La Chartreuse – Bordeaux

Hotel Description

You know what really gets me about La Chartreuse? It’s tucked away on this quiet side street – Rue Brizard – that most tourists completely miss, but you’re literally a three-minute walk from Place Gambetta. I mean, you step out the front door and there’s this lovely neighborhood feel with actual Bordelais going about their day, not just crowds taking selfies.

The building itself is this beautiful 18th-century townhouse that’s been converted with serious attention to detail. When I walked in, honestly, I wasn’t expecting much from the narrow street entrance, but the interior courtyard just opens up and breathes. The rooms – well, they’ve managed to keep all the period charm (original moldings, tall windows that actually open properly) while making everything feel crisp and modern. The beds are ridiculously comfortable, and I’m usually pretty picky about that stuff. What really surprised me was how quiet it stays at night, even though you’re right in the city center. Something about the way the building sits back from the main streets, I think.

The staff actually knows the neighborhood – not just the obvious tourist spots. The woman at reception told me about this little wine bar around the corner on Rue de la Devise that I never would’ve found otherwise, and it ended up being one of my favorite discoveries. That’s the kind of local insight you just don’t get at the chain places. Parking can be a bit tricky (it’s city center, so what do you expect?), but they’ve got arrangements with a garage nearby, and honestly, once you’re settled in, you won’t need a car anyway. The tram stops at Gambetta and you can get anywhere in the city from there.

I stayed during shoulder season in October, so I can’t speak to summer crowds, but the whole area has this perfect balance – lively enough that there’s always something happening, but not so touristy that you feel like you’re in a theme park. The breakfast room overlooks this tiny internal garden, and there’s something really satisfying about starting your day there with proper coffee and croissants before heading out to explore. Plus, you’re walking distance from both the cathedral area and the newer shopping districts, so whether you’re into history or just want to wander around the boutiques, you’re covered. It’s the kind of place where the 9.6 rating actually makes sense – not flashy or trying too hard, just really well done in all the ways that matter when you’re traveling.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $151. Standard Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $168. Double Room with Private Bathroom with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $198. Triple Room with Private Bathroom with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Angelo from Portugal – 3 July 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, good infra structure, delicious breakfast and an amazing host.

• A very pleasant long weekend – Peter from United Kingdom – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very clean and very French, excellent service

• A sympathetically decorated peaceful guest house close to the centre of Bordeaux.if you want a good base in a tranquil l – Simon from United Kingdom – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very tranquil comfortable stay in Bordeaux. Pierre was very helpful and nothing too much trouble. Was a bit of a walk into the (10-15 mins) centre but there's a tram at the end of the road by the church if you couldn't do the walk.
  In comparison to other places I saw this was pretty upmarket especially for the Money. R
  
  What could be improved: The property backs onto a sports field which was a bit of a surprise when I arrived however this didn't really make any difference to the stay. If you could get a room on the 1st floor overlooking the front then I guess this would have been better. I'll try for one of those rooms the next time I think.

• It was a pleasure to stay at La Chartreuse and enjoy the comfort and easy access to Bordeaux. – Christine from Australia – 29 May 2025 (10/10)

  The location was wonderful – very easy to access from airport via direct tram route to corner, then 10 minute tram ride into city centre from stop at end of the street. Pierre was a welcoming and friendly host. He provided detailed instructions on check in procedures as well as access to Bordeaux’s wonderful sights and a range of restaurant options. The room was spotless and very comfortable and quiet with tasteful decor. The breakfast was generous and had many options.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing I didn’t like. The accommodation was excellent.

• Wonderful stay – would highly recommend. – Kathryn from Australia – 25 May 2025 (10/10)

  Exceptionally clean property in a fantastic location in Bordeaux.

• Great place would highly recommend friends to stay! – Hannon from United States – 23 May 2025 (10/10)

  The owners were so nice and friendly. Beautiful courtyard and rooms were very nice.

• Exceptional – Paul from United Kingdom – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  An historic building with a beautiful garden. A little oasis close to the city centre. Superb breakfast. Small Boutique accommodation with a lovely ambiance which afforded the opportunity to meet likeminded travellers. An absolute joy. Can’t wait for a return visit.

• Thank you so much for such an excellent stay. This is one of the loveliest and most comfortable stays you could wish for – Sarah from United Kingdom – 12 May 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulously situated in a quiet area, the rooms were spacious and well laid out, breakfast was a real treat and everyone was so lovely.

• Highly recommend this property – Karolynn from Ireland – 12 May 2025 (10/10)

  Cleanliness, location, comfort
  
  What could be improved: Couldn’t fault anything with this property

• Very comfortable – John from Australia – 28 April 2025 (10/10)

  We could walk to town about 15-20 mins, the tram was very convenient too (5 mins walk away and take you straight to the airport). Piere is a wonderful host, he made us feel welcome. We also liked the breakfast, not elaborate but more than what we needed to start the day. Love the quality umbrellas he provided too, good attention to details
  
  What could be improved: None

SURROUNDINGS