The Palais Gallien itself is what remains of a Roman amphitheatre right in the heart of Bordeaux; the Hôtel Palais Gallien, perhaps unsurprisingly, is close by, a 19th-century townhouse just around the corner from the ruins. What is surprising about the hotel, however, is its style: historically correct in its exteriors and public spaces, but with a very up-to-date contemporary-classic aesthetic in its rooms and suites. They’re luxurious, make no mistake — as are the Nuxe spa and the chic little courtyard pool. Le Cercle de Montaigne, the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant, is a particular highlight.