Bordeaux is a port city located on the banks of Garonne River in the Gironde department of south western France. It is home to 239,157 and the capital of Aquitaine region. It has been invariably nicknamed "La perle d'Aquitaine" which is translated as 'The Pearl of Aquitaine' and "La Belle Endormie" translated as 'Sleeping Beauty'. It is one of the wine growing regions of France and has produced Bordeaux wine since the 8th century. You would be interested to know that part of the old city is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site.

1. Jardin botanique de Bordeaux

This is a Municipal-owned botanical garden that is located at Place Bardineau, Bordeaux. It is open every day of the week at no charge. It is popular for romantic walks, as well early morning exercise.

2. Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux

Inaugurated on 17 April 1780, this theater has seen its fair share of talent. Apparently, it was the host for young Marius Petipa first Ballet shows as well as premiering La Fille Mal Gardée premiered in 1789. If you want to cathc classical concerts while in Bordeaux, this is the place to be.

3. Pont de pierre

This site is almost a promenade, but on a river rather than an ocean. It is a bridge that connects the left bank of Garonne River to the right bank quartier de la Bastide. For the tourist that love photography, this bridge is the best spot to catch the sunset as its rays illuminates the waters of Garonne River.

4. Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeau

This is a flamboyant 14th century Gothic Basilica that represents the best of architectural marvels that you are going to get in Bordeaux. It is one of the most significant landmarks in Bordeaux.

5. Tour Pey-Berland

This is a tower in Bordeaux built between 1440 and 1500 and which is named after its patron, Pey Berland. After its finish, it was used for housing until 1790, since the church did not have the money to buy bells to be installed on the tower. The bells were only installed in 1851. Today, it is one of the tallest buildings that dot the Bordeaux skyline.

Bordeaux is an old city with almost every corner having something that ought to be in a museum. If you want to see the best of ancient France, perhaps you need to start in Bordeaux.