Overview: Bordeaux is perhaps best known for its world-famous selection of wines. However, the city is worthwhile for more than just that. The city extends westward from the River Garonne and is divided into six districts. Les Quais is the city’s center, lying directly on the banks of the river. Surroundings its center are La Victoire and The Pedestrian Center -- these are common tourist destination where historical buildings house outlets dedicated to the city’s college population. North of the center is Gambetta Square, nicknamed Little Paris, a rich district that was heavily influenced by Bordeaux’s Roman past. Quinconces Square and Meriadeck are also close to the river, and Meriadeck is home to one of France’s biggest libraries.

Sightseeing Attractions: At the north end of Les Quais is the Aquitaine Bridge -- a marvel for its brilliant architecture. In La Victoire, you can see the Roman Victory Arch, a tell-tale sign of the city’s Roman past. Gambetta Square is the home of the Public Garden, a wonderful place to relax, and Quinconces Square is the location of the Girondins Memorial. There are two museums worth visiting in Bordeaux: the Musee d'Art Contemporain and the Musee d’Aquitaine. The Musee d'Art Contemporain houses contemporary art, and the Musee d’Aquitaine houses relics that tell the history of the region.

Outdoor Attractions: Because the city is so flat, it is the perfect place for going for a bike ride, rollerblading, or simply taking a stroll. The Public Garden is a good walking terrain with plenty of natural attractions; however, the city itself has more than 15 miles of bikes trails. Roller skates, if wanted, can be rented from Pierre Qui Roule, a shop located north of the Pedestrian Center. Another fun activity is taking a ferry across the river; however, the bridges can be crossed on foot if you prefer the exercise.

Nightlife: The Pedestrian Center is the hotspot for shopping, with tiny shops on every street selling everything from clothing to wine to art. Gambetta Square also has its share of shops; however, these shops are more upscale and expensive than those of the Pedestrian Center. If you’re looking for a good restaurant, you’ll want to check out the streets of place du Parlement and place St-Pierre first, as they have the largest selection of cuisines and the most varied prices. Bordeaux is a good place to find cuisine for just about every European country as well as some Asian countries. For drinking, wine is available everywhere in Bordeaux, and it’s worthwhile to try some of the world-famous wine even if wine isn’t your drink of choice. To visit a typical bar, La Victoire is the place, and, for a night of dancing and cocktails in a club, you’ll want to head to Les Quais.