Bordeaux Old Town: The old town has both culture and beautiful architecture. Stroll along the quais of Garonne, overlooked by majestic building facades, then on to the Quartier des Chartrons to see the 18th century merchants' houses. Walk to the 17 arch stone bridge that spans the Garonne, it offers an impressive sight from which to view this beautiful ancient city.

Explore the elegant pedestrianised shopping areas and lively restaurants and cafes. Mussels and oysters are the specialties brought upstream from the coast, they are best enjoyed with a glass of fine wine chosen from the exceptional range available.

A great way to discover Bordeaux as a family is to take part in the Bordeaux Treasure Hunt, it will lead you through the city’s old quarters (Saint Pierre, Saint Eloi, Saint Michel) and to a few secret places too. On the way you'll try solving various mysteries & puzzles and hopefully discover the hidden treasure! The treasure hunt ia available from the tourist office priced at EUR 5.00 per adult.

Visit the impressive 13th-century Cathédrale St-André with its unusual but wonderful sculptures engraved into it's doors. Bordeaux's museums are gathered around the cathedral with the The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux being one of the best, with it's fine collection of European art including works by Matisse, Picasso, Rubens, Titian and Marquet. The old town is fairly compact and is easily discovered on foot, a two-hour walking tour can be arranged via the local tourist office.

Bordeaux is steeped in history with its magnificent 18th century architecture and natural sheltered inland harbor. The city has long been a major inland port and is regarded as being the commercial and cultural centre for all of South West France.

Exploring the old town on foot is easy and fun, there is also a regular and convenient bus service around the city, plus a tramway which offers easy access to most of Bordeaux's main attractions.

The Bordeaux City Pass (The Bordeaux Découverte card), is an excellent way to use local transport. The pass gives you 24, 48 or 72 consecutive hours of unlimited access to tram, bus an the river shuttle. The card also gives you access to museums and Exhibition such as the Bordeaux Museum, CAPC Contemporary Art Museum, The Fine Arts Museum, Cité du Vin and many more. The pass is available from the tourist office.

A trip to Bordeaux would not be complete without exploring the region’s vineyards, châteaux, wine-growing villages and picturesque landscapes. The tours on offer include classic wine tours, themed tours, tasting classes, dining opportunities and many more. The Bordeaux Tourist Office can arrange day trips or half-day trips to many of the main Bordeaux appellations. Some of the regions include Médoc or Sauternes, Saint-Émilion or Graves, the vineyards along the estuary or the Entre-deux-Mers region.

Bordeaux Nightlife: Bordeaux’s nightlife has always been vibrant and is packed with restaurants, trendy bars, nightclubs and dance venues. Some of the best clubs are spread out along Quai du Paludate and around the old dockyards near rue Gironde, this area usually comes to life around midnight.

The busy festival Les Epicuriales runs for 16 days each year between early June and late July. The festival sees local restaurants set up stalls along the tree-lined Allées de Tourny, you'll find a relaxed atmosphere with varied entertainment, great cuisine and free concerts in the evenings.

Bordeaux Airport (BOD). Bordeaux airport is located eight miles (13km) west of the city.

Airport Transport and Shuttle Services:
Coach Transfer. The 30’Direct offers a direct 30-minute service between Bordeaux Airport and the Saint-Jean train station, located in the centre of Bordeaux, the services runs throughout the day.

Car Hire. All major car rental companies are represented at Bordeaux (BOD) airport, Budget, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt.