Bordeaux

Bordeaux

Sixty-one miles up the Garonne River, lies the port of Bordeaux, the capital of France´s wine country. The Romans were the first to introduce grapes into the region, and by the 14th century Bordeaux was producing over one million cases a year. Journey through the hilly countryside to the picturesque village of St Emillion and taste the wines that have made this region famous.

Attractions

Surrounding Bordeaux are the world-renowned vineyards and wine châteaux. Visitors from all over the globe come here to learn about the wine-making process - from growing the grapes to the harvesting, fermentation and bottling of top-quality wines. The city’s single most important economic activity is centered around the marketing and exporting of the region’s prestigious wines. Many travelers come here for the single purpose of visiting the cellars of esteemed châteaux and sampling the product. However, one has to keep in mind, that the title "château" can mean anything from a palatial residence to a basic winery. There are thousands of wine châteaux scattered through the countryside, ranging from very modest family establishments to celebrated properties – but all are dedicated to producing the area’s renowned wines.

Activities

Place de la Bourse - You can’t miss this impressive square just opposite from the pier. The square was laid out in the mid-18th century and is flanked by the old Customs House and the Stock Exchange. Rue Ste. Catherine - This half-mile-long pedestrian street leads through the Old Town’s major shopping area and marks the beginning of the elegant 18th-century city. Old Town - Discover the charm of the Old Town with its narrow streets and quaint squares lined by typical Bordelais mansions that have been tastefully renovated. Today many are occupied by small shops, restaurants and cafés. St. André Cathédrale - You may want to visit this imposing Gothic cathedral. Its historic fame dates to 1137 when Eleanor of Aquitaine was married in this church to the future King Louis VII. Grand Théâtre - Facing the Place de la Comédie stands this neo-classical theater. Its elegant exterior is ringed by graceful Corinthian columns and pilasters.The theater was the hub of 18th-century Bordeaux. Aquitaine Museum - This imaginatively laid out museum is well worth your visit. An interesting variety of exhibits cover the main facets of the region’s development. Drawings and writings on the period illustrate why 18th-century Bordeaux was often compared to Paris. Musée des Beaux Arts - Behind the luxurious Hôtel de Ville (city hall), this fine art museum has an impressive collection of 17th-century paintings by Flemish, Dutch and Italian masters as well as works by Delacroix.

Shopping

Major shopping areas are along the pedestrian streets, Ste. Catherine and Porte Dijeaux. Designer boutiques line the Cours de l'Intendance. For antique shops, look in the narrow alleys of the Old Town. Shops generally close between 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., except for department stores. Best buys include French perfumes and cosmetics, silk scarves, ties and, of course, wine. Some shops may be closed on May 8 (local holiday) and all shops will be closed in Bordeaux on May 9 (Sunday), but will be open in St. Emilion.

Food

Bordeaux boasts a number of first-class restaurants offering the finest in traditional local food, international cuisine and delicious seafood. Numerous outdoor cafés invite for a drink or an espresso; at the same time you can enjoy people-watching. The gamut runs from expensive meals to inexpensive snacks. Be sure to try the excellent wines.

Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of France.

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