Place de la Victoire: a popular and lively district

Place de la Victoire takes its name from the Second World War. Since the beginning of the 20th century, it has been regularly frequented by students due to the transfer of universities and schools to the Talence Pessac campus in the 1960s. In the 2000s, it was redeveloped to accommodate tram lines, giving way to a vast paved area and direct access to the emblematic rue Sainte-Catherine, one of the longest pedestrianised streets in Europe. It is now one of the city's most popular thoroughfares.

The Place de la Victoire is a place that exudes the generous soul of Bordeaux, with locals and tourists alike appreciating its good atmosphere and the art of living that rests there. The stone buildings that surround it adopt a neo-classical style and the Porte d'Aquitaine, which stands in the centre, is an ancient city gate inspired by ancient triumphal arches. Given its size and attractiveness, many events, shows and concerts are organised here. Young people, and students in particular, regularly get together during the day or in the evening. The bars, cafés and restaurants on the square are great places to meet people.

The column at the centre of the Place de la Victoire was inaugurated in June 2005, and traces the history of wine and vineyards from Antiquity to the present day. The Porte d'Aquitaine and the column are not the only monuments in the square: two giant tortoises have also been installed. The obelisk is 16 metres high and made from red Languedoc marble, while the turtles have the names of famous vineyards inscribed on their backs and are cast in bronze. Since the installation of these works by Czech sculptor Ivan Theimer, the square has become more popular.

Place de la Victoire occupies a large enough space to accommodate hotels as well as restaurants. Our first recommendation is theStaycity hotel, 350 metres from the square, with rooms and a warm decor that will ensure you have a pleasant stay.

Our second choice is the Hotel La Zoologie et Spa, 800 metres from the square. Spacious rooms with an original design, the establishment has a spa and wellness centre for you to relax in.

The Bodegon brasserie is a must in the Place de la Victoire, a place for sharing and conviviality. It offers a wide range of dishes, including tartare, burgers, salads, brunches and excellent wines.