Bordeaux
Learn about Bordeaux
A concise introduction to Bordeaux, its geography, history and culture.
Introduction
Bordeaux, France, is famous for its wine and is an historic city dating over 2000 years old. It still retains its old-world charm and only recently has been urbanized along with the implementation of a hi-tech metro transport. There are still more on-going projects that are scheduled to complete in 2009. Until then, you may find some of the buildings covered with scaffolds and the roads full of construction detours.
To sample the wines, one can drive to the vineyards located in the north of the city. There is also a four day wine festival held at the end June every year. If you are in a mood to experiment, the Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa offers a red wine bath. And for those interested in oenology, Ecole duVin conducts wine lessons in English. At Bordeaux, do visit the Musee des Chartrons to know more about the history of wine industry. The Musee d'Aquitaine also provides a detailed history of Bordeaux.
Other local attractions include the Croiseur Colbert, a battleship. Since 1991, it has been put out of service and put in display at Bordeaux's Quai des Chartons. The Grand Theatre is one of the last original wooden-framed theatres in Europe. Ballet and musical performances are still held in the theatre. Overlooking River Garonne in Bordeaux is the Palais de la Bourse. The Marche de Noel, the traditional Christmas market in Bordeaux is another must-see. It starts around late November. Stalls display gourmet food, local handicrafts and toys. Rue Ste-Catherine is another destination for shopping.
To sample the wines, one can drive to the vineyards located in the north of the city. There is also a four day wine festival held at the end June every year. If you are in a mood to experiment, the Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa offers a red wine bath. And for those interested in oenology, Ecole duVin conducts wine lessons in English. At Bordeaux, do visit the Musee des Chartrons to know more about the history of wine industry. The Musee d'Aquitaine also provides a detailed history of Bordeaux.
Other local attractions include the Croiseur Colbert, a battleship. Since 1991, it has been put out of service and put in display at Bordeaux's Quai des Chartons. The Grand Theatre is one of the last original wooden-framed theatres in Europe. Ballet and musical performances are still held in the theatre. Overlooking River Garonne in Bordeaux is the Palais de la Bourse. The Marche de Noel, the traditional Christmas market in Bordeaux is another must-see. It starts around late November. Stalls display gourmet food, local handicrafts and toys. Rue Ste-Catherine is another destination for shopping.