Bordeaux

Often called “Petit Paris” for its exceptional 18^th-century architecture, Bordeaux is a quick two-hour express train from Paris. Settle into Hotel Le Palais Gallien, named for this once Gallo-Roman neighborhood, and taste the region’s culinary specialties at nearby Le Cromagnon. For an international tasting, head to food hall, Les Halles de Bacalan, and neighboring museum, La Cité du Vin, dedicated to wine, and end with a glass of Premier Grand Cru over stellar views of the city. For a taste of contemporary art, the CAPC musée d’art contemporain de Bordeaux will satisfy. While strolling the boutique-lined historic center, stop by the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux; you might be right on time for an opera or a ballet.