From the airport
Bus: A bus goes to Gare St Jean station every 45 minutes from 7.45am-10.45pm.
Shop
RKR is full of quirky contemporary interior design shops in the heart of the antiques district of Chartrons. Great for everything from sofas and lighting to cool coffee cups and cushions.
L'Epicerie, by Place des Grands Hommes shopping centre, is perfect for stocking up on delicious goodies from all over the world. Beautifully laid out, choose from sweets to herbal teas.
There is decent fashion on the pedestrianised Rue Sainte Catherine including a Galeries Lafayette, cute back streets full of antiques and galleries in the Chartrons District. There is a market on Sunday on Marche des Quais where locals eat fresh oysters on the spot.
The first Sunday of every month is Dimanche Sans Voitures, when the city centre is entirely pedestrianised. There are always plenty of things going on to encourage people into the centre, from art exhibition to street music.
The Ecole du Vin offers two-hur wine tasting classes throughout the summer. A great way to get acquainted with what's on offer before heading out to the vineyards.
Jardin Botanique is an urban park located on the Right bank of the Garonne River. It contains some excellent water features, zen-like gardens and unusual walking courses, with plenty of cafes nearby.
The Jardin Public is one of the most romantic walks in the city. Around this pretty park are a number of shops and restaurants along Cours du Verdun and Rue Fondaudege.
Visit the Marche des Capucins on a Saturday morning, the city's most famous food market. This is where the chef's shop and the quality of the ingredients is excellent. Don't miss the seafood stand!
The best time to go in April to October. Try to avoid July and August as this is peak tourist season, temperatures are high and there is less available accommodation.
Day trip
Arcachon. In February, the crowds stay away from this seaside resort so it is the perfect time to visit. Spring always seems to arrive a little earlier here, heralded by the bright yellow blooms of mimosa flowers. Arrive by train from Gare St Jean or it is 40 minutes by car.
Soulac-sur-mer. Right at the northern tip of the Medoc peninsula, this colonial village is a real find. Apart from the artistic village, with its preserved houses and pretty harbour, there are plenty of beaches, horse-riding and walking trails.
St Emilion. It is a beautiful and romantic small town full of cobbled streets, wine bars and art galleries.
