Coeur des Chartrons

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Coeur des Chartrons? The name actually makes perfect sense once you’re there – it really does feel like you’ve found the heart of this neighborhood. I mean, you’re literally on the third floor of this gorgeous building on Rue Constantin, and from the moment you step inside, you get why this place has such stellar ratings.

The Chartrons district itself is honestly one of Bordeaux’s best-kept secrets (well, not so secret anymore, but you get what I mean). It’s got this perfect mix of old wine merchant vibes and modern creativity – antique shops next to contemporary galleries, traditional bistros alongside trendy wine bars. The hotel sits right in the thick of it, and I actually loved that it’s up on the third floor because you get these amazing glimpses of the neighborhood’s rooftops and the Garonne River if you crane your neck just right. There’s something about being elevated above the street level that makes you feel like you’re seeing the real Bordeaux, not just the tourist version.

What really gets me about this place is how they’ve nailed that sweet spot between boutique charm and actual comfort. The rooms – and I’m being honest here – are thoughtfully designed without being fussy. You’ll find those little touches that show someone actually thought about what travelers need, like proper lighting for reading and outlets where you actually want them. The staff clearly knows the neighborhood inside and out too, which matters more than you’d think. They pointed me toward this incredible little fromagerie just around the corner that I never would’ve found otherwise, and gave me the real scoop on which wine bars get too crowded with tourists (avoiding the obvious traps on Cours de l’Intendance, if you know what I mean).

The location honestly couldn’t be better for exploring – you’re a quick walk to the antique markets along the quays, and it’s an easy stroll down to the city center when you want the main attractions. But here’s the thing: you’re also in a genuinely residential part of the city, so mornings are quiet (no tour buses rumbling by at 7am), and evenings feel authentically Bordelais. I spent more time than I probably should have just wandering the narrow streets around the hotel, discovering hidden courtyards and watching locals do their evening shopping. That’s the kind of experience you get when you stay somewhere that’s actually woven into the fabric of the neighborhood rather than dropped into a generic hotel district.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $222. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Luminoso y excelente ubicación – Llamas from Spain – 18 July 2024 (9/10)

  Nos encantó la luminosidad del apartamento y su ubicación en pleno barrio de Chartrons, con gran encanto y cerca del centro de la ciudad.

SURROUNDINGS