Believe it or not, I had absolutely no interest in seeing Paris. The idea of endless tourists, landmarks seen in every other cheesy movie, and some sketchy things happening in the streets, had absolutely no appeal to me. But I got sucked into seeing it by my travel buddy at the time and let me tell you… I first stepped foot in Paris in 2016 and have been back 5 times since.

This guide is simple, I’ll tell you what you need to know before visiting the city, then I’ll go into which places you should see on your trip, and lastly, I’ll give you a plan to download for your 4-day Paris getaway.

Let’s get to some Paris logistics

Before we get into an awesome 4-day Paris itinerary, let’s go over some logistics of visiting this city. Paris is really big and it’s divided into 20 Arrondissements or districts. Most places are not within walking distance so you’ll need to know how to navigate the metro. Although I tried to capture a lot in this plan, a Paris 4 day itinerary is merely an introduction to the city and there is absolutely no way that you will be able to see everything during that time.

Brutal truth first

Before we take a deep dive into the logistics, let’s get some things out of the way first. Paris is just like another large metropolitan city. It’s filled with tourists, it’s stinky and sometimes dirty, it has questionable characters in dark alleyways, the streets smell like cigarettes, oh, and don’t even get me started on the metro thieves. So whatever image you have of Paris, whether it’s a land of romance, beret-wearing humans, and everyone being happy in the streets because it’s Paris, get it out of your head.

Paris is indeed awesome and in no way am I trying to discourage you from going, but have a realistic expectations before you step foot in it.

Best time to visit Paris

While some will argue that Paris is great to visit all year round, I will politely disagree. Having visited during the early tourist season (June), peak tourist season (July and August), and also the fall (October), I will say that early summer is ideal. And yes, there will be tourists around but it is a good time to visit simply due to the weather. Fall in my opinion was a little too chilly and the constant rain didn’t make it too pleasant either but it was significantly less crowded.

Navigating Paris

Paris airports

Paris is served by a couple of popular airports all accessible from the city center: 

• Charles de Gaulle: if you’re flying internationally, most likely this will be your airport. It’s a large busy airport but everything is labeled very nicely so you should not have a problem finding gates, transport or information. To get to the city center you have a couple of options. Use the RER-B train for €11.40 each way to get to the city in about 30 mins. There is also a Roissy bus that runs from the city center but it’s a much longer journey. Lastly, you will always find taxis and Ubers at a rate of about €50.00 or more. This option makes the most sense to groups large enough to even out the cost of the train. 
• Orly: international and domestic, this is the second busiest airport. I’d recommend taking the Orlybus there because it is quick, cheap (under €10), and direct from the Paris Denfert-Rocheau stop. You can also take RER-B train to get there and then take a transfer shuttle called Orlyval at the Antony station. NOTE: RER-B north takes you to CDG and RER-B south takes you to Orly. Don’t mess this up. There is also RER-C that has a similar shuttle at Pont de Rugis. The cost is around €12. Taxi and Uber are easier options and run at about €35 each way. Point is, that the bus is the most straightforward option here. 
• Beauvais-Tillé Airport: for budget airlines. If you’re flying somewhere within Europe and you paid €15 for your flight, this is your hub. Take the shuttle from the city center stop Porte Maillot called the Beauvais shuttle for €15.90 (costing as much as your flight heheh). 

Metro & trains within the city

The Paris Metro is relatively cheap, at just €1.90 per trip. If you buy 10 tickets it will be even cheaper for a set. It runs very frequently between 5:30 am and 12:40 am and a little later (1:40 am) on the weekends. Note the difference between Paris Metro and Paris RER. RER is a train network connecting the suburbs but the city center is often connected to Metro stations. When traveling outside of certain zones out of the city center, you will need a separate ticket. Gare du Nord is the main metro/train station in the city and your hub for everything.

Navigating the Paris Metro

Having grown up in the NYC area with its infamous subway system, I always love navigating trains in new cities. Paris has an insane metro system that will get you literally anywhere you possibly want to go. Nonetheless, it can be overwhelming when you first look at it. The direction of the train is designated by the last stops so you will know easily know which side of the track you should be on. The transfers between the trains are included in your ticket so even if the closest line doesn’t go to your stop, there sure is a combination of them that will get you there.

What I recommend doing is studying this map for a couple of minutes before you get to Paris. Mark two spots on it and practice navigating from point A to point B.

Where to stay in Paris

You can budget, you can splurge, or something in between.

If you love hostels like I love hostels, I’d recommend St. Christopher’s Inn and Generator Hostel. St. Christopher’s has a fun bar and night parties, walking tours, sweet pod beds, and modern amenities. The Generator has an awesome set-up, good food, and comfy beds, but it doesn’t have the atmosphere that I look for when staying in a hostel.

If you want to splurge on your trip, I recommend doing so on Airbnb with a Parisian view. I stayed in one on my most recent trip. The beautiful courtyard and squeeky wooden doors were worth every penny. Additionally, good old hotels might be worth checking out too depending on your group size.

Wherever you decide to stay, just choose a place based on a location preference. Decide what you’d like to prioritize, a landmark, a metro stop, a social atmosphere, or some peace and quiet somewhere outside the city. Make sure to book in advance in high seasons because prices are not low in this city. If you’re a first-timer in Paris consider staying in the following arrondissements: 7th Eiffel Tower, 18th Montemarte, 5th Latin Quarter, and 1st Louvre as they’re pretty central to the places you want to see.

People & Safety

Before I visited Paris, I often heard of the rude Parisian stereotype encounter. Don’t get me wrong, when you’re being an ass in public or even your own culture’s stereotype, no matter where you go, people will give you looks and most likely judge the shit out of you. So be polite, learn how to say hello, please, thank you, cheers, and goodbye in French (and any other country you plan on traveling to) and you will most likely be treated like a normal human being. Note that greeting the staff in French is actually a must. It is considered very rude not to say hello when you enter a business.

Don’t start with immediately taking photos and making tiktoks either. Sit, enjoy your surroundings for a little and there will be time for a good picture. If you don’t act like a tourist stereotype, you won’t be treated as one.

I personally did not encounter any rude individuals and had a very pleasant experience during all my Paris visits. A Parisian lady even stopped a pickpocketing happening to my mom on a metro by screaming her lungs out at the thief.

Speaking of theft, pickpocketers are everywhere as in any other major tourist hub so don’t be an idiot and keep your valuables close to you. Be super vigilant about your belongings on a train as people will try to distract and pickpocket you. Overall you should be fine, don’t venture into dark corners alone, be careful when traveling at night and be smart.

Backpacking in Paris

While this guide is not necessarily about budgeting in Paris, two of my trips there were indeed backpacker-style ones. I stayed in a 4-bed hostel room, made sure to eat some meals at the less popular places, and visited a mix of paid and free attractions in the city. We didn’t splurge on a nice Airbnb and you’re damn right that we took at metro everywhere we went. All in all, while backpacking in Paris is certainly not backpacking in South America, it can be done and you won’t necessarily sacrifice things to do because of it.

Paris could be expensive or it could be cheap depending on your expectations. If you share an Airbnb and take public transport, you won’t spend as much as you think. For example, eating a Parisian breakfast by standing up in a cafe with a croissant and a coffee will cost you under 5 euros. Sitting down at an insta cafe for breakfast will cost you 20. Grabbing dinner at the top of the Eiffel Tower will set you back a couple of hundred euros vs having a picnic in front of it will cost you 15 euros including alcohol.

Food in Paris

In Paris, you could either have the best or the worst food you’ve ever had in your life. Seriously, there are so many restaurants and cafes that you can easily fall victim to the tourist trap of yesterday’s-reheated-leftovers-spot. Be very careful when choosing a place. The general rule of thumb is to never ever eat near the main attraction but rather walk a couple of streets away to find a little gem. In Paris, I would always deeply investigate using multiple sources the restaurant I was about to enter. Google it, Yelp it, Facebook it, and read travel blogs to find some hidden gems. Don’t wing it in a city full of tourists when it comes to your main meals. 

One thing you have to try there is the bread. I promise that after one bite of that heavenly carb stick you will never look at bread the same again. Simply find the closest boulangerie (bakery) near your stay, venture there in the morning and get yourself a nice hot french baguette. Most bakeries make their own bread and pastries, serving you some quality products. Don’t settle on afternoon supermarket bread, find the real deal. 

If you’re looking for specifics here, I am not a great resource for spots however, there are other awesome people that did their homework on this topic:

• Paris By Mouth: They offer their restaurant recommendations along with some amazing food tours. If you read my other posts you know that it’s one of my favorite activities to do in any city.
• My Travel Buzzg: A good list of dishes you simply must try.
• Untold Morcels: Great guide for all sorts of restaurants.

Etiquette

• Tips are not necessary in Paris. If you really want you can leave a euro or two.
• Do not as for any substitutions. That’s an American thing and you will piss off your server.
• Speaking of being American, you are not right. The restaurant is, the waiter is, you are not.
• Ask for the bill when you’re ready because the waiter most likely won’t ask you.

Random Advice for Paris Travel

• Pickpocketters are real! If you’re a tourist, or especially a tourist with luggage, you’re a prime target. A real-case scenario that happened to me: you’ll get on a metro and a group of ladies will gather around you pretending to look lost and asking questions you can’t understand. As you’re being a confused deer in headlights, one of her friends will open your bag and steal your belongings. They will get off at the next stop and you won’t even know when you were robbed.
  • If you’re approached by some gypsy women that are asking you to sign their petition, hold your pockets and walk away asap.
• Carry change: When you go to the market, for a croissant or a bottle of water.
• Nannybag/Luggage Hero are genius services and I highly recommend them. It’s like a little Airbnb for your bags if you want to leave your luggage in a better location. Consider using luggage storage at the busier train/metro stations if that’s pricey.
• French wine and cheese are truly awesome. 
• Paris is a great hub to go Europe hopping. Consider visiting some of my favorite places like Santorini and Mykonos, Budapest or Lisbon!

Paris 4-day Itinerary

Let’s just say it can be extremely overwhelming to see all of Paris. There are so many things to see, so much history to learn and so many selfies to take. Be ok with not seeing everything. Seriously, it will make your trip much more memorable to quality-see a couple of important landmarks than to quantity-see everything. Below you will find a suggested guide to seeing Paris in 4 days.

Day 1

Let’s start your 4-day Paris itinerary at a Boulangerie.

If your accommodation is not ready for check-in, ask to store your luggage before going out to explore. You can also use lockers at the major metro stations.

Make sure to load up on some carbs and coffee for energy before a long day ahead. I suggest this for your first stop because the earlier you get to a boulangerie, the fresher your baguette will be! And there is no complete trip to Paris without having a truly fresh, still hot, perfect french baguette. So whichever part of the city you’re stationed in, please find an authentic french bakery (ask the hotel staff, search the internet, or simply ask a local in the street) and go for some morning goodies.

When you find that bakery, you’ll experience something amazing: the initial overwhelming scent of freshly baked bits of heaven, locals buying their breakfast pastries, tourists being confused by all the options, and friendly staff trying to please everyone in the store. It will be an experience within itself, but it will all get even better when you take that first bite of your baguette or pastry. 

Now let’s see what the Louvre is all about.

Why not jump right into the highlights of Paris and start your 4-day itinerary by seeing the Lourve! Well kinda because we won’t go inside just yet 🙂 Take the metro from your morning stop to Musee du Louvre station. It will drop you off at the museum grounds. I personally wouldn’t go right into a tour but rather we will save this for later in your itinerary. The museum itself goes on for (literal) miles and with its overwhelming interior, it’s a lot to take in on your first day. It will also exhaust you before you see any Paris.

Here me out why you’re here though. The outside of the Louvre is a whole artwork within itself, and I strongly recommend taking some time there to soak it all in rather than rush to get inside. There is a little (overpriced) cafe with prime views of the plaza with the famous pyramid. This area is also a good start to your Paris exploration as well.

Visiting the Louvre

I’ll save the visit for the inside for either the last day or an evening tour later in the day. As mentioned, the inside is insanely big and you won’t be able to cover it all in a couple of days let alone a couple of hours. The Mona Lisa you ask? Super overrated and super tiny so the chances of you enjoying the painting are non-existent. Going in there just to say you’ve been to the Louvre is a waste of your time and money due to how large this place is. If you enjoy art, make sure to plan what you want to see rather than blindly going inside.

If you go inside during the day here is a little hack: you can buy the tickets in a gift shop downstairs in the Louvre and enter through the underground entrance. The line is usually a lot shorter than the outside, sometimes even nonexistent. Another cool option is an after-hours tour which is much much pricier yet something worth splurging on.

Small pause at Jardin Dus Tuilries

These gardens are directly across from the museum so just continue walking in a straight direction through them. The gardens have many small ponds with chairs where you can find a ton of locals catching some sun. Wander around for a bit, grab some ice cream and take a small pause. 

Next, a shopping stop at Champs Elysee.

Once you reach the end of the park, explore the famous Champs Elysees shopping street. It is a very long avenue with many stores ranging from Zara to some high-end spots. If shopping streets give you anxiety, you can skip this part by jumping onto the Franklin D. Roosevelt metro stop to continue your journey. However, if you always wanted to see what the hype is about, continue walking and admiring all the fancy shops. This is a prime spot to get pickpocketed so be cautious my fellow explorer.

Many tourists like to stop in the famous Laduree macaroon shop. While I am the biggest critic of major tourist traps, I did give this place a chance. My judgment? The store interior and the whole experience are worth a stop so when in Paris, why not get a quick sugary snack. At the end of this street, you will reach the famous Arc de Triomphe. There is a nice viewing area on top of it so head up there to admire some city views! 

Early evening picnic at Eiffel Tower. 

The must-do for every Paris trip is a sunset picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. I would suggest first entering the area through Place du Trocadero (Trocadero Metro Stop). If you followed my route above, you can either walk ~20 min on Ave. Kleber or take a quick (3 stops) M6 ride from Charles de Gaulle – Étoile to Trocadéro.

Once you first see a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, you’ll fall into grand awe. It is truly a remarkable first sight and trust me, what you’ve seen in the movies doesn’t even begin to do its justice. Walk around a little bit, take your photo, and head towards the other side of the tower to Champ de Mars. There you’ll find a big lawn area where you can find your perfect spot for enjoying your picnic. To get your picnic supplies, venture off a little to the side streets and you should have no problem finding a small neighborhood store. Pick up some bread, cheese, fruit, and bubbly. I recommend waiting until it gets dark and you get to see the tower light up. Some find the lights cheesy and they’re probably right … I think they’re pretty badass 🙂

So there you go my fellow adventurer, your perfect first day in Paris is now done!

Day 2

Your second day in Paris should be a little easier. Hopefully, you got more comfortable with the metro, practiced your Bon Jours and Mercis and now you’re ready to explore more of this beautiful city. 

Let’s get started at a Parisian Cafe.

Yesterday you explored a nice boulangerie so today let’s try something new. Today let’s take a slow morning sitting in a typical Parisian cafe, enjoying our fresh croissants while doing some people-watching. Before I went to Paris, I always pictured wicker chairs with some color accents, small round tables, and people enjoying al fresco dining. And that is exactly what I saw the second I entered the city. Make sure to become the main character for a little and spend some time sitting in this kind of setting. 

Luxembourg Gardens

These gardens are the perfect location to start your day two in Paris. They’re not too big and will become the starting point for exploring this area of town. You can take the train to the Luxembourg stop or even Port Royal. There is a palace in the park as well which you can visit but with limited time in the city, you might want to skip it.

Next, the Latin Quarter

A short walk from the garden, you’ll find the Latin Quarter. This is a cute area of Paris because it’s not as touristy as the more popular areas. The majority of the area is academic so you’ll find a younger vibe here. Find a cute lunch spot near the Pantheon to take a small pause. Some notable landmarks here are the Pantheon, Eglise Saint-Séverin Saint-Nicolas Church, and Eglise Saint-Etienne du Mont Church. Note that the Pantheon has a nice rooftop terrace for 360 views of Paris. I also recommend grabbing lunch in this area.

If you walk down from the Pantheon via the most known street Rue St-Michel towards Rue de la Harpe, you’ll find many cute little streets with small shops here. Get lost here for a little, it’s a small area so you’ll be able to see most of it. Next, the Place Saint Michel, is a very touristy area but hey, we need a dose of that atmosphere as well. There are many shops in that area and often, you’ll find a little outdoorsy artisanal market.

Notre Dame

Following my route above, you’ll quickly notice Notre Dame if you reach the Seine River. Due to the tragic fire of April 2019, as of today, you will not be able to explore the magnificent Cathedral. However, it is still possible to see its beauty from the outside.

Your morning stops were all concentrated within short walks of one another but to this next stop, you’ll need to catch a 25-30 min train. You might want to relax a little after a busy morning but I recommend exploring the next area before sunset. Catching the sunset here is magical on a good weather day so I would make sure not to miss out on this experience.

Explore Montemarte and catch the sunset at Sacre Coeur

Ok, close your eyes and picture Paris. You probably see narrow cobblestone streets, little cafes, painters, and happy people? Well, this is actually Montemarte. Artists like Picasso, Modigliani, Miro, Renoir, and Van Gogh all made that area their home at some point and for a reason.

Take the metro to Anvers stop and make your way up the hill towards Montemarte. After a short walk, the stunning Sacre Couer church will hit you in the face like no other. It is situated on a hill which gives you amazing city views. The locals like to hang out on the stairs of this hill so be sure to give yourself a small pause there too. It offers amazing hill views of the whole city. And you know I am a sucker for a good view.  

After some time in the church area, venture off to the beautiful Montemarte neighborhood. Let yourself be lost for a little in order to soak in the beautifully intertwined narrow Paris streets. Yes I know, it will be touristy near the area but it is an awesome place to be. To catch the sunset, grab a seat on the steps of Sacre Couer. You won’t regret it. Don’t stay too long tho because the drunk locals also love this as their hang-out spot.

Day 3

Chateau du Versailles

On day 3 of the Paris 4 day itinerary, you will explore the Versailles Palace. Before you feel royal for the day you’ll need to take a not-so-royal RER C toward the Versailles Château stop. Once you’re off the train, follow the crowd for about 10 min toward the palace. The earlier you get there, the better as this location is certainly not a hidden gem. When you arrive, you’ll see a huge line of people. Don’t worry, the Iine looks intimidating but it actually passes by quickly. Tip: have some cash on you. When I visited, the card machines were not functioning and they were only accepting cash. Not having enough cash on us was quite a hassle to get back in line. 

When you finally enter the palace, you’ll be confused by the level of “boujee” that this place is. I found it rather hysterical that people associated status and their level of happiness with this structure. However, it is a true masterpiece and you should see it with your own eyes to believe it. Make sure to purchase a ticket for the gardens as well. You can simply take a stroll or better yet, have a picnic there! I’m a huge fan of picnics as they allow you to take a pause and soak in your surroundings. 

After you’re done exploring the palace and the gardens and you still have some energy left over, head over to the little charming town of Versailles. There are some more things to see there as well as some cafes to check out. 

Overall, for most explorers, this will be a full-day trip. Returning to the city center will take anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half and you will probably just want to crash at that point. I hope you enjoyed your day of royalty. 

Day 4

Art in Paris

As promised, today is the day you’ll be returning to explore the Louvre or any other museum of your choice. I saved it for the last day because by now you should have seen the major landmarks of the city. Here are your art options for the morning-afternoon:

• Louvre: If you’re planning a trip to the Louvre, scroll up to day 1 plan for my tips on the visit there.
• Musée de Orsay: Mostly impressionist art and insta known for the big clock.
• Musée de l’Orangerie: More impressionist art but if you like Monet, you’ll find his famous water lily here. It’s a small museum but I really enjoyed it!
• Musée Rodin: If you’re a fan of Rodin or sculptures,  you’ll love this place. It is also an impressive building from the outside.
• Musée Picasso:  A gallery of Picasso’s various art pieces, from paintings, drawings, and sculptures to many more. As a big Picasso fan, I have to confess that I’ve seen more interesting gatherings of his works compared to this place. 
• Espace Dalí: A permanent exhibition of Dali’s works, mostly sculptures. Dali was one interesting human so if you’re a surrealist fan, make sure to stop by this place. I liked it but I also like anything that Dalí does 🙂
• The Centre Pompidou: A more modern structure that’s a library and a museum. 
• And obviously dozens more. So if you’re a fan of a particular genre of art, I’m sure Paris has a museum dedicated to it.

Shopping in Paris

Did you even go to Paris if you didn’t do some shopping damage?

• Well even if you don’t have anything specific in mind, make sure to stop by Galeries Lafayette for the magnificent building alone.
• Next, there is the Champs Elysees but it’s super packed so I wouldn’t recommend going there to shop.
• If you have the budget, for super boujee feels, right off of Champs Elysees, find Avenue Montaigne.
• Need more affordable shops? No worries, head to the Marais Area.
• Another place known for good shops is Rue De Rivoli.

If you’re traveling from abroad and want to splurge on a designer bag, know that this is the place to get one. Why? Well, one because it’s cheaper and two because you can get your tax reimbursed on your way back. Here is a step-by-step process on how to do this.

Cruise on the Seine

Although this can give a hop-on-hop-off bus vibe, I’ve done this twice. Why? Because as cheesy as it is, it’s pretty and the perfect way to end your Paris 4 day itinerary. I recommend doing this early evening so you can get a nice view of the Eiffel Tower again at night. You will probably get a guide that tells you all the history and fun facts but you’re going on this little cruise to see Paris from a different perspective. It’s cute and I strongly recommend it.

Final Thoughts on Paris

Some people find cities like Paris overrated and overdone. And yea sure, you won’t love the number of tourists there and it will be a busy city to travel through but I wouldn’t let that stop you from visiting at least once in your life. I hope that you like my plan for the 4 day Paris itinerary and that I saved you some stress associated with planning your trip.

Map and Itinerary to Download

Download the Paris 4 Day Itinerary

Remember to read the post before you download the guide. It is a very high-level summary of the plan above to grab for the road. Reading both will prepare you the best.

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Bordeaux was supposed to be a quick layover for me on the way to Marrakech. With the crazy summer prices to Morocco from the US, I actually found a very cheap connection through this city. I simply expected it to be an average two-day layover but Bordeaux seriously surprised me with everything it had to offer. The architecture, tranquility of the city, and delicious wine of course made this a perfect 2-day stay for me.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at all the amazing things Bordeaux has to offer and give you some tips for making the most of your 2 days in Bordeaux itinerary. First I’ll go over the places you will see on the itinerary and at the bottom of the post, you can download the 2-day plan ready for your trip! No need to worry about planning the trip yourself, so grab your passport and get ready to discover the charm and beauty of Bordeaux!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

First, let’s get to the logistics of 2 days in Bordeaux

If you’ve been to Paris, you’ll find that Bordeaux is its a quieter, more sophisticated, and much smaller cousin. There are far fewer tourists around and even fewer locals that speak English. Your experience will be a little more French compared to the big city which believe it or not, is only a 2.5-hour fast train ride away. Bordeaux is NOT cheap. If you’re a budget traveler, prepare to spend a little more than you expected.

Are two days in Bordeaux enough?

While two days doesn’t seem like a long time, you can pretty much see everything the city itself has to offer within that time frame. However, if you want to explore the stunning wine Chateaus outside the city, you might need a little more time. If you just want to take a small detour as I did, I recommend 1 day in the city and 1 day in the wine country.

Navigating Bordeaux

If you’re already in France, take advantage of the high-speed trains that connect the city to all its neighbors. For example, you can get to Bordeaux from Paris in as little as 2 hours and it will cost you on average anywhere from $30 to $50 and up depending on the season and day of travel.

You can easily fly into Bordeaux too and the taxi or Uber from the airport to the city center costs about 30 euros one way. You have the more cost-effective option using public transportation: a 30 min bus ride, either on a quick shuttle for 8 euros or the local bus 1+ for only 1.70 euros.

Within the city, you can get to most places on foot but the city tram and buses connect everything in a convenient way. I’d recommend getting an extended pass to save money if you’re planning to take a lot of public transport.

The French Stereotype

It is a common stereotype that French people are rude to Americans. However, this stereotype is not entirely accurate and is often perpetuated by people who have had negative experiences or misunderstandings while visiting France.

It is also important to consider the cultural differences that may contribute to this stereotype. For example, French people may have different social norms and expectations when it comes to communication and personal space. In France, it is not uncommon for people to be direct and to the point in their communication style, which may be perceived as rude by some Americans who are used to a more indirect or polite approach. Additionally, personal space is often valued more in France than in the United States, so it is not uncommon for people to stand further apart and avoid physical contact while interacting.

Attempt to at least learn the basics in french such as hello, thank you, please, goodbye and you’ll be good to go. I personally experienced a couple more rude individuals in Bordeaux compared to Paris but nothing substantial to have altered my trip.

Safety in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is generally a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate compared to other major cities in Europe. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are a few tips for staying safe in Bordeaux:

1. Keep an eye on your belongings: Like any city, Bordeaux has pickpockets and petty crime, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist attractions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and consider using a money belt or other secure method to store your valuables.
2. Use caution when walking at night: While Bordeaux is generally safe at night, it’s always a good idea to be cautious when walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark. Stick to well-lit and well-populated areas, and if you’re unsure about a particular neighborhood, consider taking a taxi or public transportation instead of walking.
3. Stay aware of your surroundings: As with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and be alert to potential dangers. This includes paying attention to your surroundings when walking, driving, or using public transportation, and avoiding potentially dangerous situations.
4. Use common sense: As with any trip, using common sense can go a long way in keeping you safe. Trust your instincts and if something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local emergency services and know how to contact them in case of an emergency.

Overall, Bordeaux is a safe and welcoming city, and by following these simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Food in Bordeaux

Mussels, oysters, meats, cheeses, and bread dominated my diet in Bordeaux. Everything I ate was rich, tasty, and full of carbs. I really don’t understand how all the French stay so thin with that kind of delicacy.

Food and drinks can be pricey so if you’re on a budget, opt in for markets instead. You’ll get top-notch quality and a meal among locals. Wine is generally cheap so swap that sugary cocktail for a once-in-a-lifetime tasting in every restaurant. Don’t forget to bring a good bottle of wine to the hotel for about 4 euros.

Hotels/Hostels

In Bordeaux, you can feel rich and boujee at a fancy hotel or a country chateau where prices can run high, around $200+ a night. A hotel, a little further away will range around $100 but you won’t be in the center of the action. Some sweet finds are the following:

• Hôtel La Maison Bord’eaux: A stunning modern hotel with a great location and great views.
• Hôtel de Tourny: Very aesthetically clean design, also a good location.
• Moxy Bordeaux: Moxy is a chain of hotels that scream cool style, awesome vibe, and endless insta opportunities. This location is hard to beat and the design is simply amazing!
• LOLA: A boutique find that is a true French beauty, simple yet elegant!

There are only a couple of hostels in the whole city, as most backpackers don’t reach this city and don’t expect to find a good one either. They’re also pricey and they don’t offer much in terms of atmosphere or activities. If you’re a backpacker, I’d recommend getting an Airbnb as the hostels won’t offer anything special.

Places to See During Your 2 Days in Bordeaux

Place de la Bourse

This iconic square, located in the heart of Bordeaux’s historic center, is home to the Miroir d’Eau, a popular fountain that reflects the surrounding buildings. The square is also home to the Palais de la Bourse, a stunning neoclassical building that houses the city’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

This is an architectural beauty and a sight that cannot be missed when you visit Bordeaux. The building is beautifully reflected in the pool outside and during the summer months, all the kids (including myself) splash in the water. It’s the perfect place to admire this city and do some much-needed people watching. Walk a little up the street to find some nice cafes to have a glass of wine.

I would strongly recommend coming here during the day as well as at sunset to enjoy both perspectives.

Quais de Bordeaux

The Quais de Bordeaux, or Bordeaux waterfront, is a destination located along the Garonne river in the heart of the city. Although the Garonne didn’t have the best hue at the time of my visit, the walk was still very enjoyable. This promenade is home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the iconic Pont de Pierre bridge and the Place de la Bourse.

One of the main attractions of the Quais de Bordeaux is the beautiful waterfront promenade, which stretches for several kilometers along the river. This spot is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of the river and the city. It is also a popular spot for picnics, with plenty of benches and grassy areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal or a snack.

Another popular attraction on the Quais de Bordeaux is the Pont de Pierre, or Stone Bridge, which spans the river and connects the left and right banks of the city. The bridge, which was built in the 19th century, is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture and is a popular spot for travelers to take photos.

The Quais de Bordeaux is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to explore and soak up the local culture. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the city, this spot is not to be missed. It gets very lively on the weekend too.

Esplanade des Quinconces

The Esplanade des Quinconces is a large public square located in the center of Bordeaux. It is the largest square in France and one of the largest in Europe, covering an area of over 25 acres. It is home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the Monument aux Girondins, a large monument dedicated to the Girondins, a group of politicians who played a key role in the French Revolution. The square is also home to a number of fountains, including the Fontaine des Trois Grâces, a beautiful fountain featuring three figures representing the Graces, goddesses of charm, beauty, and joy.

It is a popular destination for events and festivals, including concerts, markets, and sporting events. Additionally, this gem is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities, with plenty of green space and benches where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In the peak months, you will find a Ferris wheel in the square too.

Bordeaux Cathedral

This beautiful cathedral, located in the center of Bordeaux, dates back to the 12th century and is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. The cathedral is home to a number of important artworks and relics, including a 15th-century stained glass window and a 13th-century wooden statue of the Virgin Mary.

Don’t forget to walk around the whole building to admire how beautiful this structure is from the outside. The inside is fairly simple but still worth taking a small pause for whether you want to attend a mass or a small prayer. There is a small entrance fee of 2 euros which goes to maintaining the church.

Rue Sainte-Catherine

Rue Sainte-Catherine is the main shopping street in Bordeaux, France. Located in the heart of the city, it is a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. With over 1.2 kilometers of storefronts, Rue Sainte-Catherine is the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe.

It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and other goods. The street is home to a wide variety of stores, ranging from large chain stores to independent boutiques. There are also a number of department stores and shopping centers located along the street, including the Galeries Lafayette and the Centre Commercial Grand Hôtel.

In addition to shopping, the street has a ton of food and drink options but I’d say that the choices are pretty touristy. There are also a number of street vendors selling snacks and drinks, making it a great place to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink while exploring the city. It’s a pedestrian zone street only so it can get crowded. Stay alert here for petty theft there.

Walk all the way down to Place de la Victoire to then make your way over to the market.

Marché des Capucins

Located in the heart of Bordeaux, this awesome market is a great place to find fresh produce, local specialties, and souvenirs. The market is open every day except Monday and is a great place to mingle with locals and get a taste of Bordeaux’s vibrant food culture.

I’ve had the best mussels and fries or moules-frites of my life there, along with a cold beer in a little market stall. Note, this is a small local market for everyday finds. It’s nothing extraordinary but if you’s like to eat somewhere more authentic, this is a fantastic spot for breakfast or lunch.

Bordeaux Wine

Bordeaux wine is world-renowned for its quality and diversity, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. The wine region is home to over 9,000 wine producers, who together produce over 700 million bottles of wine each year. The region is known for its red wines, made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes, as well as its white wines, made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle grapes.

Bordeaux wine is known for its rich, complex flavors and long aging potential, making it a favorite among wine lovers and collectors around the world. In this introduction, we’ll take a closer look at the history and characteristics of Bordeaux wine, as well as the different regions and winemaking traditions that make it so special. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, Bordeaux wine is a must-try for any wine lover.

In-Town Wine Experience

If your 2 day in Bordeaux isn’t long enough for a day excursion to a chateau, the city offers a couple of options for some authentic wine tastings. There isn’t a shortage of wine in any restaurant or a store, but if you want to learn more about the process of making it, visit one of these sites.

La Cite du Vin is a wine museum where through an audio tour you can learn more about French wines. Commercial places like that aren’t usually my top choice, so I opted out for Maison du Vin, a smaller spot with wines ranging from 2 to 4 euros and a small snack selection. The staff there is super knowledgeable and I got a mini “tour” with each glass purchased.

Chateau Day Trip

So you came to Bordeaux to experience the wine in a real Chateau right? How do you choose the right one? Well, this is where your budget comes into play. There are a bunch of day trips offered to the different regions surrounding the city. Note, you can find half a day trip for $60 but you’ll end up in a minibus with a group of 50 other tourists. My recommendation is to splurge a little more and choose a tour with a much smaller group to the less popular wineries to get the full experience.

A DIY trip is also possible but keep in mind that your goal is to taste as much wine as you can, so drinking and driving are certainly not recommended. If you find an amazing friend that will be your designated driver, keep in mind that most places require that you make a reservation prior to the visit. Showing up without one, might not get you the tasting you were looking forward to.

Unique Experiences

Free Walking Tours are ALWAYS an awesome way to see the city. Food Tours are probably one of my favorite ways to explore too as you get to eat your way through and listen to some history. I always like to picnic in places like Jardin Public so make your way over for a bite, wine, and people-watching. Lastly, if you’re an art lover, don’t forget to check out the Museum of Fine Arts or Musée d’Aquitaine.

FREE Downloadable Itinerary For Your Stay

2 Days in Bordeaux

Two days is a good introduction to the city and you’ll also be able to spend a day sipping wine in a beautiful Chateau. You’ll visit all the awesome places listed above and be able to experience Bordeaux’s pride and joy: its wine.

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