Best Family Hotels in Bordeaux for Kids (6-12 Years)
The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Hotels in Bordeaux for Kids (6-12)
Planning a family trip to Bordeaux? Discover the best hotels that cater specifically to families with kids aged 6-12. This guide provides detailed reviews, comparisons, and essential tips to ensure a memorable and stress-free vacation.
Best Family Hotels in Bordeaux for Kids: Comparison Table
Compare the top-rated family hotels in Bordeaux based on our analysis of real family stays and expert evaluations focusing on amenities for kids aged 6-12. Prices reflect average rates during high season.
| Hotel Name | Family Score | Categories | Kid-Friendly Features | Price Range | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean | 8.0/10 | Best_Value_for_Families | Free WiFi, Breakfast, Central Location | $ | Affordable option with a convenient location near the train station, making it easy to explore Bordeaux and beyond. |
| Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre | 8.6/10 | All_Inclusive_Resorts | Indoor Pool, Family Rooms, Kids Menu | $$ | Offers comfortable family rooms, a pool for relaxation, and a convenient location close to kid-friendly attractions. |
| Whoo Bordeaux Bacalan – Hostel | 8.7/10 | Fun_and_Kids_Club | Board Games, Shared Kitchen, Outdoor Terrace | $ | Provides a social atmosphere with family-friendly private rooms, a shared kitchen for meal prep, and proximity to the Cité du Vin. |
| Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide | 8.0/10 | Family_Friendly_Rooms | Family Rooms, Budget-Friendly Restaurant, River Proximity | $ | Offers affordable family rooms and easy access to the Garonne River promenade, perfect for budget-conscious families. |
ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean – Excelling in Best_Value_for_Families
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.0/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 7.5/10
- Location Score: 9.0/10
- Price Range: $/night
- Address: 19 Rue Charles Domercq, 33800 Bordeaux, France
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Cité du Vin (15-20 min tram), Miroir d’Eau (Tram/Bus), Jardin Public (Tram)
- Categories: Best Value for Families with Kids
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean is an excellent choice for families seeking affordable accommodation without compromising on convenience. As a “Best Value for Families” option, it provides a budget-friendly base for exploring Bordeaux. Its proximity to the Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station makes it ideal for families arriving by train or planning day trips. While the hotel itself doesn’t offer specific kids’ activities, its central location ensures easy access to various attractions, making it a practical choice for families on a budget.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: The hotel itself doesn’t offer specific kids’ activities. However, its central location provides easy access to various attractions in Bordeaux. The hotel has free Wi-Fi, which can be used for entertainment.
- Kids Club: There are no kids’ clubs or organized programs for children at this hotel.
- Family Rooms: While not specifically designated ‘family rooms,’ some rooms can accommodate up to 3 people (e.g., a double bed and a single bunk bed above). It’s best to contact the hotel directly to inquire about room configurations that best suit your family size and needs. Connecting rooms might be available, but this needs to be confirmed with the hotel upon booking.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hotel offers a breakfast buffet, which usually includes items like cereal, bread, pastries, yogurt, and fruit, which are suitable for children. There is no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner. However, the area around the train station has numerous restaurants offering various cuisines, including kid-friendly options like pizza, pasta, and burgers. Supermarkets and bakeries are also nearby for purchasing snacks and drinks.
Real Family Experience
“The location was fantastic for getting around Bordeaux. The kids loved the breakfast buffet, and we saved money by being able to walk to many attractions. The room was small, but clean and comfortable for a short stay.”
The Smiths, kids aged 7 and 9
Highlight of Their Stay:
The family’s highlight was the hotel’s convenient location near the train station and various attractions. The kids enjoyed the breakfast buffet, which provided a good start to their day of exploring. The affordability of the hotel allowed the family to spend more on experiences and activities in Bordeaux.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Bordeaux is bustling during the summer. Book well in advance to secure family rooms and consider visiting attractions early in the day to avoid crowds. Pack light clothing and sunscreen.
- Off-Peak (November-March): Bordeaux is quieter during the winter months. Take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for occasional rain. Many indoor attractions are still open.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request a room away from the train tracks to minimize noise. Have snacks and activities ready to keep kids entertained during check-in.
- Room Selection: Inquire about room configurations that best suit your family size. Connecting rooms or rooms with bunk beds can be a good option.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Explore the restaurants around the train station for kid-friendly options. Pack snacks and drinks for day trips.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance and book tickets online to avoid queues. Take advantage of public transportation to get around Bordeaux.
What Kids Will Love
- Affordable base for exploring Bordeaux
- Convenient location near the train station
- Easy access to kid-friendly attractions
- Breakfast buffet with kid-friendly options
What to Consider
- Rooms can be small and basic
- No specific kids’ activities
- Potential noise from the train station
- Limited on-site dining options
Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre – Excelling in All_Inclusive_Resorts
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.6/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.5/10
- Location Score: 8.5/10
- Price Range: $$/night
- Address: 13-15 Quai de Paludate, 33800 Bordeaux, France
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Cap Sciences (20 min walk), Miroir d’eau (25 min walk), Jardin Public (20 min tram)
- Categories: Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
The Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre provides a comfortable and convenient base for families exploring Bordeaux. While not a dedicated “all-inclusive” resort in the traditional sense, it offers amenities that cater well to families, such as an indoor heated pool, family room options, and a children’s menu. Its location provides easy access to kid-friendly attractions like Cap Sciences and the Jardin Public. The availability of connecting rooms and the Pavilion Pantry® for quick snacks make it a practical choice for families with kids aged 6-12.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: While the hotel itself doesn’t have dedicated kids’ activities, the location provides easy access to numerous attractions suitable for children. Swimming pool (indoor, heated) – a good option for some downtime. Board games/puzzles (available upon request, subject to availability).
- Kids Club: The Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre does not offer a kids’ club or organized children’s programs.
- Family Rooms: Family rooms are available, typically consisting of connecting rooms or rooms with sofa beds. It’s best to confirm availability and specific configurations when booking. Standard rooms can accommodate a family of four, but may be cramped. Request a room with a sofa bed or connecting rooms for more space.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hotel restaurant offers a children’s menu with familiar favorites like pasta, chicken nuggets, and fries. Check the current menu for specific options. High chairs are available in the restaurant. The hotel has a 24-hour Pavilion Pantry® offering snacks, drinks, and ready-to-eat meals, providing options for quick and easy meals for kids. Nearby restaurants offer a variety of cuisines suitable for families, including pizza, crepes, and casual French fare.
Real Family Experience
“The kids loved the pool after a long day of sightseeing. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the breakfast buffet had plenty of options for everyone. The location was great for exploring the city.”
The Johnsons, kids aged 6 and 10
Highlight of Their Stay:
The highlight of the family’s stay was the indoor heated pool, which provided a fun and relaxing activity for the kids. The convenient location allowed them to easily explore nearby attractions. The availability of a children’s menu and the Pavilion Pantry® made meal times easier and more convenient.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): The pool can get crowded during peak season. Book pool time in advance if possible. Take advantage of outdoor activities in the Jardin Public.
- Off-Peak (November-March): The indoor pool is a great option for rainy days. Explore indoor attractions like Cap Sciences. Check for holiday events and festivals.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request connecting rooms or a room with a sofa bed for more space. Inquire about board games and puzzles available at the front desk.
- Room Selection: Choose a room away from the elevator to minimize noise. Consider a room with a view of the city.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Check the children’s menu in advance and make reservations for dinner. Take advantage of the Pavilion Pantry® for quick snacks and drinks.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance and book tickets online. Take advantage of public transportation to get around Bordeaux.
What Kids Will Love
- Indoor heated pool
- Children’s menu in the restaurant
- Convenient location near attractions
- Friendly and helpful staff
What to Consider
- Rooms can be small for families
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Limited on-site kids’ activities
- Can be more expensive than budget options
Whoo Bordeaux Bacalan – Hostel – Excelling in Fun_and_Kids_Club
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.7/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 8.0/10
- Location Score: 9.0/10
- Price Range: $/night
- Address: 14 Quai de Bacalan, Bordeaux, 33300, France
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Cité du Vin (walking distance), Bassins des Lumières (walking distance), CAP Sciences (short tram ride)
- Categories: Best Activities & Kids Club
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Whoo Bordeaux Bacalan – Hostel is a great option for families looking for a fun and social atmosphere, particularly those interested in activities and proximity to attractions. While it doesn’t have a dedicated “kids club,” the hostel fosters a welcoming environment with board games and an outdoor terrace. Its location near the Cité du Vin and Bassins des Lumières makes it ideal for families seeking cultural experiences. The shared kitchen allows families to prepare their own meals, catering to specific dietary needs and preferences. The availability of private rooms ensures comfort and privacy for families with kids aged 6-12.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: Board games available in the common area. Outdoor terrace space that can be used for informal play. The hostel often organizes social events that, while not specifically for kids, can be engaging for older children (check the schedule upon arrival). Nearby parks and green spaces offer opportunities for outdoor play (see nearby attractions).
- Kids Club: There is no dedicated kids’ club or organized children’s program at Whoo Bordeaux Bacalan – Hostel.
- Family Rooms: Private rooms are available, which can accommodate families. These rooms typically have double beds and may be able to accommodate extra beds or cots (request in advance, subject to availability and extra charges). Consider booking multiple beds in a private dormitory room for larger families to ensure privacy and affordability. Check the specific room configurations available during booking.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hostel has a shared kitchen where families can prepare their own meals, catering to specific dietary needs and preferences. Breakfast is often available (check if included in the room rate), offering basic options like bread, cereal, and fruit. Numerous restaurants and cafes are located within walking distance in the Bacalan district, offering a variety of cuisines suitable for children. Look for places with kid-friendly menus or simpler options. Supermarkets are nearby for purchasing groceries and snacks.
Real Family Experience
“The kids loved playing board games in the common area and exploring the Cité du Vin. The shared kitchen was a lifesaver for preparing meals. It was a great budget-friendly option for our family.”
The Millers, kids aged 8 and 11
Highlight of Their Stay:
The family’s highlight was the hostel’s social atmosphere and proximity to the Cité du Vin. The kids enjoyed playing board games and interacting with other travelers. The shared kitchen allowed the family to prepare meals according to their preferences, saving money on dining out.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): The hostel can get crowded during peak season. Book private rooms well in advance. Take advantage of outdoor activities in nearby parks.
- Off-Peak (November-March): The hostel is quieter during the winter months. Explore indoor attractions like the Bassins des Lumières. Check for holiday events and festivals.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request a private room away from the common area to minimize noise. Inquire about board games and activities available at the front desk.
- Room Selection: Choose a private room with multiple beds for more space. Consider booking a room with a view of the city.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Take advantage of the shared kitchen to prepare meals. Explore nearby restaurants for kid-friendly options.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance and book tickets online. Take advantage of public transportation to get around Bordeaux.
What Kids Will Love
- Social atmosphere and board games
- Proximity to the Cité du Vin
- Shared kitchen for meal preparation
- Affordable accommodation option
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Shared facilities may not be suitable for all families
- Can be noisy during peak season
- Limited on-site kids’ activities
Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide – Excelling in Family_Friendly_Rooms
Hotel Overview
- Overall Rating: 8.0/10
- Kid-Friendly Score: 7.8/10
- Location Score: 8.0/10
- Price Range: $/night
- Address: 10 Quai de Brazza, 33100 Bordeaux, France
- Distance to Kid-Friendly Attractions: Cité du Vin (short tram ride), Miroir d’Eau (tram/bus), Jardin Public (tram)
- Categories: Most Family-Friendly Rooms
Why This Hotel is Perfect for Families with Kids
Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide is an excellent choice for families seeking affordable accommodation with family-friendly room options. As a hotel with “Most Family-Friendly Rooms,” it offers private rooms with multiple beds, such as double beds and bunk beds, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for families. Its location in the Bastide district, across the Garonne River from the city center, offers a quieter environment while still providing easy access to attractions via public transportation. The budget-friendly restaurant and proximity to supermarkets make it a practical choice for families on a budget.
Special Facilities & Services for Kids
- Kids Activities: The hotel itself doesn’t offer specific kids’ activities. However, the common areas provide space for families to relax and play games. Board games might be available upon request (check with the hotel directly). The outdoor terrace can be a nice space for kids to run around and burn off energy, weather permitting. The hotel’s proximity to the Garonne River promenade offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying the waterfront.
- Kids Club: Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide does not have a kids’ club or organized children’s programs.
- Family Rooms: The hotel offers family rooms, which typically consist of a private room with multiple beds (e.g., a double bed and bunk beds). These are the most suitable option for families. Consider booking connecting rooms if available for more space and privacy. Contact the hotel directly to inquire about connecting room options. Dormitory rooms are generally not recommended for families with younger children due to privacy and noise concerns.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: The hotel has a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While there isn’t a dedicated ‘kids menu’, the restaurant offers simple dishes like pasta, burgers, and salads that are generally appealing to children. The hotel’s restaurant is budget-friendly, making it a convenient option for family meals. The Bastide district has several restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines. Explore nearby options for kid-friendly meals like pizza, crepes, or sandwiches. Supermarkets are located nearby, allowing families to purchase snacks and drinks for their children.
Real Family Experience
“The family room with bunk beds was perfect for our kids. The hotel was clean and affordable, and we enjoyed walking along the river. It was a great base for exploring Bordeaux.”
The Browns, kids aged 7 and 12
Highlight of Their Stay:
The family’s highlight was the comfortable family room with bunk beds, which the kids loved. The hotel’s affordability allowed them to spend more on activities and experiences in Bordeaux. The proximity to the Garonne River promenade provided opportunities for enjoyable walks and cycling.
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak Season (June-August): Book family rooms well in advance to secure your preferred room type. Take advantage of outdoor activities along the Garonne River.
- Off-Peak (November-March): The hotel is quieter during the winter months. Explore indoor attractions like the Cité du Vin and Cap Sciences. Check for holiday events and festivals.
Insider Tips
- Check-in with Kids: Request a family room with bunk beds for a fun experience. Inquire about board games and activities available at the front desk.
- Room Selection: Choose a family room with a view of the Garonne River. Consider booking connecting rooms for more space and privacy.
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Explore nearby restaurants for kid-friendly options. Take advantage of the supermarkets to purchase snacks and drinks.
- Activities: Plan your itinerary in advance and book tickets online. Take advantage of public transportation to get around Bordeaux.
What Kids Will Love
- Family rooms with bunk beds
- Proximity to the Garonne River
- Affordable accommodation option
- Easy access to attractions via public transportation
What to Consider
- No dedicated kids’ club
- Limited on-site kids’ activities
- Can be noisy during peak season
- Restaurant may not have a dedicated kids’ menu
Tips for Choosing the Best Family Hotel in Bordeaux
Selecting the right hotel can significantly enhance your family vacation. Here are some key considerations when booking a hotel in Bordeaux for kids aged 6-12:
- Location: Opt for hotels near kid-friendly attractions like the Cité du Vin, Jardin Public, and Cap Sciences. Consider proximity to public transportation for easy access to other parts of the city.
- Room Configuration: Look for family rooms with multiple beds or connecting rooms to ensure everyone has enough space and privacy.
- Amenities: Check for amenities like a swimming pool, kids’ menu, board games, and free Wi-Fi to keep kids entertained and comfortable.
- Budget: Determine your budget and choose a hotel that offers the best value for your money. Consider budget-friendly options like hostels or hotels in the Bastide district.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other families to get insights into their experiences and identify potential pros and cons.
Final Recommendations
Based on our analysis, here are our top recommendations for family-friendly hotels in Bordeaux:
- For Budget-Conscious Families: Ibis budget Bordeaux Centre Gare Saint-Jean and Eklo Bordeaux Centre Bastide offer affordable accommodation with convenient access to attractions.
- For Families Seeking Comfort and Convenience: Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux Centre provides comfortable family rooms, a pool, and a convenient location.
- For Families Looking for a Social Atmosphere: Whoo Bordeaux Bacalan – Hostel offers a fun and social environment with proximity to the Cité du Vin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Hotels for Kids in Bordeaux
Essential amenities include family rooms, free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool (if available), and kid-friendly dining options. Proximity to attractions and public transportation is also crucial for easy exploration.
While dedicated kids’ clubs are not common in Bordeaux hotels, the city offers numerous attractions that can keep kids entertained. Consider hotels with board games or common areas for family fun.
Family rooms with multiple beds, such as double beds and bunk beds, are ideal. Connecting rooms offer more space and privacy for larger families.
The areas near the Cité du Vin, Jardin Public, and the Garonne River are excellent choices. These locations offer easy access to attractions and green spaces for kids to enjoy.