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Find yourself trying to choose between visiting Bordeaux and Paris? I’ve been in this predicament and ended up visiting both cities, so I have a good idea of which one you might prefer based on your travel style.
While it’s not the easiest decision to make, I really think that if you weigh the pros and cons of Paris vs Bordeaux, the right choice will be more or less obvious. It is for me, at least, when I think about returning.
Now, I’m sure it will come as no surprise to hear that both Paris and Bordeaux are absolutely incredible in their own way, but each offers a completely different vibe.
Paris is just iconic, no doubt. But it’s big, it’s busy, and it might be a bit overwhelming if you aren’t a city person. Bordeaux, on the other hand, is more compact, very walkable, and what it lacks in monuments like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and other notable attractions, it makes up for with charm, idyllic neighborhoods, and stunning moments of its own.
While both are amazing in their own way, the differences between Paris and Bordeaux really come down to pace, personality, and what kind of traveler you are.
So let’s get into which city might be better for you: Paris or Bordeaux!
Paris vs Bordeaux: The Overall Vibe
I absolutely love Paris; it has that fast-paced, cosmopolitan energy. It’s full of fashion, art, and history at every turn. There’s always something happening, whether it’s people rushing to work, café chatter spilling onto sidewalks, or a new exhibit opening at one of its countless museums.
For me, I find it exciting, but it can also feel intense if you prefer a slower pace.
Bordeaux, on the other hand, has a much more relaxed rhythm. You’ll find locals biking along the river, sipping wine in leafy squares, and strolling through quiet, golden-stone streets.
It’s elegant but not showy, more like the kind of place you fall in love with slowly. Bordeaux is a place I could see myself living.
You’ll Love Paris If
You’re someone who thrives in big cities and loves being surrounded by art, culture, and endless options.
Paris is made for those who don’t mind a little chaos in exchange for world-class museums, beautiful architecture, and that unmistakable Parisian buzz.
If you enjoy people-watching from cafés, dressing up a little, and getting lost in charming side streets, Paris will feel like magic.
You Might Want to Skip Paris If
You prefer a slower pace and don’t love crowds or navigating busy metro lines. Paris can feel hectic and expensive, especially if you’re traveling solo or on a tighter budget.
If constant activity and sensory overload drain you rather than inspire you, you might find Bordeaux to be a much more enjoyable experience.
And since I want to be super transparent, the truth is that Paris, like most major cities, has a few areas that aren’t so nice. You’ll see some rundown streets, a visible homeless population, and parts of the city that can feel a bit dirty at times.
You’ll Love Bordeaux If
You’re drawn to beautiful architecture, cozy cafés, and a slower, more relaxed pace. Bordeaux is perfect if you love wine, good food, and long walks through pretty neighborhoods that feel local and authentic.
It’s also a great fit if you like smaller cities where you can easily get around on foot and really settle into the vibe without rushing from one big attraction to the next.
You Might Want to Skip Bordeaux If
You’re looking for that big-city buzz and want to check off famous landmarks. Bordeaux doesn’t have the Eiffel Tower or world-renowned museums on every corner.
If you thrive on nightlife, crowds, and the constant hum of activity, you might find Bordeaux a bit too quiet after a few days.
Accessibility in Bordeaux and Paris
Both cities are very walkable and have great public transportation options. I also like that both are fairly flat, so if you have mobility issues, you won’t need to choose one over the other because of terrain. It’s not like Porto or Lisbon, where the hills can make getting around more challenging.
I find Bordeaux less crowded overall, which can make it feel a bit more comfortable and relaxed. A way to avoid the crowds in Paris is to visit in August, but keep in mind that many of the charming local shops and restaurants close for vacation that month.
Food and Wine in Paris vs Bordeaux
I’ve never had a bad meal in France, well not really. As you can imagine, Paris has more of the world-renowned restaurants, like Le Relais de l’Entrecôte or Septime, but Bordeaux holds its own with fantastic local spots. Some of my favorites are Pickles, Berthus, and the natural wine bar Blouge.
When it comes to cost, you’ll probably find prices just slightly lower in Bordeaux, but honestly not enough to plan your whole trip around it. Both cities offer incredible dining experiences that can fit a range of budgets if you know where to look.
A few of my favorite places in Paris:
- Storbi: Great for dinner, not too expensive.
- Des Terres: Perfect for both lunch and dinner.
- La Jacobine: The best French food!
- Chez Janou: It’s a classic!
A few of my favorite places in Bordeaux:
- Pickles: Funny name, but honestly, the best meal of the trip. They serve both lunch and dinner.
- La Table Deruelle: A quaint bistro, definitely try the halloumi dish.
- French House: Great brunch spot, highly recommend the Benedict.
Paris & Bordeaux Cost and Affordability
Neither Paris nor Bordeaux is what I’d call “cheap,” but you can definitely do both cities on a reasonable budget if you plan smart.
Paris will always be a little pricier overall, especially when it comes to hotels and certain attractions. Coffee, wine, and casual meals can add up faster there, but you’re also paying for that iconic Paris experience.
Bordeaux tends to feel more manageable. Hotels, meals, and transportation are slightly cheaper, and it’s easier to find good food at fair prices without searching too hard. You’ll also find that Bordeaux restaurants and cafés often have great prix fixe menus for lunch, which is one of my favorite ways to save while still eating really well.
I found a good hotel in Bordeaux, Hôtel 56 – Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint Jean, for €221 a night. Now this was in October, so of course, prices will vary. For dinner, I was typically paying around €25 for an entree. You could probably do this cheaper if you are open to doing street food and hostels.
If you’re traveling solo, Bordeaux can be a bit easier on the wallet and less overwhelming, but Paris offers more variety if you’re willing to spend a little more.
The hotels I really liked in Paris, for example, Hotel El Dorado, were around €279 per night. Entrees are also in that €25-€28 range.
My favorite hotels in Paris:
- Hotel El Dorado– My favorite hotel in Paris by far!
- Hotel Sacha– This hotel is a little cheaper, but close to Hotel El Dorado and very cute.
My Favorite Hotels in Bordeaux:
Which City is Better for Solo Travelers, Paris or Bordeaux
As someone who often travels alone, I can honestly say both Paris and Bordeaux are great solo travel destinations, just in different ways.
Paris solo is perfect if you love having endless options. There’s always something to do, and you’ll never feel out of place eating alone or spending a day wandering museums. It’s also incredibly easy to meet other travelers or locals if you’re open to it. The energy of the city can make solo travel feel exciting and full of possibilities.
Bordeaux has a slower pace that might appeal to you if you prefer a more laid-back solo trip. It feels safe, welcoming, and easy to navigate, even if you don’t speak much French. You can spend your days strolling through the markets, relaxing at wine bars, or taking day trips to nearby vineyards without feeling rushed.
If it’s your first solo trip to France, Bordeaux might be the easiest place to start. But if you’re craving that big-city adventure and don’t mind a little chaos, Paris is magical.
Top Attractions in Paris
- Eiffel Tower: It’s touristy, but it’s iconic for a reason. Go early or late to avoid long lines. 👉 Get this ticket to skip the line.
- Louvre Museum: Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior and glass pyramid are worth seeing. If you do plan to go inside, you need this timed entrance ticket.
- Montmartre: One of my favorite neighborhoods for wandering, café hopping, and people-watching.
- Musée d’Orsay: My favorite museum in Paris, especially if you love impressionist art.
- Seine River Cruise: A fun way to see the city from a different angle, especially at night. I did the dinner cruise and thought it was worth the money.
- Moulin Rouge: Whether or not you go to the show, it’s worth seeing the famous red windmill lit up at night. In my opinion, this was worth the money.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Finally open, but very crowded. The surrounding area, especially Île Saint-Louis, is beautiful for a stroll.
- Luxembourg Gardens: One of my favorite spots in Paris to relax with a coffee or picnic. It’s elegant, peaceful, and perfect for people-watching.
Top Attractions in Bordeaux
- Place de la Bourse & Water Mirror: The most photographed spot in Bordeaux, and it’s even better at sunset.
- La Cité du Vin: A must for wine lovers, with tastings and incredible views of the city.
- Rue Sainte-Catherine: One of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe.
- The Garonne Riverfront: Perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
- Public Garden (Jardin Public): A lovely green space for relaxing between meals and wine tastings.
- Basilica of Saint-Michel: Climb the tower for one of the best panoramic views of the city.
- Grosse Cloche: A beautiful medieval bell tower and one of the oldest gates in the city. It’s one of the most recognizable symbols of Bordeaux.
👉 The best way to see Bordeaux is on this Bike Tour! I learned so much about the history of the city that I would have never known otherwise!
Best Day Trips from Paris and Bordeaux
One of the best things about traveling in France is how easy it is to plan day trips, and both Paris and Bordeaux have amazing options nearby.
From Paris
Versailles:
Just about 45 minutes from central Paris by train, Versailles is an easy and unforgettable day trip. The palace is absolutely stunning, with over-the-top rooms, endless gardens, and fountains that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another era. It does get crowded, so try to go early or buy tickets ahead of time.
Even if you’re not into history, the scale and beauty of the place are worth seeing at least once.
👉 I recommend this tour option that goes from Paris.
Mont Saint-Michel:
This one takes more effort, but it’s totally worth it if you can spare a long day. Located about four hours from Paris, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most magical places in France. The island rises out of the sea with its dramatic abbey at the top, and walking up through the narrow streets feels like stepping back in time.
You can go by guided tour, like I did, rent a car, or even spend a night nearby to enjoy it without the daytime crowds.
👉 I used this company for my guided tour and definitely can recommend it.
From Bordeaux
Saint-Émilion:
Just 35 minutes by train from Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion is one of the most charming wine villages in France. It’s surrounded by rolling vineyards, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old wine cellars built right into the rock.
You can easily spend the day wandering the village, visiting a few châteaux for tastings, and enjoying a long lunch with local wine. It’s picturesque, relaxing, and a must for any wine lover visiting Bordeaux.
👉 I’ve used this company twice when visiting Saint-Emilion; they provide a great service for the money.
Paris vs Bordeaux: Quick FAQ
Generally, yes, but not by much. Bordeaux is slightly more affordable when it comes to hotels, dining, and transportation. Paris can get pricey fast, especially in popular areas, but you can still visit on a budget if you plan smart.
For Paris, I recommend at least 4 to 5 days to see the major sights without feeling rushed. Bordeaux is smaller, so 2 to 3 days is usually enough to get a good feel for the city and maybe fit in a day trip to Saint-Émilion.
Both are great, but Bordeaux has a calmer energy and might feel less intimidating. Paris is fantastic for solo travelers who love museums, cafés, and that big-city buzz.
Absolutely. The high-speed train between Paris and Bordeaux takes about 2 hours, making it easy to visit both even on a weeklong trip.
It really depends on your travel style. If you love big cities, famous landmarks, and a fast-paced atmosphere, Paris wins. But if you prefer smaller cities, great wine, and a slower rhythm, Bordeaux might feel more your speed.
Spring and early fall are ideal for both cities. Summer is great too, but keep in mind that August in Paris can feel quiet since many locals go on vacation and small shops close.
Final Thoughts: Paris or Bordeaux?
If you can, visit both. They each offer something completely different, and together they show two sides of France that I absolutely love.
For me, Paris will always be that city that makes you feel alive. It’s busy, bold, and endlessly inspiring. But it’s also a lot, especially if you’re someone who prefers slower mornings and quiet evenings.
Bordeaux, on the other hand, feels softer. It has that small-city warmth, beautiful streets, and some of the best food and wine you could ask for. It’s the kind of place that surprises you with how easy it is to fall in love with.
If you’re planning your first trip to France and wondering Paris or Bordeaux for a first trip to France, I’d say start with Paris. It gives you that classic French experience everyone should have at least once. But if you’ve already been, Bordeaux offers something more intimate and relaxed.
Which city will you pick? I’d love to know. You can always reach out if you have questions about planning your trip or want my honest take on what might suit your travel style best.
Travel Planning Resources for France
- Visit the nearby city of Toulouse
- Solo Trip Weekend in Paris Guide
- How To Go From Marseille to Cannes Guide + Map
- 3 Best Saint Emilion Wine Tours
- Is Mont Saint Michel Worth Visiting?
- Cost Guide for a Solo Trip to Paris
- Are Paris Christmas Markets Worth Visiting?
- Paris in August: Is It Worth it?
- Paris or Bordeaux: Which City Is Better?
- 3 Days Solo in Bordeaux Itinerary
