A seasonal guide to Bordeaux

Bordeaux’s world-renowned wine culture makes it a hot spot for wine lovers, year-round. A trip to the Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum in the winter, winery tours during the spring, strolling through the newly renovated Les Quais in the summer, and visiting the nearby town of Saint-Émilion for its autumn festival are just some of the reasons to visit Bordeaux.

Winter

With its famous vineyards bare of fruit and dusted with frost, Bordeaux seems to hunker down in winter. Don’t think this means there’s nothing to do though, as you’ll just be seeing another side of this venerable city. From cosy cafés serving up delicious pastries to Sunday antique markets and stunning contemporary art, there’s plenty to explore and even more to enjoy. You can even delve into the city’s world-renowned wine culture with a visit to the Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum – and yes, there are tastings!

Spring

As beautiful as it is beguiling, a visit to Bordeaux in the spring means you’ll be seeing the city at its very best. Regal 18th Century architecture stretches along the banks of the Garonne, nestled behind by rows of radiantly blooming flowerbeds. Café terraces fill up with patrons, monuments like the stunning Roman Victory Arch look resplendent in the sun and it’s the ideal time to visit the region’s world-famous wineries. It’s a slice of southern France that’s as elegant and tempting as a well-baked Canelé.

Summer

Thanks to a huge renovation project, the quays of Bordeaux are the place to be seen in summer. Now known as Les Quais, the area has been transformed from a collection of old warehouses to a pedestrian pavement that curves with the Garonne and showcases the best of the city. Beautiful 18th Century buildings give way to bustling bars, restaurants and shops – whether you’re just looking to grab a coffee or you’re hungry for a shopping spree, there’s plenty to explore. Make sure you carry on walking to the Place de la Bourse for a look at its magical water mirror too.

Fall

As the summer warmth begins to dwindle, the famous grapes of Bordeaux begin to ripen in time for the autumn harvest. The countryside outside the city begins its dramatic seasonal change of colour, with fields and hillsides washed in vivid yellows and brash, burnt reds. Classically French markets fill their stalls with seasonal fruit and vegetables while nearby, the world famous wine town of Saint-Émilion throws a whole autumn festival dedicated to its vineyards. Full of unforgettable sights and indulgent sensations, autumn in Bordeaux is a truly enchanting time.