Bordeaux, which straddles the Garonne River in southwestern France, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wine and food.
And the city’s attractions are multiplying. In the last three years, at least four river cruise companies have added Bordeaux itineraries.
Waterfront redevelopment and a growing tram system have improved downtown, allowing the city’s many 18th century buildings to shine more brightly.
La Cité du Vin, a museum devoted to the history of wine, opened in 2016. And as soon as July, a new LGV high-speed train line from Paris is expected to cut travel time from three to two hours.
Tip: Avoid travel to the area from June 18 to 21, when the global wine-industry conference Vinexpo takes up many hotel rooms and boosts prices.