Hotel Lola, Bordeaux

In short… Hotel Lola is a charming new-ish place to stay in the really cool neighborhood of St Michel.

The location... It is right by the river, the flea market and all the antiques shops, the Marché Capucins (best daily morning food market), a walk from some of our favorite restaurants, cafes and bars, and literally across the street from the beautiful Basilique Saint-Michel. Most of the hotels in town are closer to the tourist center, but staying here all we had to do was walk outside and feel like we were in the right part of town. 

The vibe… Feels like a Bordeaux-style townhouse–you walk into a fantastic bar, which is where they check you in and make you a drink. Then you head upstairs to your room. Don’t expect a lobby or a designated receptionist or bellman—the bartender brought our luggage up to the room. 

The rooms… Well-appointed (rattan headboard, felt lampshades), with a smart use of space: the bathroom sink/vanity is built into the backside of the headboard, and the bath/shower opens out to the room. It’s small but comfortable.

The food and drink… The barman was brilliant—super passionate about cocktail making, which is not so easy to find in a town that is much more wine focused. We didn’t eat here, but I know they offer a nice breakfast and serve some food at cocktail hour. Our favorite restaurant, Au Bistrot, is just a couple of blocks away. 

Be sure to… Check the flea market timing, and if you can build your stay around being here on a flea market day, do! Otherwise, there are plenty of great antiques shops just on the other side of the basilica. (For more Bordeaux recs, see our Bordeaux List!)

Date of stay… November 15, 2023