Holidays to Bordeaux

Tucked alongside the Garonne River in south-west France, Bordeaux is a bustling city filled with history and fine cuisine. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a vibrant university city and status as one of the world's wine industry centres, Bordeaux is the perfect choice for package holidays.

Once a thriving port city, Bordeaux has served as the backdrop for the works for many artists and writers, including Édouard Manet and Victor Hugo who were both inspired by the city's beauty. Book a flight and hotel in Bordeaux to explore this beauty for yourself through the city's well-preserved architecture and setting along the banks of the river.

Located in the Central European time zone with only one hour time difference from the U.K., city breaks in Bordeaux are very convenient. Be sure to pack some euros for your trip and brush up on your basic French. The city is popular with international visitors and English speakers are available at the majority of tourist services, however being able to provide a greeting in French is always appreciated by locals. The main airport is Bordeaux–Mérignac where you will land after your flight from London or Manchester.

Bordeaux has a pleasant climate with hot summers and milder winters as compared to the rest of France, due to its nearby coastal location. April to October is often considered the best time to visit the city, with plenty of greenery and sunshine to enjoy. Visitors should be prepared for warmer weather conditions if visiting in July and August. If wine-tasting is your primary reason for a weekend in Bordeaux, you should always check with various Châteaux in advance to ensure they will be open for tourists. For example, during the first week of April primeur tastings are held and public tastings are unavailable.

Bordeaux is of course known for its wine production and you will surely enjoy tastings during your visit. However, the city has much more to it than wine:

• Day-trips to charming villages such as Bazas and the Bay of Arcachon.
• Exploration of historic architecture including the Bordeaux Cathedral.
• A walk through the cobblestone streets of the old city.
• Discovering local history at one of the city's many museums such as the Musée d'Aquitaine.
• Fine dining and trendy bars in the St-Pierre area.
• Live music and art galleries on medieval streets.

An exploration of the surrounding Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is highly recommended for package holidays in Bordeaux. Quaint villages and castles are located within easy driving and train-ride distance from the city, with a highlight being beautiful St-Émilion.

Within Bordeaux itself, be sure to explore the ancient fortifications of the old city and the 15th-century doors on its borders. If you can catch a performance at the Grand Theatre you will surely be in for a treat, but the building itself is worth a visit alone. The highlight of Bordeaux's architecture is the Place de la Bourse, which becomes even more spectacular when it is illuminated at night.

The Musée d'Aquitaine recounts the history of the area and for those who cannot get enough of the region's wine, a visit to La Cité du Vin is worthwhile for an education on the city's most famous export. As a university city, Bordeaux has plenty to offer in the way of nightlife and entertainment, with a good place to start being the St-Pierre area and its medieval streets filled with cosy bars and outdoor patios.

If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Bordeaux.

Which speciality dishes should you enjoy in Bordeaux?

On your weekend in Bordeaux you're sure to be drinking fantastic wine, but which dishes should you pair with them? Entrecôte à la Bordelaise is perhaps the region's most well-known dish and pairs well with the bold, oaky flavours of the local wines. This rib steak is served along with a sauce that includes butter, shallots, bone marrow and of course, wine!

Located near the Atlantic coast, the city is also known for its fresh seafood. Oysters are a popular dish, usually accompanied by a crisp white wine. Be sure to finish your meal with a Canelé, a caramelised cake with a distinctive domed top.

What to bring back from Bordeaux?

A nice bottle of the year's finest vintage is naturally a great souvenir of your time in Bordeaux, however if travelling with carry-on luggage a fine alternative is a trinket from your favourite winery or château. If you enjoyed the Canelé for dessert, why not bring home a pack to share with friends. These souvenirs are sure to remind you to book another flight to and hotel in Bordeaux soon!