Where to Stay in Bordeaux? 6 Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Bordeaux for YOU

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The Best Places to Stay in Bordeaux – Pros & Cons

Discover the best areas in Bordeaux to stay right below, with descriptions, pros & cons, and hotel recommendations for each of them.

THE BEST Area to Stay in Bordeaux: Saint-Pierre

Place Saint-Pierre in Bordeaux

Saint-Pierre is one of Bordeaux’s central neighborhoods, but you could realistically stay anywhere within the center of the city because this means that you will have a prime location, and can reach anything you want quite easily.

To be fair, most of the best sights of Bordeaux are in the heart of the town, so you probably won’t even need to move around too much.

Aside from its central location, Saint-Pierre is perfect for culture lovers: there, you will find museums, cinemas, and magnificent shops. The fact that it is mostly car-free is also enjoyable for a more peaceful trip.

Lastly, what I love most about it is definitely its architecture: it embodies the best of what Bordeaux has to offer, in a pretty tiny and cozy space.

Overall, just a stunning neighborhood you truly cannot go wrong with.

Where to Stay in Saint-Pierre

Sure, Saint-Pierre is an incredible neighborhood and everyone would love to stay there, I am aware of that. What’s more difficult though is to find suitable accommodation.

For that, I have listed my favorite picks in the neighborhood, sorted by budget:

✅ Best Hotel: Hôtel La Maison Bord’eaux

In this hotel, you will be ideally located within the center of the city and will enjoy a particularly clean and comfortable room with modern amenities.

✨ Luxury Choice: Maison Fernand B&B

For those of you who are looking to take your next trip to Bordeaux to a whole new level, this is the best one. This luxury accommodation is exceptionally well decorated, and you will feel just like home there.

💰 Budget Pick: ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Mériadeck

On the other hand, just because you want to stay in the center of Bordeaux doesn’t mean you have to go all in on your budget. Actually, the hotel offers the best value for money you can find. The location is quiet, and the interior is overall clean.

Best Location to Stay in Bordeaux On A Budget: Bacalan

La Cité du Vin in Bacalan district

Located in the northern part of Bordeaux, the Bacalan quarter is definitely the best place to stay on a budget.

It used to be the main harbor of the city, and thus has its own charm: if you like portuary vibes, you will adore Bacalan.

Although the origins of its name aren’t quite clear, as they could either come from an important protestant family of the 19th century or from the Portuguese bacalao (cod), one thing is more certain: the architecture of this neighborhood is unique. A blend of ancient marine facilities and brand-new, bold buildings, I can guarantee it will blow your mind.

Now, of course, this comes at a price, as you will be located further away from the heart of the city.

I have good news though: whether you’d like to go there (and you can easily do so with one of the city’s transportation options) or simply stay where you are, the choice is yours.

Where to Stay in Bacalan

Interested in staying in the cheapest neighborhood of Bordeaux? Great idea, but you’ll need accommodation for that. My opinion? Go for one of these three options, you won’t regret it:

✅ Best Hotel: Appart-Hôtel Mer & Golf City Bordeaux Bassins à flot

The rooms here are particularly spacious and well-equipped. Other amazing perks include a private terrace, easy access to the tramway line, a large bathroom, and a kitchen equipped with all you need.

✨ Luxury Choice: Renaissance Bordeaux Hotel

Although you are heading to the most affordable area of Bordeaux, I still wanted to offer a luxurious option, for those of you who simply love the vibe of the harbor. Perfectly located, this hotel offers high-standard services and incredible views.

💰 Budget Pick: Whoo Bordeaux Bacalan – Hostel

This hotel is as cheap as it gets, but that doesn’t mean it’s not suitable for a comfortable trip. In fact, this hostel was recently renovated, and it is both modern and bright. Plus, it serves tasty breakfasts.

Best Neighborhood to Stay in Bordeaux for Nightlife: Gare Saint-Jean

Located on the other end of the city compared to the Bacalan quarter, in the southernmost part, the Gare Saint-Jean is the main train station of Bordeaux.

Although beautiful in and of itself, there’s more than the train station to this whole neighborhood, as it is for sure the best area for fun nights out.

There are plenty of reasons for me to say so. First off, this is the place where most of the younger part of the population goes out to have fun. Then, it offers the largest number of convenience stores, which are open quite late: just perfect after a convivial time at the bar! Lastly, the area is overall the liveliest one in the city, and you are guaranteed to find something you like.

On top of all of this buzzing activity, you will find various markets offering good deals!

Where to Stay in Gare Saint-Jean

Although you are most likely going to spend your nights out having fun, you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of a good hotel: it’s only with quality sleep that you can truly enjoy your nightly activities! Here, pick one of these:

✅ Best Hotel: MEININGER Hotel Bordeaux Gare Saint-Jean

Serving copious and varied breakfasts, this hotel will guarantee you wake up from your slumber in the nicest of fashions. On top of that, it is located right next to the train station, so you won’t have trouble reaching it, even with heavier luggage.

✨ Luxury Choice: La Cabane D’Ambroise

Although near the center of Bordeaux, La Cabane D’Ambroise is an entire house! For now, this hidden gem isn’t too famous, but you should go ahead and book it while you can: I can guarantee that it will quickly blow up!

💰 Budget Pick: JOST Auberge de Jeunesse Bordeaux Gare Saint Jean

If you are comfortable with hostels, you should definitely go for this one. Boasting a professional and always-available staff, this capsule hotel offers privacy and comfort, all for a low price. Perfect for budget travelers!

Most Peaceful Area to Stay in Bordeaux: Ornano/Mériadeck

Whether you are traveling as a family, simply want to prioritize quietness over anything else, or maybe even live in Bordeaux (after all, why not?), the Ornano/Mériadeck quarter is for you.

This area is particularly calm and relaxing, and although Bordeaux isn’t that noisy of a city, it is always enjoyable to truly relax for a bit.

This residential area was named after Alfonse d’Ornano, mayor of the city in 1599, who significantly contributed to fighting the plague.

Very nicely located, just to the south of the city center, it is being more and more heavily invested by shops but still boasts narrow, peaceful streets with a peaceful atmosphere.

When it comes to mobility, a new tramway line now crosses the neighborhood, which helps a lot for reaching it, and for moving around the city. Overall, the quaint getaway you’ve always dreamt of!

Where to Stay in Ornano/Mériadeck

Even if you are going to stay in the most peaceful part of Bordeaux, your quaint holiday could easily be ruined with the wrong hotel. If you want to avoid that, you can safely go for one of these choices:

✅ Best Hotel: Les Séraphines – Chambres d’hôtes – Guests house

Located in an angelic and spotlessly clean building, this guest house is simply outstanding, and I haven’t found any better compromise in the neighborhood of Ornano/Mériadeck. Here, you will be warmly welcomed and will enjoy exquisite breakfasts each morning.

✨ Luxury Choice: Villa Erizio, Bordeaux Centre

Boasting fantastic views from an inner courtyard, this is an exceptional hotel for those of you who want to experience the true meaning of luxury, the French way. Well-equipped and greatly located for you to visit more of Bordeaux, it is calm and tastefully decorated.

💰 Budget Pick: Aparthotel Adagio Access Bordeaux Rodesse

For those of you who prioritize the lowest possible budget over anything else, I believe this place will do the trick. Offering parking spots, located in quiet scenery, and being spotlessly clean, this hotel is, honestly, just a solid pick.

Best Place to Stay in Bordeaux Wine Region: Saint-Émilion

Bordeaux is the worldwide capital of wine, but obviously, the wine isn’t produced in the city center, but all around it. The whole area, one of the world’s best wine regions, is known for producing the famous Bordeaux wine.

If you’re seeking the perfect place to stay in the Bordeaux region, Saint-Émilion is definitely the best village. With its historic charm and UNESCO status, it’s a must-visit for all wine aficionados. 

As you explore the cobblestone streets of Saint-Émilion, you’ll encounter renowned wineries like Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc, where tastings and insider insights await.

And when it’s time to unwind, you can immerse yourself in the stunning vineyard landscapes, whether by leisurely stroll or scenic bike ride.

But that’s not all – Saint-Émilion’s food scene is a gastronomic delight, with cozy bistros and top-notch restaurants serving up delicious French dishes perfectly paired with local wines.

Where to Stay in Saint-Émilion

Want to stay in one of Bordeaux region’s most famed towns? That’s a neat idea if you ask me, but I bet you could use some help in finding a convenient hotel in another language. So, here are my personal picks:

✅ Best Hotel: Hotel Porte Brunet

I can already tell you that, if you decide to stay in the Hotel Porte Brunet, you will be amazed by its calm atmosphere, exceptional views, and stunning decoration. Recently renovated and managed by nice and caring hosts, this accommodation serves its own fantastic wines. You won’t even need to go out of it to try the French quality of wine!

✨ Luxury Choice: Château de Ferrand

If spending a night in a French castle near Bordeaux is on your bucket list, you need to have a look at the Château de Ferrand. Located in the middle of a vineyard and boasting fantastically quiet and magnificent scenery, there is nothing more luxurious than this outstanding accommodation.

💰 Budget Pick: La Gomerie Chambres d’Hotes

Honestly, if it weren’t for the Hotel Porte Brunet, this one could very well have been my #1 pick for a stay in Saint-Émilion: with record low prices and high-quality services, they are definitely an incredible choice. With a gorgeous interior and equally wonderful hosts, this hotel is surrounded by vineyards and castles: all you need to feel comfortable and enjoy your holiday!

Best Place to Stay Near Bordeaux: Pessac

Chateau Pape-Clément in Pessac / Tony Hisgett / CC BY

Did I pique your curiosity with Saint-Émilion? Are you starting to see how incredible all of the area around Bordeaux is?

Well, if you are, and would love to stay there, my personal opinion is that Pessac is the best place to stay near Bordeaux.

This town will be of particular interest to all kinds of art lovers, because of the museums and street art it boasts.

Overall, its center is pretty small yet lovely, it has its own cinema (if you’d love to learn more about French movies), it has plenty of markets and finally is surrounded by several forests, ideal for a breath of fresh air.

Besides, there are several ancient monuments in the town, ranging from medieval times to the 1950s, as well as a renowned, large zoo.

Where to Stay in Pessac

Pessac is great if you want to get away from the bustling center of Bordeaux and need some space. If you want to stay there, I can only recommend you to pick one of these hotels:

✅ Best Hotel: Crisalys Chambres d’Hôtes

Do you dream of enjoying a swimming pool in the sunny south of France? That dream can come true in this place! You will be ideally located in Pessac, will enjoy particularly comfortable beds, and will be served excellent breakfasts at the start of each day.

✨ Luxury Choice: Château Pape Clément

Similarly to Saint-Émilion, my recommendation when it comes to luxury options in Pessac is a castle. But not just any castle, the Château Pape Clément, a gorgeous and superb building. If you decide to stay there, not only will you be warmly welcomed, but fresh pies will also be cooked just for you each morning!

💰 Budget Pick: Premiere Classe Bordeaux Sud Pessac Bersol

With its exceptionally low prices, the Premiere Classe Bordeaux Sud Pessac Bersol is for sure an interesting option. Don’t worry, you won’t have to sacrifice any of your comforts if you decide to stay there, mostly thanks to its competent and responsive staff. Plus, there are safe and free parking spots!

Aerial view from Bordeaux Cathedral

Where Not to Stay in Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a globally safe city, so you don’t have to worry too much about safety. 

But like all cities, some areas are best avoided for various reasons. Here is where not to stay in Bordeaux:

• Saint-Michel: While quiet in the daytime, this neighborhood located close to the Gare Saint Jean in the city center becomes very lively at night, with drunk people often causing disturbances.  
• Chantecrit:  This area located between Les Chartrons and the Bassins à Flots areas is infamous for aggressions, so stay clear of it.
• Grand Parc: Also close to Les Chartrons in northern Bordeaux, this area is known for urban violence and delinquency. 

Luckily, these areas aren’t too central so there’s no way you would find yourself in these places. But make sure your hotel isn’t in these areas to avoid in Bordeaux.

Check out this dedicated guide for more info and tips about safety in Bordeaux. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Areas to Stay in Bordeaux

And we’re already done! These were my favorite areas to stay in or near Bordeaux. I hope you liked this list, and most importantly that you found what you needed.

In case you’re still unsure where to go, let me remind you of this: the center of Bordeaux and its neighborhood of Saint-Pierre is the overall best compromise you can find; so go for it with your eyes closed!

🔍 Read more about Bordeaux: 

• How Many Days in Bordeaux Do You Need?
• Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?
• Best Time to Visit Bordeaux
• 1 Day in Bordeaux Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary in Bordeaux
• 3-Day Itinerary in Bordeaux
• Paris to Bordeaux Train Trip
• Best Things to Do in Bordeaux in Winter
• Best Day Trips from Bordeaux