For the business traveller, Bordeaux strikes a rare balance: it’s a city where work feels effortless and leisure is unavoidable.
Known globally for its wine heritage, elegant 18th-century architecture, and thriving business scene, Bordeaux is an increasingly popular destination for conferences, corporate meetings, and industry events. But let’s be honest—when you’re in the heart of French wine country, squeezing in some pleasure between meetings is not just recommended, it’s inevitable.
With direct flights from major European hubs and high-speed train connections to Paris in just over two hours, Bordeaux is incredibly accessible. Whether you have back-to-back meetings or just a few calls to take, you’ll find plenty of places to get work done—then reward yourself with a glass of exceptional wine.
Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Bordeaux, where business and indulgence go hand in hand.
A Smooth Arrival: Getting to Bordeaux
If you’re flying in, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is just 30 minutes from the city centre, with direct connections to London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Madrid. The Lianes 1+ bus and airport shuttles provide easy transfers, but if you’re short on time, a taxi or ride-hailing service will have you downtown in no time.
For those travelling by train, Bordeaux Saint-Jean station is a major hub on the high-speed TGV network, linking the city to Paris in just over two hours. This makes Bordeaux a perfect stop for a quick business trip, whether you’re coming from the French capital or elsewhere in Europe.
Once in the city, Bordeaux’s trams, electric scooters, and compact layout make it easy to move between business districts, meeting spots, and must-visit locations—without the need for a car.
Where Business Gets Done in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a city that understands that business isn’t just about boardrooms—sometimes, the right setting can make all the difference. Whether you need a quiet space to work, a refined setting for client meetings, or a co-working spot with a bit of character, the city delivers.
Stylish Meeting Spots & Work-Friendly Cafés
If you’re looking for a sophisticated, professional setting to meet clients, Bordeaux offers plenty of options:
- InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hôtel – This five-star landmark opposite the Grand Théâtre is a top choice for business meetings. The elegant Orangerie lounge provides a refined atmosphere for coffee catch-ups or deal-making over a glass of wine.
- Mama Works – A stylish, modern co-working space in the heart of Bordeaux, ideal for those needing a productive environment between meetings.
- Café Piha – A quiet, trendy spot for catching up on emails over specialty coffee. The atmosphere is relaxed but professional, making it a great alternative to a hotel lobby.
- Plume – A fantastic café with good Wi-Fi and plenty of seating, ideal for taking calls or preparing for a presentation while enjoying some French pastries.
For more formal business meetings, Bordeaux’s Place des Quinconces and Mériadeck business district are home to high-end hotels, office spaces, and corporate venues, ensuring you’re never far from a convenient meeting point.
The Inevitable Wine Factor: Where Business Meets Bordeaux’s Greatest Export
Let’s be honest—business trips to Bordeaux almost always involve wine. Even the most corporate-focused visits tend to include at least one client dinner, networking event, or casual tasting session.
For a business lunch or dinner in an upscale setting, consider:
- Le Quatrième Mur – Run by a Michelin-starred chef, this restaurant inside the Grand Théâtre is ideal for impressing clients while enjoying refined French cuisine.
- Le Chapon Fin – One of Bordeaux’s oldest fine dining institutions, offering classic French dishes with an extensive wine list. The elegant setting makes it perfect for formal business dinners.
- Symbiose – A relaxed yet stylish restaurant where modern French cuisine meets creative cocktails—great for an informal networking dinner.
If you have a free afternoon and want to blend business with pleasure, a short wine-tasting session is the perfect way to experience Bordeaux’s heritage. You don’t even have to leave the city—head to:
- Cité du Vin – Bordeaux’s famous wine museum and tasting centre offers an excellent introduction to the region’s wines. It’s also a great venue for corporate events and networking receptions.
- Bar à Vin – A chic wine bar run by the Bordeaux Wine Council, located near Place de la Comédie. It’s the perfect setting for a casual business discussion over a glass of Bordeaux’s finest.
If your schedule allows, a short trip to the vineyards is worth considering. Many Châteaux in the Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Pessac-Léognan regions offer private tastings and business-friendly hospitality, making them an excellent setting for client meetings or team-building outings.
Cultural & Leisure Breaks: Where to Unwind Between Meetings
One of the best things about Bordeaux is that the city invites you to slow down—even if you’re here for work, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind without disrupting your schedule.
A Quick Dose of Culture
If you have an hour or two between meetings, Bordeaux’s walkable city centre is perfect for a quick cultural fix:
- Stroll along the Garonne River – The quayside promenade is a great place to take a break, enjoy the fresh air, and grab a coffee while watching the world go by.
- Miroir d’Eau – Located opposite Place de la Bourse, this stunning water mirror is one of the city’s most famous landmarks—perfect for a quick photo before heading back to work.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts – If you appreciate art and history, this museum houses works by Rubens, Delacroix, and Matisse, making it a great cultural escape.
The Perfect Evening Wind-Down
After a long day of meetings, Bordeaux offers plenty of ways to relax:
- Rooftop Drinks at Nighthawks – A stylish cocktail bar with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning city views—ideal for unwinding with colleagues.
- Dinner at L’Entrecôte – If you’re looking for a simple yet iconic dining experience, this legendary Bordeaux restaurant serves one dish only: steak-frites with a secret sauce. Perfect for a casual but classic French dinner.
- An Evening River Cruise – For a more memorable experience, take a sunset cruise along the Garonne, where you can enjoy wine, tapas, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Final Thoughts: Bordeaux is a Business Trip Done Right
Bordeaux is a city that makes business travel feel effortless. With easy access from Paris and Europe, world-class meeting spaces, and a relaxed yet professional atmosphere, it’s a perfect destination for a productive trip.
But no matter how packed your schedule is, Bordeaux will tempt you to slow down—whether it’s with a glass of wine, a scenic riverside walk, or an impromptu visit to a historic square.
For the business traveller who values both efficiency and enjoyment, Bordeaux delivers. Just be warned – your next “quick work trip” here might have you booking an extra day, just to soak it all in.