The Old School – Dans le triangle d’or à Bordeaux

Hotel Description

So I stumbled across The Old School during my last trip to Bordeaux, and honestly? The name pretty much tells you everything you need to know. This place actually is housed in what used to be a school building – you can still see some of the original architectural details if you look closely, which I found kind of charming in that understated French way.

The location is what really sold me though. Place du Chapelet is right in the heart of what locals call the triangle d’or (the golden triangle), and I mean, you’re literally a three-minute walk from Place Gambetta where all the good shopping happens. But here’s the thing – and this is something you won’t realize until you’re actually staying there – it’s tucked away just enough that you don’t get the constant street noise that plagues some of the hotels right on the main drags. I slept surprisingly well, even with the windows cracked open on those warm June nights. The trams are super close too, which honestly makes getting around the city so much easier than dealing with rental car parking in Bordeaux’s narrow streets.

What struck me most was how the place manages to feel both historic and comfortable without trying too hard. The rooms aren’t huge – this is a 3-star place, not some luxury palace – but they’re thoughtfully laid out. Mine had these tall windows that let in gorgeous morning light, and the beds are actually decent quality (I’m picky about mattresses after too many backpacker hostels in my twenties). The staff genuinely seemed to know the neighborhood well too. When I asked about dinner recommendations, the guy at reception didn’t just hand me a tourist brochure – he walked me through the difference between the bistros on Rue Notre-Dame and the wine bars tucked away on the smaller side streets. That kind of local insight is worth its weight in gold when you’re trying to eat where actual Bordelais eat, not just other tourists.

I’ll be honest, it’s not perfect – the WiFi can be a bit spotty on the upper floors, and if you’re expecting a gym or pool, you’re out of luck. But for what it is, The Old School delivers exactly what you’d want from a well-located Bordeaux base. The 8.3 rating feels about right to me – it’s solidly good without being flashy about it. Plus, and this might sound weird, but there’s something satisfying about staying in a converted school building when you’re in a city that’s all about learning and culture. You’re a five-minute walk from some incredible wine shops, fifteen minutes from the river, and close enough to the Cathedral Saint-André that you can hear the bells in the morning (which I actually loved, though light sleepers might feel differently). If you’re the type who values location and character over amenities like room service and marble bathrooms, this place makes a lot of sense.

Many travelers prefer to book apartments in Bordeaux through local agencies that offer personalized recommendations and insider knowledge about the best neighborhoods for exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Margaret from Canada (8/10)

  The location was excellent with a lift in the building. Very central so we could easily return as we required throughout the day. Was clean and bright. Had everything we required for our one week stay. The bedding was superior in this apartment.

• Borislava from France (4/10)

  New sheets and towels, cleaning products available. Elevator available in the building

• Patrick from France (8/10)

  Tout

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities