The mere mention of Bordeaux conjures up images of stunning architecture, vibrant markets and — perhaps most of all — wonderful wine. With its wine-making roots stretching back as far as the Roman era, the Bordeaux region is a brilliant choice for those dreaming of vineyard tours and tastings paired with fabulous French cuisine. Immensely popular with visitors from within France and beyond, the city offers a tremendous range of accommodation options to suit a plethora of tastes and budgets. Nestled within the city centre and on the picturesque banks of the Garonne River, our list of the best places to stay in Bordeaux really does have something for everyone.

Capital of the Aquitaine region and the Gironde’s best-known hub, Bordeaux is perched right alongside the Garonne River. Its recently restored waterfront has become a trendy hotspot, with museums, bars and innovative restaurants aplenty. Stroll to Les Quais to see the famous Aquitaine Bridge, or to take a scenic boat tour. For a sense of elegant old Bordeaux — now a UNESCO World Heritage Site — enjoy a guided walking tour, or amble through Gambetta Square, Place de La Victoire and pedestrianised Rue Sainte-Catherine. Views from atop Saint-Michel’s tower are superb, as are wanders through the 11-hectare Jardin Public. Top museums include La Cité du Vin, the Musée du Vin et du Négoce and the Musée d’Aquitaine.

Venture into the surrounding countryside for fantastic wine tours and tastings before returning to relax at one of the best places to stay in Bordeaux.

The Best Places to Stay in Bordeaux

For an Intimate B&B

• Maison La Course is a chic five bedroom B&B in the Jardins Public district of Bordeaux. Pick this place for the gorgeous interiors, the intimate feel and the friendly hosts, who will point you in the right direction to explore Bordeaux. The Orienso suite is ideal for families; the other rooms are great for couples.
• Casa Blanca offers sleek modern interiors and a welcoming feel. Well-suited to couples or groups, the house has inviting communal spaces. Some rooms have private balconies, and your hosts can organise bicycle rental and vineyard tours on request. A small B&B with plenty of character.
• Villa Victor Louis, named after the architect who designed the renowned Grand Théâtre of Bordeaux, is an 18th-century townhouse-turned-hotel with eight rooms. Ornate decoration will speak to history buffs. Breakfasts are served in a sunny morning room, and there are great nearby restaurants.
• Maison Fredon is a charming six-bedroom B&B opposite the famed La Tupina restaurant. Individually styled rooms channel classic French cool, with exposed beams, modern details and pops of colour. Very inviting.

For Contemporary Cool

• Seeko'o Hotel is hard to miss: modelled on an ice cube, the property sits between 18th-century buildings on Bordeaux's waterfront. Sleek suites have minimalist designer furniture, mood lighting and epic views. Unwind at the spa or sip cocktails in the trendy bar. For design lovers eager to stay somewhere with a buzz in the city.
• Yndo Hotel has elegant, contemporary interiors, with bold artwork, organically shaped sofas and lots of light. Set inside a 19th-century mansion, this vibrant spot is ideal for glamorous couples or groups. Wine-tastings and city tours can be oragnised. A luxurious city choice.

For Couples

• Une Chambre Chez Dupont is a romantic boutique spot in the Chartrons district. Open since 1988, this is a classic couples' choice, with ten inviting, individually designed guestrooms and a buzzy bistro. Outside tables are perfect for watching the world go by together!
• Le Boutique Hotel promises the ideal couples' stay in beautiful Bordeaux. An elegant townhouse hotel with 20 chic, light-filled rooms, this family-run property offers big brunches, a small spa, stand-alone bathtubs, a romantic terrace and special packages for a restful couples' escape.
• Villas Foch has 20 glamorous rooms and suites, with high ceilings and a classic feel. Highlights include the spa — complete with indoor swimming pool — and Le Ferdinand, the hotel's seriously cool bar. For hip couples.
• Hotel de Sèze is an imposing landmark, with 55 generously proportioned rooms hidden behind an 18th-century façade. The small spa, smart restaurant, bar and cigar lounge make this a top city stay for couples or friends.

For Families or Groups

• Villa Reale offers three apartments, each of which can sleep up to six guests. Fusing contemporary design and French 18th-century style in a historic building, these are ideal for fun group trips to Bordeaux. Flats have well-equipped kitchens but breakfast is available on request. There's also a sauna in the building.
• Hôtel de Tourny has 12 pared-back rooms, with a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Spaces are clad in soothing greys, with natural wood and cane furnishings. A lovely choice for a restful family trip, with rollaway beds and cots available. Excellent downtown location for seeing the sights as a family.
• Intercontinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel offers an exceptionally indulgent Bordeaux base, with lavish rooms and suites — some of which have marble-topped bathtubs. There's a gastronomic restaurant, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, hammam and sauna, as well as provisions for little ones. Opposite the Grand Théâtre and great for a family holiday, as well as for couples or business travellers.

For a Country Escape

• Château Grattequina is a stunning 19th-century castle on the banks of the Garonne River. Huge bedrooms have wooden floors, pretty fabrics and big modern bathrooms — some have private balconies. Delicious regional cuisine, local wines and striking event spaces are perfect for parties. Restful, romantic and close to the Margaux wine commune.
• Le St James, designed by architect Jean Nouvel, is a modern masterpiece. Brilliant for well-heeled travellers, foodies or wellness enthusiasts, this spectacular collection of 15 rooms and suites sits within glorious gardens on the east bank of the Garonne, close to picturesque Bouillac. Very cool.
• Domaine de Raba offers sophisticated rooms and suites in a sandstone manor house just south of central Bordeaux. Boutique rooms and suites offer luxurious four poster beds, cream-coloured furnishings and works of art. Throw in a swimming pool, spa and fine dining restaurant, and you have the perfect romantic escape.

For Great Value

• Mama Shelter, Bordeaux is simple, comfortable and affordable, with 97 modern rooms. A hip choice for a group holiday or business trip, there's a buzzy bar and restaurant, a fantastic roof terrace for sundowners, table football and relaxed pizzas.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport and travel into town by bus, airport shuttle or taxi. Alternatively, take the TGV from Paris in under three hours.
• Gironde is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between May and September for warm weather (with temperatures peaking around 27°C). Spring or autumn visitors can expect cooler temperatures. The harvest season is inevitably busy, but very appealing.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Saint-Emilion.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Gironde.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Bordeaux