Welcoming more than 40 million tourists a year, Paris is one of the world’s most beloved destinations.
However, as there is a growing awareness of overtourism and how it affects not just holidays but also the lives of local communities, people are increasingly looking for alternative hotspots – dubbed “destination dupes”.
When it comes to finding an alternative to the French capital, experts at tour comparison site TourScanner identified a destination they believe is perfect when it comes to both beating the crowds and having similar experiences.
Describing Bordeaux, the organisation called the city “a suitable alternative for travellers looking for a less busy yet similarly culturally enriching trip that provides plenty of historical significance, as well as good wine and food.”
Last year, the Bordeaux metropolitan counted some seven million overnight stays – nearly equally split between French nationals travelling to visit this city and foreign tourists, according to data from the Tourism and Convention Office of the city.
One of the most beautiful sights in Bordeaux, particularly for people interested in the arts and architecture of the destinations they head to, is the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, comparable in terms of beauty and majesty to Paris’ Notre Dame.
The city, sitting within the world-famous wine region, is also known for its museums – including the Musée des Beaux-Arts and La Cité du Vin – which translates to the City of Wine and is entirely dedicated to the alcoholic beverage, its history and its production.
Since 2006, the city is also home to the Miroir d’Eau – one of Bordeaux’s best free attractions, particularly in the summer.
This “Mirror of Water” is a spectacular pool designed by landscape artist Michel Corajoud, which alternates a mirror effect and artificial misting.
Despite being an artwork and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, people can find respite from the heat in the shallow water reflecting the stunning 18th-century façades surrounding it.
Shopping is also a great option when heading to Bordeaux, with Rue Notre Dame in the Chartrons district being one of the most famous streets in the city to explore boutiques, antique shops and coffee places.
Another destination for shopaholics is Rue Saint Catherine – Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street, measuring 3,937 feet.
Tourists who don’t want to choose between Bordeaux and Paris can visit both as the cities are linked by a TGV high-speed service, which reduces travel time from 3.5 hours to just a little over two hours.
