Hertz atBordeaux Airport

The main roads in France are known as Autoroutes, and have a maximum speed limit of 130km/h. This drops to 110km/h in bad weather.

Dual carriageways have a maximum speed of 100km/h and the limit is 50km/h in built-up areas. Speed limits are well signposted, so be sure to keep an eye out. In France, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road and seatbelts should be worn by everyone in the vehicle.

Driving from Bordeaux Airport into the heart of the city is a straightforward journey – travel 11km down the D106. Drivers will find plenty of car parking dotted around the city, although there are also areas with metered parking. The historic centre of the town is pedestrianised, with no vehicle access.   

Straddling the flowing River Garonne, Bordeaux is in a fantastic location to explore both the western coast of France and the vibrant cities nearby.

Follow the A62 south-east, which runs alongside the river, to admire Toulouse’s lush landscape and all the glorious city has to offer. Stop off to explore ancient monuments and admire the intricate detail in the decorative ceilings at the city hall.

Of course, Bordeaux has a range of exquisite wine routes to explore. Drive along the A630 before making the connection to the winding N89, and marvel at the scenic surroundings.

Saint-Émilion is around 54km from the airport, and its world-famous vineyards have been given UNESCO Heritage status. The compact centre is packed full of history, with architecture dating back to medieval times. It’s worth parking up and stopping off for the night if you want to sample any of the wines on offer.

With car hire at Bordeaux Airport, the wider region is yours to discover. Head north on the D1215 for about an hour to reach the Mèdoc region, travelling through a series of charismatic villages.

Landes de Gascogne Regional Natural Park, a sprawling mass of pine forest and coastline, lies just under an hour from Bordeaux via the A63 and the A660. Bear in mind that many main roads in the region are toll roads – our local teams can help with any questions you may have about paying to use them.

When many think of Bordeaux, images of lush vineyards stretching out in neat rows readily spring to mind. The region’s wine heritage is impossible to ignore – and deserves to be admired – but the city has plenty more going for it besides.

Bordeaux has streets laden with history, a dining scene that’s the envy of many a rival city and a rejuvenated architectural landscape.

Captivating culture

Each of Bordeaux’s sprawling neighbourhoods has its own unique personality, which makes the area a fascinating place to explore.

The Grands Hommes district – nicknamed the Golden Triangle – is as elegant as it is striking. Take a leisurely stroll around this chic shopping borough, peering into the windows of the independent boutiques. Make sure you sample some of the delicious cakes on offer in the upmarket patisseries while you’re here.

A trendy contrast to Grands Hommes, venture to the right bank for Darwin Ecosystème. This hive of activity is far removed from the conventions of the main city, showcasing all things hipster, urban, retro and shabby chic.

Embrace the hubbub and artistic flair, enjoy the large indoor skate park, open-air cinemas and study the colourful murals that decorate the streets and free expression spaces.

Turn back time in Old Bordeaux

To unearth the heritage of the city, head to the Old Town to take in the plethora of historical sites. Old Bordeaux is the largest protected area in France and this district delights with its well-preserved facades and splendid sculptures.

Gaze in awe at the stunning stained-glass windows at the Sainte-Croix church and the impressive 15^th century Saint-Michel bell tower, also known as La Flèche (meaning ‘the spire’).

Standing a staggering 114m tall, this Gothic masterpiece is a spectacular sight to behold. The tower was built on an ancient burial ground and you can venture into a beautiful and eerie underground crypt.

Venture into the vineyards

Car rental at Bordeaux Airport means you can venture out into the expansive wine region to experience the splendour of its vast vineyards. Inhale the crisp and pleasing aromas as you amble through the six wine routes.    

Visit the picturesque chateaux, just north of the city, in the Mèdoc region to learn about the Bordeaux wine heritage. Drive through a sea of green in the Entre-Deux-Mers area and visit the medieval town on your way to Saint-Èmilion just east of the city.

Or, if you prefer, leave your car in Bordeaux and take an organised tasting tour. Sample the fresh harvest and learn from a professional sommelier who will give you all the wine tasting tips you need.

There’s more to Bordeaux than this, but now that you’ve got a taste for this phenomenal corner of France, the rest is yours for the taking.