Word of Mouth: Bordeaux city guide

Welcome to our seventh city guide, where we explore Bordeaux—a city that redefines the essence of French elegance. Renowned for its exceptional wines and breathtaking architecture, Bordeaux is a vibrant hub where history and modernity harmoniously coexist. From the banks of the Garonne River to the bustling Place de la Bourse, this city invites you to indulge in its culinary delights and artistic spirit. Join us as we share our favorite spots for dining, leisure, and experiencing the heart of Bordeaux!

Where to stay

_Hotel Cardinal
This intimate hotel combines classic French elegance with modern amenities, offering personalized service and a tranquil city escape.

_Villas Foch
A boutique gem in the heart of Bordeaux. Expect refined decor, modern comforts, and impeccable service in a historic setting.

_Les Sources de Caudalie
Escape to the lush vineyards of Bordeaux at Les Sources de Caudalie, a haven for relaxation. Rejuvenate with vinotherapy spa treatments and savor Michelin-starred cuisine in a serene, rustic setting.

Where to dine

_Baston
A chic, modern bistro offering innovative takes on classic French cuisine, Baston is the go-to spot for a relaxed dining experience with character.

_Ishikawa
Ishikawa blends French and Japanese culinary traditions, offering dishes that highlight the best of both worlds in an elegant setting.

_Les Récoltants
This farm-to-table restaurant celebrates seasonal, local ingredients with a menu that changes often to reflect the freshest produce available.

_Samos
For lovers of Mediterranean flavors, Samos serves authentic Greek dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

_Demeter
A refined, plant-forward restaurant, Demeter offers a creative menu that highlights organic and biodynamic ingredients, perfect for vegetarians and food enthusiasts alike.

Coffee culture

_OVEN HEAVEN
THE address for specialty coffee in Bordeaux.

_Blacklist Café
Known for its specialty coffee and minimalist vibe, a great spot for a cup and a pastry.

_Café Piha
This cozy café brings a taste of New Zealand to Bordeaux, offering great coffee, warm hospitality, and a laid-back atmosphere.

_Café BB
A local favorite for its smartly brewed coffee and relaxed setting.

Boulangeries (bakeries)

_Cassonade Cannelés & Spécialités
Three locations across Bordeaux, a must for tasting the iconic canelés the city is famous for.

_Terre de Beaulieu
An artisanal bakery specializing in ancient grains and naturally leavened breads.

_Antone
Known for its exceptional baguettes that capture the essence of French baking.

_Michel MaBelle
A 100% plant-based bakery offering a variety of vegan pastries and treats.

Drink o’clock

_Soif
An intimate wine bar that celebrates natural and biodynamic wines, Soif is the perfect spot for those seeking unique flavors and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.

_Au Bon Jaja
A charming wine bar known for its curated selection of organic and natural wines, Au Bon Jaja invites you to savor a relaxed experience with a glass in hand.

_Symbiose
A hidden gem along the riverfront, Symbiose offers creative cocktails in a chic, speakeasy-style setting, making it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

Épiceries (grocery stores)

_Herbéo
A delightful herbalist shop and grocery specializing in organic and local products, Herbéo offers a range of health-focused goods from teas to natural remedies.

_La Recharge
As Bordeaux’s first zero-waste grocery store, La Recharge is dedicated to sustainable shopping, providing organic, bulk products in an eco-friendly environment.

_Tista
This charming grocery store offers a curated selection of local and artisanal goods, perfect for those looking to discover the best of Bordeaux’s flavors.

Only in Bordeaux

_Darwin
A unique eco-friendly space in Bordeaux, Darwin combines urban sustainability with art, culture, and innovation, offering everything from organic markets to co-working spaces.

_La Dune du Pilat
The tallest sand dune in Europe, La Dune du Pilat offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast and is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

Culture

_CAPC
Discover contemporary art at CAPC, a vibrant museum housed in a 19th-century warehouse, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions from international artists.

_Bassins des Lumières
Bassins des Lumières is the world’s largest digital art center, where immersive displays transform a former submarine base in Bordeaux into a stunning visual experience.

Leisure activities

_Do you speak français?
A boutique featuring products made by French companies from all over France, providing an authentic taste of French craftsmanship in every item.

_Librairie Mollat
Bordeaux's beloved independent bookstore, where you'll find a carefully curated selection of books across all genres.

Green spaces:

_Jardin Public
Bordeaux’s beautiful Public Garden is a lush, green oasis in the city, perfect for a peaceful stroll, a picnic, or simply relaxing in nature.

_La Piste Roger Lapébie
A scenic bike path that winds through the Bordeaux countryside, La Piste Roger Lapébie is ideal for cycling enthusiasts looking to explore the region’s natural beauty.

_Plage La Salie
A serene beach nestled between the Arcachon Basin and Biscarrosse, Plage La Salie is perfect for a quiet retreat by the ocean with pristine sands and gentle waves.