Bordeaux

Set in two galleries in the gardens of the splendid Baroque Palais Rohan. — Concierge

Other exhibits of interest include treasure from Tayrac, the Bituriges Vivisques altar, 4 000 Roman coins from the Garonne and the Flamboyant Gothic rose window from the Grands Carmes convent. — Michelin Guide

The centerpiece of the left bank is this open square built in 1729–33. — Fodor's

This towering edifice, originally built in the early 12th century, was where Eleanor of Aquitaine celebrated her first (and ill-fated) marriage to Louis VII. — Frommer's

Architect Victor Louis' neo-classical theater has a monumental façade with 12 Corinthian columns and a sweeping staircase that was the inspiration for the Palais Garnier in Paris. — Travel + Leisure

This small Wine and Trade Museum, hidden in one of the city's oldest buildings – an Irish merchant's house dating to 1720 in the ancient trading district of Chartrons – offers a fascinating insight. — Lonely Planet

Appealing to all ages, this is a refreshing spot to kick off one's shoes - a peerlees and ever-changing attraction! — Michelin Guide

Recently, the collection has been expanded to include objects from the 20th century, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco and periodic samplings of contemporary design. — Frommer's

By far the city's eeriest and most menacing sight, this mammoth hulk of a submarine base (1941–43) was one of five built on the Atlantic Coast by the Germans during the WWII. — Lonely Planet

Austere and imposing, the Basilique Saint-Seurin is an architectural treasure, classed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. — Lonely Planet

The huge bell, born as Armande-Louise in 1775 (bells always have names), weighs a hefty 7750kg and required 14 pairs of oxen to hoist it into place. — Lonely Planet

Built in 1495, this theatrical triumphal arch mixes decorative and defensive elements and was dedicated to Charles VIII. — Michelin Guide

The city's finest people-watching square, place de la Victoire throbs with students lingering over drinks on the vast cafe terraces here. — Lonely Planet

La Musée National des Douanes is France’s National Customs Museum. — Travel + Leisure