Bordeaux is both a city and a wine-growing region in southwestern France. First settled in 567 BC, some of the oldest ruins in the city that date from the 4th century can still be visited in the crypt below Saint-Seurin Basilica.
Bordeaux flourished over the centuries thanks to the wine trade. Construction during its golden age in the 18th century is responsible for thousands of buildings that still stand today. Bordeaux’s preserved architecture—which is second in France only to Paris—and its deep history are the basis for its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exquisite architecture, fresh seafood, a vibrant city with a historic core, and some of the best wine in the world—in a nutshell, this is Bordeaux, France. Even better, the whole city is highly walkable, with pedestrian-only areas and welcoming squares. In less than an hour, you can also visit the beach or make your way to castle-like chateaux producing superb wine in fairy tale settings.
There are so many things to do in Bordeaux that it would be easy to spend a few weeks exploring. But, if your time is limited to a long weekend, it’s still possible to hit the highlights of this lovely region and see some of the best that Bordeaux has to offer.
