Bordeaux traces its origins to Roman times, when a settlement was founded on the Rive Gauche left bank of the River Garonne. The site chosen was on a bend of the river, which formed a crescent shaped harbour, known as Port de la Lune. It was under English rule from 1154 to 1453 and was the seat of the French government in 1914 and again in 1940.
A network of trams makes the city easily accessible and has had a major effect on the volume of traffic.
With almost 100,000 students, the cities university is renowned for its research units in crop science and new materials.
Tourism in Bordeaux had already developed considerably following the cities extensive facelift. However, it will now be entering a new dimension thanks to the UNESCO listing, undoubtedly exceeding the 3 million visitors a year Bordeaux currently welcomes.
Bordeaux is the trading centre of a notable wine producing region. The city in west of France, is worldwide famous for its wines, but lately the city itself is drawing the attention of tourists thanks to its splendid gothic cathedrals and 18th century mansions. Night owls head for the bars and clubs open until the early morning hours around the quai du Paludate.
The Aquitaine Bridge is an architectural achievement unique in France not to be missed. Do not miss the Victory Arch Roman architecture, at the centre of La Victoire. Rest for a while in the wide Public Garden, north of Gambetta square. Finally checkout the statues and the Girondins memorial on the Quinconces square.
There is a wide selection of properties including budget, business, tourist, luxury, bed and breakfasts and apartments accommodation. Hotels offer comfort, quality and great value for the money, ideal for leisure and business travellers.
Bordeaux is packed with numerous restaurants, many of them top-notch, and due to its position close to the Atlantic coast, fresh seafood features prominently on many a Bordelais menu. The best place to look for restaurants is around place du Parliament and place St Pierre, where youll find something to satisfy all tastes and budgets.
A mild temperature can be enjoyed all year round. So go on take a trip and have a lot of fun.
The journey to downtown Toulouse is 15 minutes. A bus shuttle service connects the airport to the city station every 20 minutes. Transport is quiet reliable and easily accessible throughout France. Car hire is also a good choice here, for more detail plans.
Known as the Ville Rose the Pink City for its distinctive brick architecture, is host to a rich and diverse culture. It has a thriving scene of unusually beautiful graffitis, with the painter Miss Van at its forefront.
Toulouse is an absolute must for everyone wanting to explore France. At once both modern and proud of the legacy of its past and radiant.
In Toulouses old town, take a stroll along Rue Croix Baragnon and its adjacent streets. You can wander in and out of numerous local art galleries and in French luxury brand shops. At Place Saint Etienne enjoy one of Toulouses best loved cafes and enjoy a delicious pastry and a refreshing cup of tea. If you come during the afternoon, an antique book fare is held by the little fountain plaza.
Numerous museums, well stocked art galleries, numerous theatres, venues, cinema screens there is no shortage of opportunities to gladden your heart and the cities cultural renown is largely a result of this abundance.
The Festival Occitania returns to Toulouse and its surrounding area. More than 300 artists present 53 cultural events throughout September and October. The event is by no means restricted to local artists, as the roster includes performers from as far away as Greece and the Middle East.
It is also a green city to live in, with many parks, gardens and squares in which to enjoy its warm Mediterranean sunshine. Going for a stroll along the River Garonne, or for a cycle along the Canal du Midi maybe, are great ways to spend an afternoon before tucking into some of the hearty local cuisine.
Today this modern city counts almost 500,000 inhabitants and is driven by its leading industry. It has a big student population and this means it is a youthful, energetic city with a vibrant nightlife.
The south west of France enjoys a temperate climate not too hot in the summer, not to cold in the winter. In other words mild all year, resulting in visiting anytime of year.
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