1 Bordeaux, France
When you think of the best wine regions in the world, it’s hard not to think of Bordeaux, where the first vines were planted in Roman times and which is now home to more than 7,000 wineries. At its heart is a beautiful city of the same name, with a history so steeped in wine-making that it still has wineries on its outskirts. This makes it one of the best places from which to explore a variety of vineyards without needing a vehicle, with several chateaux easily accessible by tram and bus. Up for even more of an adventure? Hire a bike and set off on one of the cycle routes that takes in several of the vineyards surrounding the city. Be sure to make a stop at the Cité du Vin, a museum and architectural marvel perched on the banks of the Garonne River that invites visitors to explore the history of winemaking across the globe. Then you can enjoy a wine tasting in its stunning wine bar, the Belvédère, with 360-degree views of the city.
