Start morning at Musée d'Aquitaine to ground yourself in Bordeaux's Roman roots, then wander the Gothic cathedral and half-timbered lanes of the old town. Lunch at a neighborhood bistro near Place Saint-Pierre, afternoon exploring Grosse Cloche and riverside quais, finish with wine and charcuterie at a locals' wine bar as the stone facades glow amber.

Start early at Basilique Saint-Michel, exploring its 15th-century interior and crypt carvings before crowds arrive. Spend mid-morning walking Rue de la Rousselle and Rue Martignac, photographing timber-framed buildings. Lunch at a modest bistro near Rue des Ayres, then visit Musée d'Aquitaine (15-minute walk) to contextualise the architecture you've seen. End at Café du Port with views toward the river.

Start at Musée du Vin de Bordeaux (housed in a 16th-century fortress) to understand the region's wine heritage. Walk Rue Borie and Rue Judaïque spotting merchant mansions and hidden courtyards, then lunch at a local bistro. Afternoon: explore the Chartrons dock area along the Garonne, visit the Musée de la Maquette or wander into independent galleries before aperitif at a neighbourhood wine bar.