As the capital of the historic province of Aquitaine, Bordeaux is the commercial and cultural center of the southwest France. Being in the middle of a countryside with dozens of wine appellations, it is one of the great wine regions of France, like Burgundy and Champagne. The first Bordeaux winery was set up in the 1st century AD and by the Middle Ages, the city had started to export wine to England regularly. The wines of Bordeaux still set the standards in the sector. So, any visit should include the renowned châteaux and vineyards of the Route de Médoc, with its magical medieval wine towns like St-Émilion. Grands crus like Lafite-Rothschilds and Margaux are among the most prestigious labels offered. With its compact layout, pedestrianised areas, 18th-century stone mansions and picturesque squares, the city waits to be explored on foot. Due to the prestigious University of Bordeaux and recent urban renovations, the city is also one of the best places in Europe for the young people to study and enjoy.