doesnt feel as claustrophobic as many other cities are. The main things to see in the area include the unique Pey Berland bell tower, which is was built in the 18th century and is one of the tallest buildings in the city and therefore gives some brilliant views of Bordeaux.
One of the most striking buildings in Bordeaux is also one of the most important ones, which is the Saint Andres Cathedral as it has seen many Kings marry and is particularly stunning for its French Gothic style architecture.
Just a stones throw away from the cathedral is the Rohan Palace, which acts as the town hall too but was once the residence of Archbishops during the 18th century. Today, you can tour the palace and see the various rooms along with checking out the art gallery, which exhibits artists from around the world.
A short walk from the centre to the river will bring you to the elegant and famous Place de la Bourse, which is a huge square and is one of the symbols of the city. The square resembles the medieval times of the city and played a major role in the citys development, trade and reputation. There are fountains and many statues of past kings and other famous people to check out as well as the various political buildings.
Best Airbnb In Gare Saint
Located near Gare Saint-Jean, this stylish and clean condominium is located in a very quiet street close to Gare Saint-Jean. It is well furnished and equipped with a kitchen and a laundry. Youll also have access to an on-site gym facility. This place is perfect for those who want to be independent during their stay in Bordeaux.
Where To Stay In Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a very touristic city and as such its packed with boutique and budget hotels. However, not all of them offer good value for your money and finding a good hotel can be a hard task. Thats why I gathered this list of hotels to help you out.This list includes hotels from the city center and from surrounding districts. I included both basic hotels and beautifully designed boutique ones so the price range is quite big and you can easily find a place that fits your budget and needs. If this is your first visit to France, read my short article about things you should know before ordering a hotel in France.
This post includes affiliate links, meaning that if you book a hotel through my links Ill receive a small commission. It will cost you nothing, and you will be supporting the work I do at Lost in Bordeaux. So thank you
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Ibis Budget Bordeaux Centre Bastide
Located only a 15-minute walk to the city center, ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Bastide is a favorite among visitors. This hotel is modern and offers colorful and welcoming contemporary rooms. The rooms can sleep up to three people and include work desks and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms even have a view of the Saint Marie de la Bastide Church. In addition to the breakfast buffet, youll have access to hot drinks and snacks throughout the day. For great comfort which is inexpensive, go with ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Bastide.
Htel De Sze & Spa Bordeaux Centre

This beautiful 18th-century hotel stands out thanks to wrought-iron balconies, impressive corbels, and an illuminated façade. The Hôtel de Sèze & Spa Bordeaux Centre is in a prime location, only a five-minute walk to the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. The hotel has 52 rooms and three suites which boast an intimate ambiance thanks to their muted fabrics. The on-site restaurant, Le Comptoir de Sèze, specializes in French cuisine and is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and afternoon tea. Theres also a jazz dinner-concert every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. The restaurant is complemented by the on-site bar which serves up terrific cocktails. If youre looking to relax in Bordeaux, this is a great choice because of its spa and 11-acre private golf course. Enjoy Bordeaux in style with a stay at the Hôtel de Sèze & Spa Bordeaux Centre.
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Saint Pierre And Saint Paul The Historic Center Of Bordeaux
Saint Pierre and Saint Paul districts represent the historic heart of the city. These are the most vibrant and lively areas in Bordeaux, where you stroll by paved narrow streets, charming squares and several famous monuments . its also the heart of the gastronomic scene in Bordeaux, with plenty of amazing restaurants, cocktail bars and hip cafés. Many are concentrated around the Place Fernand Lafargue, especially on rue Saint James. In Saint Pierre, almost every street has a good restaurant, but the best bars are on rue Parlement Saint Pierre and rue Parlement Sainte Catherine.
The neighborhoods are bounded by the Opera of Bordeaux from the north and rue Victor Hugo from the South. Going east you can enjoy a pleasant stroll on the gorgeous promenade of the Garonne River. The western border of the historic center is marked by rue Sainte Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe hosting all the main retail stores as well as several smaller boutiques.
I Don’t Have Any Expectations For Bordeaux We Came
I don’t have any expectations for Bordeaux, we came to this city just so that we got a great flight ticket to go back to Portugal. But I do really like this city, there’s not many tourists I feel emmerse in Bordeaux local life, especially when the sun comes it’s perfect to just walk around and sit by the river watching people play skateboard, doing cycle trick and having lunch.
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City Rsidence Bordeaux Centre
Sometimes hotels can feel a bit stuffy so if you want to feel a little more at home on vacation, consider City Résidence Bordeaux Centre. This hotel offers modern duplex apartments and studios which can sleep between one and four people. One of the best aspects of the facilities is that they all have a fully-equipped kitchenette which includes a fridge, microwave, kettle, ceramic hotplate, and kitchen utensils. City Résidence is located in the heart of the Quartier des Chartrons Old Town, so youll get ample space and privacy while being only a 15-minute tram ride from the city center. Whether youre only staying one night or for a few weeks, this great hotel will allow you to save money by cooking your own meals.
First Visit To Bordeaux Area Best Chateau For Overnight
Would love to stay for several nights in a lovely Chateau??
Can be anywhere in the wine growing region and we will make it our base to see the famous wineries.
Thanks
For lovely châteaux in the Médoc there are several good choices:
Château Marojallia
In the Saint-Emilion area, take a look at these:
Château de Môle
In 2008, we much enjoyed an overnight stop in Chateau Cordeillan-Bages, just outside Pauillac. It has a Michelin ** restaurant with extraordinarily inventive food. But it is not cheap. See www.cordeillanbages.com
When there we stayed at Chateau Meyre. I would recommend that no matter where you stay you plan accordingly for food, etc. There isn’t much open late in the Medoc.
If you are looking for a lively time out, I would suggest staying in Bordeaux. If you want a quiet night in country…..the Chateau will be for you!
My wife and I purchased food at the supermarket in the small town, picked up wine while on tours and spent our evenings sitting on the porch or in the garden eating cheese, meat, etc and drinking wine…..very relaxing!
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Best Hotel In Gare Saint
This is our pick for the best place to stay in Gare Saint-Jean. This charming three-star hotel is conveniently situated in Bordeaux near shops, bars and top tourist attractions. It has stylish rooms with a range of contemporary features. Youll enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant or imbibing at the cosy lounge bar.
Coup 2 Foudres At Chteau Bonhoste Saint
Located just a 15-minute drive from the center of Saint-Émilion, Château Bonhoste has one of the most unique accommodations in Bordeaux. The family-run château converted two giant wine vats by the French barrel and vat maker Seguin Moreau into two apparthotels right alongside their vines.
The two wine vats, called Coup 2 Foudres, are uniquely decorated. They each have a bedroom/sitting room with a double bed, sitting area with two chairs and a table, satellite television, wifi, a mini-fridge, Nespresso machine, tea kettle and all the utensils. Theres also a full bathroom with a shower. Its perfect for couples to spend a unique and romantic night in the vineyards. Read the TripAdvisor reviews.
Sleep in a Wine Vat at Château de Bonhoste
Breakfast is brought in a picnic basket at an agreed upon time and includes yogurt, cheese, fresh fruit and pastries along with grape juice from the château.
Coup 2 Foudres includes complimentary wifi and breakfast. Free parking is available on site. Pets are not allowed.
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Where To Stay In Bordeaux For Romance
Couples looking for a truly grand experience will adore the classic five-star InterContinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel, which is located on the corner of the Golden Triangle just by Le Grand Théâtre and near the river.
In addition to a full-service, chic spa, the hotel has a large fitness center, outdoor whirlpool, and a gorgeous indoor pool surrounded by huge columns for a unique look.
Suites are exquisitely elegant, with tall windows, canopy beds, and huge bathrooms with his & hers sinks. Foodies will not want to miss out on the hotel’s Gordon Ramsey Restaurant, or perhaps indulge in room service.
Seclusion seekers may want to try the Hotel Burdigala, located in a quiet neighborhood just south of downtown. Although removed from the bustle of the tourist area, it is only a 10-minute walk to Saint Pierre attractions like the Basilique Saint-Seurin and Place Gambetta.
Common areas have a fun and fresh ambience, and rooms are well-appointed, with ample closet space, soundproofed windows, complimentary water, and a Nespresso machine. There is a restaurant on-site and several other dining options close to the hotel.
Hotel Le Palais Gallien is another great choice for romance. The new hotel has just 22 stylishly appointed rooms and suites. Book one with a private terrace featuring a personal Jacuzzi. It is located in the heart of downtown Bordeaux and within walking distance of numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops.
Renting Vs Buying A Property In Bordeaux

Generally speaking, buying is a better option in Bordeaux because the prices are low enough for you to get quite a nice property for your money.
Whats more, property is always a good financial investment, particularly if youre willing to put in a bit of work to modernise it.
However, renting can make sense if youre unsure where in the area youd like to settle down permanently.
You have greater legal protection in unfurnished properties that are your main residence than in furnished ones, although short-term furnished rentals are a good way to check out the main areas before you buy.
- Renting A Property In France all you need to know about the process and tenants and landlords rights and obligations
- A Complete Guide To Buying A Property In France all the information you need to make your property purchase in France safe and as stress-free as possible.
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Chartrons Coolest Place To Stay In Bordeaux
Often cited as Bordeauxs poshest neighborhood, Chartrons is where the chic of Bordeaux gather to shop, dine at the many upscale bistros, and enjoy a pint at one of the nearby pubs.
Originally founded in the 17th century by Irish, German, and Flemish wine merchants, Chartrons quickly established itself as something of an expat borough, with artists and bohemians from around the globe setting up shop along the riverfront.
Today visitors can get a taste of local life by sampling various charcuterie and pastries along the busy Rue Notre Dame, popping in and out of the stores, and taking in the romantic 19th century architecture.
There are no shortage of outdoor markets and antique purveyors, and wine lovers will definitely want to check out the Musée du Vin et du Négoce, located inside an 18th century wine traders cellar.
Chartrons also houses the oldest boulangerie in Bordeaux, with Au Pétrin Moissagais opening its doors some 20 years before the French Revolution and going strong ever since.
Much like Bordeauxs more well-trafficked districts, lodgings in Chartrons are unequivocally lovely but may lean on the pricier side during high tourist seasons.
Fortunately there are a number of privately owned bed & breakfast establishments that can be found online and booked through correspondence.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BORDEAUX IN CHARTRONS
Downtown Where To Stay In Bordeaux For First Time Tourists
Downtown Bordeaux is the bustling heart of the city. Packed with contemporary shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, and trendy entertainment venues, Downtown is the perfect blend of historical city and modern metropolis.
The district ishome to the citys Old Town, where you will find most of what remains of the old medieval architecture and grand buildings, such as the towering Bordeaux Cathedral.
Place de la Bourse is a beautiful 18th-century palace, a resplendent example of the architecture of its period. It is now a major attraction for budding photographers, thanks to the mirror pool installation added to the grounds out front. When viewed from the right angle you can see the whole palace reflected in the water, creating a magical illusion.
The area along the riverside is lined with leafy urban parks leading to the Quinconces Square, one of the largest public squares in France, which regularly hosts fairs, markets, and seasonal events.
For a particularly relaxed tour of the city, hop on one of the river cruises, which are available to board near the square. On sunny afternoons, a trip out on the water is both beautiful and refreshing.
If you want to escape the press of the tall buildings for a while, the Jardin Public is a network of beautifully landscaped gardens set around a large lake.
Shortly southwest of the park is the remains of Palais Gallien, a 3rd-century Roman amphitheater.
Where to stay In Bordeaux city center:
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Saint Pierre & Saint Paul A Historic Center Of Bordeaux
The areas of Saint Pierre and Saint Paul make up the historic center of the city and are located in the heart of Bordeaux. Narrow streets wind in and out of historic buildings, monuments, and squares giving you the chance to take a stroll back through time.
Throughout you will also find a number of the best bars and restaurants the city has to offer. This makes it a fabulous destination to try an incredible range of drinks and cuisines, both modern and traditional, while surrounded by iconic landmarks and architecture.
While admittedly one of the more expensive parts of the city, it is well worth it for all it offers.
That doesnt just include its own attractions either, as with the Garonne River, Opera Of Bordeaux,pix and rue Sainte Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping area in all of Europe, there is plenty to thrill you throughout your stay.
Stay in Saint Pierre And Saint Paul if you are a fan of history, you arent worried about money, you love shopping, drinking and dining in fine establishments.
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Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre
Located right near the train station, the Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre offers amazing river views. One of the main highlights of the hotel is an on-site shop which also doubles as both a restaurant and cafe. Babette serves up home-made food from seasonal and fresh products. Some of their classics include chocolate-dipped orange financiers and carrot soup with ginger and lemon. Theres also a small convenience store on-site to grab something quick. The Hilton brand has become world-famous, so youre sure to be guaranteed a classy room and a comfortable stay when you choose the Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre.
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The More Distant Neighborhoods In Bordeaux
Bordeaux is not a big city and you can easily reach the center from several other more distant districts. So if the center of Bordeaux is a bit out of your budget, consider some of the following areas. Another advice is to look for something on one of the tramlines as those are very regular, as opposed to buses in Bordeaux. Here is the map of the tramline in Bordeaux, to make it easier for you to do your search.
Things To See And Do In Gare Saint
Browse the stalls at the lively Marche des Capucins.
Choose from a great selection of drinks at LAvant-Scene.
Dance the night away at Discotheque La Plage.
Dont miss the party at Lusi Klub.
Drink and dance at Club House.
Eat incredible French dishes at Le Distillerie.
Explore one of Bordeauxs up-and-coming neighbourhoods, The Capucins.
Party until dawn at Light Club de Bordeaux
Sample amazing local wines at the Millesima wine cellar.
Sample from a long list of cocktails at Point Rouge.
Sip tasty drinks at LExcale.
Snack on delicious French fare at Les Darons.
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