This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Bordeaux.
Bordeaux and the surrounding region is simply amazing -- explore wine country and relax!
There are few hostels in Bordeaux region/Bordeaux city, but a plethora of hotels (many in old chateaux)! These properties are gorgeous and usually nestled near vineyards or wineries. Visit the vineyards and wineries to taste and purchase cheap wines and oddities such as eau de vie ("the water of life" -- a bottle of alcohol with a snake inside of it). Stroll the small towns in the Bordeaux and find old ruins and castles. Most are reached most easily by car/vehicle. However, if you are visiting Bordeaux (the city), it can be reached by bus, train, car, or airplane. Additionally, accommodation can be found as close as a hundred yards from the train station in the city.
If you are staying in the city of Bordeaux (located on the Garrone River), rather than the countryside, you will be in a UNESCO historical city. There are many beautiful churches, palaces, and bridges in this city on the water. Bordeaux is also the largest university site in France, so you are bound to run into university students or have the chance to study abroad in this city. From Bordeaux (the city), there are many tours you can take, including wine and city tours.
Getting around the city is fairly simple; there are trams and buses, as well as taxis and car and bicycle rentals. However, parking in the city is expensive and scarce. The city is fairly safe, but at night try to avoid Place de la Victoire and the train station and its surrounding streets. All in all, this gorgeous city and region are not to be missed!
Written by local enthusiast for Bordeaux hostels
Kari
