How to spend a weekend in Bordeaux

Often described as Paris’ little sister, Bordeaux is a city for people who don’t like cities. It’s noticeably peaceful, much of the city centre is pedestrianised, and it’s picture‑postcard pretty. Not only is the city a destination in its own right, with a flourishing food scene and fantastic shopping, but its proximity to the wine regions of Saint‑Émilion and Médoc makes it the perfect place to spend a long weekend.

Friday Afternoon

Touch down at Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport and make your way directly to YNDÕ Hotel. Housed inside an old 19th‑century mansion and featuring just 20 rooms, YNDÕ is an oasis of calm hidden in plain sight. Don’t let its traditional exterior fool you; inside, the hotel is decked out in funky design furniture, bold art from local painter Yannick Fournié, and freshly picked flowers, giving it a decidedly eclectic feel. Head to your room, freshen up and get ready to explore the city — comfortable shoes recommended.

YNDÕ is well placed within walking distance of all Bordeaux’s main attractions, making it a brilliant base from which to navigate the city on foot. The first stop is L’Alchimiste, where a little caffeine hit is needed before passing to Rue Sainte‑Catherine. The 1.2-kilometre pedestrian shopping street is the longest in Europe and forms the backbone of the city. Expect high‑street heavy‑hitters and local brands side by side; you’ll find local branches of Paris staples Sézane and YSÉ nearby, too.

Sunday Morning & Afternoon

After a well‑deserved lie‑in and a leisurely breakfast on your terrace, make the pleasant passage along the Garonne to Les Puces de Saint‑Michel, which fills the cathedral square every Sunday morning. Amble south along the water, passing Monument aux Girondins on Place des Quinconces, the mirrored façade of Place de la Bourse and the shimmering Miroir d’Eau, then cross under the arches of the 17‑span Pont de Pierre before the Gothic spire of Basilique Saint‑Michel comes into view. Spend an hour or two rummaging through the 80-something stalls of antiques, vinyl records and postcards hunting for a special souvenir. When hunger strikes, meander five minutes over to Marché des Capucins — also known as Bordeaux’s ‘belly’. Load a market basket with slices of Bayonne ham, creamy Saint‑Félicien cheese, juicy heirloom tomatoes and a still‑warm baguette.

Hop on the C tram for your final stop — a picnic in Bordeaux’s Jardin Public. This flourishing park is the ideal place to recharge and soak up the relaxed Sunday atmosphere of the city —remember, most shops and restaurants are shut today, so you don’t need to rush around. Feast on your market haul to the soundtrack of ducks, playing children and carousel music. Make the short walk back to YNDÕ before heading home feeling fantastically full (canelé box safely packed, of course).

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