Apartment in the heart of Saint-Michel

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t sure what to expect when I booked this place on Rue Gaspard Philippe, but honestly, the location alone makes it worth considering. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from Place Saint-Michel – and if you’ve never been, that’s where locals actually hang out, not just tourists taking photos of the basilica spires. The morning market there on Saturdays is incredible, and you can grab fresh croissants from the boulangerie right around the corner before most hotel guests are even awake.

The apartment itself is pretty straightforward – it’s got that typical French charm without being overly fancy about it. The floors creak a bit (hey, it’s an old building), but there’s something cozy about hearing life happening around you. What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night, despite being so central. The windows face away from the main street, so you don’t get the late-night foot traffic noise that can drive you crazy in other parts of Bordeaux. The kitchen actually works – I made coffee every morning and even attempted some pasta one evening, though honestly, with all the amazing restaurants within walking distance, I’m not sure why I bothered. Speaking of which, if you end up here, do yourself a favor and try that little wine bar on Rue des Bahutiers – it’s maybe a three-minute walk and the owner knows everything about Bordeaux wines.

Here’s the thing about this place – it’s not going to blow your mind with luxury amenities or anything like that. The Wi-Fi works fine, the shower has decent pressure, and there’s enough space to spread out your stuff without feeling cramped. What it does really well is put you right in the middle of actual Bordeaux life. You’ll walk past the same café every day where the same group of older French men play cards in the afternoon, and somehow that becomes part of your routine too. The tram stop at Saint-Michel is right there when you want to head over to the wine museum or explore other neighborhoods, but honestly, you can walk to most of the good stuff from here. Just be prepared for some stairs – there’s no elevator, which isn’t unusual for these older buildings, but worth knowing if you’re hauling heavy luggage. The check-in was smooth enough, though I’d definitely communicate your arrival time in advance. All in all, it’s the kind of place that grows on you – nothing flashy, but genuinely comfortable and perfectly positioned for anyone who wants to experience Bordeaux like someone who actually lives there.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $156. Apartment with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• We loved our time in Bordeaux and this place is a great option, would stay again! – Piper from Canada – 17 October 2024 (8/10)

  Location was perfect! It was exactly what we needed for our stay. Easy to get around using public transportation and close to the market. The 2 flights of stairs we were worried about initially but turned out to be okay.
  
  What could be improved: Would be nice if the beds in the second bedroom beds were off the floor. We had asked for them to be put to together to make one bed but it didn't really work with the style of beds. Would have been nice to know that.

• Après certains travaux quesont necessaires, l'appartement peut permettre un séjour très agréable. – Oustinova-huguet from France – 3 January 2025 (6/10)

  Propreté et jolies meubles, kits de bienvenus.
  
  What could be improved: Forts bruits dehors et des voisins dessus chaque soir tard et matin. Fenêtres mal isolées.

SURROUNDINGS