I visited a walkable city just one hour from the UK - it's pretty but there's a downside

Bordeaux is a city in southwestern France located on the river Garonne just one hour from the coast.

The port city is the sixth-most populated city in France and is a world capital of wine with chateaux and vineyards on the outskirts of the city and the surrounding areas.

I visited Bordeaux last month during a 30C heatwave and was blown away by the city's gastronomy, wine and breathtaking architecture. Keen to explore the city on foot, I decided to stay 15 to 20 minutes outside the city centre in the Mériadeck district.

The centre of Bordeaux was a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus journey away, however, with the sun shining and Bordeaux being largely flat, I didn't mind walking into the centre each day.

Unlike other cities in France such as Paris, Bordeaux is incredibly walkable. Being largely flat, compact and bicycle-friendly, it was easy to explore the city's narrow, cobbled streets and vast shopping areas on foot.

city opposite the InterContinental Bordeaux Hotel, the opera house is a stunning building that was designed by the architect Victor Louis between 1731 and 1800.

The Grand Theatre is famous for its Neo-classical facade which includes 12 Corinthian-style colossal columns. Above the columns are 12 statues which are said to represent nine Muses and the goddesses Juno, Venus and Minerva.

I didn't enter the building but noticed the incredible piece of architecture was a spot to socialise for Bordeaux locals.

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One of my favourite spots was Le Bistrot du Cachalot, a small bistro located opposite Basilique Saint-Michel. Here, I enjoyed an abundance of seafood dishes and a glass of local white wine.

My favourite dish was a traditional moules marinière with skinny fries and a side of bread.

Another favourite spot of mine was Le 428, an elegant bistro located slightly outside the centre near the Clocktower.

At lunchtime, Le 428 has a set menu where guests can enjoy two dishes for €22 (£18). I enjoyed a delicious courgette starter with smoked duck and a succulent hake fillet. I washed down both dishes with a glass of local white wine from Chateaux Rioublanc.

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