Neighbourhoods
Le Triangle d'Or
The elegant 18th-century core — shopping, wine bars, architecture.
Chartrons
Former wine-merchant district, now antiques and cafés.
Things to do
Cité du Vin
A genuinely good wine museum, not just a tasting room — book the rooftop tasting add-on.
Miroir d'eau reflecting pool
Best at sunset when it mists over — a local ritual, not just a photo op.
Eating & drinking
Marché des Capucins
The real, unfussy local market — go for oysters and a glass of white before noon.
Day trips
Local logistics
City-specific transport and safety notes — for country-wide context, see the France guide.
Compact and tram-served; the city center is fully walkable in a day.
Very safe; no notable areas of concern.
Pacing & budget
Pacing: 2 days for the city, add a third for a Saint-Émilion day trip.
Budget: Mid-range nationally; wine tastings/tours are the main variable cost.
Visa, money, culture & transport for all of France
Currency, key phrases, getting around by train, and everything that applies to your whole trip — not just Bordeaux.