Those who venture to the city of Bordeaux will have a hard time avoiding the bountiful amount of locally produced wine. The city is one of the world's leading wine producers, a fact its citizens are proud of. The French community is also renowned for its liberal attitudes and having once been under the rule of the English, it omits an English vibe.

Bordeaux attractions

From museums to monuments and open spaces, Bordeaux's attractions are extensive. In recent years, the dock area has undergone major refurbishment and now thrives as a lively spot for restaurants and bars, while the nearby Aquitaine Bridge is architecturally significant. Some of the best places to visit are the Musee d'Aquitaine, which displays relics dating back to Roman times, and La Victoire, an area filled with historical monuments.

Bordeaux excursions

Car hire in Bordeaux is a good way to get to all of Bordeaux's vineyards. Winery tours usually take the form of seeing how the wine is made and then sampling the end product, with an option to buy a bottle or two to take home. There are a series of pleasant beaches west of Bordeaux for those looking to unwind.

Best time to visit

The summer (June through August) is easily the best time to visit this city of wine. The city comes alive in the sun and there are many festivals, most of which are related to wine. The beaches are never crowded, even during the peak summer months. Spring sees even fewer visitors yet is pleasant, with autumn wet and winter cool. Many wineries close for harvest in October.

Car rental in Bordeaux

To find the best deals on car rental in Bordeaux, compare car hire prices online before travel. Self-drive affords the visitor the luxury of being able to travel around freely, checking out the vineyards and the scenic areas surrounding Bordeaux according to their own schedule. The roads in the region are excellent but driving in the city centre during peak hours should be avoided.