Bordeaux

Famed for its popular wine producers and history of rich artistry, Bordeaux is a thriving port situated on the Atlantic coast of France, approximately 350 miles from central Paris. It is ideally located for visits to the nearby beautiful beaches and magnificent French countryside that surrounds it.

Attractions

Bordeaux is home to a large number of vineyards and is therefore an excellent resort for wine tasting. Château Mouton-Rothschild is the most famous in the area, and is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Château Lafite-Rothschild, Château Margaux and Société Duboscq are amongst other winemakers available for visits and wine tasting. The Museum of Fine Arts is situated in the centre of Bordeaux, and there is also a Museum of Contemporary Arts. Other museums to visit include the Museum of Decorative Arts and the Natural History Museum.

Shopping

The attractively-fronted Quartier des Chartons area of Bordeaux houses many antiques shops, and is also home to a wine museum. A flea-market can be found in the square adjacent to the Saint-Michel Basilica. The main shopping centre is the Marché des Grand Hommes.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Bordeaux specialities are mostly centred on fish dishes, including oysters, eels and lamprey. Terrines and soups are also found commonly in restaurants around Bordeaux. Vegetarian dishes often contain mushrooms and asparagus grown in the Bordeaux region. Winemaking is the prevailing trade in this area, meaning that dining out can be accompanied with excellent local wines.

Bordeaux has a large student population, meaning that there is a vibrant night life for young visitors to the area. There are live music and jazz clubs, and several theatres to occupy those who find the student scene too much.

Tourist Information

Office de Tourisme de Bordeaux12, cours du XXX JuilletBordeauxTel: +33(0)556 006 600otb@bordeaux-tourisme.comwww.bordeaux-tourisme.com

Airport

The nearest airport is the Aéroport de Bordeaux-Mérignac, which is situated to the west of the city. There are regular bus links running to the city from the airport.