Bordeaux, France’s sixth-largest city, is best known for its wine. Surrounded by vibrant green vineyards, Bordeaux and its residents enjoy the good life — by which we mean, yes, plenty of wine.

But the city’s heady allure also owes much to its architecture. Half the city is UNESCO-listed, making it the world’s largest urban World Heritage Site. Alongside history there’s a progressive, youthful vibe, thanks in part to its 87,000-strong student population.

Arriving at this first stop on your French road-trip itinerary, begin at the Place de la Bourse. This Neoclassical masterpiece overlooks the Miroir d’Eau, a shallow fountain reflecting the world above in mesmerising clarity, and the perfect place to cool off. Continue along the river promenade, where you’ll find plenty of art museums and galleries.

After indulging in art, take a river cruise or simply stroll around the shabby but charming Chartrons neighbourhood. For dinner, choose between upmarket restaurants, independent bistros and even food trucks — just make sure you pair your dish with a generous glass of Bordeaux.

Come summer, many of Bordeaux’s residents pack up their cars and flock to the golden sands of the seaside paradise that is the Bassin d’Arcachon. Follow suit and head to the next stop on your Bordeaux road-trip itinerary.

From delightful Arcachon itself, with its whimsical villas and gardens, to the chic and sophisticated Cap Ferret, there’s plenty here for a memorable stop on your French adventure.

First up: oysters. Oyster beds stretch all along the shoreline here, as do waterfront restaurants serving nothing but wine and nature’s aphrodisiac. Stroll the streets of Arcachon, with its hotchpotch of architectural styles.

Take a pinasse — a traditional long wooden boat — over to Cap Ferret. Or there’s the pyramid-shaped Dune du Pilat, Europe's highest sand dune — climb to the top for breathtaking views.

Cycle to the picturesque villages of L'Herbe or Le Canon. Or hire a canoe to explore the region’s water-dwelling flora and fauna.

Once the glitzy former haunt of European royalty, today Biarritz still attracts a fair number of celebs, but the vibe is less aristocratic glamour and more beach‑bum chill‑out. People have been heading to Biarritz for holidays for centuries, and this west coast surf destination still lures many to its six breathtaking beaches.

And it’s not just sand and surf. There are Belle Époque relics, art deco villas, and even a 1930s casino.

When you arrive at the next stop on this road trip, walk in the footsteps of Empress Eugénie and Napoléon III — who kicked off high society’s obsession with the town — with a visit to Eugénie's extravagant villa, now the Hôtel du Palais. Then perhaps a digestif on the terrace of the Casino Municipale, although you’ll need an evening dress or a dinner jacket to go inside.

As for beaches, there’s the sandy stretch of La Grande Plage, or the rugged La Côte des Basques. And for stunning views, head to the Rocher de la Vierge.

Northwest of Bordeaux you’ll find the megastars of the French wine world. Along the Gironde Estuary are some of the region’s most acclaimed vineyards, including Haut-Médoc, Margaux, and St-Julien, familiar to anyone who knows their grape.

But even if you don’t, this is the perfect last stop before you return from your Bordeaux road trip. Unspoilt beaches and seaside towns. Horse riding and foraging for mushrooms through lush forests. And those crumbling old villages that lend this corner of France its unique charm.

Choose which of the region’s extraordinary châteaux you fancy and call ahead to book a visit. Château Ducru-Beaucaillou or Château Margaux are good options.

Time it right and you might catch part of the Marathon du Médoc, a race that offers cheese, oysters, foie gras and, yes… you’ve guessed it… wine! And, of course, you’ll need something to eat with all that wine, so be sure to try the Pauillac lamb at some point — it’s delicious!