Which are the best places to stay in Nouvelle-Aquitaine really depends on what you want to do and see. If you have the time, we recommend making a roundtrip through the interior, the Bordelais, Charente, Perigord and Gascogne and then spend relaxing days somewhere on the coast. Biarritz or Saint-Jean-de-Luz if you enjoy a more luxurious holiday, the beaches around Hossegor and Arcachon if nature and unspoilt beaches make you happy or the Charente Maritime with its authentic towns and the Île-de-Ré.

Each province (département) of Nouvelle-Aquitaine is special in its own way:

Gironde

We begin our journey in Bordeaux, the capital of the province of Gironde, a true sanctuary for wine lovers. Its classical architecture, with the imposing Place de la Bourse and the Mirror of Water, invites you to wander through its elegant streets, but it is its connection with the world of wine that makes this city a unique destination. In the Gironde you may ride a bicycle through the or unwind on the Atlantic Ocean's sandy beaches. Wine enthusiasts may also take guided tours of well-known wineries in the Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Pessac-Léognan to learn about the region's long history of winemaking. For peace, hikes, and birding, nature enthusiasts may visit the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes de Gascogne's expansive wetlands. Take a boat tour around Arcachon Bay to see the charming oyster farms, or try hang-gliding over the Dune du Pilat for some adventure.

Best hotels in the Gironde, B&B and self-catering homes

Pyrenées-Atlantiques

Of course, we cannot talk about New Aquitaine without mentioning its mountains. The Pyrénées-Atlantiques mark the natural border with Spain, offering spectacular scenery for lovers of hiking and outdoor sports. Towns such as Pau offer panoramic views of the mountains, while the small villages scattered throughout the region, such as Cauterets or Lourdes, are perfect starting points for exploring the valleys and forests that the Pyrenees hide.

On the coast, the sea and the waves set the pace of life. Biarritz is a town that has managed to combine luxury with the relaxed spirit of the coast. Its beaches, frequented by surfers from all over the world, are the ideal place to immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere, full of energy and colour. But Biarritz, together with the charming Saint-Jean-de-Luz, is much more than just surfing: its architecture, influenced by the Belle Époque style, its elegant seaside cafés and its cultural heritage make it one of the most fascinating destinations in the French Basque Country. A larger city, but nonetheless certainly worth a visit is Bayonne. A historic city in the French Basque Country, with a Gothic cathedral, medieval streets, and a rich Basque tradition.

Boutique hotels, B&B and self-catering homes in the Pyrenées-Atlantiques

Landes

The Landes province, with its vast pine forests, golden sandy beaches, and renowned surf spots offer a pristine escape, while picturesque villages and vibrant local markets highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage. Famous for its traditional gastronomy, including foie gras and Armagnac, and a slower pace of life, this region invites you to embrace nature, explore hidden trails, and unwind on unspoilt beaches far from the crowds.

For an authentic stay, you can choose from a variety of charming accommodations: elegant country estates surrounded by forest, rustic farmhouses offering a taste of rural life, or boutique beachside villas with Atlantic views.

Luxury hotels, B&B and guest houses in the Landes province

Dordogne (Périgord)

The Dordogne province, also known as the Perigord, enchants with its beautiful landscapes, from verdant valleys and winding rivers to medieval villages and ancient cave art. Renowned for its gastronomy, including truffles, foie gras, and walnut delicacies, it’s a destination were history and tradition merge seamlessly. Whether exploring the majestic châteaux, paddling along the Dordogne River, or strolling through bustling market squares, this region offers all you expect from authentic French culture.

The Dordogne offers accommodations steeped in character. Stay in a restored 18th-century stone cottage, a riverside manor house surrounded by gardens, or a luxury chambre d’hôte in a sleepy village. Intimate settings that provide not only comfort but also a genuine connection to the region’s heritage and pastoral charm.

Charming bed & breakfasts Dordogne, châteaux hotels and guest houses

Lot-et-Garonne

Set in the heart of southwestern France, the province of Lot-et-Garonne is a haven for those seeking authentic charm. Known for its rolling vineyards, medieval bastide towns, and quiet countryside, it’s a destination where time slows down. Here, you’ll discover traditional markets brimming with local delicacies, meander along tranquil rivers, and enjoy the understated elegance of rural French life.

Chambre d´hôtes, châteaux hotels and holiday homes in Lot-et-Garonne

Charente-Maritime

The Poitou-Charentes region is particularly well known for its charming coastline and unspoilt hinterland. On the Atlantic coast you will find the beautiful beaches of Île de Ré and Île d'Oléron, where you can spend the night in elegant boutique hotels or in beautiful holiday homes (overlooking the sea). Towns such as La Rochelle invite you to relax with their lively harbours and elegant hotels.

Away from the big cities, the Ile de Ré offers a breath of calm. A place where time seems to stand still, ideal for those looking to unwind. Its salt marshes, its paths lined with wild flowers and its quiet beaches create an atmosphere that invites reflection. Here, nature takes over with its leisurely pace, offering the traveller a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

Boutique hotels Charente-Maritime, luxury hotels and châteaux hotels

Charente

Further north, we enter a region steeped in medieval history. Poitiers is a city steeped in nostalgia, where every corner whispers stories of yesteryear. Its Romanesque churches, such as the imposing Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and its monuments, such as the Palace of the Dukes of Aquitaine, take us back to the times of knights and princesses.

The vast vineyards of the Cognac region, on the other hand, are characterised by a quiet, rural atmosphere, where you will find charming bed & breakfasts and country hotels in historic estates.

Limousin

Limousin, also known as the green lung of France, offers numerous opportunities for nature lovers. Here you will find idyllic accommodation surrounded by greenery, often close to crystal-clear lakes such as Lac de Vassivière. Away from mass tourism, you can discover charming country houses and rustic accommodation surrounded by forests and hills. The small villages such as Collonges-la-Rouge, with their characteristic red sandstone buildings, not only offer historic backdrops, but also authentic, family-run bed & breakfasts and smaller hotels.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a region full of diversity and possibilities. Along the Atlantic coast, you can discover the endless sandy beaches such as Lacanau, Biscarrosse and Soulac-sur-Mer, which are particularly popular with water sports enthusiasts. Whether surfing, kitesurfing or sailing - the conditions are ideal, and international surfing competitions are regularly organised in Hossegor and Biarritz. If you want to experience nature at its best, you should definitely visit the Dune du Pilat. From this gigantic sand dune, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bay of Arcachon and the surrounding sea.

Away from the coast, the inland offers a wide range of activities. For example, the Pyrenees in the south of the region are fantastic for hiking in summer, while in winter you can go skiing. Also interesting is the Cirque de Gavarnie, an impressive rocky basin that is one of the scenic highlights of the region. The Périgord Noir region with its rivers and forests is particularly popular for canoeing and other hikes. There are also numerous historic castles and caves here, which provide a deep insight into the history of the region.

The region's cities are full of history and culture. Bordeaux, known for its wines and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites you to stroll through the historic centre and visit monuments such as the Place de la Bourse and Saint-André Cathedral. In La Rochelle, the old harbour town, you can explore the famous towers and the impressive Aquarium de La Rochelle. In Biarritz, in addition to the fantastic beaches, the Musée de la Mer, which documents the maritime history of the region, is also worth a visit.

Wine lovers should not miss the wine regions around Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion. Here you can not only taste excellent wines, but also enjoy the picturesque landscape of the vineyards. A special nature experience awaits you in the Marais Poitevin, an extensive marsh area that can be explored by boat and is also known as the ‘Green Venice’.

There are numerous leisure activities for families in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The futuristic Futuroscope amusement park in Poitiers is home to impressive 3D attractions and shows and is perfect for a day out with the kids. The Zoo de la Palmyre and the aquarium in La Rochelle are other exciting destinations for family outings.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a region that impresses with both its scenic diversity and its cultural treasures. Whether you are looking for adventure in nature, want to explore the historic towns or simply enjoy the wines and the way of life - there is something for everyone here to make your stay unforgettable.

The cuisine in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is a true delight for gourmets and offers an enormous variety. At the heart of the region lies Bordeaux, famous for its wines and the traditional ‘Entrecôte à la Bordelaise’, a succulent beef steak served in a red wine sauce. Other delicacies include ‘confit de canard’, tender duck meat cooked slowly in its own fat, and ‘magret de canard’, roast duck breast.

On the coast of the region, in towns such as Biarritz and La Rochelle, fresh seafood dominates the menus. Try oysters from the Bassin d'Arcachon, considered to be among the best in France, or the ‘mouclade’, a mussel speciality prepared in a creamy white wine sauce. Fish dishes such as ‘Lotte à l'Armoricaine’ (monkfish in tomato sauce) are also very popular.

For dessert, don't miss the ‘canelés’ - small caramelised Bordeaux cakes flavoured with vanilla and rum. The ‘Pastis Landais’, an airy, sweet cake from the Landes region, is also highly recommended.

The region's wines are world-renowned, especially the red wines from Bordeaux, which are often made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. For white wine lovers, the region offers Sauternes, a noble sweet dessert wine that is ideal with foie gras or desserts.

Whether savoury meat, fresh seafood or fine desserts - the cuisine of Nouvelle-Aquitaine combines regional tradition with French sophistication and is a paradise for gourmets.