The Best Hotels to Book in Bordeaux, France

Hôtel particulier is a French phrase denoting a grand townhouse. Such a building happens to be the setting of this exquisite Bordeaux hotel overlooking the Place Pey-Berland and the gothic Saint-André Cathedral. Fusing the beauty of 19th-century architecture and modern service, it’s a perfect symbol of what Bordeaux is today – a dynamic city steeped in history. Every room or suite is named after a wine, the St Emilion suite being the most luxurious. Guests will find all the services they’d expect from a high-end hotel: a minibar, a safe, and a coffee machine in the room, as well as breakfast in the hotel’s dining room. For those who want more privacy, the hotel also rents furnished apartments called “appart’hôtels”.

Also located in a 19th-century building, this five-star boutique hotel is among the best Bordeaux can offer. The atmosphere is intimate, with only 12 rooms and suites, each carefully designed by the owner, Agnès Guiot du Doignon. Each room includes a flat screen TV, air conditioning, an iPad, and room service is available 24/7. If that wasn’t enough, there’s a delicious homemade breakfast, plus freshly-made pizzas served alongside aperitifs on the garden terrace.

Among the 18th- and 19th-century buildings lining the Bordeaux waterfront, Seeko’o sticks out. This four-star hotel, whose name means ‘iceberg’ in Inuit, is shaped like a giant block of ice. Along with the nearby Chaban-Delmas bridge, it hails a new architectural tradition in Bordeaux. Every one of its 45 loft-like rooms is over 29sqm (312sqft) and offers free wifi and flat-screen TVs. Some, on the fifth floor, have incredible panoramic views and terraces. There’s also a relaxation area where you can enjoy a sauna and a steam free of charge, as well as a hip cocktail bar.

Less than 10 minutes away from the splendid Jardin Public, La Maison Bord’eaux is an 18th-century boutique hotel with modern amenities and friendly service. Particularly attractive is the lovely courtyard, perfect to enjoy the sun in the warmer months. The colourful rooms feature flat-screen TVs, minibars and kettles. Some rooms also have a chic terrace overlooking the courtyard and exposed beams for even more of an “old world” feel. Breakfast is available but not included in the price.

Hotel and restaurant Chez Dupont is located in the Chartrons district, just a stone’s throw from the city centre and the waterfront. It is tiny but full of charm. The 18th-century building is home to just 10 rooms, ensuring a highly personal experience. In addition, each room, measuring between 25 and 40sqm (270 and 430sqft), has its own personality. For example, the Ferbos room has Middle Eastern style art and a hardwood floor, while Placide has a turquoise wall and a charming old fireplace.

The soft light of the courtyard and serenity of La Cour Carrée seem to belie its central location, between Place des Grands Hommes, the Allées de Tourny and Place Gambetta. This entirely renovated 18th-century building, typical of Bordeaux architecture, only has 14 rooms so it never feels busy. Each of these rooms includes air conditioning, king-size or twin beds, free wifi and a flat screen TV. Everything is sleek and Scandinavian in style, with just enough colour to brighten the atmosphere. Note the beautiful spiral staircase.

This chic, relaxed hotel near Esplanade des Quinconces was completely renovated recently but has been a real Bordeaux institution for decades. The new decor manages to keep this 18th-century hotel particulier‘s atmosphere while modernising it, creating a true boutique hotel. All 15 rooms are extremely comfortable and elegant, with luxurious bed linen, and some come with their own balcony. Breakfast can be included for a fee.

Found in a building from the early 1800s, this friendly four-star Bordeaux hotel features an illuminated facade, splendid corbels and wrought-iron balconies. Inside, the 55 rooms and suites combine period decor with contemporary comfort and modern tech. The restaurant, Le Comptoir de Sèze, serves fine French cuisine and includes private dining rooms. The hotel also has its own spa, complete with steam room, sauna, hot tub and sensory shower experience, as well as a private golf course just 10 minutes away.

Located on one of Bordeaux’s most beautiful squares, the famous Place du Parlement in the heart of the city, this five-star listed building comprises three elegant apartments. Dating from 1754, they all have period features, such as marble fireplaces, and French designer decor. Ideal for a family or group of friends, they can accommodate up to four or six people each. Optional extras include a breakfast basket, champagne and wines, daily housekeeping, a wine-tasting tour and a chauffeured vehicle.

For more than 200 years, this famous five-star hotel has been a landmark of luxury in the heart of Bordeaux. Found in an 18th-century building with a neoclassical-inspired facade, the 130 rooms and suites will immerse you straight into the Belle Époque. Other highlights include the double Michelin-star restaurant headed up by Gordon Ramsay, Le Pressoir d’Argent; a 1,000sqm (10,800sqft) sumptuous spa with a heated swimming pool and a rooftop bar with panoramic views over the city.