Bordeaux, France: Mini‑Paris Meets Wine Capital
Bordeaux often earns the nickname “Mini‑Paris”, thanks to its elegant Haussmann‑style boulevards and UNESCO‑listed historic centre — yet it’s far more peaceful than its bustling cousin to the north . In 2017, Lonely Planet even named it the best city in the world to visit, praising its unbeatable mix of architecture, culture and, naturally, wine. With over 350 listed heritage buildings — second only to Paris — the city feels grand and refined, yet lived-in and serene.
Why visit Bordeaux, and when?
Each season brings its own rhythm to Bordeaux.
Spring is made for market strolls and riverside picnics with seasonal white asparagus and strawberries from the nearby Médoc. Summer lights up the Garonne quays and rooftop terraces, where locals gather for apéritif with a view. Autumn is harvest season in the vineyards—a must for wine lovers. And winter, though quieter, offers a romantic, cinematic feel, especially around Place de la Bourse in the misty morning light.
Insider’s Bordeaux: What to See, Do, and Taste
Private Vineyard Access (Beyond the Obvious)
Skip the group tours and let your concierge arrange a private tasting at Château Haut-Bailly or Château Smith Haut Lafitte, two estates where hospitality is as polished as the wine. For something rarer, consider a helicopter tour over the vineyards of Saint-Émilion followed by lunch at a Grand Cru Classé estate.
Shop Like a Local (But Better)
Rue Fondaudège and Rue Notre-Dame are lined with art galleries and concept stores far from the tourist crowds. Visit Maison Sarah Lavoine for design pieces or Coutume for carefully curated fashion and homeware. For true one-of-a-kind finds, schedule a private antiques appointment at Village Notre-Dame.
Elevated Dining
Le Quatrième Mur – Michelin-starred yet refreshingly unpretentious, chef Philippe Etchebest's modern French cuisine is set in the stunning Grand Théâtre.
L'Oiseau Bleu – A quiet local gem with seasonal menus and an exceptional wine list.
La Grande Maison de Bernard Magrez – A special-occasion address pairing haute cuisine with art and wine in a spectacular setting.
Wellness and Leisure
Rejuvenate at the Sources de Caudalie Spa, just 20 minutes from the city, surrounded by vines and offering vinotherapy treatments. Alternatively, enjoy a sunset boat cruise on the Garonne with a private chef onboard.
A lot more to see around Bordeaux
While Bordeaux itself is a treasure, its surroundings are just as alluring. A short drive takes you to Cap Ferret, beloved by Parisians for its discreet villas and oyster shacks, or Arcachon, with its towering Dune du Pilat. In autumn, take a day trip to Sauternes, where the morning mist creates the perfect conditions for the world’s most luxurious sweet wines.
Where to Stay in Bordeaux: Yndo Hotel
Tucked away in a 19th-century private mansion, Yndo Hotel feels more like the home of a design-obsessed friend than a hotel. Its twelve uniquely styled rooms blend haute couture with artful eclecticism—think Hermès wallpapers, Philippe Starck furniture, and curated vintage finds. The service is discreet yet deeply attentive, led by a team that knows Bordeaux intimately and delights in making bespoke experiences happen.
Skip the breakfast buffet. At Yndo, everything is à la carte, freshly prepared, and served wherever you like—under the magnolia tree in the garden, in your suite, or beside the roaring fireplace in the lounge.
Ask for the “crazy room” if you’re looking to surprise your partner—playful, bold, and unforgettable.
Yndo Hotel, a member of the VERTU Collection