Bordeaux is nice – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is pleasant and big enough to get enjoyably lost in; the Place de la Bourse is impressive with its mirrored effect looking from the fountains; and of course you have some of the best wines in the world to sample in the various wine bars and learn about in the museum La Cite du Vin.
But the highlight of this part of France is the vineyards themselves . . . such as the likes of the Saint Emilion area (see Sampling wines in Saint Emilion for more detailed tips). So, spend an afternoon if, as you likely will be, passing through, but not at the expense of time in the vineyards
Tip – the museum, La Cite du Vin, is surprisingly good. It’s out of town a little, but only a 15min tram ride on the main route, plus it has views over the city with your choice of some free wine to compliment the view and the nearby Les Halles Bacalan is a market of tapas restaurants where the food is wonderful.