Decanter

Sit back, relax and drink in Bordeaux's unforgettable charm at this cosy hideaway in the heart of the historic city centre. Just a short walk from Rue Sainte Catherine, Place de la Bourse and Grosse Cloche, you'll be incredibly located for whatever tickles your fancy, be it sightseeing, shopping or sampling the region's most famous wines.

A stroll along the Garonne River will get your day off to a great start, as will a delicious pastry from a local boulangerie. Following an alfresco lunch, discover the city's renowned museums in the afternoons while evenings call for dinner, drinks and a grand night at the Opéra National, also within walking distance.

If you prefer a laid-back approach to your travels, this third-floor apartment is just the ticket. Nestled in a stone building dating back to the 19th century, there's plenty of character to fall in love with here – we're talking exposed stone walls, wooden beams and typical Parisian-style windows with wrought-iron balconettes.

Come home after a long day, kick off your shoes and unwind in style. Prepare your own take on classic French dishes in the kitchen – best served, of course, with a glass of Bourdeaux's dry red at the stylish island. A soak in the bathtub is the perfect way to end the day, or simply snuggle up with a book on the sofa before bed, instead.

Home truths:
*This flat is on the third floor and only accessible by a stone staircase – it's probably not suitable for those with limited mobility *A small table in the living space doubles as a desk if you need to work from home *As this apartment is in the city centre, noise is to be expected *You won't need a car in Bordeaux – there are numerous tram stops nearby, although we think the best way to explore the city is on foot *The entrance to this building is shared with other residents