The heart of southern region of the country
Bordeaux is where the heart of southern France beats.
The enormous diversity of the country is
only properly appreciated on a round trip through various regions, and the
necessary mobility is easily acquired: simply with a car hire.
The economic and political centre on the river Garonne and the Atlantic coast has been settled for over 2000 years, and travellers have always enjoyed the good weather (no other French region has more sunshine) and the famous wine.
Bordeaux’s historic sights are all embedded in a fantastic cityscape that gives off a medieval, yet grand feel. The little damage the buildings have suffered over the centuries has been skillfully restored without robbing the city of its authenticity, which is why the view onto the city across the Garonne is one of the most recognizable in the world. The mansions and palaces along the water speak of the wealth the French tradesmen have accumulated, as do the magnificent churches that rise above the Old Town. Drive along in your car hire to admire the view.
Sightseeing
Though with a quarter of a million in population Bordeaux is considerable in size, the main sights are all within walking distance. Once you have crossed the Garonne on the Pont de Pierre you can stroll along the magnificent facades that line the shore into the city centre.
The most representative square in Bordeaux is Place de la Bourse, which literally means stock market square, though it’s sole original purpose was to frame a statue of Louis XV. Just a few steps from here the neo-classical Grand Théatre was built in the 1770s on the foundation of a former Roman temple. We recommend going to see a performance, as the blue and gold interior is mind-blowing and the ensemble one of the best ones in all of France.
Another great square at the heart of Bordeaux, and the biggest in Europe, is the Place des Quinconces, a popular hang-out spot for locals. During construction the early 19th century the historic castle that was once in the middle of the square unfortunately obscured the view, so it needed tearing down.
Fortunately the Cathédrale Saint-André was spared such drastic measures, and will be in future, as UNESCO has called it a protected World Heritage Site. The late gothic Catholic church has a history reaching back roughly 1000 years, and over time bits and pieces have been replaced, still preserving its original magic.
In the unlikely event of a rainy day we recommend the Musée d’Aquitaine, a regional history museum with an extensive section on World War II, as well as the Musée des Beaux-Arts, an excellent art museum that mainly focuses on Renaissance art and can be easily reached in your car hire.
Eating out
The one thing you will have to worry least about while staying in Bordeaux is where to find good food. The simple answer is: everywhere. This city is renowned for its delicious fare, and locals still feast on traditional sea food dishes and cheese, accompanied of course by a glass of Bordeaux wine. The famous alcoholic juice entices thousands of tourists into the surrounding vineyards, where you can sample red and white wine and stock up on liquid souvenirs. The easiest way of visiting vineyards is in your car hire, but make sure you pick a driver, as the French laws on drunk driving are even stricter than in the UK.
Dare to take a journey in your car hire
through France’s assorted landscapes and have a fantastic holiday experience!
