Nouvelle Aquitaine

The last 20 years have seen Bordeaux transformed: its Unescolisted architecture has been scrubbed clean of pollution and a welcoming promenade has opened along its waterfront. 2016 saw the arrival of the striking Cité du Vin, a state-of-the-art wine museum set in a glass building shaped like the swirl that wine makes in a glass as it’s poured.

For those who prefer the city’s more ancient treasures, the nearby Chartrons district is home to several brocante and homeware shops. Most are centred along Rue Notre Dame, where you’ll find everything from elegant statues in chic antiques boutiques to glass jewellery in more rustic shops. Meanwhile, south of the city’s main attractions, Les Puces de Saint Michel is a flea market that takes place each Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday morning. A vibrant event, you’ll find all sorts here between the stalls and the permanent shops that inhabit the 18th-century mansions that surround the square. Stay at Le Saint James, a luxury hotel perched high above the city with breathtaking views. Double rooms from

195 (saintjames-bouliac.com).

The charming Chartrons district lit up at night. It’s an attractive place to wander both for its architecture and quayside views and also wealth of homeware shops and brocantes. BELOW The elegant Rue Saint-James and mesmerising Cité du Vin wine museum.