Half Moon Bay is relatively small, picturesque beach located on the West End. The bay may not be big, however, it boasts different activities such as boating and snorkelling, and is a pleasant spot for beach-lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The boating area is usually bustling with scuba divers and fishermen, but the swimming area on the other side is not used as frequently.

Spend a day sipping French reds and whites in the Saint-Emilion and Pomerol wine region on a day trip from Bordeaux. Visit two chateaux to taste the region’s famous wines and then stroll through the charming streets of the medieval town of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This busy square sits at the southern end of Bordeaux’s Old Town and is a popular hangout, especially among students. The 18th-century Porte d’Aquitaine marks one of the city’s old entrances, while a tall obelisk and two bronze tortoises — added in 2005 by Czech sculptor Ivan Theimer — celebrate Bordeaux’s wine culture. Look closely and you’ll spot grape clusters and appellations carved into the sculptures. Around the square, you’ll find casual bars, kebab shops, and small boutiques. It’s more a spot to grab a drink or soak up the atmosphere than a must-see, but it’s a good place to get a feel for local life.

The Basilica of San Clemente is more than a simple church; it is a real museum that houses layers and layers of history. Behind the humble doors of this 12th-century church lie the remnants of the original basilica dating back to the 4th century, the remains of a 1st-century Roman villa, and breathtaking Byzantine mosaics beautifully adorning the ceiling.