ForbesLife: Where To Sip, Stay And Stroll In Beautiful Bordeaux, France
If your idea of Bordeaux is all vin rouge and vin blanc—think again. This stunning southwest French city is chock-full of charming cafés, magnificent neoclassical architecture, gorgeous green spaces, miles of riverfront and winding cobblestoned streets fringed with quaint boutiques. Here, an insider’s mini-guide to the best spots to sip (très délicieux espresso), stay, and stroll in beautiful Bordeaux.
Facade of Bar Chez Fred in Saint-Pierre district of Bordeaux. IMAGE COURTESY STEPHANIE ORMA.
WHERE TO SIP Rain or shine locals flock to Chez Fred—by day a café, by night a trendy bar—with a picturesque setting on Place du Palais surrounded by breathtaking centuries-old stone buildings in the city’s historical heart. With two canopied terraces, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to savor the buzzing Bordelaise scene. (Tip: Peek inside for a trove of locally-drawn artwork on the café’s walls). Or just a stroll away, Le Michel's with its intimate brassière-style interior and occasional Édith Piaf tunes feels like you're on a fantastical French movie set—yet wholly authentic. Not to mention an extensive wine list, delish allongé, and faceplant-worthy bites (trust, you’ve never seen burger buns look this good).
Pain Etc in the Chartrons district of Bordeaux. IMAGE COURTESY STEPHANIE ORMA.
And in the oh-so-charming antique district (Les Chartrons), don’t miss morning and lunchtime-fave Pain Etc—sandwiched between stunning Eglise St Louis and postcard-perfect Le Petit Fleuriste. Snag a window or terrace seat to sip up the romantic French street vistas while you dip a homemade chocolatine in your espresso.
The 19th-century stone facade of Villas Foch. IMAGE COURTESY DAVID DUCHON-DORIS AND VILLAS FOCH..
WHERE TO STAY If you love design and a discreet vibe (away from the tourist flocks), Hotel Villas Foch—a 19th-century former mansion turned 20-room haven is an idyllic retreat to explore it all. Tucked on a serene, leafy street just a stone’s throw from Les Chartrons, the hotel gives a bold twist to authentic Bordeaux—blending original architectural details like cut stone, ornate moldings, and polished marble—with eye-popping colors and mod furnishings. And the rooms? Sleek, sun-flooded and spacious—all with huge picture windows boasting wow-worthy views over Bordeaux’s golden-hued rooftops. Read my full article on FORBES.com