We are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a holiday destination in Europe. The continent is extremely varied with everything from bustling cities, to quaint villages, stunning natural landscapes and a rich history and culture.
There are some areas though that attract more visitors than others, having been popular vacation spots for centuries.
As the capital of France, Paris is one such famed destination, known for its romantic scenery, beautiful architecture, good food and dedication to the arts.
While there is a lot to love about going to Paris it can be crowded, attracting more than 30 million tourists every year.
So if you’re on the lookout for a more relaxed destination, it might be worth considering an alternative French city this summer.
The city of Bordeaux, located in southwestern France, has plenty to offer tourists.
It was named among the “best alternative destinations for your European summer bucket list” in 2024 by Condé Nast Traveller.
Although it is the sixth most populated city in France, it has a certain relaxed atmosphere to it – especially when compared to other similar locations in the summer.
“This city may not be lesser-known, but when compared with the number of travellers that flock to Paris during the summer, we deem it worthy of a mention in this list,” Condé Nast Traveller says.
Here you can find world-class wine and more than 350 beautiful historical buildings and monuments, as well as the River Garonne running through.
Bordeaux is also an hour away from many pretty, sandy beaches.
As a pedestrian friendly city, you are safe to explore its attractions on foot after several wine tastings.
The Lonely Planet describes it as, “an intoxicating cocktail of 18th-century savoir-faire, millennial hi-tech and urban street life”.
Major attractions within the city include the Cité du Vin, a museum dedicated to wine, the beautiful fountain the Miroir d’Eau and Cathédrale St-André.
The city sits within the department (an area similar to a county) of Gironde, which is known for its vineyards and chateaus.
Bordeaux experiences some hot, sunny weather in the summer, with temperatures reaching around 27C in July and August.
Direct flights to Bordeaux go from various airports in London and take just one hour and 40 minutes.