Controlled by the British for 300 years, Bordeaux is one of the most un-French cities in France (a good or bad thing, depending on your tastes). What was once a sleepy city (literally nicknamed "Sleeping Beauty" in French) is now a thriving tourist destination and mecca for wine enthusiasts. The city's boundless energy is supplemented by the spirited university population. Unless you've been wine-tasting all day... then you'll probably sleep quite well.