Classically elegant, easily walkable and endlessly photogenic, Bordeaux is a city made for slow exploration; preferably between bites of boulangerie-fresh cream and fruit laden pâtisserie and sips of locally produced wine, because after all, this is the wine capital of the world! But whether you have just an afternoon, a full day or perhaps even an unhurried weekend to enjoy the city, keep your camera close, because around every corner is a scene worth capturing.
Why visit Bordeaux
Just a few hours by train southwest of Paris and within easy reach of the Atlantic coast, Bordeaux offers plenty to rival the capital, but at a gentler, much more relaxed pace. Set along the curve of the Garonne River, its UNESCO listed historic centre, known as the Port of the Moon, is positively brimming with golden limestone façades, grand squares, Gothic towers, medieval gates, chic boutiques, world-class wine bars, renowned restaurants and stunning riverside views. What’s not to love?!
What to see and do
Begin your Bordeaux adventure in the old town, with shop shutters lifting, cafés setting out their tables and chairs, and everything awash in that photography-friendly soft early morning light as it begins to warm the pale stone streets.
Grab yourself a coffee and pastry on Rue Saint James, before taking in the magnificent La Grosse Cloche, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Straddling the street with its twin peaked towers, great bell and historic clock faces — one showing the lunar phases and the other an astronomical clock — this medieval Gothic gatehouse offers a fascinating contrast to Bordeaux’s more polished 18th century architecture.
Next head to the impossible-to-miss Cathédrale Saint André, which commands an impressive footprint, spreading wide across the square, while beside it, the golden topped Tour Pey Berland stretches high up above the rooftops and is definitely worth the climb for sweeping views across the city.
After all that activity, you’ll deserve a sweet treat, so make for Rue Bouffard, a lovely area for boutique browsing, window shopping and detail rich street photography, with wonderfully creative displays to capture along the way. Here, you’ll find Chocolaterie Lalère, renowned for its mouth-wateringly good, handmade chocolate and flights of rich hot chocolate. Alternatively, for something more substantial, pottle on over to the Saint Pierre district, one of Bordeaux’s most atmospheric areas for food and people watching, with Place du Parlement and the surrounding lanes making an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch in a truly stylish street setting.
When you’re finished, make for Porte Cailhau — a beautiful medieval gate near the riverfront that’s romantically reminiscent of a fairytale castle. With its large arch, conical turrets and slate grey roofline, it’s a must-see in its own right, whilst leading you naturally towards the riverfront and the Pont de Pierre (bridge), which is another fantastic facet of the city to explore.
From here, follow the Garonne to Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d’Eau — Bordeaux’s picture postcard image, so it’s worth taking your time. The shallow water creates a beautiful reflection of the 18th century square on one side and people passing on the waterfront on the other, so crouch low, keep your horizon straight, wait for the water to settle and an interesting subject to move into frame.
From here, stroll over to Place de la Comédie and the Grand Théâtre, where the theatre’s grand columns and statues of muses and goddesses make it one of the city’s finest architectural set pieces, especially when trams, shoppers and evening crowds add movement to the scene.
There’s shopping galore to be had in Bordeaux, especially for wine enthusiasts, but if you only have time for one stop, make it Badie Champagnes on Allées de Tourny — a historic Bordeaux address where shelves of beautifully curated bottles offer a suitably sparkling reminder that this city takes its drinking heritage seriously.
With dusk approaching, and the sky ablaze in orange and pink hues, continue to Place des Quinconces, where the Monument aux Girondins looks especially striking against the setting sun. Move closer to the foot of the column to frame its dramatic bronze fountains, where rearing marine horses and allegorical figures appear to burst through plumes of water. Now is a great opportunity to experiment with different shutter speeds, whether you want to go fast to freeze the spray, or slower, to create something softer and more fluid.
And finally, because no visit to the wine capital of the world would be complete without it, walk along the waterfront to La Cité du Vin if time and energy allow, otherwise jump on a tram. This futuristic landmark is a modern marvel of engineering and architecture, and offers a brilliant contrast to the historic centre, not to mention provides incredible panoramic views over the river and beyond as the city lights come on and the wine comes out!
When to visit Bordeaux
Bordeaux is one of those magnificent destinations that feels special whenever you visit, but that being said, it truly sings in spring or autumn, especially May, June, September and October. The weather is warm enough to eat and socialise outside, but not too hot for wandering, plus with fewer crowds than in high summer, the city has space to breathe more easily. Spring brings softer light, fresh market produce and long, bright days that are ideal for photography, while autumn is particularly lovely for wine lovers, especially as the surrounding vineyards begin their harvest season.
Where to stay in Bordeaux
Where you stay in Bordeaux really depends on the kind of trip you want. For first time visitors, short breaks and anyone keen to photograph the city at its quietest, the historic centre around Saint Pierre and the Triangle d’Or is hard to beat. For something a little more relaxed and local feeling, Les Chartrons — just north of the centre — offers antique shops, independent cafés and a young, trendy vibe, while Saint Seurin – Fondaudège is one of the most elegant, but family-friendly districts. If you are arriving by train or planning day trips, Gare Saint-Jean and nearby Quartier Saint-Michel can be practical bases, with good transport links and a livelier, more budget-friendly feel.
Alternatively, if you’d rather sample more of what the wider region has to offer, why not base yourself in the beautiful Charente Maritime countryside? Chatenet Holiday Gîtes offers a wonderfully rural alternative to staying in Bordeaux itself, perfect for those who want a little more space, scenery and easy access to some of south west France’s best highlights.
Run by British expats Craig and Leila Tanswell, originally from Bournemouth, the complex offers the choice of three self catering holiday cottages, including two larger gîtes for up to six people each and a romantic two person gîte featuring a sauna and hot tub, all surrounded by vineyards, sunflower fields and views across the Seugne valley.
Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy the extensive gardens and photograph everything from landscapes and wildlife to magnificent, unspoilt starry skies. If you can bring yourself to leave for the day, there are plenty of nearby market towns, vineyards, châteaux, beaches and cities all worth the journey, including must-see spots like Jonzac, Cognac, Bergerac, Blaye, and of course, the world famous wine village of Saint Émilion. And speaking of wine, with their WSET Diploma in Wine under their belts, Craig and Leila also have an air conditioned, licensed tasting room on site, so guests can enjoy a guided tasting should they wish. And honestly, what better way is there to experience a place than through its local wines?
