While Bordeaux has existed for over two thousand years, the city has gained most of its fame from its world-renowned wine industry. The vineyards surrounding Bordeaux sold almost one billion gallons of wine last year, all under strict local government ordinances, to ensure that no bottle of wine that goes out under the prestigious Bordeaux name is in any way subpar.

Today, Bordeaux struggles to expand its tourist appeal beyond the world's wine connoisseurs. This is unfortunate, as the Grand Theatre should rank among the most visited attractions in all of the world. The more famous Paris opera house borrowed liberally from Bordeaux's theater, designed by Victor Louis. A floating cruise under the Pont de Pierre, one of Europe's most beautiful bridges, is a must, as is a tour of the surrounding wine country that makes Bordeaux a recognized name worldwide.