Yulia 
Bordeaux sits on the Garonne river and is an excellent place for all travelers and of course…wine lovers. It is a great destination but finding where to stay in Bordeaux is crucial to make this experience an unforgettable one!
Luckily for you, I’m here to help you find where to stay in Bordeaux! In this post I will talk about the best 6 neighborhoods in the city; Chartrons, Gare Saint-Jean and Saint Michel, Bastide, Bordeaux-Lac, and Bassins à Flot. They all have their own charm and some of them are very close to the city center, I’m sure you will find something perfect for your needs and budget!
Overall, the best neighborhood to stay in Bordeaux is Bordeaux Historic District where you will find historic buildings, major sights, and an excellent base location to explore the whole Bordeaux wine region!
If that does not convince you, I also added a few bonus sections where you will find the best hotels for families, where to stay near the airport, and my favorite: the best winery hotels. I couldn’t leave the wine aficionados behind!
It is truly an incredible place, and of course where many people want to stay, so I recommend booking your favorite place as soon as you find it!
Okay, okay… I will start with juicy information about the best hotels. Let’s go!
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay…
- 1. Bordeaux Historic District – where to stay for first timers
- 2. Chartrons – top area in Bordeaux for luxury
- 3. Gare Saint-Jean & Saint Michel – near the train station
- 4. Bastide – where to stay in Bordeaux for relaxation
- 5. Bordeaux-Lac – best place to stay for families
- 6. Bassins à Flot – best area in Bordeaux for a trendy vibe
- BONUS 1: best accommodation for families in Bordeaux
- BONUS 2: Best winery hotels in Bordeaux
- BONUS 3: Where to stay near Bordeaux Airport
- FAQs about Bordeaux hotels
- Conclusion
Quick Picks for Your Stay…
Are you ready to visit spots like La Cité du Vin, the Botanical Gardens, and the Grand Théâtre, or you are ready to discover that this city is more than just wine, here are the best hotels in the city:
Here is a map to better visualize the best areas to stay in Bordeaux:
- Bordeaux Historic District: for first timers
- Chartrons: for luxury
- Gare Saint-Jean: near the train station
- Bastide: for relaxation
- Bordeaux Lac: for families
- Bassins à Flot: most trendy
1. Bordeaux Historic District – where to stay for first timers
Known as the heart of the city, Bordeaux Historic District (commonly referred to as Vieux Bordeaux), is a mix of vibrant, lively squares and many famous tourist attractions and historic monuments, making it the perfect place to stay for the majority of tourists.
But don’t think that is all! If you are looking for incredible options to grab a bite, the historic center is also full of top restaurants, cocktail bars, and cafés. Since I don’t want you to wander around and lose precious time you could use exploring the city, let me tell you where the good places are…
You have to visit Place Fernand Lafargue, especially rue Saint James where you will find many options for an evening out! Do you prefer a little bit more fun? Then I recommend rue Parlement Saint Pierre and Parlement Sainte Catherine street; the best bars are here! But be careful; I don’t want you to lose the following day curing your hangover 😉
Okay, I know a night out is not for everyone so here you can also visit Bordeaux Cathedral or the Town Hall, have a pleasant stroll on the promenade of the Garonne River (you might feel you are in an episode of Bridgeton) – and finish your day with a shopping spree on rue Sainte Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe or at the world’s largest reflecting pool, Miroir d’Eau!
These are just some of the best things to do in Bordeaux but let’s not waste any more time, you need to pick a hotel from below!
If you are looking for the absolute best luxury, you simply cannot go past this incredible boutique 4-star hotel. With all the amenities you could think of like spacious rooms, a deluxe bath, and the most beautifully elegant modern design, I wouldn’t blame you if you never want to leave your room! But I recommend you do it because with just a hop skip and a jump from this hotel you will find all the biggest attractions of the city.
Other options in Bordeaux Historic Center
Situated where all the tourist attractions are located in Vieux Bordeaux, this property offers air-conditioned rooms, and some even have a seating area to relax after a day of exploring Downtown Bordeaux
Set in a 19th-century-old mansion, this hotel is the perfect option to stay in Bordeaux if you want to feel like you are in a castle but are traveling on a budget
Les Appartements de la Victoire
Featuring city views and free Wi-Fi, the apartments boast a fully equipped kitchen, and the location is just another advantage of staying here – it is situated in the Historic District, just a few minutes away from the city center
2. Chartrons – top area in Bordeaux for luxury
The Chartrons district is quite extensive and is known to be a unique and chic neighborhood, different from all the areas in Bordeaux.
Located right next to the riverfront and around the rue Notre Dame, one of Bordeaux’s elegant streets, you might not even know that this area was once an area full of warehouses. But, luckily for us, it was turned into this super upscale neighborhood with a charming and relaxed vibe.
If you happen to stay here on a weekend, on Sundays a big market takes place on Quai des Chartrons. This is such a highlight even for both tourists and locals alike, I highly recommend you go along and buy yourself some delicious local cheese and wine!
Do you think this is the neighborhood you want to stay in Bordeaux? Here is the list of the best hotels in the area:
This luxury guesthouse offers incredible city views and is a short distance from Place de la Bourse, Saint-André Cathedral, and the Museum of Aquitaine! My favorite part about the property is that it has an indoor swimming pool where you can dive in after a full day exploring the city!
Other accommodation options in Chartrons
This hotel in Bordeaux offers simple yet comfortable rooms with amenities like a flat-screen TV and a seating area to rest a little during your stay, plus, the breakfast is just incredible
This simple and cozy hotel has a central location, and the staff is super helpful with anything you might need during your stay. In case you are traveling with your pet, this hotel is pet-friendly! How can this get better?!
In case you are looking for a little bit more privacy, I recommend staying at an apartment. Perfect for 2 people, this apartment has free Wi-Fi, private parking, and a fully equipped kitchen
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Gare Saint-Jean & Saint Michel – near the train station
Catching a train in the early morning to go off and explore the rest of France? This is the best area to stay in near the train station in Bordeaux! But not only is Gare Saint-Jean a practical neighborhood since the train station is located here, but it is also much more affordable than downtown Bordeaux.
As time passes by, this area is becoming more and more popular. Quai des Paludate is known to be home to some of Bordeaux’s nightclubs and to the new Boca food market, so don’t worry, you will have a lot of fun options here!
Next to Gare Saint-Jean, you can find Saint Michel! This is the perfect spot if you are looking for a local vibe and a place to relax. How contradictory, right? Well… this is what you will find in this area: calm and noisy, traditional and modern – how cool!
The Saint-Michel area is where the Saint Michel Basilica and Saint Michel Spire are! When you see the incredible architecture, you will understand why this city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site! After that, you can also visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts!
Located just 50 m from Tram C Station, Novotel offers an on-site restaurant that serves Continental, Full English/Irish, Gluten-free, and American breakfast – so many options, right?! You can even enjoy them in your room with incredible city and garden views! Plus, if you are in the city for business, the hotel offers 3 meeting rooms! How convenient!
Other options in Gare Saint-Jean & Saint Michel
Want to feel like you were in the 18th century? This hotel will make you feel that way. With the architecture of that century, this hotel is beautifully decorated in a style typical of Bordeaux
Maybe you will even forget this is a budget hotel thanks to all the amenities the property offers like a shared kitchen and a bar where you can enjoy refreshing drinks – plus, the hotel also offers family rooms
An Airport Shuttle and bar are some of the hotel-style bonuses you will get at this incredible aparthotel. Each room offers city views, a kitchen, a satellite flat-screen TV, and a seating and dining area to enjoy the meals made in your studio
4. Bastide – where to stay in Bordeaux for relaxation
You might think all the attractions are on the West side (Rive Gauche) of the Garonne, and you are right! BUT, truth be told, Rive Droite, where Bastide is located, still has its own charm, and in recent years it has transformed into a hip area where many tourists and locals love to spend a relaxing weekend.
Although this is always a charming neighborhood, I mostly recommend this neighborhood from May to October since this is when it becomes a vast green patio, and all summer bars and restaurants on the riverfront are open.
Another great perk of staying in Bastide is that the accommodation options are way cheaper than in the rest of the city, but do not worry, you can still easily get to the city center on Tram A.
If you like what you are reading, here are the best hotel options in the area:
Providing beautiful garden views, this hotel offers a bar, a shared lounge, and of course a garden! It also has easy access to the city center but still has a quiet, relaxing location. Plus, if you want a quick stroll next to the river, this property also offers a bicycle rental service, I know how I would be spending my stay!
Other accommodation options in Bastide
This is an incredible bed & breakfast in a typical Bordeaux house! The mix of contemporary and classic décor combined with the beautiful courtyard and amenities will take your breath away
The location of this hotel makes it an excellent base to explore Bordeaux on a budget! The rooms are cozy and clean, plus the host is incredible and ready to help you with anything you might need during your stay
Featuring 4 bedrooms, a pool and a fully equipped kitchen on the edge of a huge park, this holiday home is perfect for a group of friends looking for a relaxed outdoor/city getaway hybrid
5. Bordeaux-Lac – best place to stay for families
Located in the northern part of Bordeaux, this area is known for Parc Des Expositions, where many of Bordeaux’s fairs take place!
As its name suggests, Bordeaux-Lac has a big lake with a beach open to the public during summer! So pack your swimsuit and get ready to dive before exploring this city’s incredible places or take a break from all the city’s hectic activities!
I think it’s pretty clear why this is an incredible neighborhood for families visiting Bordeaux!
But that is not it, if you have more energy to keep shopping, Bordeaux-Lac has one of the biggest shopping centers in the region too!
This hotel will make you feel like a prince or princess! This castle-like property offers an outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi internet access. Plus, if you stay here you can enjoy delicious regional wine served in your room or on the terrace overlooking the Garonne River – talk about a romantic stay, right? If you are into wine, the hotel also organizes wine-tasting tours and boat rides!
Other accommodation options in Bordeaux-Lac
Located at the gates of Bordeaux’s vineyards, this stylish hotel has a restaurant, a bar, and a gym where you can sweat all the calories from all the wine tastings
Rent a cozy room in this homely apartment with a beautiful terrace where you can check the incredible lake views
This is a great 1-bedroom apartment with everything you’ll need: bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with garden views
6. Bassins à Flot – best area in Bordeaux for a trendy vibe
Known for its maritime vibe, Bassins à Flot was an area that welcomed all the sailors in the world and the biggest ships, making it a significant industrial hub! This historic site has kept the old vibe, making it stand out from the rest of Bordeaux.
One place that makes this area one of a kind is the river, which gives this neighborhood a unique character. But what I think makes this place so trendy is the fact that the neighborhood is undergoing vast transformations, becoming a diverse area that combines heritage and the future portrayed in its architecture.
If you visit this neighborhood, I recommend going on a stroll through the paths, and you’ll see what I’m talking about. The area’s architectural heritage and the maritime past, like cranes, barges, rails, and silos add such a unique twist on what you thought Bordeaux was all about.
This 4-star hotel boasts accommodations with a terrace, a bar, a spa and wellness center, and a French restaurant where you can enjoy the delicious dishes after an excellent massage to finish your day! But if that’s not enough, you’ll be blown away by the location right on the river, with huge glass windows in nearly every space!
Other accommodation options in Bassins à Flot
Offering a restaurant, fitness center, and bar, this is an excellent middle-priced option that will make you feel like you are staying in a luxurious hotel
With an incredible location, this hostel offers private and shared rooms and a bar, and the breakfast is delicious! Plus, the lobby and bar are excellent areas if you want to socialize
Located super close to La Cite du Vin, this boat offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and barbecue facilities to enjoy an evening with your family or friends overlooking the lake
| 👑 Luxury price: | $250 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | $150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $100 |
| 🍷 Best winery hotel: | Les Sources des Caudalie |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hôtel Singulier Bordeaux |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | Hotel Vatel Bordeaux |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Quality Hotel |
BONUS 1: best accommodation for families in Bordeaux
Are you planning on traveling with your family to Bordeaux? No problem! Let me share with you some amazing Bordeaux family accommodations with all the needed facilities and amenities you could think of. And, of course, all of them are located in the city center for your convenience!
I’ve chosen one for each budget, check them out below and pick your favorite:
- Luxury: InterContinental Le Grand Hotel Bordeaux – This accommodation is a top boutique hotel in Bordeaux located right in the historic area of Bordeaux. This 5-star hotel provides luxury facilities, a unique contemporary room design, and great service. Book your room at the Grand Hotel if you want to enjoy beautiful rooms and the top service during your travel vacation!
- Mid Range: B&B La Maison Galiène – This bed and breakfast is ideally located in the city center near antique shops, wine bars, and restaurants, so I’m sure you won’t get bored! Other perks of staying in this boutique hotel include the airport shuttle, free parking, and, if the WHOLE family is traveling (including your pets), this property welcomes pets!
- Budget: Gabylou – When writing the description of this hotel, I was confused about whether I was describing a luxury hotel or a cheap one! This apartment offers excellent family rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and even board games for the little ones. Plus, there is a fishing site nearby!
Check the rates for Bordeaux here
BONUS 2: Best winery hotels in Bordeaux
There are many reasons for visiting Bordeaux, but if you want to enjoy some authentic Bordeaux wine during your stay in France, then an excellent idea would be to get out of the city and stay in accommodation in the Bordeaux region, very close to the wineries and the best wine châteaux! Luckily for you, there are many awesome options for wine tasting!
Please note that these accommodations are NOT in the center or even the city of Bordeaux, so I recommend them to people looking for places to stay for the ultimate Bordeaux wine experience! These are also great if you rent a car during your vacation, as you’ll be around 30 minutes to 1 hour from Bordeaux city!
Here are your top choices:
- Les Sources des Caudalie – This beautiful 5-star chateau is excellent if you want to be 20 minutes from Bordeaux by car! It has superb rooms and is also one of the top options for enjoying some wine tasting in style!
- La Closerie de Fronsac – This beautiful 17th-century mansion is located 75 km from Bordeaux, and it’s a superb option if you want to be close to the vineyards and enjoy some delicious wine! You can stay here for years and just won’t get bored!
- Château du Tertre – Here’s another superb château located 25 km from Bordeaux, and I recommend it to anyone that wants to enjoy some wine while exploring this beautiful region! Trust me, the rooms here are quite superb!
- Château Hôtel Grand Barrail – If you’re looking for a magnificent 5-star 19th-century chateau located 3 km from Saint Emilion, this one’s for you! During your stay here, you can sip on wine, relax in the beautiful rooms in the village and try some yummy dishes!
- Chateau Cordeillan-Bages – This 4-star mansion is a CASTLE! It is located in some former wine stores, 45 km from Bordeaux. The rooms are superb, and the service is impeccable! Just a quick note, this Chateaux closed during the winter.
- Château Pape Clément – This superb 26th-century mansion is surrounded by no less than 60 hectares of vineyards and is located only 7 km from Bordeaux center! Book your stay here to enjoy beautiful rooms and delicious wine!
BONUS 3: Where to stay near Bordeaux Airport
Maybe you are not completely convinced of the idea of staying in the city center or you have to catch an early morning flight. If this is the case, a very good idea might be for you to stay nearby the airport!
Bordeaux Airport (BOD) is around 20 km from the center, which means around 25 minutes by car with no traffic.
Let me share with you some hotels near Bordeaux airport, which are located in the Mérignac area. All of the options below have great facilities and reviews:
- Luxury: Holiday Inn – With an indoor/outdoor pool open all year round, a fitness center and an onsite restaurant just 3km from the airport, this perfect 4-star hotel is a great place to stay to prepare or rejuvenate after a long flight before taking on the city.
- Mid-range: Kyriad Prestige Bordeaux Aeroport – This awesome 4-star hotel is located 4.2 km from the airport and it offers an airport shuttle that you can use – so great! Some great facilities here include a swimming pool, an on-site bar, a restaurant, and more for very reasonable prices.
- Budget: Green hotel Bordeaux – Just 800m from the airport this budget hotel is so close you could practically walk! But despite the cheap prices, you still have access to an onsite bar and restaurant, free parking, and beautifully decorated rooms.
Book your stay near Mérignac Airport here
FAQs about Bordeaux hotels
📍 What is the best area to stay in Bordeaux?
The best area to stay in Bordeaux is the Historic District where you will find many things to do and I’m sure you won’t get bored! I suggest staying at these Bordeaux hotels in the historic center: Hotel Cardinal Bordeaux Centre or Best Western Grand Hotel
🚗 How to get around Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is a very walkable city and has an excellent transportation system, but if you prefer to move on your own time to explore the whole region, then I recommend renting a car.
🍇 What is the best time to visit Bordeaux?
The best time to visit Bordeaux is between May and November if you want to explore the city and the vineyards! But if you are truly a wine lover, then I suggest visiting Bordeaux in September during the grape harvest season!
📅 How many days are enough to visit Bordeaux?
Since Bordeaux has a lot to offer, I would recommend 4 days. 2 to explore the city’s neighborhoods and the other 2 to visit the best winery hotels, I suggest Les Sources des Caudalie and Château du Tertre.
Conclusion
I hope now it will be easier for you to choose from the best places to stay in Bordeaux for your visit! The choice is yours, but I can assure you that your visit and stay in this city is entirely worth the time and money invested.
I hope I gave you some valuable advice in this article and you will use it the next time you travel to Bordeaux! If you need more travel inspiration for this wonderful city, I recommend you also check out my post on things to do in Bordeaux to complete your itinerary.
In case you still have some doubts about the best hotels to stay in Bordeaux, here are my top choices, but let me remind you that the best way to enjoy your trip is by booking in advance!
- Chateau Grattequina Hotel – This luxury castle hotel will make you feel like a prince or princess during your stay!
- La Petite Annick – I love unique places to stay and not much can top staying on a boat on the river!
If you have any further questions, please leave them below. I am more than happy to answer and help out!
I hope you have a great time in Bordeaux!
Yulia
Pin it for later!
Pin it for later!
