Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a city located along the river Garonne in the region of Aquitaine in France. Though the city has become famously associated with its wine products, it is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List for its rich history and heritage, particularly in its central part. However, this is not a city that dwells in its past, as it also has a huge aeronautics industry, considered to be a leader in all of Europe.

Sights & Activities

There is no denying that wine making is the largest industry in the city. Among the large vineyards located within and around the city are the Château Haut-Brion, the Château Lafite-Rothschild, the Château Margaux, the Château Mouton-Rothschild, and the Château Latour.

One of the most prominent landmarks located in the central part of Bordeaux is the Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux, a Roman Catholic cathedral situated on Place Pey-Berland. Most parts of the church were constructed in the 15th century though its original part, a wall in the nave, dates back the 11th century. Among the structure’s highlights include its Gothic-style belfry that is located in the south eastern edge of the square and bears the statue of the Notre Dame of Aquitaine in its summit. Interested visitors can climb up its steps to gain spectacular views of the city.

The Basilique Saint-Seurin is another historic religious structure that added to the architectural treasure of the city. Situated on St. Pierre, the basilica was said to be established in the 6th century. The structure is described as Romanesque in design and features massive pillars and beautiful sculptures, particularly those contained in the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Rose. Visitors can also descend into its crypt, where several marble sarcophagi are located.

There are also several museums that visitors can head out to in the central area of Bordeaux. The Musée Des Beaux-Arts is situated on Cours d’Albret and is a repository of priceless paintings, mostly from the 17th century. The museum is housed in a building called the Hôtel de Ville, which also features a beautiful, formal garden called the Jardin de la Mairie.

Another museum is located along Rue Bouffard, the Musée Des Arts Décoratifs. Visitors will find large collections of glassworks, porcelain, furniture, silverwork, and even weapons in this private museum. Most of the items showcased in this establishment date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. For those interested in knowing what interiors of old mansions and chateaus in the areas look like, this museum will provide enough ideas and inspirations.

Those interested in contemporary arts also have their destination in central Bordeaux. The CAP Musée D’Art Contemporain is housed in a warehouse along Rue Ferrère. The establishment imposes no entrance fee, allowing visitors to explore their collections any time or any day they want.

Visitors shouldn’t leave Bordeaux without stopping by the Esplanade Des Quinconces, a prominent square that faces the river. On its western end is the fountain monument that was made to honor the Girondins. Though the original statues erected in the fountain was taken down by the Germans, it has been reinstalled and restored to their places during the 1980s.

Weather

Because of the city’s proximity to the coast, it enjoys a mild temperate climate. Rainfall, however, can occur in any day of the year with increasing frequency during the later months of October to December. Summer can be hot while winter is slightly warmer compared to cities located inland. A great number of visitors come to Bordeaux during the autumn months, as this also coincides with the harvesting of grapes from the numerous vineyards in and around the city. Spring, however, brings nature’s beauty with it, especially during the months of May and June.