Cheap flights to Bordeaux depart from Manchester Airport, and Gatwick and Luton airports near London. Some flights to Bordeaux may be available from other regional airports around the UK. Flights to Bordeaux will arrive at Bordeaux-Merignac Airport. Jet’Bus offers shuttle services between the airport and Bordeaux train station. The shuttle departs from outside the Arrivals Hall of Terminal B. The Liane 1 public bus also connects the airport and Bordeaux city centre. The bus stop is just outside the airport’s Arrivals area. Taxis are available outside the airport for journeys to Bordeaux city centre.
Bordeaux has an efficient public transport system. The town centre is mostly pedestrianised, and the electric bus (or la navette du centre-ville) is the only public transport available in those areas. The electric bus is free to use and can simply be flagged down in the street. The extensive bus and tram network serves Bordeaux and the surrounding region. Check the TBC website for information regarding timetables and routes. Single tickets are available from the driver. Those planning on multiple journeys may find it more cost-effective to purchase daily or weekly pass, or a set of multi-journey tickets. Tickets are available from ticket vending machines, bus terminals and the TBC agency at Quinconces. Taxis are easily available outside the city centre. If the taxi is not metered, be sure to settle on a price before setting off.
Beautiful Bordeaux has long been an ideal destination for an invigorating city break. Discover the so-called Golden Triangle, enclosed by the Cours de l’Intendance, Cours Clemenceau and Les Alles de Tourny. Part of Bordeaux’s Old Town, the area is full of historic buildings, with many dating from the medieval ages. Visit the impressive Cathedrale de Saint-Andre, the city’s largest cathedral. Those with enough stamina may wish to climb to the top of the church’s belfry for generous views over Bordeaux. Parts of the imposing Basilica of Saint-Seurin date from the 6th century, making it the oldest church in the city. Explore the crypt, which houses a number of ancient sarcophagi and reliquaries. Enjoy a bottle of Bordeaux’s famous wine while relaxing at the Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux. The public gardens feature indigenous species from around the Aquitaine region, as well as an impressive herbarium of over 80 000 species.
The Rue Sainte-Catherine is Bordeaux’s main shopping destination. One of Europe’s longest shopping streets, its entire length is lined with shops for every budget. Visit the Marche de Capucins to peruse the food stalls and pick up bottles of Bordeaux wine, foie gras, fresh oysters and filet mignon for a very luxurious meal. The Cassolette Café is a popular stop for hearty French dishes including entrecote steak, duck confit and chocolate gateau. End the night at Bar a Vin, a stylish bar dedicated to serving the best of the region’s wines.