Bordeaux, the stunning capital of France’s wine country, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and of course, world-class wine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, choosing the right part of Bordeaux can make all the difference in your experience.
From the charming streets of the historic city center to the trendy neighborhoods of Chartrons and Saint-Michel, each district has its own unique character and attractions. Do you want to be in the heart of the action, surrounded by iconic landmarks and best restaurants? Or would you prefer a more laid-back, residential vibe with easy access to green spaces and local markets?
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Bordeaux 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Villas Foch Boutique Hotel & Spa Bordeaux
- 🏨 4-Star: Radisson Blu Hotel Bordeaux ▪ Golden Tulip Bordeaux Euratlantique
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Campanile Bordeaux Centre
- 💸 Cheap: B&B Hotel Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean
- 🏢 Apartament: Live Hotels Bordeaux Lac
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Mama Shelter Bordeaux
- 🏩 For Couples: Hôtel Singulier Bordeaux
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the best areas to stay in city of Bordeaux, highlighting the top attractions, restaurants, shopping, and accommodation options in each neighborhood. We’ll also provide insider tips on getting around the city, finding the best deals, and making the most of your stay.
Quick Bordeaux Neighborhood Guide 📋
- 👀 For the First Time: Saint Pierre
- 🖌 For Art & Culture: Chartrons
- 🍸 For Nightlife: Gare Saint-Jean
- 🕊 For Quiet Stay: Bastide
- 👨👩👦 For Families: Bordeaux-Lac
1. Saint Pierre & Saint Paul – The Historic Heart of Bordeaux 🕍
🌃 Historic heart: The Saint Pierre and Saint Paul districts represent the birthplace of present-day Bordeaux and the historic heart of the city. This vibrant city center is full of picturesque squares perfect for enjoying the local atmosphere:
- Place du Palais
- Place du Parlement
- Place Fernand Lafargue
Each has its own selection of restaurants and cafes, much loved by locals, especially on sunny days. Rue Saint James and the streets around Place Fernand Lafargue are at the heart of Bordeaux’s gastronomic scene, with many amazing eateries. For nightlife, head to the bars on rue Parlement Saint Pierre and rue Parlement Sainte Catherine.
🏞️ Riverside gems: The historic center of Bordeaux is bounded by the Garonne river to the east. Here you’ll find the magnificent Miroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool that acts as a refreshing oasis and water playground for kids and adults alike. Top attractions in the area include:
- Grosse Cloche: One of the oldest belfries in France, in the heart of the city with a massive 7,750 kg bell.
- Porte Cailhau: Impressive city gate built in 1494 to commemorate Charles VIII’s victory in Italy.
- Place de la Bourse: Majestic 18th century square with a fountain of the Three Graces and the famous Miroir d’Eau.
🛍️ Shopping paradise: The western border is marked by rue Sainte Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe lined with major retail stores and unique local boutiques.
Where to stay in Saint Pierre & Saint Paul? 🏨
Best Hotels in Saint Pierre
- L'Hôtel Particulier Bordeaux – An exquisite boutique hotel tucked away in a charming 18th-century mansion. The rooms are elegantly decorated, and the courtyard garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
- Villa Reale Bordeaux – This intimate hotel offers a truly luxurious experience. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, with plush bedding and modern amenities. The staff is incredibly attentive and goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay.
- VILLAS FOCH – A collection of stunning villas that exude sophistication and grandeur. Each villa is uniquely designed with impeccable attention to detail, featuring private terraces and top-notch amenities. The service is exceptional, making you feel like royalty.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Quality Hotel Bordeaux Centre – A comfortable and well-appointed hotel that offers excellent value for money. The rooms are clean and modern, and the central location makes it easy to explore the city’s attractions on foot.
- Staycity Aparthotel Bordeaux City Centre – These serviced apartments are perfect for longer stays or families. The units are spacious and well-equipped with kitchenettes, and the property offers convenient amenities like a fitness center and laundry facilities.
2. Chartrons – Best Places to Stay in Bordeaux for Art & Culture Lovers 👨🎨
Chartrons is one of the trendiest and most sought-after neighborhoods in Bordeaux. Located just north of the Bordeaux center between Bassins à Flot and Quinconces, Chartrons exudes a hip bourgeois-bohemian vibe.
🍷 Historic traders: Once the district of wine merchants and traders in the 17th century, today Chartrons is a bustling hub of antique shops, vintage boutiques, art galleries and design houses.
🌺 Flower-lined street: The heart and soul of Chartrons is Rue Notre Dame, lined with cute balconies overflowing with flowers. Some hipster highlights on this street include:
- Hello Vintage: Unique vintage clothing and souvenirs
- Village Notre Dame: Massive antique shop in an old printing house
- L’Alchimiste Torréfacteur: Specialty coffee roaster and cafe
🛒 Vibrant market: On Sundays, the Chartrons Market along the Garonne riverfront is an unmissable event. The Halles de Chartrons, a former market hall, has been converted into a cultural space surrounded by restaurant terraces. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch over a drink in the sun.
🎨 Art havens: For art lovers, the CAPC Musée d’Art Contemporain is housed in a former colonial warehouse and features an impressive collection of modern art. Nearby, Cox Gallery is dedicated to the rising street art scene.
🍻 Lively nightlife: When night falls, hipsters flock to the wine bars and craft beer spots that line the quays and spill into the side streets. For a quirky night out, Symbiose is an eco-friendly bar decorated with recycled materials that hosts live music.
Where to stay in Chartrons? 🏩
Best Hotels in Chartrons
- Hotel Indigo Bordeaux Centre Chartrons – This stylish hotel offers a panoramic terrace overlooking the River Garonne and Pont de Pierre. The rooms are freshly made, spacious, and very clean. The staff at the breakfast service is incredibly kind and provides a great variety of food options.
- Seeko'o Hotel Bordeaux – Situated right on the banks of the Garonne River, this hotel has friendly staff and quiet, clean rooms with great AC and comfortable beds. The tasty breakfast with scrambled eggs as a standout is a delightful way to start the day.
- Hotel Vatel – With air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi, this hotel boasts extremely friendly and helpful staff. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, making for a pleasant stay in the heart of Bordeaux.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hôtel Notre Dame – Just a 5-minute walk from the city center, this quaint and vintage hotel offers guest rooms and suites with luggage storage and laundry service. The nice, comfortable rooms and excellent location make it a great value option.
- Mercure Bordeaux Chateau – With an 8.0 rating on Booking.com, this moderately priced hotel in the Chartrons district provides a comfortable base to explore the city.
3. Gare Saint-Jean – Best Area in Bordeaux for Nightlife 💃
🎉 Nightlife hub: The Gare Saint-Jean area, located south of Bordeaux’s city center, is the perfect base for night owls and party-goers. This lively district surrounding Bordeaux’s main train station offers a wide variety of nightclubs, music venues, bars, and restaurants to keep you entertained into the early hours.
🍻 Some of the best bars near Gare Saint-Jean include:
- Le Karadoc
- POINT ROUGE
- Le Bistroquet
- Le Doriajo
🛍️ During the day, the area around Gare Saint-Jean is a hub of activity with its many cafes, shops, and the bustling Marché des Capucins food market. The Saint-Michel district, known for its antique shops and vintage boutiques, is just a short walk away.
🚇 Well-connected: Staying near Gare Saint-Jean puts you within easy reach of Bordeaux’s top attractions via the city’s efficient tram system. The historic city center is just a 10-minute ride away on Line C, while the Cité du Vin wine museum and the Bassins à Flot district are easily accessible on Line B.
All hotels in Gare Saint-Jean →
Where to stay in Gare Saint-Jean? 🏨
Best Hotels in Gare Saint-Jean
- Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre – This modern hotel offers a comfortable stay with spacious rooms, a cozy bar, and a prime location just steps away from the train station. The friendly staff and excellent service make it a top choice.
- Novotel Bordeaux Centre – Conveniently situated right across from the train station, this hotel boasts contemporary rooms and a sleek design. The staff is attentive, and the location is hard to beat.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Citotel Le Regina Hôtel Bordeaux – A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on comfort. The rooms are cozy and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
- Hotel Life Bordeaux Gar – This hotel offers a healthy approach with a fitness center and a focus on wellness. The rooms are small but clean and functional, making it a great value for money.
- B&B HOTEL Bordeaux Centre – A stylish and modern hotel with a prime location near the train station. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is welcoming.
Best Hostels
- JOST Hôtel – More than just a hostel, this property offers a seasonal outdoor pool, terrace, restaurant, and bar. The rooms are new and well-appointed, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
- MEININGER Hotel – While not a traditional hostel, this hotel offers affordable rates and a lively atmosphere with shared spaces and a self-catering kitchen, making it a great option for budget travelers.
4. Bastide – Best Neighborhood to Stay Away from the Crowds 🌳
🌳 Relaxing oasis: For a more laid-back and residential vibe, consider staying in the Bastide district on Bordeaux’s right bank. This up-and-coming neighborhood offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city center while still being within easy reach of all the main attractions.
🚶♀️ Convenient access: Getting to the city center from Bastide is a breeze thanks to the Pont de Pierre bridge, which offers a scenic walk or bike ride across the Garonne. The Porte de Bourgogne tram stop on Line A is also just a short stroll away.
🏞️ Nature’s playground: Bastide’s main draw is its abundance of green spaces and outdoor activities. The sprawling Parc des Angéliques stretches along the Garonne riverfront, offering:
- Walking and cycling paths
- Playgrounds and sports facilities
- Picnic areas and river views
In the summer months, the park hosts festivals, concerts, and open-air cinema screenings. The nearby Jardin Botanique is another oasis of calm, with themed gardens and a serene lake.
🛒 Local flavors: Bastide’s main square, the Place Stalingrad, comes alive on weekends with the Marché des Producteurs farmers market. Stock up on fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods before enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of the many surrounding cafes and restaurants.
Where to stay in Bastide? 🏩
Best Hotels in Bastide
- ibis Bordeaux Centre Bastide – A modern and comfortable hotel located right in the heart of Bastide. The rooms are spacious, and the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. The hotel also has a great breakfast buffet.
- Hôtel des Voyageurs – This charming hotel right next to the Stalingrad tram station offers a warm welcome and excellent sightseeing advice from the owner. The rooms are simple but comfortable with flat-screen TVs.
- Aliénor – A delightful guest house with air-conditioned rooms and TVs. The slightly larger rooms feel really cozy with huge beds, fridges, sinks and basic kitchenette amenities. The owner is very hospitable.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Bastide – A great budget-friendly option in Bastide. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, and the hotel offers excellent value for money. The staff is friendly and accommodating.
- Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide – A trendy and affordable hostel with a vibrant atmosphere. The dorms are modern and well-designed, and the common areas are perfect for socializing and meeting fellow travelers.
- Residhotel Galerie Tatry – A cozy and reasonably priced hotel with apartment-style rooms. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, making it an excellent choice for longer stays or families.
5. Bordeaux-Lac – Where to Stay with Family 👪
🌳 Family-friendly: For families looking for a comfortable and convenient base in Bordeaux, the Bordeaux Lac area is an excellent choice. This modern district, located north of the city center, offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodation options surrounded by green spaces and recreational activities.
💦 Lakeside fun: One of the main draws of Bordeaux-Lac is its proximity to the Lac de Bordeaux, a large manmade lake with a sandy beach, playgrounds, and water sports facilities. In the summer months, the lake area comes alive with:
- Pedal boat and kayak rentals
- Beach volleyball courts
- Open-air concerts and events
The Parc des Expositions exhibition center is also located in Bordeaux-Lac, hosting major fairs, shows, and the annual Christmas market.
🎢 Indoor entertainment: For some indoor fun, head to the Mégarama cinema complex or the Kart’In go-karting track. The Rue Lucien Faure is lined with family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and shops.
🚃 Easy access: Getting to the historic city center from Bordeaux-Lac is easy via the efficient tram system. Line C takes you directly to the heart of Bordeaux in around 20 minutes.
Where to stay in Bordeaux-Lac? 🏨
Best Hotels in Bordeaux-Lac
- Novotel Bordeaux Lac – A modern and stylish hotel right on the lake, offering comfortable rooms with great views. The outdoor pool area is a real highlight.
- Mercure Bordeaux Lac – This well-appointed hotel has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
- Contact Hôtel-Restaurant le Provençal – A charming hotel with a lovely outdoor terrace and delicious on-site restaurant. The electric car charging stations are a nice touch.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Live Hotels Bordeaux Lac – This affordable hotel offers great value with its modern rooms, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant. The staff is attentive and multilingual.
- Sure Hotel by Best Western – This modern hotel is located next to the lake on the outskirts of Bordeaux. It offers free Wi-Fi and private parking. The rooms are clean and comfortable.
Best Accommodation near Bordeaux Airport 🛫
This hotel is conveniently located right next to the airport terminals. I stayed here recently and found the rooms to be modern, spacious, and well-appointed.
The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating. While the hotel lacks some amenities like a pool, its proximity to the airport can’t be beaten if you have an early flight or a late arrival.
2. Holiday Inn Bordeaux-Merignac
Just a short drive from the airport, this Holiday Inn property offers a great combination of comfort and value. The rooms are clean and the beds are extremely comfortable – I slept like a log after a long travel day.
The hotel also has a nice restaurant on-site, so you don’t have to venture out for meals. Getting to and from the airport was a breeze.
This Mercure hotel is literally across the street from the Bordeaux airport terminals. The soundproofed rooms ensure you get a peaceful night’s sleep despite being so close to the airport. I appreciated the outdoor pool for a refreshing dip after a long flight.
The hotel also offers a free airport shuttle which is very convenient. While not as modern as the Sheraton, it’s an excellent airport hotel option.
Best Areas & Hotels in Bordeaux on a Map 🗺
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FAQs about Trip to Bordeaux ❔
How many days do you need in Bordeaux?
I’d recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Bordeaux to properly experience this lovely French city. It’s the perfect amount of time to wander the charming old town, visit a few of the top châteaux and vineyards, and indulge in the incredible food and wine scene at a relaxed pace. Any less than that and you’ll feel rushed.
Is Bordeaux a walkable city?
Absolutely, Bordeaux is very pedestrian-friendly. The historic city center is completely walkable, with lovely stone buildings, pedestrianized streets, and gorgeous squares and parks around every corner. You’ll want to spend hours just aimlessly strolling and popping into charming cafes. Even getting around to the major sights outside the old town is easy – the tram system is great for accessing farther areas without wearing out your feet.
What is the most famous region in Bordeaux?
When it comes to Bordeaux’s world-renowned wine regions, the most celebrated has to be the Médoc. This gorgeous area northwest of the city runs along the left bank of the Gironde estuary and is home to some of the most prestigious châteaux and most coveted red wine appellations like Pauillac, Margaux, and St-Julien. Driving the lovely D2 route through dreamy vineyards and fairy-tale châteaux is a must for any wine lover visiting Bordeaux.
What is the best time of year to visit Bordeaux, France?
While Bordeaux has a relatively mild climate year-round, the spring and fall are probably the best times to visit in my opinion. You’ll avoid the peak summer heat and crowds, but still enjoy pleasantly warm temperatures ideal for eating outdoors and strolling the charming streets. The springtime offers lovely blooms, while fall provides a gorgeous backdrop of changing vineyard colors. Summer is fine too if you don’t mind heat. Just try to avoid the dead of winter when many places are closed.
Where to stay in Bordeaux with kids?
Bordeaux makes a fantastic family destination with lots of green spaces, a laidback vibe, and kid-friendly attractions. If you’re visiting with children, I’d suggest looking for accommodations near the large Jardin Public park. This central area puts you within easy walking distance of playgrounds, a botanic garden, museums like Cap Sciences, and the pedestrian shopping areas.
